It’s the start of October, which means scary season is almost upon us! Cozy up in a fall sweater and enjoy these autumn-themed activities before the winter’s chill brings us inside for the season. From haunted train cars to harvest fairs, there’s plenty to explore.
Sept. 30 will also be the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, commemorating the legacy of Canada’s enforced residential school system. You’ll want to take a look at what’s open and closed for the statutory holiday before planning your weekend. You can also explore more activities honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Tuesday here in Calgary.
You’re invited to step into the shadows and explore the eerie side of history with Heritage Park. This walking tour with experienced guides will explore the hauntings in the park’s buildings.
When: Wednesday, Oct. 1 to Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park — 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Cost: $25
The Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR) is stampeding into town! CFR 51 brings together top rodeo athletes vying for $1.65 million in prize money. Witness electrifying showdowns as elite athletes battle for glory. Immerse yourself in the heart-pounding action and vibrant Western vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or craving a wild adventure, CFR delivers unforgettable thrills and a taste of Alberta’s rich heritage. Don’t miss it!
When: Wednesday, Oct. 1 to Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025
Time: Evenings at 6:30 p.m.; Saturday Matinee at 11 a.m.
Where: Rogers Place – 10220 104th Ave. NW
Cost: Starting at $54.23
Granary Road‘s annual Harvest Fair is back for weekends of fall fun until Oct. 12. An all-access admission will let you participate in their popular annual pumpkin hunt and a scenic tractor ride through lush autumn trees. Bring your little ones for pony rides, face-painting and all-you-can-eat contests.
When: Wednesday, Oct. 1 to Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Granary Road — 226066 112th St. W., Foothills County, Alta.
Cost: $20
Head on over to Browns Socialhouse with a pal or two and take advantage of discounted beer and Bellinis every Thursday! These peach puree and prosecco bevvies are $3 off, or if you prefer a beer, you can take $3 off that too. Pair it with good vibes and even better company.
When: Thursdays, weekly
Time: All day
Where: Browns Socialhouse Britannia — 5139 Elbow Dr. SW; Browns Socialhouse Mount Royal Village — 140-880 16th Ave. SW
All aboard the train of terror! Canada’s only moving haunted house is back with a vengeance, with haunted railway cars and maze haunts.
When: Thursday, Oct. 2 to Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025
Where: Aspen Crossing, Mossleigh, Alta.
Cost: $76+
Everyone’s favourite pumpkin-themed extravaganza is back for another year in Calgary — now this is Halloween!
When: Friday, Sept. 19 to Friday, Oct. 31, 2025
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Winsport Tent 88 — Canada Olympic Rd. SW
Cost: $22
Join UCalgary’s Office of Indigenous Engagement, in partnership with the Calgary Public Library, for a free viewing of the film, Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man, directed by Trevor Solway.
When: Monday, Sept. 29, 2025
Time: 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Central Library — 800 3rd St. SE
Cost: Free
The Confluence is excited to partner with Quest Theatre and offer public performances of the play “We Are All Treaty People.” The play is being offered as part of an event series that the Confluence is hosting to commemorate 150 years since the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) first arrived at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers and established Fort Calgary in 1875. “We Are All Treaty People” follows the story of a Trickster who meets two young girls: one of Aboriginal descent and one of colonial descent. As the girls question whether they can be friends, the Trickster recounts the story of Treaty 7, including the context of its signing, the promises made and broken, and the ongoing challenges we face today.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Time: 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland — 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: Free
Join the Pokaiks Reconciliation Society for its annual Pokaiks ‘The Children’ Commemorative Walk & Gathering, honouring Indigenous children of the past, present and future on National Day of Truth & Reconciliation. The walk will begin on the south side of the Peace Bridge at 11 a.m. and conclude at Contemporary Calgary, where opening ceremonies will be led by Elders and community leaders.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Peace Bridge, south side
Cost: Free
Commemorate Indian residential school victims, honour survivors and their families, and commit to acting on reconciliation. Enjoy presentations from various speakers, including the Mayor, Indigenous Elders and school board representatives at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (previously Fort Calgary). A blessing from an Elder will start the event, and Indigenous dancers will entertain during. Everyone is strongly encouraged to wear orange as a sign of support and to honour the children who didn’t return from residential schools across the country.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Time: 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland — 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: Free
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Em Medland-Marchen
Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, their dogs Bandit and Stanley, and walks along the Bow River.
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