Calgary’s Summer Festival Season is in full swing and downtown is where you’ll find the electric energy as people come to experience the ultimate celebration of community, creativity, and culture. With more than 100 festivals and events happening downtown this summer, the heart of our city will be bursting with fun and entertainment for everyone.
“Whether you’re a Calgarian or a visitor, this is your invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of our Downtown Summer Festival Season,” says Thom Mahler, Director of Downtown Strategy with The City of Calgary. “Downtown is home to some of our proudest landmarks and our biggest celebrations, like our highly successful Canada Day, Stampede, Carifest and the Calgary Folk Music Festival. The best of our city is reflected in these festivals and events, as people come together to have fun, celebrate and enjoy life’s moments.”
With a wide variety of entertainment, the Downtown Summer Festival Season has something for everyone. “Whether you like music, comedy, food or you’re interested in free, family-friendly events, there’s the opportunity to come downtown and enjoy the festivities,” says Franca Gualtieri, Manager of Arts & Culture with The City of Calgary. “This year, we want to make sure you’re just a click away from staying connected. That’s why we’ve created the Downtown Summer Festival Itinerary; a guide to keep you informed about the festivals and events happening downtown from now until the end of September.”
Not only do these festivals and events provide an opportunity for fun and connection, they also create a positive economic impact for Calgary. “Summer is always our busiest season in welcoming and hosting visitors in our city,” says Alisha Reynolds, CEO Tourism Calgary. “This year, we are anticipating an increase in visitation and hotel stays from June through September over last year, and we are preparing for a very busy summer for our tourism industry. The Downtown Summer Festival Season is a wonderful way to generate additional economic impact and demonstrate in engaging ways how Calgary delivers meaningful experiences for visitors, family, and friends.”
Festivals and events bring people out of their homes and into the streets – it’s where neighbours meet and friendships are born, and it’s where communities come alive and cultivate a sense of belonging. Mayor Jyoti Gondek agrees. “The magic of downtown Calgary is that everyone is welcome and every festival and event is an opportunity to celebrate the vibrant and inclusive city we call home. Let’s make this summer unforgettable by connecting through shared experiences that only Calgary can offer.”
Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable Downtown Summer Festival Season. Ready, set, explore! To learn more about the exciting festivals and events happening downtown this summer visit calgary.ca/summerfestivals
