August 29, 2 to 4pm; Hangar Flight Museum Sensory Hours. A calm and welcoming time designed for visitors who benefit from reduced noise, softer lighting and a more relaxed atmosphere. Explore the gallery, exhibits and history at your own pace in a sensory considerate environment. Learn more at thehangarmuseum.ca.

August 29 to 30; Calgary Reggae Festival. Featuring a mixture of local and international reggae acts, the festival is sure to get you moving and grooving at St. Patrick’s Island. Learn more at reggaefest.ca.

August 29 to September 1; Cochrane Lions Rodeo. Whether you’re a seasoned rodeo enthusiast or a first-time spectator, the action-packed schedule of this rodeo promises a fusion of thrilling competitions, community gatherings and unforgettable entertainment that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Learn more at cochranerodeo.com.

August 29 to September 1; Fiesta Filipino. A celebration of multiculturalism and diversity in Alberta. An opportunity to experience Filipino-Canadian culture and heritage through music, arts, food, and performances at Eau Claire Plaza. Learn more at fiestafilipino.ca.

Saturdays until August 30; Polar Bear Breakfast. Bring your family and friends down for a fun and educational morning at the zoo! Taking place on select dates between April and August, tickets to Polar Bear Breakfast include an exclusive before-hours viewing opportunity of the Wild Canada zone with a side of polar bear facts from the zoo's Conservation Education staff and volunteers. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

Tuesdays to Saturdays until August 30, 10 to 11am; Bug Soup at Bow Habitat Station. Come dip into this nutrient-rich water and discover all the interesting and tasty creepy crawlies that call wetland waters home. We provide the science gear; you bring the scientific enthusiasm. Learn more at bowhabitat.alberta.ca.

August 30, 10am to 4pm; Crafts & Collectibles: A Collaborative Market. A one-of-a-kind market experience that blends artisans, crafters, collectors, and garage sale treasures into a massive shopping celebration at Winston Heights-Mountview Community Centre.

August 30, 5 to 9pm; Build & Sip @ Day Dream Coffee. Build your own mini figure keychain or frame while sipping bubble tea. A fun and creative vibe, perfect for a date night. Learn more at eventbrite.ca.

August 30, 6:30 to 8:30pm; How True is a True Story? Bonnie & Clyde. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “how much of this actually happened,” join The Confluence as they dig into the real events behind iconic films. Sometimes, the truth really is stranger than fiction! Learn more at theconfluence.ca.

August 30 to 31; Festival of Pins. The 35th Annual Festival of Pins will be held on at the Calgary Centennial Branch #285 Legion. This year celebrates the 50th anniversary of the beaver as the official symbol of Canada, and donations of non-perishable food items for the Veterans’ Food Bank will be accepted. Learn more at calgaryinternationalpinclub.com.

August 30 to 31; Canmore Highland Games. This event is full of great activities that celebrate Celtic culture among gorgeous mountain views at Centennial Park. Learn more at canmorehighlandgames.ca.

August 30 to 31; Calgary Pride Parade and Festival. One of the most vibrant events in Calgary at Price’s Island Park! From a parade to inspirational speakers, parties, and more, there will be tons of incredible things happening in celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community this summer. Learn more at calgarypride.ca.

August 30 to 31; Hangar Flight Museum Open Aircraft Days. One of the most highly requested experiences at The Hangar Flight Museum is the ability to sit in the aircraft – Here’s your chance. Learn more, including which aircraft are available on which days, at thehangarmuseum.ca.

August 30 to October 19; Cirque du Soleil ECHO. Cirque du Soleil brings modern and surprising twists with ECHO, a story of connection, intention, and the bond between humans and the animal kingdom at the Big Top at Stampede Park. Learn more at cirquedusoleil.com/echo.

Until August 31; Stage West Dinner Theatre Presents: Legends of the 80’s. Filled with larger-than-life pop stars who knew how to put on a show. These legends lit up the ‘80s and gifted us with some of the most iconic pop stars and songs ever. Their music continues to captivate us today, taking us on a totally tubular trip back in time. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

Until August 31; Calgary Public Library Ultimate Summer Challenge. The Challenge is simple — read every day this summer. Read, attend programs, and have a lot of fun at the library this summer.  Track your reading using the Beanstack app or with one of the garden-themed challenge maps available at all library locations. Learn more at calgarylibrary.ca.

