Canada Day, Stampede, and festival galore is just a few things to label what July is like in Calgary. When you get this warm wonderful weather happening, it’s only natural to celebrate it as much as we can. A good time to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and maybe even play some games or enjoy a barbeque. The sky is the limit.
We have a lot of things going on for Canada Day and Stampede but what else is going on? Believe it or not, there are many things you can enjoy in our fair city. Here are some suggestions:
Disney Immersive Experience
When: July 1-August 18
Where: BMO Centre at Stampede Park
If you ever wanted to know what it’s like to be in an animated Disney film, here is your chance. Get lost in the wintery world of Elsa’s “Frozen,” swim with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid,” and save the world with “Big Hero 6.” There is so much more to enjoy. You can have a spectacular view of the imagination, compositions, and magic of Walt Disney without having to go to Disneyland to see it.
Friends: A Parody with Ace Ventura
When: June 8- August 10
Where: Jubilations Dinner Theatre
The day has come where the smash-hit sitcom from the 90s is coming to the live stage as a musical. Hilarity and hijinks continue for the fabulous six as they are going to face everyone’s favourite pet detective. Yep!
That would be Ace Ventura. He is making his way to New York City and chaos will come with him. This is a lost episode that Joey gives a recount of.
Free Music in the Park
When: June 28 – August 8
Where: Quinterra Legacy Garden
If you are on a bike ride or a jog on the Glenmore Reservoir why not take a little music break? At the Quinterra Legacy Garden they pride themselves on providing a place that is meant for tranquility, healing, and vibrant living. Not just in July but all summer long you can catch some talented musicians both amateur and veteran on different days. If you feel the need to be outside and listen to some music, this is the place to be. For more information…
MexiFest
When: July 4-7
Where: Parking lot 6 Downtown
For a short time, we get to have a little taste of Mexican culture in the heart of downtown Calgary. This family-friendly festival gives people exposure into the vibrant parts of both the long-established and present-day philosophies of Mexico. This not only includes stories but music, entertainment, art, and food. You will definitely want to catch their wrestling matches in their wrestling ring.
Showdown at Heritage Park: A Wild West Adventure
When: July 12, 14, 19-21, 26, and 28
Where: Heritage Park
Welcome to the wild wild west of Calgary. What starts at the end of the Calgary Stampede goes on for various dates. If you have spent the day there, it would be a good idea to spend the evening at this gun-trotting event. You can have a gorgeous buffet at the Wainright Hotel and afterwards see the fearsome cowboys have a shootout on Main Street. Who will be left standing?
McMahon Stadium
When: July 21
Where: McMahon Stadium
Football fans be prepared for this summer sporting event being held at the McMahon Stadium. Our Stampeders are taking on the BC Lions. Both teams are shown to be strong competitors but only one can win the big game. So get your roar ready because our boys would love to hear you cheer them on. Will the BC Lions be stampeded by our hometown heroes? Only one way to find out.
CPKC LPGA Women’s Open
When: July 23-28
Where: Earl Grey Golf Course
Speaking of sports, another summer favourite is golf as we always see our courses filled with patrons. They say that golf is a gentleman’s sport but, in this case, it is the gentle-women that are taking over. That’s right! It is the women’s open happening here and it is extra special because this is their 50th year. So grab a Caesar and lets hit the green this year.
Calgary Folk Festival
When: July 25-28
Where: Prince Island Park
45 years ago, Calgary started a music festival that has only grown more and more into something special. Musicians from all over the world come to preform for the music lovers of Calgary. This year there will be eight stages that a person can visit promising a little bit of everything for everyone. Not only that, there will be art markets, food vendors, a safe space for kids, and so much more. To get your tickets…
Wordfest
When: July 30-31
Where: Memorial Park Library, 2nd Floor
If you love books, authors, or just the written word in general, this is for you. A whole festival all about words is every writer’s and reader’s dream come true. Since 1996, Wordfest has been one of Canada’s most prominent literary festivals and the best part is, it is year-round. This month is featuring novelists Jessica Waite with her newest novel, “The Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards” and Ann Powers with her latest book, “Traveling: On the Path with Joni Mitchell.” To know more, see the website: https://wordfest.com/
As you can see, during one of our most lively of months you can have an absolute blast. So, make sure you go outside and enjoy the summer sun while you can. This season brings us great things like outdoor swims, patio parties, and flip-flop fanfare. It does not hurt to check out our usual comfort zones. Come on out and see what a summer in the city brings!
