10 of the best things to do in and around Calgary this week (May 11-15)

It’s a new week in Calgary, which means a new excuse to explore the city a bit. This week is looking pretty full, and honestly, we’re not mad about it.

We’ve rounded up 10 of the best things to do this weekend so you can skip the scrolling and get straight to making plans.

Ever wanted to try DJing but don’t know where to start? This three-day DJ bootcamp is built for beginners and early-stage DJs who want to learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed.

When: Monday, May 11, to Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: 1048 21st Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $249.99

If you’ve never been to a poetry slam, this is your sign to change that. Local poets take the stage to share original spoken word in front of a live audience, with a mix of first-timers and experienced voices.

When: Monday, May 11, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Dickens Pub -1000, 9th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $10

CREW Calgary is hosting Sip into Spring: Uncorking Marda Loop at Bar Rocca for an evening of wine, conversation, and connection.

Building on last year’s Marda Loop walking tour, this event brings people back together to explore how one of Calgary’s most dynamic neighbourhoods continues to evolve.

When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
Where: Bar Rocca – 1909 34th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $40

If you’ve got little ones at home, this one’s probably already on your radar. Blippi is stopping in Calgary for an interactive live show. Expect a high-energy night filled with music, dancing, and plenty of moments for kids to join in alongside Blippi and Meekah.

When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Time: 6 p.m.
Where: WinSport Event Centre – 88 Canada Olympic Rd. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $42

Calgary’s Fairy Tales Queer Film Festival is back, bringing five days of queer film, art and community programming to the city. The festival showcases films from around the world alongside live performance, drag, DJs and creative installations.

When: Wednesday, May 13 to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Contemporary Calgary – 701 11th St. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $15

Gerard Michaels, an award-winning actor, director, podcaster, and comedian with over 40 million online views, is performing at The Comedy Cave in Calgary this week. Known for his sharp humour and viral skits, he’s directed Mafia States of America and was named one of Jersey City Magazine’s 5 Artists to Watch.

When: Wednesday, May 13 to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Where: Comedy Cave – 1020 8th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $17.11

Calgary’s most prestigious judo competition is returning to the city and will bring together more than 1,000 of the country’s top athletes.

When: Thursday, May 14 to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Olympic Oval – 288 Collegiate Blvd. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $25, Kids under 12; Free

John Shambles is making a stop in Calgary on his Spring Fever Tour, bringing a lo-fi indie sound that feels like a clear step away from his rock background.

When: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Commonwealth Bar – 731 10th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $38.75

If your For You Page has been 90 per cent anime lately, Otafest is basically your Super Bowl. The three-day festival is returning to the city for a weekend filled with cosplay, screenings, gaming panels, and more.

When: Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 9 am. to 8 p.m.
Where: Telus Convention Centre – 120 9th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $58.69

The force is taking over Calgary in the best way possible. The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra is bringing Star Wars: Return of the Jedi to life with a full live performance score while the film plays on screen.

When: Friday, May 15 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: 205 8th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $27

That’s a wrap on your weekday plans! Now the only question is which one you’re going to pick. Luckily, Calgary’s got plenty of options, so consider this your official sign to get out of the house.

Have a great week, Calgary!

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