Calgary Lifestyle

Calgary has more than 1,000 kilometres of pathways and numerous parks to explore, making it one of Canada's best cities for urban hiking. Whether you're looking for an easy riverside walk, a scenic trail run, or a challenging climb with skyline views, these are some of the best trails in Calgary for every skill level.

Calgary’s Top Trails

• Chevron Learning Pathway: Family-friendly trail with educational features along the Bow River
• Jack & Jean Leslie RiverWalk: Urban path that winds through Downtown Calgary and its many amenities
• Bowness-Baker Park Loop: Dog-friendly paved trail that suits all skill levels
• Glenmore Reservoir Loop: Multi-use trail for hikers and bikers, offering elevation gains and scenic views
• Twelve-Mile Coulee

If you're planning to hit the Calgary Stampede this summer, you're in for a treat. This isn't just any festival—it's the world's largest outdoor rodeo, one of the most fun things to do in Calgary, and it's happening July 4–13, 2025.

Over one million people show up every year for good reason. The city turns into one massive party with championship rodeo, live music, amazing food, and more activities than you can shake a cowboy hat at.

Here's what you need to know to make the most of your Stampede experience without breaking the bank or missing the good stuff.

Quick Stampede Checklist

• Get there early: Parade starts at 9 a.m., and the best food booths sell out fast
• Download the Stampede app: Access real-time show times and your personal

Calgary transforms into a sea of red and white every July 1st, and 2025 promises to be bigger than ever. Last year, over 100,000 people joined the festivities across the city. This year, you'll find even more exciting events, from colourful parades to jaw-dropping fireworks shows.

Whether you're visiting or living in Calgary, this guide covers everything you need to make July 1st unforgettable for your whole family.

Essential Calgary Canada Day Events

• The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland: From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., discover Canada's history through demonstrations, an Indigenous spotlight and powwow, and a history walking tour.
• East Village Street Fair: Over 70 vendors, food trucks, live music, and family activities from 11 a.m. to 6

Ever wonder which Canadian city gets the most sunlight? Calgary tops the list with an abundance of sunshine that enhances the city's numerous parks and outdoor spaces, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys a bright, cheerful atmosphere. But how do other major Canadian cities like Edmonton, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal compare? Learn more about the sunniest cities in Canada!

What Are the Sunniest Cities in Canada?

• Calgary, Alberta - 333 days with bright sunshine - 2,396 hours of bright sunshine
• Winnipeg, Manitoba - 316 days - 2,353 hours
• Edmonton, Alberta - 325 days - 2,345 hours
• Regina, Saskatchewan - 322 days - 2,318 hours
• Saskatoon, Saskatchewan - 319 days - 2,268 hours

Source:

Every November, you can honour those lost in the First World War at the many Remembrance Day events across Calgary. At these special ceremonies, you will have a chance to learn about those who sacrificed their lives and honour their memories. To help you best plan your time on this important day, use this guide to learn about Remembrance Day events you can attend in Calgary.

Calgary Remembrance Day 2025 Events

• Field of Crosses: 200 Memorial Dr. NW (Sunnyside Bank Park)
• Daily ceremonies November 1–10: arrive 15 minutes prior to sunrise and sunset times.
• Night of Lights: November 10, sunset to sunrise.
• Remembrance Day Ceremony: November 11, 10:10 a.m.; televised
• Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Military Museums: 4520 Crowchild

Calgary is known for cowboys and oil, but here's what most people don't know: this city has one of Canada's best coffee scenes. The city has become home to award-winning baristas and world-class roasters.

You won't have to settle for the usual cookie-cutter chain stores here. Calgary's coffee shops are the real deal—places where former firefighters roast beans to help plant a million trees, where baristas win national competitions, and where you can taste coffee from farms around the world.

Whether you're a local looking for your new favourite spot or visiting Calgary for the first time, this guide covers the city's best coffee shops. From downtown heritage buildings to cozy neighbourhood cafes, these places serve more than just great

Fall in Calgary is magic. The leaves along the Bow River turn gold and red. The air is crisp, but not yet too cold. And the atmosphere is magical with some of Calgary's best annual festivals. 

Calgary's fall festival scene shows what makes this city special. You'll find everything from world-class films to pumpkin patches, beer gardens to ghost tours, and international food to local art shows.

Here's what you need to know about Calgary's top fall festivals. Whether you're looking for family fun, cultural experiences, or just a great way to spend a weekend, you'll find it here.

Quick Calgary Fall Festival Guide

Before we dive in, here's a quick list of the must-attend fall festivals:

• Calgary International Film Festival: Late September

Living in Calgary is often associated with the Rockies, cold winters, and the Calgary Stampede, but residents have easy access to great beaches, too!

While we may be landlocked, there's an array of fantastic beaches in Calgary, along with many more just a short drive away. From artificial oases to natural lakeshores, there's something for everyone.

Whether you're looking for a kid-friendly spot with playgrounds or a tranquil escape surrounded by mountains, you'll find it near Calgary. So pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sense of adventure as we dive into the best beaches near Calgary, Alberta!

Calgary Beaches Cheat Sheet

• Best Sandy Beach: Sikome Lake – Calgary's only true sandy public beach
• Best Free Option: Sandy Beach Park –

Calgary is a city that most people have at least heard of before, even if they don't know exactly what Calgary is known for. People living in Calgary already know about the Olympics, hockey, and impressive views of the Canadian Rockies. But there's more to Calgary than that. It's time to set the record straight on the history and culture that's made Calgary famous.

What Is Calgary Famous For?

1. Calgary Stampede: Known as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," this annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival is one of Calgary's most famous events.
2. Calgary Tower: An iconic observation tower offering panoramic views of Downtown Calgary and the Rocky Mountains.
3. The Peace Bridge: A striking architectural landmark spanning the Bow River, designed by

Calgary's GlobalFest is a spectacular event that brings the world to Alberta with its vibrant cultural displays and stunning fireworks. This annual festival, one of the top things to do in Calgary every year, showcases international cultures through performances, food, and art. Visitors can enjoy multicultural pavilions, live music, and dance, all celebrating diversity.

The highlight of GlobalFest is the breathtaking fireworks competition, where countries compete to light up the night sky with dazzling displays, but that's just one aspect of this massive 5-day festival that takes place in mid-August. This guide will detail what makes GlobalFest a must-see event, including key attractions, activities, and tips for making the most of your visit.