What is the Weather Like in Calgary, Alberta?

Calgary, Alberta, Canada is a beautiful city located in the province of Alberta, at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains and at the convergence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. People who come to Calgary can enjoy its great outdoors, world-class festivals and events, interesting history, and vibrant culture. As a major city in Alberta, Calgary’s weather also plays a big role in life in the city – from outdoor activities to packing an umbrella. So what sort of weather can you expect when visiting Calgary?

Average Temperatures in Calgary

Calgary’s climate is relatively mild for Canada, thanks to its location further south than most other Canadian cities, as well as its location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The combination of these two factors makes for fairly mild conditions in the winter and warm, but not overly hot temperatures in the summer. The average daily temperature in Calgary is between -3 degrees Celsius (27F) in January to 17 degrees Celsius (63F) in July, but of course temperatures vary depending on the season.

Summer in Calgary

Summers in Calgary are typically sunny and warm. July and August are the hottest months, reaching up to 27C (81F). Nights, however, can cool down to an average low of 11C (52F). The average amount of precipitation during summer months is quite low, ranging from 0-50mm (0-2in) per month on average.

Winter in Calgary

Winters in Calgary are cold and long. November to February are the coldest months with an average daily temperature of -8C (17F). It does snow during the winter months, with most snowfall occurring from December to February, when it snows an average of 33 cm (13in). However, due to low precipitation levels, the snow usually melts quickly.

Year-Round Weather in Calgary

Weather patterns tend to be very predictable throughout the year in Calgary. The city receives about 2,000 hours of sun per year, so it’s usually sunny throughout most parts of the year. Spring usually starts in mid-March and lasts until late May. The fall season starts in September and runs through to late November. As mentioned above, winters can be cold, but they typically don’t last very long and often bring beautiful sunny days – making them perfect for winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing.

How Calgary Weather Impacts Outdoor Activities

Whether it’s playing golf on the nearby links or enjoying a nice walk along one of Calgary’s many walking paths, the city’s weather really enhances its outdoor activities. In the summer months, Calgary tends to have mild temperatures; usually hot days but cool nights make for perfect conditions for a summer evening stroll or bike ride. During this time you’ll also find plenty of festivals and events taking place around the city.
In the wintertime, often called “The Chinook” period, there can be bouts of warm weather that make outdoor activities still viable. It’s not unusual to see people out on the ski hills while the temperatures remain above zero celsius, or those brave enough to enjoy a swim at one of the city’s many outdoor ice rinks. It’s just part of how people learn to cope with the ever-changing weather in Calgary.
But it’s also during this season that people should remember to bundle up when out and about. From layers upon layers of clothing to waterproof snow pants and jackets, winter gear makes all the difference when venturing outdoors during the cold winter months.

Conclusion

The weather in Calgary can be unpredictable at times but that doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying all that this amazing city has to offer! With its mild temperatures during the summer months and an array of winter activities, visitors can truly enjoy Calgary’s offerings no matter what season it is. Just remember to bundle up – you never know when Mother Nature will surprise you!To get more detailed information, including hour-to-hour weather predictions and outlooks, please visit Canada’s Government Weather website.

An Insider’s Guide to Calgary: A Hidden Gem Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Calgary, Alberta is a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of Canada’s Rocky Mountains. It’s a city of contrasts that seamlessly blends modernity and outdoor adventure with rich cultural traditions and history. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the city’s hidden gem attractions, delicious local cuisine, fascinating cultural experiences, captivating local history, and off-the-beaten-path activities.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

Calgary has a vast array of attractions beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Escape from the city’s bustling crowds and explore beautiful natural scenery at Nose Hill Park, which offers panoramic views of the city and over 11 kilometers of hiking trails. For history buffs, the Heritage Park Historical Village is a living history museum with over 200 historical exhibits showcasing the early settlement of Western Canada. The Calgary Tower, at 190.8 meters tall, is the city’s most iconic landmark, offering stunning 360-degree views of the city’s skyline from the observation deck.

Dining Spots: Indulge in Local Flavours

Calgary’s diverse food culture offers a tantalizing variety of delicious dishes awaiting to be savoured. The city is known for its Alberta beef and as a hub for BBQ, but there are hidden gems that offer something truly unique. Saltlik, a steakhouse located in the heart of downtown, is a must-visit for any foodie. They offer a 40-day aged steak, and their signature dish, the Bison Ribs, cannot be beaten. For a more traditional treat, try the BeaverTails pastries at Prince’s Island Park. These pillowy pastries come in various flavours such as cinnamon sugar, chocolate hazelnut, and maple butter.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Tradition

Calgary has a vibrant culture that is influenced by both Western and Indigenous traditions. The Calgary Stampede, a ten-day festival in July, is the city’s most significant event, drawing millions of visitors throughout the year. It celebrates Calgary’s cowboy culture with rodeo shows, parades, and music. Another cultural experience is the Glenbow Museum, which showcases the city’s art, history, and Indigenous heritage. For a different experience, visit the Chinese Cultural Centre, where visitors can learn about Chinese culture, art, and history through exhibits, performances, and workshops.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories

The city’s history is filled with intriguing stories from its early days as a trading post to its development as a thriving city. The Calgary Soldiers’ Memorial, located in the heart of downtown, commemorates soldiers from southern Alberta who served in various conflicts since the Boer War. The Calgary Zoo has a rich history as well, dating back over 90 years, where visitors can learn about animals from around the world and their adaptation to the Calgary climate. Another interesting piece of history is the Deane House, home to the founder of one of Calgary’s most significant real estate companies, which is now a heritage museum showcasing early 20th-century life in Calgary.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experience Something Unique

If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path, Calgary has plenty of adventurous activities that will make your trip unforgettable. During the winter months, explore the city’s extensive pathway system, designed for cycling, walking, and skating. Cross-country ski the scenic Canmore Park’s 24kms of groomed trails, or try tubing at Canada’s Olympic Park. In the summer, take a trip to Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, to hike, swim, and bike. For a truly unique experience, visit the Calgary Zoo’s Illuminasia event, where the park is adorned in colourful lantern displays and decorated themes from Chinese history.

Calgary has something for everyone, from modern attractions to natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. We hope with our insider’s guide, you get a better glimpse of this hidden gem and its unique charm.