Do
Experience Calgary Culture Days
September 1 to 30
For the entire month of September, Calgary’s greater downtown area fills with free and low-cost cultural events for all to enjoy. Through City-funded microgrants, local artists and organizations put on microfestivals, art exhibits, workshops and performances to show off the creativity that Calgary has to offer and to connect with fellow Calgarians.
calgary.ca/events/culture-days
Scare yourself at a horror convention
October 3 to 4
For fans of horror movies, Calgary’s Horror Con is the biggest and scariest event of the year. At the Genesis Centre, catch screenings of (cult) classic horror films, snap a photo with a horror film star, get insider knowledge at Q&A panels and shop for collectibles in the vendor hall.
Get inked at a tattoo festival
October 16 to 18
Whether you’re looking for new ink or just appreciate the art form, the Calgary Tattoo and Arts Festival at the BMO Centre is a sight to behold. Every year, hundreds of tattoo artists from across the country and the globe come together to showcase their skills. Grab a VIP ticket to beat the crowds.
See
Bask in the (night) lights
September 24 to 26
For one fall weekend, Victoria Park lights up for Night Light. Take in this family-friendly festival, which uses light to create dazzling works of art, including interactive experiences and live performances. See artists use technology to create innovative new works.
Sing along to a cult-classic musical
September 29 to October 25
Get into the Halloween spirit with Theatre Calgary’s production of Little Shop of Horrors. Follow the story of flower-shop assistant Seymour and his discovery of a bloodthirsty plant. This campy musical has a beloved score inspired by 1960s pop, doo-wop and Motown. It’s funny, charming and just the right amount of spooky.
Catch a movie at CIFF 2026
September 24 to October 4
Presenting a curated selection of over 200 films, including shorts and features from both global and homegrown talent, the Calgary International Film Festival is Alberta’s largest film festival. Following record-setting attendance in 2025, this year’s iteration of the 10-day event is sure to feature many must-see flicks and celebrity appearances.
Listen
Connect with podcasters
October 16 to 17
PodSummit started as a Canadian podcasting networking conference and has evolved into an all-out celebration of podcasting. Check out sessions, panels and workshops at The Grand and enjoy live shows to see what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favourite Canadian podcasts.
Stream fresh tunes from Souls in Rhythm
Long-standing Calgary band, Souls in Rhythm recently released Stranger in My Heart, the group’s first full album in 18 years. Staying true to its funk and soul roots, the band describes the album as “full of hooks, weirdness, neck-snapping grooves, passionate playing and singing, and audacious lyrics.” Listen on Spotify and Apple Music.