7 Spring Festivals to Check Out in Calgary

Spring officially begins on March 20th this year, and its arrival means that Calgarians will soon have some exciting festivals to check out again. Here’s a run-down of a few of the biggest festivals happening this spring in the city (plus one in Banff).

Festival of Animated Objects

When: March 11 to 30, 2025

Now in its 14th year, this festival celebrates all forms of performance that breathe life into the inanimate. From smaller traditional puppets to large-scale, fantastical creatures, this festival brings the best of puppetry and mask performers to Alberta. Check out performances, workshops and movie screenings at various locations around the city.

puppetfestival.ca

YYC Food & Drink Experience

When: March 14 to 30, 2025

This celebration of Calgary’s incredible dining scene invites you to visit participating restaurants for special prix-fixe menus. Enjoy a three-course brunch/lunch ($25 or $35), three-course dinner ($35 or $45) or gourmet dining experience ($65 or $75).There are also special events throughout the food festival.

foodanddrinkexp.com/calgary

Calgary Underground Film Festival

When: April 17 to 27, 2025

Every year, Calgary Underground Film Festival casts a spotlight on some of the best independent documentaries and films around for one of the city’s biggest film celebrations. This year’s film lineup will be announced on March 26th.

calgaryundergroundfilm.org

Made With Love – Banff Food and Cocktail Festival

When: April 22 to May 4, 2025

This mountain culinary festival features 16 Banff restaurants (including Hello Sunshine, Tooloulou’s and Block Kitchen + Bar) offering special pairing menus during the event. Plus, there’s an outdoor event on April 25 and 26 with food and drinks, competitions, DJs and more.

madewithlovebanff.com

Calgary Expo

When: April 24 to 27, 2025

The Calgary Expo brings all fandoms together to celebrate sci-fi, horror, video games, comics, anime and more under one roof. During this four-day expo, meet and have your photo taken with guests and celebrities, pick up some cool art in the Artist Alley or dress up and show off your best cosplay.

fanexpohq.com/calgaryexpo

Calgary International Beerfest

When: May 2 and 3, 2025

This yearly event gathers some of the best craft breweries under one roof. Try samples from some of the countless participating breweries to find your new favourite hoppy beverage. There will also be food vendors.

albertabeerfestivals.com

Lilac Festival

When: June 1, 2025

The popular Lilac Festival is back for another year to celebrate the arrival of warm weather in Calgary. With 4th Street S.W. in Mission (between 12 Avenue S.W. and Elbow Drive S.W.) open only to foot traffic, festival-goers can expect activities for all ages. Multiple stages will host performances throughout the day while hundreds of vendors serve up food and sell local handmade goods.

lilacfestival.net

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