10 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in Calgary this October

It’s spooky season! From fall festivals and eerie experiences to Friendsgiving dinners, October in Calgary will be an exciting month. Want to save a few bucks? You’re in luck because there are several things to do for less than $25!

Not sure what’s happening? Here are 10 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in and around the city.

12-Hour Movie Marathon

An annual fave! This month, catch a scary flick or several during the CUFF Horror Movie Marathon! This spooky tradition is one of a kind and it’s under $25!

When: Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Where: 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary
Time: 7 pm
Cost: $20

Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fair & Great White North Weigh-Off

Known as THE pumpkin capital of Alberta, Smoky Lake’s most unique festival is highly anticipated and attended by gourd enthusiasts from all over the province. This year enjoy the harvest and celebration, a perogy eating and pumpkin carving showcase and so much more.

When: Friday October 4th-6th, 2024
Where: Smoky Lake, Alberta – Directions here
Cost: Free

Calgary Stampeders

This month, grab a beer and a bite, then cheer the Calgary Stampeders to victory at McMahon Stadium! For more information or to snag some tickets for as little as $25, head over to the link above!

When: Games throughout the month
Where: 1817 Crowchild Trail NW

Harvest Lights

October is here and so are Harvest Lights at the Calgary Farmyard. It’s going to be a vibrant after-dark event, that will give you even more time to explore their park!

When: Fridays and Saturdays starting September 13th, 2024
Where: 284022 Township Rd 224, Rocky Mountain Couty
Time: until 9:30 pm
Cost: $21 +

Cobb’s Adventure Park

At Cobb’s Corn Maze not only can you pick a pumpkin, but you can also get in a round of mini-golf, put your aim to the test during archery tag, and get tangled up in the ropes course before visiting with adorable baby kangaroos and getting lost in their corn maze.

When: Saturdays and Sundays in October
Where: 1500 84 St NE, Calgary
Time: 11 am
Cost: $21.95

Ghouls’ Night Out

It’ll be a hauntingly good time! With new and exciting activities, Ghouls’ Night Out will return to Heritage Park and offer Calgarians a family-friendly Halloween adventure!

When: Thursday, October 24th -27th, 2024
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W. Calgary, Alberta
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $21.95

Orionids Meteor Shower

Visible between September 26th and November 22nd, 2024, this spectacular show will dazzle junior astronomers with approximately 23 meteors per hour during its peak on October 20th-21st. Enjoy!

When: Active from September 26th and November 22nd, 2024 (Peak October 20th-21st)
Cost: Free

Haunted Mini Golf 

Feeling scary competitive? This October, ghouls and goblins alike are encouraged to check out this adorable 18-hole mini golf course of frights and fun. Enjoy!

When: Until October 31st, 2023
Where: 168 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Cost: $15+

Yoga In the Park

There’s no better way to spend an afternoon than with your feet in the grass. This month, inhale, exhale, stretch and sweat at one of the two outdoor Yoga classes in Calgary for less!

When: Every Sunday
Where: see locations here
Cost: $15

Calgary Halloween Thriller

Calgary’s biggest Halloween Party! Playing a variety of different music, guests will have a chance to win incredible prizes, mix, mingle, and drink.

When: Thursday, October 31st, 2024
Where: 4630 Macleod Trail Calgary, AB T2G 5E8
Time: 10 pm
Cost: $19.99

And there you have it, folks! 10 free and cheap things to do in Calgary this October. Enjoy!

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