10 things to do in and around Calgary this week (Sept. 21 to 25)

We’re officially entering the first weekend of fall in Calgary! The good news is, it looks like we’re getting a little more summer before we have to fully commit to the season change. With warm temperatures on the radar this week, there’s still time to get outside and enjoy all the activities the city has going on.

But if you’re ready for fall, a few seasonal events are starting to pop up around the city, including the return of Pumpkins After Dark and Calgary’s new free Night Light Festival.

Whether you’re trying to make the most of the warm temperatures or you’re whipping out your fall sweaters, here are some of the best things to do in and around Calgary this week.

Regal Cat Café is hosting a paint night where you can get creative while the cats wander around the space. You can work at your own pace, grab a nice fall drink, and make some new furry friends.

When: Monday, Sept. 21, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: Regal Cat Cafe – 303 10th St. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $52 per person

When Chai Met Toast is stopping in Calgary this week as part of its Joy of Little Things Tour. So if you’ve been itching to catch some live music, head over to Commonwealth Bar to hear their latest set.

When: Monday, Sept. 21, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Commonwealth Bar – 731 10th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $77.50 per person

Night Light is coming to Calgary for three nights with interactive art installations, projection-mapped buildings and live performances. Each evening, you’ll be able to explore five different festival sites, including The District at Beltline, which will host workshops, activations, food and drinks,

When: Thursday, Sept. 24 to Sunday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 6 to 11 p.m.
Where: The District at Beltline — 227 11th Ave. SW, and various locations in Victoria Park
Cost: Free

The countdown to the Flames’ final season at the Saddledome is on. Calgary will host the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday night for a preseason matchup as the teams prepare for the season ahead.

When: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome — 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $27.98

Looking for a theatre night this week? Nine is taking over Pumphouse Theatre, following an Italian filmmaker struggling to create his next movie while juggling the women, memories and relationships that have shaped his life.

When: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Pumphouse Theatre — 2140 Pumphouse Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $27

CIFF is back in Calgary with another massive lineup of films to check out. From documentaries and international features to Canadian films and shorts, there’s plenty hitting the big screen throughout the festival.

When: Thursday, Sept. 24 to Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Multiple locations across Calgary
Cost: Prices vary based on event

Alberta Ballet is kicking off its 60th Anniversary Season with Giselle, one of ballet’s most beloved classics. Head to the Jubilee Auditorium to see the story of love, heartbreak and forgiveness brought to life.

When: Thursday, Sept. 24 to Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: Showtimes at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – 1415 14th Ave. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $73 per person

Pumpkins After Dark is back in Calgary for the spooky season, with more than 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins taking over WinSport. Wander through displays, play interactive games, and watch live pumpkin carving while you’re there.

When: Friday, Sept. 25 to Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 11 p.m.
Where: WinSport – 88 Canada Olympic Rd. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $17.19

Need some inspiration for your next home project? The Calgary Fall Home Show is returning to the BMO Centre with more than 300 booths, unique feature displays and presentations from home design experts. HGTV’s Sarah Baeumler will also be taking the stage throughout the weekend.

When: Friday, Sept. 25 to Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026
Time: Friday: Noon to 8 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: BMO Centre — 1912 Flores Ladue Parade SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $10 per person

Want to get to know the Negroni a little better? Head to Shelter Cocktail Bar for a guided tasting that takes you through four cocktails, including the classic Negroni and three variations, with food pairing and a Campari keepsake included.

When: Friday, Sept. 25, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Shelter Cocktail Bar — 1021 1st St. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $60 per person

Enjoy the first official week of fall, 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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