Check out a summer music series at the King Eddy
When: August 1 and 2
The National Music Centre’s CIBC Summer Series continues into August, and you can head to the King Eddy for two concerts this weekend. Check out Sargeant X Comrade and Daughter Dentist’s performance on August 1, or pop in on August 2 to see Smio and Malaika Hailey take the stage.
438 9 Ave S.E., 403-829-6016, studiobell.ca
Taste Calgary’s global cuisine
When: August 1 to 5
One of Calgary’s biggest and most anticipated food festivals returns over the long weekend. Taste of Calgary is your chance to sample a global range of dishes from local restaurants, food trucks and beverage producers. From Brazilian barbecue to jollof rice and peach bellinis to milk tea, there’s something for everyone at this foodie fest. Use $1 tasting tickets to purchase dishes and drinks (each one costs two to seven tickets).
Corner of 4th Avenue S.W. and 8th Street S.W., tasteofcalgary.com
Eat Japanese kakigori at a new Chinatown eatery
The newest eatery in Chinatown, Monster Kakigori specializes in kakigori, which is essentially shaved ice that’s shaved so finely it’s like snow and finished with delicious toppings. Get one topped with mango, yuzu, matcha and more. Or, try the special ice cream sando featuring a Japanese melon bread filled with your choice of ice cream flavours and topped with purple yam and gold flakes.
139 328 Centre St. S., @monsterkakigori
Listen to the blues at a music festival
When: August 1 to 4
This long weekend, check out the annual Calgary International Blues Festival, a celebration of all things blues. This year is the festival’s 20th anniversary, with plenty of great acts taking the stage at Cowboys Park (formerly known as Millenium Park). Or, head to the Kerby Centre after the performances each night for a Twilight Blues Dance Party. Tickets start at $50 for a day pass on Thursday and Friday, and $75 for Saturday and Sunday.
1220 9 Ave. S.W., calgarybluesfest.com
Celebrate India’s rich culture at Incredible India Fest
When: August 3
Taking place at Westin Calgary Airport, this annual festival features cultural performances, live music and kid-friendly activities, as well as a number of authentic food stalls. Visitors to this free festival can expect bright colours and vibrant flavours, all while taking in the rich diversity that makes up the Indian subcontinent.
671 Aero Dr. N.E., sparqproductions.com
Learn about Calgary unique history at Historic Calgary Week
When: On now until August 5
During Historic Calgary Week, take some time to learn about the history of Calgary and what makes it the vibrant place that it is. During the week-long event, attendees can check out 88 walking tours, talks and presentations happening throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Eat ice cream for a good cause during YYC Ice Cream Fest
When: On now until August 5
Now in its third year, YYC Ice Cream Fest invites ice cream vendors and eateries around the city to put forward their best ice cream creations in support of Calgary Meals on Wheels. Catch the final weekend of this festival and stop by participating businesses, then vote for your favourite sweet treat. Part of the sales from every featured dish purchased goes towards fighting food insecurity in Calgary.
Eat elevated Afghan cuisine at a new downtown restaurant
Mazza Afghan Cuisine is a new Calgary restaurant located downtown across from Olympic Plaza. Stop by with some friends or family for modern Afghan dishes like mantu (steamed dumplings), a variety of fresh-grilled kabobs and more.
105 237 8 Ave. S.E. 403-300-0788, mazzacalgary.ca
See unique and exciting theatre performances during Calgary Fringe Festival
When: August 2 to 10
The Calgary Fringe Festival is back. During Fringe’s nine-day run, expect a unique and unforgettable mix of online and in-person theatre performances. From autobiographical storytelling, to an “improvised gothic novel,” to a one-woman puppetry show, the festival brings independent performance to Calgary in a way that no other festival does.
Various venues, calgaryfringe.ca
Check out an annual bike race and street festival in Bowness
When: August 3 to 5
A local bike race that’s been going on for 21 years, the Tour De Bowness takes place in two parts: On August 3, racers compete on an out-and-back course of varying distances on Horse Creek Road, just outside of Cochrane. The second event on August 4 is a hill climb on Mackay Road N.W., climbing Montgomery Hill. Both races still have spots open if you wish to compete, or you can sit on the sidelines and cheer on the competitors. Finally, the street festival, taking place on August 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will have food trucks, live music, street performers and more.