Until August 31; StoryBook Theatre Presents: Chicago The Musical - Teen Edition. StoryBook Theatre’s 2025 Student Summer Intensive Program returns to proudly present a bold showcase of ambition, resilience, and survival at Beddington Theatre Arts Centre. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

August 31, 10am to 10pm; Alberta Day at Heritage Park. Celebrate Alberta with free admission, live music, kid-friendly activities and Indigenous storytelling. Unwind at the local beer garden and explore unique finds at the Made-in-Alberta Marketplace — all while enjoying classical Heritage Park favourites. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

August 31, 2 to 4pm; Michaels Kids’ Club: Monster Bookmark. Make an adorable, silly, and page stopping Monster Bookmark. Learn more at canada.michaels.com.

September 1 to 30; Alberta Culture Days. Alberta Culture Days is the province’s month-long celebration of arts, heritage, diversity and community spirit, hosted by community organizations. It is an opportunity for all Albertans to discover, experience and celebrate arts and culture by attending or hosting local events and activities across the province. Learn more at alberta.ca.

by Jennifer Benstead

It’s so hard to say goodbye to summer, but we must; so let's celebrate all of those wonderful summer memories with a Farewell to Summer Backyard BBQ Bash! Let’s play all of those fun outdoor summer games, eat all of our favorite outdoor summer foods, and end summer on a high note with family and friends. The below are your essentials to ensure a great backyard party:

September 2; Landmark Cinemas Park the Stroller: Freakier Friday. For "grown-up" movie lovers who want to get their fix of the latest blockbusters or indie films in a baby-friendly environment. Baby talk and other parenting requirements are encouraged plus stroller parking is available and latecomers are welcomed. Learn more at landmarkcinemas.com.

September 3, 5:30 to 8pm; Free House Dance Try it FREE. Try a dance class (or classes) for free, tour the studio and get answers to all your questions. Learn more at app.amilia.com.

September 3 to 7; Masters Tournament at Spruce Meadows. Enjoy seeing top athletes from around the world compete. With music, shopping, the RCMP Musical Ride, Blacksmith World Championships, WestJet’s Evening of the Horse and much more, there is something for everyone in your family. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

September 4; Free Day for Seniors at the Masters at Spruce Meadows. Breathe easy with smaller crowds and take your time soaking in the fun. Bring the grandkids as kids under eight are free and children eight to 12 are just $10. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

September 4, 4:30 to 8:30pm; Kensington Night Market. Entertainment, local vendors and so much more. Shop the market then experience and enjoy Kensington. Learn more at thedowntownmarkets.ca.

September 5, 12 to 1pm; Piano Project YYC@The Ampersand. Get your jazz hands ready, put on your fedora, and join for a jazzy edition of Piano Project YYC at The Ampersand! Toronto-based pianist and composer Anthony D’Alessandro will take you on a journey from old-time jazz to timeless classics in a free mid-day concert. Learn more at honens.com.

September 5, 7 to 9pm; Coach Hill/Patterson Heights Movie in the Park. A night outside with food trucks and a movie for the whole family. Bring your lawn chairs and come early to check out the amazing fun at Prominence Park. Learn more at chph.ca.

September 5, 7:30pm; SYNTHONY: EDM Meets Orchestra (18+). Get your rave on in an orchestral show like no other at the Big Four Roadhouse. Your Calgary Phil brings its grand sound to the Big Four as the Orchestra — plus DJs, vocalists, and immersive visuals — heat up the dance floor at this 18+ show. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

September 5 to 12; Inglewood Night Market. The Inglewood Night Market is a modern market with locally sourced and handmade vendors selling diverse goods; from handmade crafts to vintage clothing, antiques and collectibles, artisan eats and more. Learn more at inglewoodnightmarket.myshopify.com.

September 5 to 14; SAWS Fine Works in Wood Exhibition. The 2025 Southern Alberta Woodworkers Society (“SAWS”) “Fine Works in Wood Exhibition” will be at Southcentre Mall. The exhibition represents the very best in woodworking craftsmanship, incredible artistry and creativity and is held every two years as an opportunity for woodworkers to showcase pieces they have made over the previous period. Learn more at saws.ca/2025.

