This spring in Calgary is an unpredictable affair. One day you’re strutting around in a t-shirt, the next there’s two inches of snow on the ground. At least it’s never boring! In the meantime, we know how you can keep distracted until the warm weather really hits. From enchanting puppetry to cultural shindigs and every nerd’s paradise, there’s a festival in Calgary this spring for every type and taste!
Here’s a rundown of the biggest festivals to check out in Calgary this spring.
Festival of Animated Objects
The Festival of Animated Objects is back! This dreamy puppet festival will have live performances, workshops, and stunning displays to enjoy, with events happening all over the city.
When: Tuesday, March 11 – Sunday, March 30, 2025
Where: Venues across Calgary
Cost: Events vary from free to ticketed
Holi & Vaisakhi 2025
Immerse yourself in the joy of Holi, the Indian festival of colours, and Vaisakhi, Punjab’s vibrant harvest festival. This free event will have cultural performances, interactive activities, special guests, and more. There’s something for everyone!
When: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Where: Bowness Park, 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary
Cost: Free to attend
Calgary Underground Film Festival
Watch the best in local and international independent cinema. Check out boundary-breaking films and attend compelling artist showcases with fellow film enthusiasts in the city.
When: Thursday, April 17 – Sunday, April 27, 2025
Where: Various theatres in Calgary
Cost: Varies by film
Calgary Expo 2025
Calgary Expo is back this April, and it’s every inner nerd’s wonderland. There’s everything from fandom merchandise to costume contests, presentations, and artist marketplaces. It’s a jam-packed year with tons of things to do and people to see.
When: Thursday, April 24 – Sunday, April 27, 2025
Where: Stampede Park, 650 25 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: Single-day advance pricing tickets start at $24
Jane’s Walk Calgary
Get your steps in! This is a free annual festival of community-led walking tours inspired by urbanist and writer Jane Jacobs. Jane’s Walk festivals take place in cities around the world on the first weekend of May every year. Join or lead a walk this spring!
When: Friday, May 2 – Sunday, May 4, 2025
Where: Various locations in Calgary
Cost: Free to attend
Otafest 2025
Otafest is Calgary’s volunteer-run, non-profit, all-ages Japanese anime and pop culture festival. This event will feature anime screenings, an exhibitor hall, community panels, cosplay contests, voice actors, and concerts.
When: Friday, May 16 – Sunday, May 18, 2025
Where: TELUS Convention Centre & Marriott Downtown Hotel
Cost: $58.69+
Calgary Serbian Fest
Celebrate Serbian culture with the return of Serbian Fest! Enjoy performances, delicious food, artisan vendors, and exhibits among other attractions.
When: Saturday, May 17 – Sunday, May 18, 2025
Where: 16025 243 Ave E, Calgary
Cost: $5 per person
FUNNYFEST Comedy Festival
Experience memorable shows and amazing laughs for 11 days and nights of comedy. Shows will take place at multiple venues, from theatres, hotels, and pubs. Each show features six performers with up to 2 hours of non-stop laughter.
When: May 29, 2025 To June 8, 2025
Where: Various venues in Calgary
Cost: Varies by event
Lilac Festival
It’s every Calgarian’s favourite spring festival! Enjoy the pedestrian-friendly 4th Street venue with an array of musical talent, artisan vendors, quality entertainment, and top-notch people-watching.
When: Sunday, June 1, 2025
Where: 4th St SW, Calgary from 12 Ave and Elbow Dr
Cost: Free to attend
Ukrainian Festival
Support the local Ukrainian community and enjoy the best of traditional song, dance, arts, and delicious cuisine!
When: Saturday, June 7 – Sunday, June 8, 2025
Where: Acadia Recreation Complex, 240 90 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: $5 per person
Pick your favourites and mark your calendars!
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