Summer is fast approaching, and what better way to usher in the warmest time of year than by attending a festival or two? From the iconic Sled Island Music & Arts Festival to the Calgary classic Lilac Festival, there’s an event to suit just about every taste.
Here are a few of the ones you can check out in Calgary this month.
FunnyFest Comedy Festival
When:Â June 1 to 11, 2023
The 23rd annual FunnyFest hits the city once again over 11 days in June, and with 20 separate shows and 70 performers, there are plenty of chances to catch your daily dose of chuckles. For those with a hilarious side looking to slide into the business, there are also workshops on performing and writing comedy led by the experts.
Multiple locations, funnyfest.com
Calgary Ukrainian Festival
When:Â June 3 and 4, 2023
Gather at the 13th annual Calgary Ukrainian Festival to celebrate the Ukrainian community and its rich culture. Take in Ukrainian song and dance performances, traditional clothing and plenty of Ukrainian food — pierogies, anyone?
Acadia Recreation Complex, 240 90 Ave. S.W., calgaryukrainianfestival.com
Lilac FestivalÂ
When: June 4, 2023
Stretching for several blocks in Mission along 4th Street S.W., Lilac Festival is an annual, one-day event that celebrates the beginning of Calgary’s festival and market season, as well as the blooming of the area’s lilac bushes. Known as one of the city’s best free festivals, Lilac Festival hosts more than 500 vendors selling locally handmade goods, imported wares, artisan crafts, food and more. It also features a variety of dance, music and cultural performances throughout the day, with more than 30 performers showcasing their talents on one of six stages.
4 Street S.W., between 12 Avenue S.W. and Elbow Drive S.W., lilacfestival.netÂ
Way Out West FestivalÂ
Dates: June 10 to 11, 2023
With an aim to connect Albertans to the province’s rich western heritage, Way Out West Festival celebrates the culture of the West through a variety of events. Along with hands-on workshops, the festival also features musical performances, a Western art auction and a curated market.
Multiple locations, wayoutwestfest.ca
Sled Island
When: June 21 to June 25, 2023
Sled Island Music & Arts Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that takes place in Calgary over five days every June. Since 2007, this festival has been bringing the community together by showcasing the talents of more than 300 bands, emerging visual artists, filmmakers and comedians. While the best way to experience Sled Island is by purchasing a festival pass, a limited number of day passes and single tickets to select shows are also available.
Multiple locations, sledisland.com
JazzYYC Summer Festival
When: June 28 to July 2, 2023
Could there be a better way to say goodbye to spring and hello to summer than with a bit of jazz? At the end of June, join JazzYYC for its summer festival featuring five days full of performances from award-winning jazz musicians and performers at iconic venues throughout the city. Grab a festival pass for all five days, a five-ticket bundle or single show tickets.
Multiple locations, jazzyyc.com