8 things to do in Calgary this long weekend
Calgary is one of Canada’s great cities. The winters are long but warm Chinook winds pass through occasionally, making the weather quite pleasant for at least a few days a month. In the summer, the city comes alive with things to do both in and out of town. Here are eight things to do in Calgary this long weekend.
Calaway Park
A long-time favourite of Calgary residents, Calaway Park is about 10 kilometres west of Calgary. This amusement park hosts events, has games and operates a 3D theatre. With tickets now available online, you can by-pass the ticket line for faster access to fun.
Calgary Tower
Standing 191 metres above the city, Calgary Tower is a must-see for any resident or visitor. At the top, you can take photos of the city and Rockies, or enjoy a delicious meal in the revolving restaurant.
Shakespeare by the Bow
Calgarians who love Shakespeare can’t miss Shakespeare by the Bow this summer. Over this long weekend, head down to Prince’s Island Park for a pay-what-you-can show the whole family can enjoy.
Fort Calgary
This long weekend, Fort Calgary is hosting family-friendly activities that are completely free. Details for 2017 are scarce, but past activities have included Indigenous stories, powwow dance workshops and free tours.
Heritage Park
At Calgary’s historical village this long weekend, families can ride a paddlewheel boat, watch historic interpreters, play traditional games and march with RCMP Mounties. Heritage Park is also hosting a contest where children try to collect as many stamps as possible in their Heritage Park passport for a chance to win prizes.
Festivals
Festivals abound in Calgary this summer. The Franco Festival is on this long weekend, as is the Inglewood Sunfest. History buffs will love Days of Yore, a two-day festival filled with historical reenactors from a variety of eras. In addition, music festivals are being held throughout the city, featuring blues, folk, electronic and folk artists.
Strathmore Stampede
If you don’t mid a bit of driving this long weekend, Strathmore is hosting its annual stampede. Much less busy than the Calgary Stampede, Strathmore’s event provides a relaxing atmosphere to watch rodeos, visit the tradeshow and see live music events.
Calgary Zoo/Telus Spark
The Calgary Zoo is a real treat for adults and children alike. From the dinosaur park to the butterfly garden and everywhere in between, you’re sure to find an animal you love.
If you finish early at the zoo, Telus Spark is right next door. This science centre has activities and exhibitions for children and adults. Movie-lovers will enjoy the planetarium where three films are currently being shown.
Easily accessible by the C-Train and adjacent to a highway, a trip to the Calgary Zoo/Telus Spark is an affordable day out for any Calgarian.
Calgary is a city of a million people and a million things to do on a regular weekend. This long weekend though, Calgary has much more to offer than usual, most of which are family-friendly activities. Make a choice to do one or two of these eight things to do in Calgary this long weekend. You won’t regret it.