Best time to visit Calgary?

[world trecker]

Getting to this city has been on my to-do list for years, but I want to get up there at just the right time. Is there a magic time of the year when Calgary's at its best? I'm from Florida, and I'm not a big snow guy, so preferably something warm/comfortable but not unbearably hot/humid.

Hi there! I can tell you all about Calgary. Calgary doesn't get as humid as Florida, so no worries about that. It has more of a dry California heat, and when there's humidity it's low. The best time would be to go June-August. Here are just a few things you can do in that time:

June:
International Jazz Festival
Greek Festival

July:
Calgary Stampede
Folk Music Festival

August:
Dragonboat Festival
Global Fest - One World Festival and International Fireworks Competition

I haven't been to any of the festivals in June, but I've been to both the events in July and they were great. I know they both have websites, so check them out to find out exact dates of the festivals and more information. Another really cool thing about being there end of June/beginning of July is that Alberta in general has longer daylight hours than Florida. The farther north you go in Alberta, the longer hours of daylight you have.

I would also suggest spending a day in Banff. It's about an hour and a half drive to get there, but I swear you won't be disappointed. Banff is built right into a mountain and no matter where you look all you'll see is mountains. It's quite beautiful.

[world trecker]

Yes, I was looking at the Calgary Stampede because so many people I know who've been there have enjoyed it. How are crowds around that time, and would I need to look into booking accomodations now?

And yes, the extra daylight is definitely a plus! I'll also look into Banff since you mentioned it.

[tiffany06]

yes, you'll definitely need to book your accomodations soon. i learned the hard way.

[amherstisland]

The Calgary Stampede. I was there many years ago and I had a great time. The winters in Calgary are a little cold, so if you prefer the heat go in the summer during the Stampede. Make sure to book accommodations early.

[vivianbanks]

The best time to go to Calgary has to be early July and mid-August folks! It's when the tourist season kicks-in but anyone who tells you to that Calgary is best any other time except summer isn't being helpful imo.

July is actually home to the Calgary Stampede which is an amazing rodeo, exhibition and festival all-in-one that can't compare to any other rodeos around the world (including the US)

Naturally, if you don't like the crowds and overpriced everything, then travel in september up to mid october. for fewer crowds, fewer kids (lol) and cheaper deals.

By the way, end of October you could find hot days followed by snow storms so be warned!

[kollghu]

I have to agree with Vivian folks! going to Calgary during the Calgary Stampede is the best time as there will be lots to do around town, and you'll get lots of free foods (lol)...by the way isn't the Stampede held from July 7th till 18 this year?

[sergiomarty]

Calgary is awesome but if you dont like snow you won't enjoy it here most of the year. Snow can fall every month of the year, though most snow falls are in April. Summers are usually warm during the day and chilly at night, though it can rain a lot and get fairly unpleasant at times.

As someone mentioned, Calgary Stampede is in July and well worth coming down for as it's the biggest event in the city.

Overall, if you love the outdoors, you will love Calgary as the city is very close to the mountains so you can do lots of hiking and wilderness camping.

[Incapo]

Calgary is at its best during the summer months, though it that doesn't mean it doesn't snow either (last year for the first time it snowed in summer).

The Stampede is also held in summer so it's good to be here as there are lots to do around town, lots of free breakfasts, live music, fun contests, etc.

Originally Posted by world trecker

Getting to this city has been on my to-do list for years, but I want to get up there at just the right time. Is there a magic time of the year when Calgary's at its best? I'm from Florida, and I'm not a big snow guy, so preferably something warm/comfortable but not unbearably hot/humid.

[killuminapi]

if you love hunting or fishing, the Calgary region has it all. For fly fishing head to the Bow River for brown trout and rainbow trout fishing. For game hunting, head to the mountains and foothills around Calgary where you will find deer, elk, moose and black bear. Alberta's wetlands are also rife with wildfowl, but be sure to obtain licenses and know the local regulations before your visit.