10 of the best things to do in and around Calgary this May

May in Calgary always feels like the city is finally shaking off the winter blues for good. Patios start filling up again, markets get busier, and suddenly there’s a packed calendar of things to do every weekend.

From spring festivals and seasonal events to concerts and food pop-ups, this month is basically your excuse to get out and explore as much as possible.

Without further ado, let’s jump into 10 of the best things happening around the city this month.

The Calgary Maker Fair is a massive showcase of creativity, bringing together artists, engineers and makers all in one place. Expect interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities featuring everything from tech and robotics to art and DIY projects.

When: Saturday, May 2, to Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Acadia Rec Centre – 240 90th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $12.50

Calling all animal lovers, this one’s for you. The Calgary Zoo is hosting an adults-only experience that offers after-hours access to the Penguin Plunge habitat.

When: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 3 to 9 p.m.
Where: Calgary Zoo – 210 St. George’s Dr. NE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $130+ GST

If you’re looking to plan something fun for the kids, this one’s an easy win. A Day Out With Thomas: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll! is making a stop at Heritage Park, bringing a full lineup of activities with it.

Families can take a ride on Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and spend the day exploring live shows, games, and hands-on activities throughout the park. There’s also a music corner to keep the energy up, and plenty of photo ops along the way!

Tickets start at $32.95 and include the train ride, but keep in mind that Heritage Park membership discounts won’t be valid for this event.

When: Saturday, May 2, 2026, to Sunday, May 3, and Saturday, May 9, to Sunday, May 10, 2026
Time: Train Times at 9 a.m., 9:40 a.m., 10:20 a.m., 11 a.m., 11:40 p.m., 12:20, 1 p.m., 1:40 p.m., 2:20 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:40 p.m., 4:20 p.m. (Gates open at 8:30 a.m.)
Where: Heritage Park  – 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Single Ticket: $32.95 + fees

If you’re looking to switch up your usual plans this month, this gin cocktail workshop is a fun, hands-on experience. You’ll taste eight different styles of gin before learning how to mix three classic cocktails.

When: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Confluence Distilling- 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary, Alta. 
Cost: $105

Looking for a creative way to celebrate Mother’s Day? This aviation-themed workshop is such a cute option. Families can paint their own flowerpots and create a paper airplane bouquet to take home.

When: Sunday, May 10, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: The Hangar Flight Museum – 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $8

Otafest is one of Calgary’s biggest celebrations of anime, gaming, and pop culture. At the event, you can expect cosplay, special guests, artist vendors, and tons of interactive experiences all weekend long.

When: Friday, May 15, to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Calgary Telus Convention Centre – 146 8th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $16.73

Kite fest is a colourful, family-friendly event hosted at Granary Road, filling the sky with massive kites and live flying demonstrations.

When: Saturday, May 16, to Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Granary Road – 226066 112th St. SW, Foothills County, Alta.
Cost: $34.95 general admission; $45.95 admission (with kite included)

Sexyy Red is bringing her viral hits to the Grey Eagle Event Centre this month. You can expect a fun, high-energy concert, and if you’re into hip-hop and looking for something lively, this is definitely worth checking out.

When: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Grey Eagle Event Centre – 3775 Grey Eagle Dr., Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $124.70

Football season is back! The Calgary Stampeders are kicking off their home season with a matchup against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. It’s always a big rivalry game packed with fans, energy, and all the spring vibes.

When: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 2 p.m.
Where: McMahon Stadium- 1817 Crowchild Trl. NW., Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $40

The Servus Calgary Marathon is taking over the city this month, bringing runners of all levels together for a weekend full of raves. From the full marathon to shorter distances like the 10k and 5k, there’s something for everyone to get involved in or cheer on.

Expect closed roads, high energy, and lots of community support along the route.

When: Saturday, May 23, to Sunday, May 24, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Stampede Park – 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $20

And that wraps up a packed May in Calgary. From big concerts and festivals to family-friendly weekend activities and sports games, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the city this month.

Whether you’re planning ahead or just looking to do something at the last minute, May has something for everyone.

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