August is here, and summer’s not over yet. In fact, some of the best and brightest days are still ahead of us, and there’s no shortage of fantastic festivals happening in Calgary throughout the month.
From music to arts and culture to everything in between, here are ten of our top picks for August festivals. Mark your calendars!
This nine-day theatre festival showcases a wide range of emerging and established artists, along with street performances, vendors, and other eclectic experiences.
When: Friday, Aug. 1, to Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025
Where: Locations vary
Cost: $25
Calgary’s beloved community-led, city-wide street art movement is back for its 2025 iteration. Watch as artists transform the city into an open-air art gallery. Along with checking out the new murals, you can also enjoy graffiti jams, guided tours, live music, artist talks, and more.
When: Friday, Aug. 1 to Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Where: Various locations across the Beltline
Cost: Free
Here’s a new one! Created by designers, for designers, this festival invites guests to explore exhibitions, panels, and events that celebrate Calgary’s growing design economy.
When: Thursday, Aug. 7, to Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025
Where: Locations vary
Cost: Varies
Everyone is invited to Calgary’s premier African cultural festival to experience African excellence through fashion, art, food, music, storytelling, and more. Share in the rich diversity of African cultures with people from all backgrounds in an immersive and lively environment.
When: Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025
Where: Eau Claire Park — 3rd Street & Riverfront Avenue SW
Cost: Free
From traditional dance performances to delicious food, you can expect a little bit of everything at this unique heritage festival. There will even be a Netflix-inspired Squid Game for a chance to win $500 (with no risk to your life).
When: Saturday, Aug. 9 to Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025
Where: Lot 6 — 311 8th St. SW
Cost: Free
You won’t want to miss this spectacular celebration of Caribbean music, costumes, tradition, and culture. Along with the parade, guests can enjoy live reggae, steel pan music, dancing, and some delicious eats.
When: Friday, Aug. 15, to Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025
Where: Locations vary
Cost: Free
If Stampede didn’t quite satisfy your country music cravings, then you’ll want to check out Country Thunder. This epic outdoor music festival features some of the biggest names in country music, with this year’s headliners including Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, and Old Dominion.
When: Friday, Aug. 15 to Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025
Where: The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland — 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: $110+
Western Canada’s largest Latino festival is back, and Calgarians of all backgrounds are welcome to participate in a vibrant day of food, music, entertainment, and artisans that celebrate Latino culture.
When: Saturday, Aug. 15, 2025
Where: Prince’s Island Park — 698 Eau Claire Ave. SW
Cost: Free
This annual event in the heart of Calgary’s Chinatown features cultural and food exhibitors, activities, and live performances like singing, dancing, and martial arts. Come see what it’s all about!
When: Sunday, Aug. 16, 2025
Where: 1st St. S.E. & 3rd Ave. SE
Cost: Free
Good laughs and great times are all but guaranteed at the Great Outdoor Comedy Festival. Gather in Prince’s Island Park as some of the hottest comedy legends take the stage, including headliners Theo Von, Bert Kreischer, and Adam Ray.
When: Friday, Aug. 22 to Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025
Where: Prince’s Island Park — 698 Eau Claire Ave. SW
Cost: $59+
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