12 spectacular things to do in Calgary this week: Sept. 7 to 11
The first full week of September is here, and there is no shortage of things to do in Calgary. From the Stampeders Labour Day Classic to fascinating walking tours at The Confluence, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out or a slow activity to do, here are 12 spectacular things to do in Calgary this week.
Cheer on the Stampeders
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What: The Calgary Stampeders have two exciting home games this September. Head on over to McMahon Stadium as they take on the Edmonton Elks for their Labour Day Classic this Monday.
When: Monday, Sept. 7, 2026; 4 p.m.
Where: McMahon Stadium – 1817 Crowchild Trl. NW
Cost: Prices vary by seat and date
Red Panda Breakfast
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What: Head on over to the zoo this Monday to enjoy breakfast while learning about red pandas. Guests can enjoy a pancake breakfast with fresh fruit and other buffet favourites. Your ticket includes early zoo access, breakfast, an engaging interpretive talk, and a private viewing of the red pandas in their newly redeveloped Asian Highlands habitat.
When: Monday, Sept. 7, 2026; 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Where: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo – 210 St. George’s Dr. NE
Cost: $79
The Market on Stephen Avenue
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What: At the Downtown Markets, you’ll be able to browse a ton of different vendors right in the heart of Calgary along Stephen Avenue.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Stephen Avenue
Cost: Free
The ‘Masters’ at Spruce Meadows
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What: The “Masters” at Spruce Meadows brings together leading international riders, Olympic-level competitors, championship horses, and spectators from around the globe, and it kicks off this week. It’s among show jumping’s most celebrated events.
When: Sept. 9 to 13, 2026
Where: Spruce Meadows – 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
Cost: Prices vary
Dark History of East Village Walking Tour
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What: Once dubbed the “skid row” of Calgary, East Village has quite the history, and The Confluence is delving into this week. “Discover the untold stories behind the city’s original red-light district, where brothels, bootleggers, backroom deals and riots once shaped the streets. As we explore hidden corners, you’ll hear tales of vice, scandal and conflict that reveal a darker side of Calgary’s past.”
When: Sept. 9 and 10, 2026; 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland – 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: $35 per person
Behind The Stampede Tour
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What: If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the Calgary Stampede, the Sam Centre is offering a tour. The tour starts at the Sam Centre and takes you on a trolley ride through some of the highlights of the Stampede, like the Tipi sculpture in Community Park East, the chuckwagon track and rodeo chutes, and a few other surprises along the way.
When: Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026; 12:30 and 2:30 p.m.
Where: Sam Centre – 632 13th Ave. SE
Cost: $49
Deadly Alberta True Crime Tour
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What: The Confluence is also hosting an Alberta true crime tour this Friday. “From mass murders to executions, explore true crimes from across Alberta in this outdoor tour of our province’s dark history.”
When: Friday, Sept. 11, 2026; 6 to 7 p.m. and 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland – 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: $20 per person
Zoo Brew
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What: The Zoo Brew is back this week. You’ll find over 30 beverage vendors spread throughout the zoo. You can enjoy local craft brews, try delicious bites, and take a stroll through the zoo after hours.
When: Friday, Sept. 11, 2026; 5:30 p.m.
Where: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo – 210 St. George’s Dr. NE
Cost: $99
The Barn After Dark
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What: “Sip and Shop” as you wander around the final night market of the season at the Shawnessy Barn. You can find local artisans, crafters, makers, food trucks, a bar, and live music.
When: Friday, Sept. 11, 2026; 5 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 224 Shawmeadows Rd. SW
Cost: Free
Monster Jam
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What: Monster Jam is taking over GMC Stadium for some epic nights of monster trucks. You’ll find awesome trucks like Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, Sparkle Smash, amazing stunts, action-packed excitement and big air, perfect for an adrenaline-filled outing.
When: Sept. 11 to 13, 2026
Where: GMC Stadium – 2200 Stampede Trl. SE
Cost: Prices vary by date and seat
Visit Calgary Farmyard
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What: Get into the fall spirit at Calgary Farmyard, where you can pick pumpkins, wander through a corn maze, take a wagon ride, meet farm animals, and enjoy seasonal treats. It’s Fall Days kick off this Friday, including its annual Harvest Lights, where, on Friday and Saturday evenings, you can check out thousands of lights illuminating the farm.
When: Sept. 11 to Oct. 25, 2026
Where: Calgary Farmyard – 284022 Township Rd. 224
Cost: Individual day passes starting at $25.95
Cinema on 17th
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What: If you’re looking for an outdoor movie night this week, Cinema on 17th is a great pick. Visitors can enjoy a weekend of free movies under the stars right at Tomkins Park. There will be a total of 11 free outdoor movies, as well as immersive entertainment and a new Saturday Morning Cartoon Package in collaboration with Calgary’s Underground Film Festival.
When: Sept. 11 to 13, 2026
Where: Tomkins Park – 17th Avenue and 8th Street SW
Cost: Free