Summer in Calgary is full of festivals, markets and outdoor fun, but this August also offers plenty of opportunities to experience the city's vibrant arts scene. You don't have to travel far to enjoy an inspiring summer adventure with a slate full of opportunities across the city this month. Whether you're planning a family outing, a date night, or a solo creative escape, these events are sure to add a little extra colour to your summer schedule.
One of Calgary's most beloved arts events, the Beltline Urban Murals Project (BUMP) Festival transforms the Beltline into an outdoor gallery as artists create massive murals across the neighbourhood. Take a walk, watch the artists at work, and discover colourful new pieces around every corner under the theme of Simmer and the Surge. The free, city-wide festival features live mural painting across multiple neighbourhoods, free outdoor programming, artist talks and the new inaugural BUMP Public Sculpture.
From graphic design and fashion to architecture, film, and immersive installations, Design Week is a three-day celebration of design in all its forms, offering inspiring experiences that highlight the many ways art shapes our everyday lives. Lost and Found, an immersive installation encouraging curiosity and a sense of wonder, takes place inside the Grotto at Contemporary Calgary, where art lovers can explore light, texture and atmosphere in a unique way.
Celebrate unity and artistic expression at this year’s Lantern Peace Festival with the theme of "Global Crossroad." This vibrant community peace event features free cultural performances, inspiring speeches, a peace exhibition and more. Enjoy the Calgary International Contest for Young Artists, experience dynamic live performances and engaging dialogue and peruse the artist offerings. The event takes place from 2-4 p.m. at the Devonian Gardens in the CORE Shopping Centre. There is also free parking available for 3 hours.
Books and art come together at Canada's largest multi-genre literary festival. Writers, illustrators, publishers and readers gather for workshops, discussions and creative conversations that celebrate storytelling in all its forms. The Beyond the Page Art Show is a visual arts exhibition and sale held simultaneously, featuring over a dozen juried creators exhibiting everything from traditional painting and drawing to digital art, sculpture and mixed media.
A brand-new addition to Calgary's arts calendar, this festival celebrates the beauty of watercolour through exhibitions, live demonstrations, workshops and an art market featuring artists from around the world. It's the perfect place to discover new talent and perhaps uncover your own inner artist. This multi-day festival features live painting demonstrations, hands-on workshops, public exhibitions, and a vendor's art market in the breathtaking landscapes of Calgary and Banff.