12 exciting things to do in Calgary this weekend: Aug. 15 to 17
Another weekend in August means another jam-packed weekend of summer fun!
We’ve rounded up 12 things for you to check out this weekend!
Jam out at Country Thunder
View this post on Instagram
What: North America’s premier country music festival is back this weekend, with Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, and Old Dominion headlining the festival. Get a taste of country music right in downtown Calgary.
When: Aug. 15 to 17, 2025
Where: The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland – 750 9th Ave. SE
Admission: Ticket prices vary
Check out Carifest
What: Get ready for three days of vibrant culture, music, and unforgettable fun at Carifest. The event features live music performances, parades, Caribbean cuisine, and family-friendly activities that bring Caribbean culture right to the streets of Calgary.
When: Aug. 15 to 17, 2025
Where: Cowboys Park – 1220 9th Ave. SW
Admission: Prices vary depending on activity
Experience GlobalFest
View this post on Instagram
What: Alberta’s most explosive festival returns to Elliston Park this week to bring a jam-packed schedule of fireworks presented by the United States, Malaysia, Philippines, China, and Canada.
When: Aug. 14 to 23, 2025
Where: Elliston Park – 1827 68th St. SE
Admission: $25 per night
Western Canadian Reptile Expo
What: This expo features unique reptiles from all around the world, rare and exotic specimens of plants, unusual artifacts, a variety of vendors, and interactive booths. It’s set to be a spectacular gathering for enthusiasts, families, and everyone intrigued by the wonders of nature.
When: Aug. 16 to Aug.17, 2025
Where: Seven Chiefs Field House – 19 Bullhead Rd.
Admission: $15
Join an augmented reality boxing tournament
What: Participate in the thrill of boxing in the world’s first-ever augmented reality boxing tournament. The event will be accompanied by a community barbecue as well as boxing and dancing performances. Make sure to show up early if you want to enter the tournament.
When: Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025; 6 p.m.
Where: EMMEDIA Gallery & Production Society – 2005 10th Ave. SW
Admission: Free
Watch The Lion King
View this post on Instagram
What: It’s the last weekend to catch The Lion King by Broadway Across Canada. More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.
When: July 30 to Aug. 17, 2025
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium — 1415 14th Ave. NW
Admission: Ticket price varies by date and seat
The Barn Artisan Market
What: The monthly Barn Artisan Market is back! Check out 34 local artisans, crafters, creators, makers, and even a baker, over two floors.
When: Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Shawnessy Barn – 224 Shawmeadows Rd. SW
Admission: Free
Bounce around at The Big Bounce Canada
View this post on Instagram
What: Get ready to bounce on Canada’s largest travelling inflatable park. Packed with giant bounce houses, obstacle courses, and fun inflatable activities for all ages. It’s a high-energy playground where you can bounce through hours of fun.Â
When: Aug. 15 to 17, 2025
Where: Spruce Meadows – 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
Admission: Tickets starting at $39
Visit the TD Chinatown Street Festival
What: Hosted by the Calgary Chinatown Business Improvement Area, this one-day event will feature cultural sharing, local vendors, food, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Some highlights of the festival include the Lion & Dragon Dance, the official opening ceremony, and stage performances.
When: Saturday, Aug 16, 2025; 11 a.m.
Where: 3rd Avenue and 1st Street SE and Lot 26
Admission: Free
Cheer on the Wild FC
Julian Worker/Shutterstock
What: Join Calgary’s pro women’s soccer team as they face the Halifax Tides FC this weekend at McMahon Stadium.
When: Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025; 2 p.m.
Where: McMahon Stadium – 1817 Crowchild Trl. NW
Admission: Ticket prices vary by seat
Fear Around the Fire
What: Looking for something spooky to do this weekend? Listen to local authors tell haunting stories that will be sure to send a chill up your spine. The event also includes a s’mores buffet and a nighttime walk through the forest where the stories will come to life.Â
When: Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025; 7 p.m.
Where: Fish Creek Park
Admission: $33.35
Ultimate Summer Challenge at Calgary Public Library
oasisamuel/Shutterstock
What: The Ultimate Summer Challenge is coming back for another exciting year of reading programs and a lot of fun for the whole family. The Challenge is simple — read every day this summer. Registration is open and is free with your Library card. You can track your reading right in the Beanstack app or on one of our garden-themed Challenge maps available at all 22 Calgary Public Library locations. View prizes and learn more about the Challenge.
When: Registration is open and runs until Friday, Aug. 31, 2025
Where: All Calgary Public Library locations
Admission: Free