15 great things to do this weekend in Calgary: Aug. 8 to 10
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Whether you’re in the mood to get out or take it easy, we’ve rounded up 15 ways you can make the most out of this weekend right here in Calgary!
Ultimate Summer Challenge at Calgary Public Library
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What: 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 here.
When: Registration is open and runs until Friday, Aug. 31, 2025
Where: All Calgary Public Library locations
Admission: Free
The Confluence After Hours: True Crime at “Twilight” Tour
What: The Confluence historic site is staying open late to offer a walking tour which dives into the chilling tales of murder, executions, and the history of the prisons at historic Fort Calgary.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025; 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland – 750 9 Ave. SE
Admission: $20
Cocktails for Conservation at the Zoo
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What: Watch the Calgary Zoo transform into an adults-only escape. You can sample beverages from local vendors while exploring the zoo and enjoy delicious food from various stations scattered around.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025; 6 p.m
Where: Wilder Institute Calgary Zoo — 210 St. George’s Dr. NE
Admission: $99 + GST
Grease | Summer movie night at The GRAND
What: Join The GRAND this Friday for a summer movie night. You can enjoy their cocktails and snacks during their screening of Grease this weekend.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025: Bar and snacks from 5:30 p.m., screening from 7:30 p.m. Where: The GRAND – 608 1 St. SW
Admission: $15 + booking free
Spark After Dark
What: Explore how music and science collide in unexpected ways. This event features two stages of live music, featured speakers, a hands-on workshop, interactive activities, themed drinks, local food trucks, and treats from the Astronaut Ice Cream Café.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, 2025: 6 p.m. to midnight
Where: Telus Spark Science Centre – 220 Saint George’s Dr. NE
Admission: $32.95 with discounts for members
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
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: Various locations across Calgary
Calgary Dragon Boat Festival
What: Get ready for a weekend of fun, culture, and racing at the Sinopec Calgary Dragon Boat Race & Festival. This festival brings over 1,850 paddlers and more than 4,000 spectators alongside an incredible lineup of entertainment, food, and activities.
When: Friday, Aug. 8, to Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025
Where: North Glenmore Park – 7305 Crowchild Trl. SW
Admission: Free
Mt. Joy at the Saddledome
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What: Experience the soulful indie rock sound of Mt. Joy this weekend at the Scotiabank Saddledome. With hits like Sliver Lining and Astrovan, this will be an inspiring night of music
When: Saturday, Aug 9, 2025; 8 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Admission: Ticket price varies by seat
Calgary Water Lantern Festival
What: The Calgary Lantern festival is a chance for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together for a night of love and laughter. Enjoy food trucks, live music, vendors, a scavenger hunt, and the lantern launch.
When: Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025; 6 p.m.
Where: Waterfront Park – 5225 101 St. NW
Admission: $69.99 early bird pricing, $77.99 regular admission
Join the Calgary Stampeders for Heritage Night
CFL
What: Join the Calgary Stampeders as they take on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to celebrate Heritage Night, uniting fans of all backgrounds through football.
When: Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025; 5 p.m.
Where: McMahon Stadium – 1817 Crowchild Tr. NW
Admission: Ticket price varies by seat
Speed & Customs Show
What: Calgary’s first-ever Speed & Customs show is hitting the BMO Centre this weekend. Showcasing over 200 vehicles, including the iconic Fast and Furious collection. Along with special guest appearances.
When: Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025; 10 a.m.
Where: BMO Centre – 1912 Flores Ladue Parade SE
Admission: $22 general admission, discounts available for seniors and children
Unwind with a river float
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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: Launch sites along the Bow and Elbow Rivers in Calgary
Admission: Free with your own river-rated floaty, rentals available
Marda Gras Street Festival
What: Marda Gras is a free, family-friendly event in the heart of Marda Loop and the longest-running street festival in the city. Join them as they celebrate their 40th anniversary this year with live entertainment, a pet pageant, local vendors, and food trucks.
When: Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025; 10 a.m.
Where: 33 Avenue SW between 18 Street and 22 Street
Admission: Free
Calgary Surge vs. Niagara River Lions
What: Join the Calgary Surge as they take on the Niagara River Lions this Sunday at the Saddledome
When: Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025; 6 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Admission: Ticket prices vary on seat