Activities . Family Fun . What's Up in Calgary?

What’s Up This Week?

On August 23, 2023 by Calgary's Child

Aug 25 to 27

Until August 25; Wagonstage 2023 presents: The Little Forest, join emerging artists from the School of Creative and Performing Arts who write, design, direct, and present these popular summer performances at various locations throughout the city. Learn more on the Wagonstage Facebook page.

August 25, 11am; Cineplex Family Favourites: Castle in the Sky, visit participating Cineplex theatres near you and watch a favorite family film each week for only $2.99. Learn more at cineplex.com.

August 25, 6pm to 12am; Paint the Night Pink at TELUS Spark (Adults Only), dress in your best #barbiecore inspired outfit to play and learn in the newest exhibit at Spark called Barbie: A Cultural Icon. Plus, dance the night away, sip on themed cocktails, get your hair done at the Blow Out Bar, sing your heart out during diva karaoke, cheer on your favorite local drag performers, explore the science centre and so much more. Learn more at sparkscience.ca/paint-the-night-pink.

August 25, 7pm; 4 Seasons Cabaret: ZENON+ at Bert Church Theatre, ZENON+ is the musical union of two Calgary creators, who formed in October 2019. ZENON is an award-winning singer/songwriter who plays keys and guitar alongside the duo’s beat keeper BEV on percussion and singing harmonies. Learn more at tickets.airdrie.ca.

August 25 to 26; The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival, this popular event is returning to Prince’s Island Park for its second instalment with headliners Nick Offerman, Jonathan Van Ness, and Andrew Schulz. Learn more at greatoutdoorscomedyfestival.com.

August 25 to 27; FallCon 36 Tabletop Game & Miniatures Convention, get ready for three days of board gaming goodness. The volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization believes in the power of board games to bring people together and celebrates the best of unplugged gaming at the annual Board Game and Miniature Convention at TELUS Convention Centre. Learn more at fallcon.com.

Until August 26; Globalfest: International Fireworks Festival, GlobalFest at Elliston Park is an annual celebration of Calgary’s multicultural communities, featuring pavilions, performances, international food, children’s programming and fireworks. Illuminating the sky with a colliding orchestra of light and sound, this year’s celebration event will showcase presentations produced by world-class pyro musical artists hailing from Austria, Italy, Portugal and Spain, plus a Canadian-produced finale. Learn more at globalfest.ca.

Until August 26; Nooks and Crannies Festival in Okotoks, a festival where artists create temporary site-specific installations in downtown Okotoks. This art festival sees artists repurpose and animate forgotten places with ‘forgotten’ materials, bringing public art to forgotten corners of downtown Okotoks. Individual artists and teams use recycled products to create installations that raise environmental awareness, animate spaces, and entertain audiences. Learn more at okotoks.ca.

Until August 26; BUMP Festival, BUMP self-guided mural tours are a perfect way to explore the murals and experience new works of art as they are being created right before your eyes. New tours will be released throughout the month of August. Learn more at yycbump.ca.

Saturdays until August 26; City of Calgary Family Golf Nights, get your kids interested in hitting the links this summer with the City of Calgary’s Family Golf Nights. Juniors (ages four to 17) golf for free when accompanied by at least one adult. Learn more at calgary.ca.

August 26, 12 to 6pm; ART SPOT Expresstival, in partnership with the Downtown Association, ART SPOT is throwing a massive freeform art event in downtown Calgary. This interactive exhibition will feature hundreds of local artists, showcasing their art in a freeform environment at Lot 6 (311 8th St SW). Learn more at artspotcalgary.com.

August 26, 1 to 3:30pm; Skate into the School Year with AOR, join AOR (Advanced Orthomolecular Research) for a free Back-to-School Skating Extravaganza at Winsport. Bring your own skates and helmet. Learn more at aor.ca.