September 5 to 19; Free Soccer Fridays. Sponsored by Servus Credit Union, this event invites kids to a free, unstructured, drop-in soccer opportunity. This is a chance for youth of all ages and abilities to play and enjoy the sport. Learn more at calgaryminorsoccer.com.

September 5 to November 9; Stage West Dinner Theatre Presents: Shear Madness. It’s a day like any other at the Shear Madness Salon, when suddenly, the lady upstairs gets knocked off. Join the fun as the audience matches wits with the suspects to catch the killer at this wildly popular comedy that has audiences laughing around the world. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

September 6, 9am to 4pm; Chestermere Country Fair. This event includes a kids’ zone, harvest market, parade, rodeo and more at Chestermere Rec Centre. Learn more at rvcagsociety.ca.

September 6, 10am to 4pm; Springbank Old Tyme Fall Fair. Visit the Springbank Old Tyme Fall Fair in Springbank Park for All Seasons, where families can celebrate the area’s agricultural roots and community spirit. Check out the activities like a kid zone, vendors, food trucks, and more. Learn more at springbankpark.com.

September 6, 10:30am to 2:30pm; Honens Festival Classical Adaptations for Families. Families are invited to Classical Adaptations, a relaxed, sensory-friendly classical performance designed for families at National Music Centre. Learn more at honens.com.

September 6, 1 to 3pm; Kids Only Graffiti Jam & Workshop. A fun afternoon of spray painting and learning about street art for kids! Join local artist, Matias Martinez for a graffiti jam and workshop for kids aged six to 12 years old. Please register to secure your spot. Learn more at theconfluence.ca.

September 6, 2 to 8pm; Summer Series School's Back Party. The Summer Series School's Back Party features an incredible lineup of local musicians and performers. Bouncy castles and children's performers, Best of Kin beer garden, food trucks, family-friendly activities, interactive musical petting zoo c/o LeRoux Studios, and so, so much more at Capitol Hill Community Association. Learn more at capitolhill.getcommunal.com.

September 6, 5 to 7pm; Youth Only Graffiti Jam & Workshop. A fun afternoon spray painting and learning about street art for youth! Join local artist, Matias Martinez for a graffiti jam & workshop for youth aged 12-17 years old. Please register to secure your spot! Learn more at theconfluence.ca.

September 6, 5 to 9pm; Locked Zoo: Diving Deep (18+). Set sail on an epic adventure at Locked Zoo: Diving Deep (18+) on Saturday, September 6th! This exciting escape game will take you on a wild journey through the zoo after hours. With clues hidden around the zoo, you’ll need keen observation and quick thinking to navigate the challenges. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

September 6, 5 to 9:30pm; The Barn Artisan Market. An evening of local vendors, music, food, drinks and fun at Shawnessy Barn. Enjoy two floors of unique, hand-crafted and made in Alberta products, food trucks, live music, and more. Learn more at thebarnartisanmarket.ca.

September 6, 5 to 10pm; Calgary Night Market. Located in Bridgeland, the Calgary Night Market offers a diverse selection of food, handmade goods and a gorgeous city view. Learn more at calgarynightmkt.com.

September 6, 7 to 10:30pm; Back to School Drive-In Movie Fundraiser. Join Southcentre Mall for a special one-night-only drive-in movie in support of Made by Momma. This fun-filled evening under the stars will feature a screening of High School Musical 3. Learn more at southcentremall.com.

September 6 to 7; Afro-Caribbean Festival. The Afro-Caribbean Festival is a vibrant celebration of African and Caribbean heritage, showcasing cultural diversity through a flag-raising parade, music, dance, and cuisine at Cowboys Park (formerly Central Memorial Park). Learn more at africanival.org.

September 6 to 7; Hangar Flight Museum Open Aircraft Days. One of the most highly requested experiences at The Hangar Flight Museum is the ability to sit in the aircraft – Here’s your chance. Learn more, including which aircraft are available on which days, at thehangarmuseum.ca.

September 6 to 7; City of Calgary Curbside Treasure Hunt. Place your used items in good condition on your property (next to the sidewalk or curb) for others to take. This initiative gives useable items a new life while keeping them out of the landfill. Learn more at calgary.ca.

Saturdays and Sundays, September 6 to October 13; Calaway Park Halloweekends. Join the Boo Crew at Calaway Park this Fall! Stroll through Hallotown… if you dare! Is it scary? No, it’s friendly! Dress up as your favorite family friendly character and enjoy a day of fall fun. Learn more at calawaypark.com.

