30 Free Things You Gotta Do This March In Calgary
Anyone who's lived through a March in Calgary knows that it can be a pretty crazy month. The weather is still trying to decide if it wants to stick to cold snowstorms or turn over into warmer spring rain showers. You have to change out your winter wardrobe from a heavy parka to a much lighter rain jacket, and instead of skating, it's time to put on your sneakers and start walking through some of our beautiful parks.
The coming of March means that we're that much closer to summer, and we're of the opinion that it's never too early to start celebrating. Let this new month be an opportunity for you to get outside more often, and embrace the warmer weather that's coming - try something new, visit a spot you've never been before, or pick up on a new hobby.
We know that it's not always realistic or affordable to hit up all the cool events, restaurants, and hot spots around the city. Just because you're a little broke right now doesn't mean you can't have fun. We've all been there, but it's simply about finding ways to have fun while staying within your budget!
Because we know what it's like to live that broke and boujee lifestyle, we've scouted out a list of 30 things to help get you started in exploring the city this March. You don't have to do them all, but the more you manage to cross off of your bucket list, the more fun you'll have this month!
30. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the Calgary Farmer's Market
If you're not one for drinking, that doesn't mean you need to stay at home on St. Patty's Day. The Calgary Farmer's Market will be open from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on March 17th. Even if you don't spend any money, it's still fun to interact with other locals and see what the creative talent in our city has to offer!
29. Check out the Geometry Group Exhibit at the Wallace Galleries
It's no secret that Calgary is a city full of creative talent, and I'm of the opinion that we should support it whenever we get the chance. The Wallace Galleries will be showing this free exhibition from March 22nd - April 11th from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
28. Pick up some beer knowledge at Beer 101 at Gravity Coffee
Have you always wanted to learn more about Beer? This seemingly simple drink can definitely be confusing for anyone who doesn't already know the ins and outs, but this totally free event at Gravity Coffee on March 6th is full of helpful info! The event runs from 7 - 8 p.m.
27. Brush up on your knowledge of Consent at the Calgary Sexual Health Centre
Consent is something that never goes out of style, and it's never a bad idea to brush up on proper sexual etiquette. The free class on March 6th is being held at the Calgary Sexual Health Centre from 6:30 - 9:30 and will provide you with all types of helpful tips to better your relationships!
26. Attend the Tap Tasting Party at CRAFT Southcentre
There's never a bad time to enjoy a drink, but free drinks?! Count us in. CRAFT will be changing their tap rotation for the spring season this month, and they want you to have a taste of what they have to offer. The party is on March 7th from 4 - 7 p.m.
25. Take a tour of Phil & Sebastian
It's pretty likely that you've probably enjoyed a drink from Phil & Sebastian before, but did you know that you can take a totally free tour of our favourite coffee shop? This brief 20 minute tour, starting at 11 a.m. on March 7th will give you an in depth look of the processes behind the scenes! You can also book an hour long tour if you want to learn even more.
24. Celebrate International Women's Day at McDougall Centre
This is one of my favourite days of the year, because it reminds us all to appreciate and empower the women in our lives. This celebration in Calgary is being held on March 8th from 6 - 8:30 p.m. and will showcase a very diverse group of women and all they contribute to our world!
23. Check out the Okotoks Spring Market
March is officially the beginning of spring, and we're ready to celebrate. What better way to get into the mood than to check out all the amazing markets?! Make the quick drive out to Okotoks on March 10th and support some local businesses!
22. Get ready for the holidays at the Downtown Easter Market
If you love candy as much as I do, you're probably pretty excited for Easter. This month's Downtown Market will be held on March 14th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gulf Canada Square, and is the perfect opportunity for you to get ready for the upcoming holiday.
21. Check out Latin Dance Night at The Market Bistro
If you're looking to get out of the city this March, why not plan a trip to Canmore on March 15th? The Market Bistro at Three Sisters will be holding a totally free Latin Dance Night where you can pick up a few new moves. They've also got amazing drink specials on all night, if you're looking to get a little tipsy.
20. Attend the 2018 Spring Fashion Show at Hudson's Bay Calgary Downtown
A new season means new fashion trends, and why get your info from magazines when you can get it for free in person?! This 2018 Spring Fashion show will be held on March 21st, starting at 6 p.m. and going until 10 p.m. There will be dessert, live entertainment, and personal shoppers to inform you on some of the Bay's services.
19. Take a stroll through Central Memorial Park Gardens
Spring is the season where everything begins to bloom, and now is definitely the time to appreciate it. Take a walk through the gorgeous Central Memorial Park Gardens, and don't forget to bring your camera to snap some pictures!
