May is halfway over, but the spring events have just begun. From the return of outdoor markets to sunny day strolls, there are lots of things to do in Calgary to take advantage of warmer days.
Here’s everything you can get up to this week.
Shop Calgary’s biggest book sale
View this post on Instagram
What: The Calgary Reads Big Book Sale returns this May with over 200,000 gently used books for sale. Browse rows upon rows of wonderfully organized titles from every genre imaginable.
When: Friday, May 9 to Monday, May 19, 2025
Where: Calgary Curling Club — 720 3rd St. NW, Calgary
Price: $3 to $5 event fee per adult added to purchase on exit
The Lodge 1918 2-year anniversary party
What: The Lodge is throwing a birthday party, featuring giveaways every 30 minutes from Annex, Last Best and Banded Peak, a grand prize paddleboard, free gelato for kids, and drink specials.
When: Monday, May 12, 2025; 2 to 7 p.m.
Where: The Lodge – 1918 Kensington Rd NW
Cost: Prices vary
Make connections at the Career Fair
What: A massive career fair is coming to Calgary this spring, and it’s the best place to learn about new opportunities and network with fellow professionals.
When: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: BMO Centre at Stampede Park, 20 Roundup Way SE, Calgary
Price: Free to attend with RSVP
Catch a movie for $3.99
sockagphoto/Shutterstock
What: Head to your local Cineplex cinema for a budget-friendly weekend activity with the entire family. The theatre chain is offering movies at its theatres across Canada this month for just $3.99 under the Family Favourites program.
When: Select dates in May 2025
Where: Canadian Cineplex locations
Price: $3.99
- You might also like:
- Krispy Kreme is finally opening in Calgary — and yes, there's a drive-thru
- Calgary’s 'first female-forward sports lounge' opens its doors
- These five neighbourhoods are the most expensive in Calgary right now
Be inspired at the InglewooDIY Festival
What: Stop by the community of Inglewood to connect, create, and craft. The InglewooDIY Festival features local artisans scattered throughout the area’s nooks and crannies – from back alleys and behind buildings to industrial areas – hosting demonstrations, workshops, and more.
When: Sunday, May 11 to Sunday, May 25, 2025
Where: Various locations in Inglewood
Price: Free
Flavours & Finds Night Market
What: Peruse local vendor stalls, try new drinks, and enjoy tasty bites while celebrating the launch of this one-of-a-kind night market in Marda Loop.
When: Thursday, May 15, 2025; 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: cSPACE Marda Loop, 1721 29th Ave. SW, Calgary
Price: Free with RSVP
Dress up for Otafest
View this post on Instagram
What: Calling all fans, cosplayers, and manga enthusiasts: a huge anime festival is coming to Calgary next month, and it’s a three-day paradise for anyone who loves Japanese pop culture.
When: Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18, 2025
Where: Calgary Telus Convention Centre — 120 9th Ave. SE, Calgary
Price: $58.69+
Explore Discover Days: Take Flight
What: Learn about the world of migratory birds. Explore the remarkable travels of these winged adventurers across Alberta’s ecosystems. It’s an educational experience for all ages.
When: Friday, May 16, 2025; 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Bow Habitat Station, 1440 17a St SE, Calgary
Price: $10 for adult admission
The Da Vinci Code
What: Check out The Da Vinci Code live at the Vertigo Theatre. Based on Dan Brown’s best-selling novel, this fast-paced and gripping play is one to see for yourself.
When: Saturday, May 10 to Sunday, June 8, 2025
Where: Vertigo Theatre, 115 9th Ave. SE, Calgary
Price: Starts at $69
Visit an independent bookstore
What: With spring here, we can’t think of a better way to enjoy all the sunshine than with a good book. Calgary has so many amazing bookshops to check out, so head over to one of the amazing spots in the city and fill your bags with stories. There’s even a brand-new business that has a dedicated naughty nook.
Experience Horizon of Khufu
Horizon of Khufu-Montreal/Facebook
What: Horizon of Khufu is a VR experience that takes you on a journey to explore ancient Egypt and the pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the Egyptian pyramids. It’s a neat concept set up in a space of nearly 10,000 square feet, allowing visitors to be transported to Cairo, where they will be able to freely wander through ancient Egypt.
When: Now until Sunday, June 15, 2025
Where: CF Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail, Calgary
Price: Cost varies; buy your tickets
Catch the latest exhibit at Telus Spark
View this post on Instagram
What: Telus Spark is bringing a new exhibit to Calgary, and it’s all about the science of food. 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: Now until Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025
Where: Telus Spark Science, 220 Saint George’s Dr. NE, Calgary
Price: $32.95 for adult general admission