10 of the best things to do in and around Calgary this week (June 29 to July 3)

Stampede week is officially here, and Calgary is stepping into one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year. Between pancake breakfasts, live music, rodeo events, and everything else happening around the city, there is no shortage of ways to get out and make the most of your week. And if Stampede isn’t really your thing, there is still plenty going on beyond the cowboy hats and mini donuts.

Let’s take a look at everything that’s happening in and around the city this week.

Enjoy an exciting night of live horse racing at Century Downs. Races will start at 6:30 p.m., followed by a live music performance and a fireworks show to close out the night. It’s completely free to attend, so grab your friends and family and experience one of Calgary’s top racing venues.

When: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Century Downs Racetrack and Casino – 260 Century Downs Dr., Alta.
Cost: Free

Catch Blackhawk live at the Palace Theatre, the country trio known for their signature harmonies and ’90s hits that helped define the genre. With over seven million albums sold and a reputation for powerful live performances, the group continues to bring their timeless sound to audiences across North America. You can expect an electrifying night as they take the stage in Calgary.

When: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: The Palace Theatre – 219 8th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $53.52

Still on the hunt for Canada Day plans? Head over to Spruce Meadows for a full day of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and classic patriotic fun, presented by ATCO. The day features a live performance by Brett Kissel on the Scotiabank Stage and a red-and-white costume contest with prizes valued at up to $1,000.

Across the grounds, guests can also enjoy international show jumping, corgi races, and the Lord Strathcona Mounted Troop Musical Ride, along with a Kids’ Zone, mini-animal petting zoo, and vendor-style shopping. And to top it off, the first 3,000 people can enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch!

It’s a full celebration worth sticking around for from start to finish.

When: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Spruce Meadows – 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
Cost: General Admission: $25, Children 3 to 12 and Seniors: $10. Children under 3: Free 

Calgary is filled with often-overlooked history and stories that have shaped the city in ways many people do not realize. This one-hour walking tour at The Confluence highlights the experiences of six notable individuals whose lives offer a deeper look into Calgary and Canada during the 19th and 20th centuries.

When: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: The Confluence – 750 9th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free

The Calgary Stampede is back! Get ready for 10 days of rodeo action, live music, food, and city-wide celebrations across Calgary. Beyond Stampede Park, the city comes alive with pancake breakfasts, pop-up events, and western-themed activities happening in neighbourhoods all across town.

When: Thursday, July 2 to Sunday, July 12, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Where: 1410 Stampede Trl. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $17 to $28

Celebrate Stampede season at Calgary Farmers Market’s free Farm Fresh Festival. Join the fun on Saturday, July 4, at CFM West and Saturday, July 11, at CFM South from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can expect live music, farm games, rope demos, cowboy meet-and-greets, Tailgate Truck Popsicles, and tons of fun for the whole family. And the first 200 guests at each market will also receive a free pulled pork barbecue lunch from Big T’s BBQ, served at noon.

When: Saturday, July 4, and Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Calgary Farmers Market West – 25 Greenbriar Dr. NW, Calgary, Alta. Calgary Farmers Market South – 510 77th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free

Cowboys Music Festival returns with one of its biggest lineups yet, featuring performances from well-known names like John Summit, Rupaul, Ella Langley, Dominic Fike, and more. Known for its packed shows and high-energy atmosphere, it remains one of Stampede’s biggest nightlife events.

When: Thursday, July 2, 2026, to Sunday, July 12, 2026
Time: Times vary (Gates typically open at 5 p.m. for shows)
Where: 1220 9th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Ticket prices vary

The First Flip Pancake Breakfast returns to Stephen Avenue, kicking off Stampede season in downtown Calgary. At the breakfast, you can expect live music, entertainment and plenty of food, along with a lively community atmosphere.

When: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Telus Convention Centre – 136 8th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free

Have you ever wanted to get a taste of Mexico without leaving Calgary? Mexifest is bringing a full cultural takeover to Eau Claire Plaza, transforming the space into a three-day celebration of Mexican food, music, art and entertainment.

When: Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Eau Claire Plaza – 101 Barclay Parade SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Friday, Free from 11 a.m. to noon; Saturday and Sunday, $10 in advance or $20 at the entrance

The Canadian Famous Comedy Tour is coming to Yuk Yuk’s, bringing one of the hottest comedy tours currently travelling across Canada. Headlining the show is Saskatchewan-born comedian Braydon Lynch, known for his sharp mix of prairie charm, self-deprecating storytelling and offbeat humour.

When: Friday, July 3, to Saturday, July 4, 2026
Time: 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Yuk Yuk’s – 218 18th Ave., Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $25 plus fees

Have a great week, Calgary!

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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