Calgary Culture Days returns September with a month of free and paid arts events
The 12th annual Calgary Culture Days runs through September with festivals, film screenings, art exhibitions, dance and live music. Most events are free or low-cost.
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Calgary Culture Days returns for its 12th year this September, bringing together artists, organizations and communities for a month-long celebration of arts and culture.
Through a diverse range of events, many of which are free, the locally driven initiative showcases the creativity and cultural experiences that shape Calgary. From festivals to film screenings, art exhibitions to dance performances and live music to workshops, there are new opportunities every week to connect, learn and experience Calgary through arts and culture.
"One of the things that makes Calgary Culture Days so special is the element of serendipity," said Olivia Rocskar, Arts & Cultural Development Coordinator with The City of Calgary. "You might come across an event and leave with a new perspective, a new connection or a deeper appreciation for a community, culture or art form. Those moments of curiosity and connection stay with people long after the event is over."
Mayor Jeromy Farkas emphasized the role arts and culture play in the city's growth. "Arts and culture are no longer a nice-to-have. They're a need to have," he said. "They connect us to our history, help tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples and the many communities that have shaped Calgary, and reflect who we are today. They are also essential social, civic and economic infrastructure. Arts and culture create connection, foster belonging and help make Calgary the best place to make a life."
This year's Calgary Culture Days Cultural Ambassadors include Mayor Jeromy Farkas, Evelyne Kemajou (Executive Director of Portail de l'Immigrant Association and organizer of Franco Festival Calgary), Marc Stevens (President and CEO of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra), and Kristy North Peigan (member of the Piikani First Nation and artist and designer).
For the second year, The City of Calgary is supporting community-led programming through the Calgary Culture Days Microgrant, aimed at activating Calgary's greater downtown with local arts and cultural programming during September. This year, funding was awarded to 20 recipients to help bring new and expanded arts and culture experiences to life throughout the month.
Calgary Culture Days takes place Sept. 1-30. Explore events happening across Calgary at calgary.ca/CultureDays.
The details
When does Calgary Culture Days run?
Calgary Culture Days runs from September 1–30, 2026.
What types of events are included?
The month features festivals, film screenings, art exhibitions, dance performances, live music, and workshops.
How much do events cost?
Most events are free or low-cost.
Who are the Cultural Ambassadors this year?
The ambassadors are Mayor Jeromy Farkas, Evelyne Kemajou, Marc Stevens, and Kristy North Peigan.
