Calgary’s live music calendar in 2026 is shaping up to be one of the city’s most varied yet. From winter festivals that embrace the cold to massive summer music weekends built around outdoor stages and late nights, this year’s lineup offers plenty of reasons to plan dates around live performances.
Whether you are looking for an excuse to bundle up together in January or mapping out summer weekends well in advance, these are the Calgary music festivals worth keeping on your radar this year.
Chinook Blast – February 2–19, 2026
Chinook Blast blends live music with winter pop-ups and downtown events, making it easy to plan casual, low-pressure dates. You can catch a show, wander outside, and keep the night flexible. Check the full lineup and event schedule here.
Photo Credits: chinookblast.ca
Block Heater Music Festival – February 5–7, 2026
Block Heater focuses on folk, roots, and indie sounds in warm indoor venues. It is one of the coziest ways to spend a winter evening together. Grab tickets directly here.
Country Thunder Alberta – June 26–28, 2026
Country Thunder brings major headliners and full festival energy to Alberta every summer. It is a great pick for couples who enjoy all-day music and big crowd vibes.
Calgary Stampede Concerts – July 3-12, 2026
Stampede season means nightly concerts, pop-up stages, and spontaneous live performances across the city. Dates during Stampede tend to be loud, social, and unpredictable in the best way.
Browse Stampede concert schedules and ticket options here.
Cowboys Music Festival – July 2-12, 2026
Running alongside Stampede, Cowboys Music Festival delivers late-night sets and headline acts. It is a go-to for couples who want high-energy nights that stretch well past dinner.
Badlands Music Festival – July 2-12, 2026
Badlands blends electronic, hip-hop, and pop acts with a festival-style setup. It suits couples who prefer modern lineups and late-night performances.
Calgary Folk Music Festival – July 23–26, 2026
Set on Prince’s Island Park, Calgary Folk Fest offers a slower, more romantic festival atmosphere. It is ideal for daytime dates that turn into relaxed evenings.
Canmore Folk Music Festival – August 1–3, 2026
Just outside Calgary, this festival combines live music with mountain views. It works well as a laid-back weekend trip for couples who want music without the crowds.
Plan your visit and tickets there.
Calgary’s 2026 festival lineup offers something for every kind of couple, from low-key winter shows to full-scale summer weekends built around music.
Planning dates around these events turns ordinary nights into shared experiences that feel intentional and fun.