August 26, 1 to 7pm; Party In The Park, a free all-ages party with live music, food trucks, drinks and lawn games at Lougheed House National & Provincial Historic Site. The line-up features Hand Habits from Los Angeles and Lightning Dust from Vancouver with Shebear & The Hibernation and Lushings from Calgary. Learn more at theblox.ca.

August 26, 3 to 8pm; Barley & Smoke – Grillin’ for a Cure, a fundraiser for children with cancer that draws together Calgary’s top chefs and brew masters at ENMAX Park. It is a fun and flavorful evening of culinary competitions, live musical performances, creative Western-themed playhouses, giveaways, and much more. Learn more at barleysmoke.ca.

August 26 to 27, 11am to 2pm; Toys R Us Activities: Fingerlings Demo Days, this new generation of interactive animal pals is smarter, cuter and better than ever – can’t wait to show you all their tricks… Plus, kids can take home a cute coloring sheet. Learn more at toysrus.ca.

Select Saturdays until August 26, 6 to 8:30pm; Dover’s Music & Art in the Garden, the Dover Music & Art in the Garden concert series is in its third year, born during the pandemic. It’s a way for the community to come together and enjoy beautiful Twin Views Communal Garden (a transformed tennis court) while listening to local musicians. Learn more at ckua.com.

August 26 to 27; Red Bull Outliers, head-to-head motocross action in the heart of downtown Calgary. A free, all-ages event in Olympic Plaza will feature thrilling, high-adrenaline entertainment, the sights and sounds of downtown Calgary, and more – perfect for families or the die-hard fan. Learn mor at redbull.com.

August 26 to 27; Woezo Africa Cultural Festival, this festival aims to share and educate the community at large on the level of artistry and innovation that exists within African culture and African Diasporic history through a series of interactive activities, artisan demonstrations, cultural performances and workshops that will be delivered in-person and virtually. Learn more at woezoafrica.com.

August 26 to 27; Summer Skirmish at The Military Museums, almost 2000 years of warfare comes to life in a weekend of scripted battle re-enactments and demonstrations. Viking raids, medieval duels, gladiatorial combat, musketry skills and cannonades are some of the demonstrations and exhibitions that will be available. You will be able to interact with all the participants, who will be dressed in period costumes and uniforms that will transport you back in time. Learn more at themilitarymuseums.ca.

Until August 27; WPCA World Chuckwagon Finals, Century Downs hosts the event as the world’s premiere chuckwagon drivers, outriders, and horses compete for one of the richest payouts in the sport. Learn more at cnty.com.

Until August 27; Prairie Persuasion: Communication and Propaganda in Southern Alberta 1860-1950, visit Gasoline Alley Museum at Heritage Park to learn about the darker side to propaganda, one which was aimed at different groups of people using discrimination and violence. Propaganda changed the shape of society as we know it today. Discover the power of propaganda for yourself, while you can, by visiting this new, temporary exhibit. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

Until August 27, 2pm; Calgary Wind Symphony, join the Calgary Wind Symphony for a free family-friendly concert in Riley Park. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and join for a wonderful afternoon of music. Learn more at calgarywindsymphony.com.

August 27; High Tea at the Zoo, A full day of summer fun, perfect for all ages. Enjoy delicious treats like scones, finger sandwiches, and mouth-watering snacks, while sipping on a selection of tasty loose-leaf tea. The best part is you get to experience it all in the beautiful ENMAX conservatory, with views of the gardens and flowers. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

August 27; National Cinema Day, the one-day-only event will bring together audiences of all ages to enjoy a day at the movies at a discounted admission of $4. Learn more at nationalcinemaday.org.

August 27, 10am to 3pm; General Block Party, a day of free, family-friendly fun presented by the businesses of General Block to celebrate summer in vibrant Bridgeland (65 7a Street NE). Learn more at eventbrite.ca.

August 27, 10am to 5pm; YYC Pop-up Pride Market, this event showcases incredible local businesses, celebrates pride with music and a scheduled Drag Show performance and connects the LGBTQ+ business community in Calgary at Bridgeland Riverside Community Park. Learn more at ab-lgbt.com.

