Spring officially begins on March 19th this year, and its arrival means that Calgarians will soon have some exciting festivals to check out again. Here’s a run-down of a few of the biggest festivals happening this spring in the city (plus one in Banff).
Festival of Animated Objects
When: March 8 to 24, 2024
Now in its 13th year, this festival celebrates all forms of performance that breathe life into the inanimate. From smaller traditional puppets to large-scale, fantastical creatures, this festival brings the best of puppetry and mask performers to Alberta. Check out performances, workshops and movie screenings at various locations around the city.
YYC Food & Drink Experience
When: March 15 to 31, 2024
This celebration of Calgary’s incredible dining scene invites you to visit participating restaurants for special prix-fixe menus. Enjoy a special lunch ($25 or $35), three-course dinner ($35 or $45) or gourmet dining experience ($65 or $75).There are also special events throughout the food festival.
Calgary Underground Film Festival
When: April 18 to 28, 2024
Every year, Calgary Underground Film Festival casts a spotlight on some of the best independent documentaries and films around for one of the city’s biggest film celebrations. This year’s film lineup will be announced on March 27th.
Made With Love – Banff Food and Cocktail Festival
When: April 19 to May 4, 2024
This mountain culinary festival features more than 20 Banff restaurants (including Farm & Fire, Hello Sunshine and Nourish Bistro) offering special drink and food pairings during the two-week event. There are also a number of noteworthy events — attend the cocktail competition on Bear Street on April 19 and 20 or try your hand at bartending classes on May 3.
Calgary Expo
When: April 25 to 28, 2024
The Calgary Expo brings all fandoms together to celebrate sci-fi, horror, video games, comics, anime and more under one roof. During this four-day expo, meet and have your photo taken with guests and celebrities, take part in gaming tournaments or dress up and show off your best cosplay.
Calgary International Beerfest
When: May 3 and 4, 2024
This yearly event gathers some of the best craft breweries under one roof. Try samples from some of the hundreds of participating breweries to find your new favourite hoppy beverage. Plus, there will be food pairings from local restaurants and you can even learn how to cook with beer by taking in one of the event sessions.
Lilac Festival
When: June 2, 2024
The popular Lilac Festival is back for another year to celebrate the arrival of warm weather in Calgary. With 4th Street S.W. in Mission (between 12 Avenue S.W. and Elbow Drive S.W.) open only to foot traffic, festival-goers can expect activities for all ages. Multiple stages will host performances throughout the day while hundreds of vendors serve up food and sell local handmade goods.