The Stampede and other family-friendly events in downtown Calgary this July

In July, downtown Calgary comes alive with a plethora of family-friendly summer events that make it a month to remember. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, a literary experience, or budget-friendly fun, downtown Calgary has something for everyone. Let's take a stroll through some of the highlights.

 

1. An artsy outdoor adventure: Prince's Island Park Concerts

Nestled in the heart of downtown Calgary, Prince's Island Park transforms into a vibrant outdoor concert venue throughout July. Gather your picnic blankets and sunscreen and head to the park to enjoy live music performances spanning various genres, from folk to jazz. It's the perfect opportunity for families to bask in the sunshine while tapping their toes together.

 

2. Literary fun: A kid-friendly book-launch party at Owl’s Nest Bookstore

Join Owl’s Nest Bookstore for a book launch party with local author Brendan Lebert, who wrote the playful story The Lingerails and Combustons, about the evolution of friendships when mysterious peer influences are afoot. (Wednesday, July 3rd at 7 p.m.)

 

3. Budget-friendly bliss: Join Calgary Public Library’s Summer Challenge

For a wallet-friendly experience, Calgary’s libraries are a go-to source of entertainment. For this year’s summer reading challenge, there will be in-person, outdoor and virtual events and programming for kids, teens and adults. Here’s how it works: Read every day for two months starting July 1st, and be sure to track your progress on your very own challenge map. Bring your map back to any library location to get a new map sticker for every seven days of reading. What’s up for grabs? Some seriously great prizes that will keep your kids motivated to read all summer, like Kiwi Crate subscriptions, Zoo memberships, iPads and more.

 

4. Unique experience: Calgary International Children's Festival

Held annually in July, this festival features an eclectic lineup of interactive performances, workshops, and hands-on activities designed specifically for kids. Enjoy a play from Wagonstage Productions, community crafts, and treats from the Candy Pop-Up. Visit Gasoline Alley Museum for face painting and don’t miss the Sheep Dog Herding Demonstrations at the Ranch & Farm Life area. Plus, enjoy rides on the train, and horse-drawn wagons. This festival is guaranteed to be memorable and fun for families. 

 

5. Physical Fun: Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park

At Flying Squirrel Indoor Trampoline Park, just south of downtown Calgary, the energy is infectious, making it an exhilarating experience for all ages. It’s always an event here thanks to the multitude of things on offer. Aerial silks for your little acrobat, airbag trampoline launch lanes for your thrill-seeking child, a dodgeball court for a fun family challenge and battle beams to solve any sibling squabbles. No matter the date (or the weather) this is one go-to activity to keep in your back pocket for summer entertainment. 

 

6. Loads of belly laughs: Calgary Stampede

At the Weadickville Stage during the Calgary Stampede, kids can enjoy family-friendly performances that blend gymnastics, acrobatics and humour. The Farmer's Daughter Show offers a lively display of farm-themed gymnastics and rope tricks, meanwhile, The Hockey Circus Show offers a hilarious mix of circus acrobatics and comedy, all performed in hockey gear, making it a uniquely Canadian and kid-friendly spectacle.

 

In downtown Calgary this July, the possibilities for family-friendly fun are endless. Whether you're basking in the sunshine at Prince's Island Park or exploring the city's vibrant arts scene, there's something to delight every member of the family. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a summer filled with unforgettable memories in downtown Calgary.