What Is the Best Time to Visit Calgary?

When thinking about the best time to visit Calgary, the options can be daunting. That’s because this bustling city in Alberta, Canada is home to a wealth of different events and festivals year-round. From cultural and culinary festivities and heritage events to outdoor activities and entertainment, Calgary truly has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip, or just looking for a great place to spend a few days, understanding what happens and when is key to making your stay the most enjoyable. Let’s take a look at the best times to visit Calgary, depending on what type of holiday you’re looking for.

Summer in Calgary

Calgary’s summers are undeniably stunning and bustling with activity. June and July see temperatures between 16-27 degrees celsius (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit), so it’s prime weather for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating and beach lounging. It’s also worth noting that the Rocky Mountains are a short two-hour drive away, offering even more options for adventures.

Also during the summertime, you’ll find some great family-oriented festivals of a more cultural nature. Calgary Stampede happens every July, a legendary festival paying homage to the city’s cowboys, with authentic rodeo events, over 250 concerts and its world-famous pancake breakfasts. Plus, the city is home to Canada’s largest outdoor theatre festival, Vertigo Theatre’s SummerStage, which showcases local and international comedic theatre in city parks from mid-June until mid-September.

Winter in Calgary

You wouldn’t be wrong for thinking wintertime in Calgary is all about skiing and snowboarding, but it’s actually a vibrant hub of both indoor and outdoor activities. Cold but sunny weather hovers around freezing temperatures (-7 Celsius/19 Fahrenheit), which is ideal for activities including ice-skating, snowshoeing and visiting four world-renowned ski resorts nearby. And for those not looking for an intense physical activity experience, there’s plenty to see and do during the warmer winter days too.

To celebrate the season many locals take part in the holiday market events beginning in November and ending in December. From lively Christmas markets to holiday lights markets and winter ice skating shows, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer. The city also plays host to several music festivals during the winter months for those looking for more entertainment options.

Best Times to Visit Calgary Overall

If you’re looking for a snapshot of when the best weather and festivities happen in Calgary each year, our best recommendation is to visit between late May and early September. This is primetime to take part in outdoor activities such as camping, kayaking and sightseeing while catching some of the festivals each month throughout summer months.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for wintertime events and keen to try some mountain recreation including ice hockey or cross-country skiing, visit sometime between late November and late March—you’ll be treated with plenty of Christmas-related options too.

No matter what time you visit Calgary, though, you can be sure that you’ll have an unforgettable experience with all the spectacular events from all seasons this city has to offer.

For more detailed information and FAQ on the best times for touring Calgary check out Tourism Calgary.

Insider’s Guide to Visiting Calgary, Canada

Calgary is a city in western Canada, located in the province of Alberta. It is known for its close proximity to the Rocky Mountains, as well as for its thriving oil and gas industry. If you are planning a trip to Calgary, you might be wondering what the best time of year to visit is. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the answer to that question, as well as some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for visitors.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

The best time to visit Calgary is in the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 23°C (73°F). This is also the time when many outdoor festivals and events take place, such as the Calgary Stampede, which is a 10-day rodeo and exhibition that takes place in July.

If you are looking to visit Calgary during the winter months, keep in mind that it can get very cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -30°C (-22°F). However, if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, the nearby Rocky Mountains offer some of the best slopes in the world.

Top Attractions in Calgary

There are plenty of top attractions to see in Calgary, including:

• The Calgary Tower – an observation deck that provides stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
• The Glenbow Museum – a museum showcasing the history and culture of western Canada.
• The Calgary Zoo – home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.
• The Heritage Park Historical Village – a living history museum that showcases what life was like in western Canada in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
• The Bow River – a beautiful river that runs through the city and offers opportunities for fishing and rafting.

Top Dining Spots in Calgary

Calgary is known for its world-class dining scene, with plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. Some of the top dining spots in the city include:

• Rouge – a fine dining restaurant that specializes in locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
• Vendome Cafe – a cozy cafe that serves up delicious brunch and lunch dishes.
• Pigeonhole – a trendy wine bar and restaurant that offers small plates and an extensive wine list.
• Anju – a Korean fusion restaurant that serves up delicious dishes such as kimchi poutine and Korean fried chicken.
• Una Pizza + Wine – a popular pizza restaurant that uses high-quality ingredients and offers a great selection of wine and beer.

Cultural Experiences in Calgary

If you are looking to experience some of the local culture in Calgary, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few:

• The Calgary Stampede – as mentioned earlier, this 10-day rodeo and exhibition is a must-see event if you are visiting in July.
• Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra – if you enjoy classical music, be sure to check out a performance by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
• Studio Bell – home to the National Music Centre, Studio Bell is a museum dedicated to Canadian music history.

Local History in Calgary

For those interested in learning about the local history of Calgary, there are several museums and historical sites to visit:

• The Glenbow Museum – mentioned earlier, this museum is dedicated to the history and culture of western Canada.
• The Heritage Park Historical Village – also mentioned earlier, this living history museum offers a glimpse into what life was like in western Canada in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
• Fort Calgary – a historical site that was once a fort used during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Calgary

If you are looking to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known attractions in Calgary, consider the following suggestions:

• The Inglewood neighbourhood – this up-and-coming neighbourhood is home to a number of unique boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.
• Prince’s Island Park – a beautiful park located in the heart of the city, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a natural amphitheatre.
• The Calgary Farmers’ Market – a year-round market that features local produce, meats, and crafts.

Calgary is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you are interested in exploring the local history, experiencing the local culture, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings, there is something for everyone in Calgary.