On the edge of Canada’s western prairies next to the towering Rocky Mountains, you’ll find the country’s third-largest city, Calgary. Offering amazing experiences within the city and in the surrounding area, Calgary is one of Canada’s most popular holiday destinations.
Whether you’re into outdoor adventure or enjoying festivals in the city, there are lots of things to do throughout the entire year. The best time to visit this western hub will depend on what you’re looking for and your vacation budget. Here’s a breakdown of the best times of year to visit Calgary.
Winter
If you’re looking for a bargain, you can get some cheap flights to Calgary from the UK during the winter. Since it gets very cold, the temperatures can deter sun-seekers. Their loss is your gain, and you can score some incredible deals between November and March.
In reality, winter is the best time to visit Calgary as the area offers tons of fun winter activities. If you like to ski or want to give it a try, the Rocky Mountains provide some incredible terrain. You’re likely to enjoy snowy conditions, but it’s dry enough that you won’t deal with constant precipitation. The city of Calgary is also close enough to serve as a good base while you go off and explore the area.
Winter is also the best time to get a glimpse of the breathtaking Northern Lights. With extended hours of darkness, you’ve got a much better chance of seeing them. On top of that, in February you can enjoy the Calgary Winefest or the Midwinter Bluesfest as well.
Shoulder Season (Spring and Autumn)
Spring and autumn in Calgary offer some of the lowest prices on hotels and flights. Spring season is during April and May, and the autumn season is in September and October. During this time, the city is quiet and the weather is milder. Calgary is still generally cool during this time, so you’ll still need to pack some warmer clothes.
You can still get out and explore the parks and trails during the shoulder season. If you are heading out hiking, expect it to be muddy as the snow will be slowly melting. Autumn generally provides excellent conditions for outdoor activities. There’s not a lot going on at this time in Calgary, but it’s still worth the trip if you’re looking to save some money.
Summer
June to August is the busiest time in Calgary. With the Calgary Stampede taking place in July, people travel from all over the world to come to the Cow City. Hotels will charge quite a bit more at this time, but you can generally find some decent flight deals if you book in advance. The weather can get quite hot, but summer can also be the rainiest time of year in Alberta.
If you like the outdoors, summer in Calgary is great for hiking, biking and fishing. Plus, Calgary has tons of festivals during the summer including the Calgary Fringe Festival, the Calgary International Blue Festival, and of course, the Calgary Stampede.
Regardless of what time of year you choose to visit Calgary, there is so much to enjoy in this awesome Canadian city.
