10 of the best things to do in Calgary this August for $20 or less

August is officially here, and while there are tons of things to do in Calgary, they can get a bit pricey. Luckily, there are always plenty of things to do for under $20.

From amazing summer markets to fun outings and adventures, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best things you can do in Calgary this August without breaking the bank.

Movie nights at The Grand

What: If you’re looking for the ultimate movie night this month, The Grand is hosting three. Join them for screenings of West Side Story, She’s The Man, and 10 Things I Hate About You.

When: Aug. 7, 14, and 28, 2026
Where: The Grand – 608 1st St. SW
Cost: $15 + fees

Markets in the Plaza at Heritage Park

What: Heritage Park is hosting Markets in the Plaza this August. You can shop local vendors, explore the shops in the Plaza, grab something to eat, and enjoy entertainment at Markets in the Plaza. It’s a pet-friendly event, so you can even bring your furry friend to enjoy an afternoon out.

When: Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2026; 12 to 6 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Cost: Free

Enjoy a leisure centre

What: Calgary’s leisure centres are a great way to get out of the cold and keep active. With indoor pools, fitness facilities, climbing walls, and tons of different family-friendly programs, there is something for everyone to check out.

Where: Various locations across Calgary
Cost: $15.30 for admission

Deadly Alberta True Crime Tour

What: Head on over to The Confluence this August for an Alberta true crime tour. “From mass murders to executions, explore true crimes from across Alberta in this outdoor tour of our province’s dark history.”

When: Friday, Aug. 14, 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

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Explore Calgary’s indoor garden

What: Right in the heart of downtown sits the Devonian Gardens. Located in the Core Shopping Centre, you can find exotic plants, koi ponds, and refreshing air conditioning, perfect for an indoor retreat.

Where: Core Shopping Centre – 324 8th Ave. SW
Cost: Free

Inglewood Night Market

What: The Inglewood Night Market is back this month. Join them this weekend for the first market of the season, featuring a bunch of local vendors, live music, and food located in the heart of Inglewood.

When: Friday, Aug. 14, 2026; 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: 10th Avenue and 10th Street SE
Cost: Free

Expo Latino Festival

 

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What: The 30th Annual Expo Latino Festival is happening this August. You’ll find Latin cuisine and beverages, engaging dance workshops, stunning visual art displays, and Cultural Pavilions featuring Latin American Cultural Ambassadors who proudly share the stories and traditions of their heritage.

When: Aug. 14, 15 and 16, 2026
Where: Prince’s Island Park – 698 Eau Claire Ave. SW
Cost: Free

Explore Calgary’s neighbourhoods

What: Calgary is home to over 200 neighbourhoods, and what’s a better way to spend a day than exploring your very own city? We went ahead and rounded up some of the best neighbourhoods to explore this summer.

Where: Various locations
Cost: Free

Carifest 2026

 

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What: Calgary’s ultimate celebration of Caribbean culture is back! Guests can enjoy music, dancing, cuisine and more all during this three-day festival.

When: Aug. 14, 15 and 16, 2026
Where: Cowboys Park – 1220 9th Ave. SW
Cost: Free

YYCFanFair 2026

What: YYCFanFair 2026 is the ultimate celebration of fandom and pop culture. You’ll find a marketplace filled with comics, toys, video games, and rare collectibles from local vendors. There is also the chance to meet talented artists and find unique collectibles that you won’t find anywhere else.

When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Thornecliffe-Greenview Community Association – 5600 Centre St. N.
Cost: Free