September 7, 8:30am; RBC Race for the Kids. Now in its ninth year, this beloved run/walk at Heritage Park has grown into a family favorite, raising funds for vital mental health programs through the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. Learn more at childrenshospital.ab.ca.

September 7, 11:30am to 2pm; Fall Fun Paint Workshop. Celebrate Alberta Days by trying out a fall fun family friendly painting piece with a renowned local artist. Come admire a wide variety of local talent, connect with the community, and take home a beautiful creation. Register by emailing hhmcalgary@gmail.com. Learn more at eventbrite.ca.

September 7. 11:45am to 4pm; Heritage for Harmony. A day filled with music, dance, painting art, Mehendi and more at Scarboro Community Association. Learn more at scarborocommunity.com.

September 7, 2pm; Phil in the Park. Grab your blankets and picnic baskets as Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra once again welcomes all of Calgary to Prince's Island Park for a free community concert. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

Ongoing

Until September 13; Heritage Park Night Market. Shop local vendors, explore the shops in the plaza, grab a bite to eat and be entertained at Market Nights in the Plaza. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

Until October 18; Jubilations Dinner Theatre Presents: Top Gunn 2: A Supersonic Spoof. Get ready to blast off again, down the highway to the danger zone. It’s an all new mission set to the greatest hit songs of the ‘80s. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

Until October 18; Jubilations Junior Presents: Top Gunn Barbie Ken Takes Flight. We all know Barbie can do anything, from being a pilot to a store clerk, teacher to rock star, party planner to… mermaid?! Barbie can do it all, but what about Ken? Learn more at jubilations.ca.

Until November 2; Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo – Safari Sunday Brunch. A unique Calgary brunch experience in the heart of Destination Africa. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

Mondays to Thursdays, 9am to 12pm; Active Toddlers at the Genesis Centre. Bring your little one for a delightful playtime adventure with our bouncy castle, toys, puzzles, and a lot more for free. Learn more at genesis-centre.ca.

Thursdays, 4 to 4:30pm; Storytime at Mastermind Toys. Mastermind Toys often has special events at their Calgary stores, including storytime. Check with your store to confirm details. Learn more at mastermindtoys.com.

Monday and Wednesday from 10 to 11:30 am. The Beach YYC Drop-In Children’s Playtime. On Monday and Wednesday mornings take part in children’s play time at the beach. Learn more at thebeachyyc.ca.

Monday to Thursday, 9am; Parent + Tot Drop-In at Cavalry FC Regional Field House. Cavalry offers a variety of drop-in programs for parents to participate in with their children ages 18 months to three years old. Learn more at regionalfieldhouse.com.

Drop-In Programs at City of Calgary Recreation Centres. Don’t miss out on Active Play where you can bring your kiddo’s energy to an indoor play space. Learn more at calgary.ca.

Storytime at Calgary Public Library. Drop into various Calgary Public Library locations to enjoy stories, songs, and finger plays for the whole family at Family Storytime. Learn more at calgarylibrary.ca.

Cirque du Soleil brings modern and surprising twists with ECHO, a story of connection, intention, and the bond between humans and the animal kingdom.

When FUTURE and her best friend Ewai stumble upon an enigmatic CUBE, they set in motion a journey of life, discovery, hope, and empathy, quickly learning how their actions have the power to shape this world.

For more information about this magical show and to buy tickets, visit cirquedusoleil.com/echo! ECHO is in Calgary until October 19, 2025. Don't miss out!

For your chance to win four tickets to the September 14th performance of ECHO at 1:30pm, enter here! (Contest code: CIRQUE). Contest closes September 2nd, 2025.

by Dana Wheatley

Ah, the late summer. The weather is warm, but school and crisp fall leaves are just on the horizon! Make the most of our short transitional season with hikes, farms, and autumn fun to help your family keep active and engaged over the next few weeks. by Bloom Culture

• Back-to-school reset - How to learn from the past year and look forward positively
• Programs with purpose: Movement for mindful kids
• Helping newcomer families navigate Alberta’s school system: Parent’s guide to CIWA’s youth programs
• When your child doesn’t like school
• Rebuilding friendships after summer

PERFECT ATTENDANCE - Calgary Students in Grades 2 thru 6 are Eligible for up to $140 in Gift Cards, Medallions, Certificates. Free Registration.

