Do
Stock up on summer reads
May 8 to 17
The Calgary Reads Big Book Sale fills the Calgary Curling Club every May with more than 200,000 gently used books across every genre. Every purchase supports programs that help kids discover the joy of reading.
Celebrate Japanese anime at Otafest
May 15 to 17
Otafest takes over the Calgary Telus Convention Centre and the Marriott Downtown Hotel with anime screenings, cosplay, workshops, panels and a lively exhibitor hall. This homegrown, volunteer-run, all-ages Japanese anime and pop-culture festival keeps spirits high all weekend.
Race the Calgary Marathon
May 23 and 24
The Servus Calgary Marathon Race Weekend brings energy to the city as runners of every level take over the course. It’s Canada’s longest-running marathon, with a range of other distances, too: half-marathon, 10 km and five km, plus a kids’ race and the playful Diaper Dash. Not a runner? Join fans along the course to cheer on racers.
Head down to East Town Get Down
May 23
International Avenue comes alive for East Town Get Down, a one-night mix of live music, food and non-stop exploring. Venues up and down the six-block stretch host bands and DJs, so go stumble onto something new while enjoying $5 food plates and drink specials.
Kick off summer at Lilac Festival
June 7
Lilac Festival turns 4th Street S.W. into a full-on block party from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, local vendors and a bustling crowd that keeps the whole street buzzing. Drift between six stages, discover new bands and grab a sunny patio spot. It’s a lively kickoff to summer at one of the city’s most popular events.
See
Watch The Verdict at Vertigo Theatre
May 9 to June 7
The Verdict brings a gripping courtroom showdown to the Vertigo stage as a lawyer risks everything to take on a powerful hospital in a malpractice case. Based on the best-selling novel by Barry Reed and the iconic film starring Paul Newman, this local premiere is a tense, twist-filled fight for justice you won’t want to miss.
Listen
Boot stomp at Country Thunder
June 26 to 28
Get ready for a weekend of full-on country music as Country Thunder rolls into town. This year’s lineup includes The Red Clay Strays, Kane Brown, Lainey Wilson and more, bringing a mix of heavy hitters and rising names to the stage. Make your way to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland and enjoy the tunes at one of summer’s biggest festivals.
Get your groove on at the JazzYYC Summer Festival
June 23 to 29
The JazzYYC Summer Festival showcases swing and rhythm as local and international jazz artists descend upon the city to perform live. Whether you prefer low-key sets or higher-energy shows, it’s a fun way to learn about the world of jazz.