August 27, 11am to 3pm; Curbside Concert, the Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary (AAFS) will hold a curbside concert to celebrate the grand opening of their new Clubhouse. The event will be at the Clubhouse in Heritage Hill at 8228 Macleod Trail SE and will include live music, activities tours and speeches. Learn more at aafscalgary.com.

August 27, 11am to 4pm; The Barn Artisan Market Presents The August Market, experience two floors of local vendors, featuring hand-crafted, created, and made in Alberta products at Shawnessy Barn. Learn more thebarnartisanmarket.ca.

August 27, 1 to 4pm; Sundays in C-Square, the National Music Centre (NMC) will present a live afternoon concert series, featuring an assortment of musical genres every Sunday afternoon in East Village’s C-Square. This week’s performer is Joanna Borromeo with Dempsey Bolton. Learn more at studiobell.ca.

August 27, 2 to 4pm; Michaels Make Break: Abstract Art, make art your way, with this expressive abstract art piece. This event is free, and all supplies are included. Learn more at canada.michaels.com.

August 27, 3pm; Cavalry FC vs. Pacific FC, check out Canadian professional soccer club based in the Calgary at Spruce Meadows. Learn more at cavalryfc.canpl.ca.

August 27; Brewery & the Beast, this event at Fort Calgary attracts chefs and restaurants from Calgary, Banff, Edmonton and surrounding areas to showcase incredible food and beverages from Alberta. Learn more at breweryandthebeast.com/calgary.

August 27, 5 to 9pm; Trico Centre Movie in the Park, Trico Centre for Family Wellness and Panther Sports Medicine invite you to their third annual movie night: “Back to the Future”! On August 27, they will be transforming their field for an evening of fun, laughter and entertainment. Learn more at tricocentre.ca.

Ongoing

Until August 29, Tuesdays 11am to 4pm; The Market on Stephen Avenue, shop Calgary’s famous downtown avenue for all your market needs. Learn more at downtownmarkets.ca.

Wednesdays until August 30, 4:30 to 9:30pm; Crescent Heights Village BIA Night Market, this market will showcase local vendors, engage the community and raise awareness for the Green Line LRT Project. Learn more at crescentheightsvillage.ca.

Until September; Summer on 17th; returning for its sophomore season along with all of your favorite events. From movies in the park to live bands, theatrical performances and fitness classes, the 17th Ave Business Improvement Area is pulling out all the stops to ensure this summer is epic. Along with last year’s crowd favorites, there’s also tons of exciting new editions for 2023, so clear your calendars, because your summer plans are officially set. Learn more at 17thave.ca/summer.

Until September 1; Who Made You The Judge – art Exhibition, a unique social justice art exhibition showcasing several hand-painted, nearly photorealistic portraits accompanied by heartwarming and emotional life stories. “Who Made You The Judge” highlights race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical disability, neurodiversity, mental health, and addiction at cSPACE Marda Loop. Learn more at ckua.com.

Until September 2; Storybook Theatre Presents: Pippin, a musical comedy told through song and dance, this ensemble cast of dazzling performers tells the tale of Pippin, a young prince who longs to find passion and adventure. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

Until September 2; Rosebud Theatre Presents: The Sound of Music, a young nun is sent off to be governess to seven mischievous children. She teaches the children to sing, bringing a fleeting moment of happiness in the shadow of the rise of the Third Reich. A summer musical for the whole family. Learn more at rosebudtheatre.com.

Saturdays, 3 to 9pm until September 2; Calgary Night Markets at Heritage Park, the Heritage Plaza and promenade in the front parking lots will be taken over by vendors. Shop local vendors, explore the shops in the Plaza, grab a bite to eat and be entertained. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

Until September 3; Stage West Dinner Theatre: You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, musical theatre for the whole family. With charm, wit, and heart, follow life through the eyes of Charlie Brown and his friends in the Peanuts gang. An average day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine’s Day, to baseball season, wild optimism to utter despair. Join Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Sally, Schroeder, and a beagle named Snoopy as they navigate the joys and pitfalls of childhood. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

Until September 4; Calgary Pride, Calgary Pride Week will be celebrated August 26 to September 4, 2023. The Pride Festival will be held September 2 & 3 at Prince’s Island Park. The Parade will return to Calgary on Sunday, September 3, 2023. Learn more at calgarypride.ca.