MADE BY MOMMA - Can you help Calgary students go back to school with a smile? We are already receiving many requests for Back to School assistance! Wish list here.

TRELLIS SOCIETY - On Saturday, October 25, join us to ignite meaningful change for Calgary’s youth and families as we work to break the cycle of poverty, make mental health care accessible, support struggling families and build a more connected community. 

FLYING SQUIRREL - Save 20% off jump time and neon lights! Code: CalChild26.

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA - Symphony Sundays for Kids. The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child tell the tales of a clever little mouse and his encounters with a fearsome monster. Guaranteed to be a fun-filled afternoon of music and laughter for all ages! September 21, 2025.

CHILDREN'S COTTAGE SOCIETY - The Calgary West Family Resource Network offers a wide variety of support programs and services for families. They are a network of agencies that have joined efforts to provide special events, drop-in programs, classes, and so much more!

WOMEN'S CENTRE OF CALGARY - Women supporting communities, communities supporting women. There are so many ways you can get involved at the Women’s Centre. Donations help us work and plan more effectively.

LOOSE MOOSE THEATRE - presents the Ugly Duckling, starting September 13.

HEARTWOOD FESTIVAL - Grand Opening Celebration, September 13, from 1 to 5pm.

XSCHOOL - The Future of Learning Starts Here. Now enrolling for 2025-2026 at nearly 50 percent off.

RUNDLE COLLEGE - Open house, September 25. Come see if Rundle College is the right fit for you.

HERITAGE PARK - From family-friendly fall activities to frights and delights.

WELLINGS OF CALGARY - Discover Carefreedom Living: Where 55+ means living fully on your terms. Your next chapter starts now.

Join the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo from September 12th – 14^th, 2025, for the annual Alberta Biodiversity Festival, celebrating the incredible variety of wildlife and wild places in our province. Don’t miss out on the festival’s special finale event on September 20^th at Bow Habitat Station.

Over three wildly fun days at the zoo, you’ll discover the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to take action for Alberta’s fish, water, wildlife, and ecosystems. From hands-on activities to engaging displays, every moment is designed to connect you with the natural world in meaningful and impactful ways. The Alberta Biodiversity Festival is included with day admission and memberships.

Packed with family-friendly fun and interactive learning, the Alberta Biodiversity Festival is your chance to explore how small actions can make a big difference in conservation. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired, get involved, and celebrate Alberta’s wild side!

What's the best festival in Calgary? What about the best place for a haircut?

Vote now for your favorites, and you could WIN a Family Weekend Getaway at The Sheraton Cavalier Calgary! Enjoy a two night stay in a suite with breakfast in Colors Bistro and unlimited use of the Oasis Waterpark. (Subject to suite availability at time of booking, not redeemable on New Years' Eve.)

Results will be published in our 2026 Chinook Edition!

It's here - read our Back-to-School edition!

Ready or not, it's almost back-to-school time!

Fall always sneaks up fast - one minute it’s splash park season, the next you’re hunting for lunch kits, backpacks and after-school programs. Our Back-to-School Edition is your go-to guide for shifting from pool time to school time without the chaos.

Don't miss our Fall Class & Program Directory - from ballet to basketball - there are hundreds of fantastic extra-curricular activities available for kids in our city. We’ll help you find them in this special directory.

We also have tons of family fun ideas for your end of summer bucket list, plus events, news, contests, and SO much more!

You'll find it online now, and on stands all over Calgary and the surrounding area!

Contests

• PLAYMOBIL® Country: Tractor with Trailer and Water Tank
• Manta Sleep Mask SOUND
• $75 E-Gift Card to Feltman Brothers Heirloom Baby/Kids Clothing
• Little Tikes Creative Chef™ Kits
• Doll Set
• Barney Pack
• Koosh Kornhole
• Staples Pack
• ReadBright Phonics Program Book 1 + Magnetic Word Builder

Packed with our trusted tips, expert parenting advice, family fun ideas, and comprehensive listings from the past year, this guide brings everything parents love about Calgary’s Child together in one place.

Inside, you’ll find school, class, camp, and program listings, seasonal family fun, birthday ideas, new baby and tot essentials, local attractions, parenting support, retail spots, and so much more!

Find it online at calgaryschild.com, read it here and pick it up on stands all over Calgary!