From scary attractions to food festivals, there is an event for everyone to enjoy in Calgary this month – and not all of them are about Halloween! Take some time this month to explore the unique events this city has to offer:
Screamfest
Every weekend in October, including the days leading up to Halloween
(October 25 – 31), 7 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The Grandstand Building, 20 Roundup Way SE
Don’t miss out on your last chance to get spooked at Screamfest in Calgary! From a clown themed house to a “Neighbours from Hell” simulator ride, Screamfest will not disappoint as it celebrates its 13th and final year. While this event is open to all ages, a special adults-only night will be held on Thursday, October 25.
General admission is $30, but additional packages are available for those interested in purchasing speed passes and other extras. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Big Rock Brewing Workshop at Heritage Park
Wednesday, October 11, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W.
Ever wanted to brew your own beer? At the Big Rock Interpretive Brewery, participants are invited to handcraft their own beer from start to finish, including preparing the packaging! Participants will be able to take home the beer they brew after it has a chance to ferment. The workshop will also be offering sessions in November and December.
Tickets for each person are $95 and include your own beer to take home, which can be picked up approximately eight weeks after your workshop. Snacks and beer samples will also be offered during the session.
Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival
Friday, October 12 (5 – 10 p.m.) & Saturday, October 13 (12 – 4 p.m., 6 – 10 p.m.)
Halls D&E, Stampede Park BMO Centre, 20 Roundup Way SW
Food and beverage vendors from Calgary and around the world will descend upon the city for the annual Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival in October. Wineries and Breweries from around the globe will offer guests the opportunity to sample their products, and local restaurants like The Fine Diner Bistro and Springbank Cheese Company will offer delicious tastings. Attendees will also be asked to vote on their favourites for the Great Big Taste Awards, which will be awarded for the best in food, wine, beer, spirits and beverages.
Prices vary depending on when you attend the show. On Friday evening, tickets are $24-34, on Saturday afternoon tickets are $19-25, and on Saturday evening, tickets are $27-37. Different pricing is available for large groups or companies, and people interested in VIP access to the event. Sample coupons must be purchased onsite for $0.50 in order to try samples from the vendors.
CollectorFest
Saturday, October 20, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Chinese Cultural Centre, 197 1 St SW
CollectorFest was first created in Calgary three years ago, and since its inaugural event is has become a popular occasion for pop culture fans to participate in special activities and view a variety of exhibits. This year, workshops include a demonstration on how to create a custom toy or action figure, and the event will also host a video game tournament open to all ages.
Admission is $5, with 20 per cent of the proceeds going to support Wood’s Homes, a children’s mental health charity.
Calgary Woman’s Show
Saturday, October 20 (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.) & Sunday, October 21 (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Stampede Park BMO Centre, 20 Roundup Way SW
In celebration of its 40th Anniversary, the Calgary Woman’s Show is offering free admission for everyone in 2018. At this event, people will be able to see a variety of exhibitors including charities, food vendors, shops and local businesses. Entertainment at this year’s show includes performances by Jubilations Dinner Theatre and Saints and Sinners. The main stage will feature a fashion show on Saturday and Sunday (including a pet fashion show!), presentations by authors and life coaches, and a live medium reading.
While admission is free, the show will still be supporting local organizations focused on community organizations in Calgary, including this year’s charity of choice, The Women’s Centre.
Gluten Free Expo
Saturday, October 20 & Sunday, October 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Big Four Building, Big Four Trail SE
The Gluten Free Expo provides Calgarians the opportunity to sample a variety of gluten free products and receive a deal on items from the attending vendors including popular brands like Bob’s Red Mill and Udi’s Gluten Free Food. In addition to food vendors, gluten free beauty shops like Arbonne and LipSense by SeneGence will also be showcasing their products.
Until October 19th, individuals are able to purchase discounted tickets online for $12 (day pass) or $20 (full weekend pass). Tickets are also available at the door for $15 (day pass) and $25 (full weekend pass).