Downtown programming and activities
As we continue to shape a greater downtown, The City and our partners are committed to creating engaging experiences and dynamic public spaces. We are transforming the heart of our city into a 24/7 destination filled with fun, creativity, culture and connection.
By investing in dynamic programming, pop-up events, playful activations and more, we’re breathing new life into our downtown streets, parks, and public spaces all year long. See how The City continues to make downtown a vibrant, welcoming space through programming and activations.
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Downtown is where it all happens – it’s the pulse of our city, and no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.
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Surge City Hoops Summer Series

This summer, the Calgary Surge & The City are teaming up to bring FREE youth basketball clinics and a Surge City 3-on-3 Tournament to the heart of our city.
Registration opens July 4th at 9 a.m. for the free clinics running every Tuesday and Saturday from July – October for youth ages 9-17, at the Century Gardens Basketball Courts (826 8 Avenue SW).
Registration will continue to roll-out the 1st and 15th of every month.
Free weekend workouts in downtown Calgary
Throughout the summer, The City is hosting free recreation classes for adults and teenagers (13+).
- When: Select weekends
- Where: Lot 6 (311 Eighth St. S.W.)
These classes provide a great opportunity to try new workouts, meet people and enjoy downtown in a new way! No registration required.
Summer recreation schedule (class descriptions below):
Date | Time | Workout |
---|---|---|
Friday, July 4 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Total Body Workout |
Friday, July 4 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Mind Body Flow |
Saturday, July 5 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Tai Chi |
Saturday, July 5 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Qigong |
Sunday, July 6 | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Essentrics |
Saturday, July 12 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Tai Chi |
Saturday, July 12 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Qigong |
Sunday, July 13 | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Essentrics |
Friday, July 18 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Total Body Workout |
Friday, July 18 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Mind Body Flow |
Sunday, July 20 | 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Essentrics |
Friday, July 25 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Total Body Workout |
Friday, July 25 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Mind Body Flow |
Sunday, August 10 | 10 - 10:45 a.m. | Cardio and Strength |
Sunday, August 10 | 11 - 11:45 a.m. | Intervals: Mind Body Flow |
Friday, August 15 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Total Body Workout |
Friday, August 15 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Mind Body Flow |
Sunday, August 17 | 10 - 10:45 a.m. | Cardio and Strength |
Sunday, August 17 | 11 - 11:45 a.m. | Intervals: Mind Body Flow |
Friday, August 22 | 9 - 10 a.m. | Total Body Workout |
Friday, August 22 | 10 - 11 a.m. | Mind Body Flow |
Sunday, August 24 | 10 - 10:45 a.m. | Cardio and Strength |
Sunday, August 24 | 11 - 11:45 a.m. | Intervals: Mind Body Flow |

What to bring:
- Mat
- Water bottle
- Proper footwear
- Sun protection
* Please note, washrooms will be available onsite for use during class times.
Weather cancellation policy:
Outdoor programs and events are weather dependent and may be cancelled in the event of severe weather, extreme temperatures or poor air quality for outdoor activities. Contact 311 if you are uncertain about weather cancellations.
Class descriptions
Mind Body Flow
Mind Body Flow
Expect to strengthen and stretch your body in this dynamic class. It may incorporate Pilates-based exercises, yoga inspired postures, and/or mobility work. You can achieve strength, flexibility, balance and mental focus improvements with consistent practice.
Total Body Workout
Total Body Workout
An intense yet self-paced class with simple or no choreography. Classes may have different formats but will include either interval or continuous cardio (possibly utilizing sport moves) and strength moves for every major muscle group including core and balance exercises.
Essentrics®
Essentrics®
A full body workout using a dynamic and fluid combination of strengthening and stretching. This technique rebalances the body and helps to develop a healthy posture. With a diverse musical playlist, this equipment-free workout leaves you feeling energized, youthful, and healthy.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi
Improve your balance, posture and mental awareness through basic Tai Chi movements and principles.
Qigong
Qigong
Qigong stretching, breathing and meditative posture exercises help stimulate and balance your internal energy (Qi). Exercises are short, repetitive movements. Regular practice helps relieve stress, tension, depression and physical fatigue.
Cardio and Strength Intervals
Cardio and Strength Intervals
Get a complete workout with this unique cardio and strength class. It is a combination of aerobic training and a full body resistance workout. This class will challenge and inspire you, while taking your fitness level to new heights!