An adult summer camp experience is bringing old-school games to Calgary

Remember when the best part of the school day was running outside for recess? Well, Recess Calgary is bringing that feeling back, but this time for adults! The local recreation program is hosting an adult summer camp experience where you can get active, play the games you remember from gym class, meet new people and have fun without worrying about being the best player on the field.

Now, let’s take a look at what makes Recess Calgary different from your average fitness class.

The idea behind Recess Calgary

Recess Calgary is now entering its fourth year of bringing adults together through play. The program was created by Tyson Bankert, also known as “Coach T,” with a goal of giving adults a safe, welcoming space to step away from their responsibilities, get active, and reconnect with the simple fun of childhood games.

Each week, Recess Calgary offers a different mix of group activities, inspired by the games that many people remember from gym class. Participants can expect to play three to four games each session. The focus is less about competition and more about having fun and meeting new people.

Classes are intentionally kept quite small, with class sizes capped at 10 to 14 participants depending on the activity. The program also moves around the city, and each session takes place at a different location to help make it accessible for people in each quadrant of Calgary.

Their upcoming event, which will also be their last event, will take place at the newly renovated Pumphouse Park. The evening will give participants a chance to enjoy some classic group games outdoors, followed by a campfire story session where guests can relax and chat with other participants.

How to join in on the fun

The final Recess Calgary event will take place on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, and anyone looking to join will need to register online in advance. Tickets are $12 per person, and participants are encouraged to arrive early with a pair of running shoes and comfortable clothing so you’re ready to play.

Between busy schedules, work, and balancing responsibilities, it can be easy to forget to make time for things that are simply fun. Recess Calgary is your friendly reminder that play doesn’t have to be something you leave behind after childhood. So grab your running shoes, head over to Pumphouse Park and spend an evening unleashing your inner child.

When: Friday, Aug. 14, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m. to sundown
Where: Pumphouse Park – 2140 Pumphouse Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $12

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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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