We are sliding into the first full week of August, and there are so many things to do to pass the time and enjoy all that Calgary has to offer.
If you aren’t lucky enough to have the Monday of the Heritage Day long weekend off, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with 11 things to do this week in and around Calgary.
Try drinking Cocktails for Conservation
What: Visit as the zoo transforms into an adults-only escape. Sample beverages from local vendors as you wander through the zoo’s lush gardens, visit your favourite animals, and indulge in the delicious food stations scattered around the zoo.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025; 6 p.m.
Where: Wilder Institute Calgary Zoo — 210 St. George’s Dr. NE
Admission: $99 + GST
See Disney’s The Lion King presented by Broadway Across Canada
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What: Watch as the Serengeti comes to life as never before in 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 Sidewalk SeriesÂ
Summer on 17th is back, and they’re introducing a brand-new component to the lineup. On select dates, you can find local talent playing outdoor sets in intimate settings with limited spots. It’s the perfect way to spend a lazy summer evening.
When: Aug. 7, 22, and 27, 2025
Where: Various locations on 17th Avenue SW
Admission:Â Free
Hop aboard for Captain’s Cruises
What: Step aboard Heritage Park’s Captains’ Cruises on the iconic S.S. Moyie paddlewheeler and set sail into golden hour across the Glenmore Reservoir. Sip a craft cocktail and enjoy chef-crafted appetizers and breezy beats.
When: Aug. 7, 14, and 28, 2025; 6:15 to 8:15 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park — 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Admission: $109.95 + GST
Inglewood Night MarketÂ
Inglewood Night Market/Facebook
This fan-favourite modern market is back for its 2025 iteration. On select evenings, you can browse the goods of locally-sourced vendors selling crafts, vintage clothing, collectibles, artisan eats, and more.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025
Where: 10th Avenue SE and 10th Street SE
Admission:Â Free
Take part in the Summer Reading Challenge
What:Â The Ultimate Summer Challenge is back for another year. Simply register online for free with your library card and read every day this summer. Get your challenge map at any of the 22 Calgary Public Library locations.
When:Â Tuesday, July 1 to Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Where:Â All Calgary Public Library locations
Admission: Free to register with your library card
Check out Calgary’s Ice Cream Festival
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What: YYC Ice Cream Fest officially kicked off on July 18 and will run until Aug. 18, with more than 30 cafes, restaurants, and scoop shops taking part in the festivities.
When: Now until Monday, Aug. 18, 2025
Where:Â Various locations across Calgary
Feel like a kid at Calaway Park
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What: If you’re looking for thrills, then you can’t go wrong with a visit to Calaway Park. Located just outside of Calgary, this local amusement park gives you access to all your favourite rides with the price of admission.
When:Â Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Calaway Park — 245033 Range Rd. 33
Admission:Â $53.95 + GST with season passes and online discounts available
Unwind with a river float
Salvador Maniquiz/Shutterstock
What: With only one month left of true summer, make sure you float down the river at least once! Lucky for you, Calgary has no shortage of spots to enjoy a river float, just make sure you come prepared.
Where:Â Launch sites along the Bow and Elbow Rivers in Calgary
Admission:Â Free with your own river-rated floaty, rentals available
Visit Telus Spark
What: Explore the world of gastronomy with an immersive exhibition that “serves up” the science of food. Whether you’re a science nerd or just love a good meal, you don’t want to miss this one.
When:Â Now until Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025
Where: Telus Spark Science — 220 Saint George’s Dr. NE
Admission:Â $32.95 for adult general admission
Travel in time with Life Chronicles
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What: This month is your last chance to catch the Life Chronicles VR exhibit at Chinook Mall. Experience a time of dinosaurs, back when giants ruled the world, all without a time machine.
When:Â Until Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Where: 6455 Macleod Tr.
Admission:Â $24.35+