If you’re looking to get some early holiday shopping done in Calgary, you’re in luck. The Festival of Crafts is returning to the BMO Centre this weekend, bringing more than 145 Canadian artists together under one roof for four days of shopping. Throughout the festival, you’ll be able to browse home decor, handmade jewellery, original artwork, clothing, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
From the artisans taking part to the event’s hours and admission prices, this is what you need to know before heading over.
What to expect at the Festival of Crafts
What is the Festival of Crafts?
According to organizers, the Festival of Crafts is celebrating its 42nd year in Calgary and features over 145 Canadian artists, artisans, and designers. The annual market showcases everything from pottery and artwork to handmade jewellery, decor, and gourmet treats.
The festival has also become a popular spot for early holiday shopping, with vendors also selling ornaments and seasonal decorations you wouldn’t normally find in big-box stores.
The festival is organized by Signatures, a Canadian company founded in 1980. According to organizers, the goal of the event is to give Canadian artists a place to showcase their work and connect directly with shoppers.
When is the Festival of Crafts?
The festival runs from Thursday, Oct. 29, to Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026. Doors open at 10 a.m. every day, with closing times varying throughout the weekend. The market runs until 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, until 6 p.m. on Saturday, and until 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Where is the Festival of Crafts taking place?
The Festival of Crafts takes place in Hall F at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park. The BMO Centre offers paid parking at a flat rate of $18 per day, and you can pay online through the MyParking app or on-site at the machines.
If you’d rather skip driving, the Victoria Park/Stampede CTrain station is located directly beside the BMO Centre.
How much are tickets?
General admission to the Festival of Crafts costs $8, while seniors aged 65 and older can get tickets for just $6. Children and teens aged 17 and under can attend for free. And if you’re planning to visit in the evening, admission drops to $4 after 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
With the holiday season just around the corner, there’s no better time to browse a variety of vendors and get a head start on your gift shopping.
When: Thursday, Oct. 29 to Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Time: Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: BMO Centre (Hall F) — 20 Round Up Way SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: General Admission: $8, Senior (65+): $6, only Thursday and Friday (after 5 p.m.): $4, Senior (65+) only Thursday: $3
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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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