Plan Ahead: Tips for 3 Summer Festivals in Calgary

Calgary Stampede

Taking place July 4 to 13, the Calgary Stampede is an annual 10-day celebration of western heritage with world-class rodeo, art, music, food and carnival rides. While western wear and cowboy boots are encouraged, walking more than 200 acres of land calls for comfy shoes. Reusable water bottles are a must and can be refilled at water stations throughout the grounds. With express shuttle buses and extended bus hours, transit is the way to get to Stampede. Take the C-Train’s Red Line to Erlton/Stampede station for easy access to the rodeo and the Coca-Cola Stage, or go to the Victoria Park/Stampede station to hit the food stalls and carnival games at the midway.

Hot Tip: Find air-conditioning at the Range Food Hall in the Big Four Building.

Calgary Folk Music Festival

Since 1980, Prince’s Island Park has played host to this annual festival of emerging and well-known artists. It returns, across eight stages, this July 24 to 27. The island park location means pack your bug spray. And the weather can be unpredictable, too, so bring clothing for rain and brisk nights. Tarps, blankets or festival chairs (legs shorter than eight inches) are encouraged for sitting on the grass in front of the stages. To get to the festival, ditch the car and opt for transit, walking, biking or renting a scooter. The Bow River Pathway leads straight to the park, and there is a designated bike lock-up spot. A visit to the artisan market is recommended.

Hot Tip: While alcoholic drinks must be purchased on site and there are food vendors to try, you can bring in snacks and non-alcoholic beverages from home.

GlobalFest

Running August 14 to 23, GlobalFest at Elliston Park in the southeast features multicultural pavilions, performances, food and fireworks. To capture every moment of these pyrotechnics, bring a portable charger to keep your phone ready. The fireworks happen after dark, so come dressed for cooler weather. There is no parking on site, but GlobalFest has designated parking lots off site and you can pre-purchase a spot online. Plus, all general admission ticket holders can access the return shuttle bus service from designated lots to three different entry points, and bike lock-ups are free of charge at the park.

Hot Tip: VIP tickets come with parking, shuttle bus transport, light snacks and a view of the launch site, directly across the lake. A-List members can join us in our VIP tent on August 21 — find out more at thealist.vip

The post Plan Ahead: Tips for 3 Summer Festivals in Calgary appeared first on Avenue Calgary.