18. Take a tour of the +15 Walkways
If you've lived in Calgary all your life, but have yet to tour these super cool sky walkways, you're definitely missing out. Plan a route and explore all that Downtown Calgary has to offer while avoiding the bitter last few weeks of winter, or early rain showers of spring.
17. Explore the Chinese Cultural Centre
Chinese New Year may be over, but there's never a bad time to check out the historical Chinese culture that Calgary has to offer. The Cultural Centre is beautifully decorated, and always makes for the perfect IG picture.
16. Have a photoshoot with your bestie in the Devonian Gardens
Every Calgarian knows that the Core's Devonian Gardens are the perfect getaway from the harsh weather. If you want to feel like spring has come a bit early, the gorgeous green scenery in the gardens will make you forget all about your winter blues!
15. Support local artists at the Esker Foundation
Not only does the Esker Foundation offer free admission and parking validation, they've also got some incredibly fascinating exhibits. The one pictured above, for example, is called "A wall is just a wall (and nothing more at all)" and is giving us some serious Hotline Bling vibes.
14. Explore the Nickle Galleries
If you find yourself bored between classes at U of C, or are simply looking to appreciate more art around the city, then head to the Nickle Galleries. Admission is totally free and they've always got something cool going on!
13. Go people watching in Kensington Village
Kensington is a favourite neighbourhood for many Calgarians, and there's no secret that it's full of some seriously cool people! If you're one for people watching, Kensington is the perfect area for you to hangout in. It's also full of really cool murals and artwork for you to take pictures of.
12. Go on a hike through Fish Creek Provincial Park
Another Calgarian favourite is Fish Creek Park, and Spring may just be the perfect time of year to explore it. Bring your dog, your friends, your family, or your significant other and spend a day getting some exercise and enjoying the view.
11. Practice your photography skills on the Peace Bridge
There are very few Calgarians who don't have a picture posed on the Peace Bridge, and it's simply because it's an amazing backdrop for photos. Practice taking some snaps of your friends, or posing for the camera yourself - whichever side of the camera you prefer to be on!
10. Take in the view from Scotsman's Hill
If you've ever wondered where the best view of Calgary is, Scotsman's Hill should be at the top of the list. You'll be overlooking Downtown and taking in some amazing sights, no matter what time of day it is!
9. Get in one last skate at Olympic Plaza
Traditionally, Calgary tends to stay pretty cold until the end of March, so you'll have all month to get in another skate sesh or two! Olympic Plaza is always one of our favourites, but there's plenty of other free local rinks you can check out.
8. Take in the beauty of Prince's Island Park
There's no shortage of parks to explore in YYC, but you definitely have to make sure you add Prince's Island to your list. It's seriously beautiful and has some of the best views of downtown, especially when everything's freshly in bloom!
7. Check out the Glenbow on Free First Thursday
If you haven't already heard, the Glenbow Museum offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month from 5 - 9 p.m. This month, it happens to fall on March 1st! They've got some really cool exhibits happening right now, including one all about Frida Kahlo.
6. Get in touch with nature at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
Are you a big nature fan? Then you'll definitely love to spend a day relaxing at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. Take a nature walk, and get up close and personal with some super beautiful bird species and other creatures!
5. Play Wingo at The Gateway
Wings and Bingo?! Two of our favourite things; you can count us in! Head down to the Gateway at SAIT on March 7th from 5 - 8 p.m. for some fun and games, and tasty wings. It's completely free to pay, but of course, if you plan on eating and drinking, you'll need to bring money!
4. Music Video Dance Party at The Rec Room
Remember being 13 and singing along to Lady Gaga at your middle school's Much Music Video Dance? Yeah, me too. Now you can relive those memories on March 10th at the Rec Room! There's no cover charge, so you and your friends can sing along and dance to songs from the 80s, 90s, 00s, and today without going broke!
3. Mario Kart Classic at The Rec Room
Consider yourself a Mario Kart pro? This event may be just the thing for you then! On March 14th from 7 - 10 p.m., you'll want to find yourself at The Rec Room to compete in this intense competition. You can play on the new Nintendo Switch, or keep it old school with the classic Nintendo.
2. Open Mic Night at The Gateway
Whether you're hoping to perform for an audience, or simply sit back and enjoy some live local entertainment, you should definitely check out this Open Mic Night on March 21st at The Gateway. Admission is totally free, so bring your friends and get ready to discover the next big local artist.
1. Take a walk through the Beaulieu Gardens at Lougheed House
The Beaulieu Gardens are a perfect spot for taking pictures, relaxing, or just going for a stroll on a relaxing spring day. It's easily one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the city, anytime of year.
