For the first time since 2019, Calgary is hosting the Grey Cup, the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) annual championship. Football fans can watch the two final teams (still to be determined) face off for the title at McMahon Stadium on November 15.
But the championship game isn’t the only way to get in on the football action this month. With the Grey Cup Festival running from November 11 to 15, there are five days of festivities including concerts, rodeos, tailgate parties, family-friendly activities and more leading up to game day.
Here’s everything you need to know about celebrating the Grey Cup as the big game approaches.
Many sports will be showcased during the festival
One part of this year’s festival programming is the Girls In Sport Summit, hosted by Girls Forward Foundation. The session connects young female athletes to coaching and development opportunities across sports like football, dance and cheerleading. Inside the Scotiabank Saddledome on November 14, the girls mentorship session is followed by the Cheer Extravaganza showcase, which showcases dance routines by talented cheer teams from across Canada.
Calgary will also display some of its Western roots with two rodeo performances at the Nutrien Western Event Centre on November 14. The family-friendly shows will feature some horse and bull riding alongside performances by country musician Drew Gregory. There are shows from noon to 2 p.m. or 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Hear live music throughout the festival
The Grey Cup half-time show isn’t your only chance to hear great live music — there will also be live performances at Stampede Park throughout the Grey Cup Festival. Rock band The Trews will be accompanied by Calgary Highlanders of Regimental Pipes and Drums for the festival’s kickoff party on November 11. Canadian musician Alan Doyle will headline a concert featuring The Strumbellas at the Big Four Roadhouse on November 12. And for the Saturday Night Concert on November 14, stay tuned for a surprise performer on the Big Four Roadhouse stage.
Those looking for free musical entertainment can head to Stampede Park for the Outdoor Community Stage from November 11 to 14. Part of the Suncor Street Festival, the community stage showcases a variety of local performances including country, rock and DJ sets every evening.
There’s a free street festival with activities for the whole family
Don’t miss the free Suncor Street Festival running from November 12 to 14. With public art installations, free pancake breakfasts and evening drone light shows, the event transforms Stampede Park into a hub of interactive experiences for the Grey Cup. And inside the BMO Centre, the TELUS Family Zone is where kids can discover a variety of sensory-friendly spaces and activities.
Celebrate with fellow football fans at team-specific party spaces
From November 12 to 14, FanDuel is hosting a number of special spaces for fans of various teams to celebrate. Different halls and rooms inside the BMO Centre will host adults-only, team-specific parties. Calgary Stampeder fans can explore spots like the Stamps House, while Winnipeg Blue Bomber fans will have the Touchdown Manitoba party. Ticketed guests are encouraged to don their team colours and mingle between spaces like the Lions Den, Riderville and more.
On game day, CFL fans of all ages are encouraged to head to McMahon Stadium’s East Lot for a free tailgate party from 1 to 5 p.m., offering another opportunity to soak up the atmosphere just before kickoff.
Catch the big game at McMahon Stadium
On November 15, the 113th Grey Cup will be held at Calgary’s McMahon Stadium for the sixth time in the league’s history. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m., but beyond the action on the field, fans can also look forward to a lineup of musical performances. James Barker Band and Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor will open the stage for the pre-game entertainment. Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan will perform the national anthem and country star Riley Green will headline the halftime show.