Until September 4; Celebrate Calgary’s Pride Week with Calgary Public Library, enjoy free programming celebrating the 2SLGBTQ+ community and history from August 26 to September 4 at Central Library and online. Programs include movie screenings, talks with local and international experts, art making for kids and teens, and more. Learn more at calgarylibrary.ca.

Every other Thursday until September 7, 4:30 to 9:30pm; Kensington Night Market, support local business and find your new favorite treats, breweries, fashions, fitness and more at Lot 57, 1210 Kensington Road NW beside Original Joes. Learn more at kensingtonyyc.com.

Until September 10; #YYCBlockParty – Roller Rink on The Boulevard, get ready to let the good times roll, Calgary! Block Party is back for its fourth installment, bringing good vibes, fun games, and eye-catching art to The Boulevard at Deerfoot City. Proceeds from skate rentals go to Kids Up Front, an organization dedicated to ensuring that all kids have access to fun, enriching experiences. Learn more at deerfootcity.com.

Until September 10; Barbie: A Cultural Icon Exhibition at TELUS Spark, experience all things Barbie! This exhibition takes guests from 1959 to present day; examining how pop culture and fashion trends have shaped this global phenomenon. Learn more at sparkscience.ca.

Until September 15; Inglewood Night Market 2023, the Inglewood Night Market is a modern market with locally sourced and handmade vendors selling diverse goods; from handmade crafts to vintage clothing, antiques and collectibles, artisan eats and more. Learn more at inglewoodnightmarket.ca.

Until mid-September; WildScapes at the Calgary Zoo, this summer, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo will be taken over by larger-than-life animal topiaries. This one-of-a-kind summer garden experience can’t be found anywhere else in Western Canada, and will only be available for three short months. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

Until September 16, 4 to 10pm; 4th Street Night Market, Calgary’s hippest night market located in the heart of Mission. Visit the lively main street neighborhood of 4th Street for food, fun, local finds and friends. Learn more at 4th-street-night-market.myshopify.com.

Until October; Bow Habitat Kids Can Catch Trout Pond, the Bow Habitat Station’s Kids Can Catch Trout Pond opens in mid-May and is stocked with rainbow trout in the fish hatchery for you to catch and release. Learn more at bowhabitat.alberta.ca.

Until October; Sacred Defenders of the Universe at TELUS Spark Science Centre, a vibrant floor-to-ceiling journey inside a graphic novel that follows four Indigenous superheroes as they seek to bring back the balance of earth between humility and respect for the land, and the excessive destruction of human ego. Learn more at sparkscience.ca.

Saturdays until October 7; Millarville Farmers’ Market, the people behind the tables at the Millarville Farmers’ Market are the real deal. They are the growers, farmers, makers, bakers, and artists. Ask them about their farm, their art, their love of what they do. Learn more at millarvilleracetrack.com.

Until October 8; Cirque Du Soleil’s KOOZA, KOOZA is a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil that combines two circus traditions — acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. The show highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility, presented in a colorful mélange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor at Stampede Park. Learn more at cirquedusoleil.com.

Until October 21; Jubilations Dinner Theatre Presents Crocodile Rock: The Legend Of Elton John, he’s one of the all-time great rock legends, with hit after hit all across the world. And now the story of the Rocketman is getting the Jubilations Dinner Theatre twist. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

Mobile Adventure Playgrounds. Join The City of Calgary for a self-directed, drop-in program that uses loose parts and natural materials to inspire active and creative outdoor play, and connect people, young and old, to nature. Visit calgary.ca/free for locations and details.