Sleep (or just wander) in the 1914 Fairmont Palliser

Hotels near the Stampede grounds sell out months ahead, sometimes as soon as the next dates are announced, and rates can triple or quadruple during the ten days. Book as early as you can and choose a downtown or East Village base within a 15-minute walk. If prices are out of reach, stay in Airdrie, Cochrane or…

On one day each year, 4th Street SW closes to cars for the Lilac Festival, a free street party that marks the start of Calgary's summer festival season. It runs along 4th Street between 12 Avenue and Elbow Drive, with an extension on 17 Avenue, and brings live music across eight stages, local vendors, food trucks and…

Sled Island is Calgary's June music and arts festival, five days of bands, comedy, art and drag at venues across downtown, from theatres to record stores. A guest curator chooses part of the lineup each year, so the mood shifts every edition. Buy a pass or single tickets on the festival site, and plan late nights. The…

The Calgary Philharmonic plays its season at Jack Singer Concert Hall in the Werklund Centre, a short walk from downtown. The programme mixes classical nights with film concerts and pops evenings, such as live-to-film screenings and songbook shows, so there is an entry point for non-regulars. Check the season calendar…

Studio Bell, the National Music Centre, spans five floors of instruments, hands-on synth and drum stations and the Canadian Music Halls of Fame, including a theatre organ. Daytime events come with admission, while evening concerts are ticketed, so look at the whats-on calendar. Cross the street to the King Eddy, a…

Alberta Boot builds western boots in Calgary, and its flagship in the Beltline, near the Stampede grounds, is also the factory. Browse ready-made pairs, or order bespoke boots in the leather you choose. Past visits have included watching boots made and trying a hands-on workshop, so use the schedule a visit page to…

Crossroads Market in southeast Calgary is a Saturday-morning habit for locals, part flea market and part food hall, with over 125 vendors selling antiques, crafts, produce and baked goods. It runs year-round indoors, with an outdoor market in summer, and the food court is worth a stop. Go earlier in the day for the…

The grassy bluff above the Bow River at the end of Crescent Road NW gives one of the best downtown skyline views in the city. It takes a climb, so wear sturdy shoes, bring a hiking pole if you like, and pack a snack to stay for sunset. Parking rules nearby can change, so read the signs. Skip it in icy conditions when…