It’s almost fall. The days are getting shorter and the sun is setting earlier and earlier each day. While you might get caught outside if you’re exploring the neighbouring mountains, the city doesn’t sleep just because the sun goes down. Here are some of our favourite ways to engage with Calgary after dark.

 

Visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

While the main zoo attractions close at 5 pm, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo often hosts after-hours, adults-only events where you can learn about animals, enjoy a beverage, and take part in a fun event. It makes for a great date night, and it’s a fantastic way for friends to get out and have some fun. Upcoming events at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo include Wild After Hours: Tapirs on September 20 & 27, and ZooDunnit on October 3.

Check out their events page for more upcoming events!

 

Take in a Show at Werklund Centre

Werklund Centre, formerly Arts Commons, has a jam-packed season of spectacular events including talks, comedy, theatre, music, and so much more. With five resident companies generating a regular schedule of fantastic performances, as well as six venues dedicated to bringing the arts to Calgary. Werklund Centre is creating a beautiful ecosystem where artists and audiences can come together. They're also celebrating 40 years of engaging arts in Calgary!

See the full list of events (and get tickets!) on their events page.

 

Discover Spark After Dark

Science is cool, and it’s not just for kids. TELUS Spark hosts their popular Spark After Dark events, which are adults-only evenings to explore science with full bar service and specialty themed cocktails to enhance the fun. Spark After Dark events happen every other month, and the themes vary according to the season. This fall and winter, check out Gore on October 19 and Greatest Hits on December 12.

Stay tuned for more Spark After Dark events next year!

 

City Lights

Sometimes, after the sun goes down, you just want to admire the city lights. The Calgary Tower has LED light shows every morning before sunrise and every evening from dusk until midnight. There are 132 lights that can create more than 16.5 million colours and effects, including themed shows to celebrate national holidays, cheer on sports teams, support local festivals, and raise awareness for important causes. Check out the light show schedule to see what’s on!

In the spirit of light shows, the TELUS Sky building also lights up at night with a display that celebrates the northern lights.

 

In the city of Calgary, you don't have to go home when the street lights come on. So catch a show, find some fun themed nights, or just enjoy the city lights. There's something for everyone in Calgary!

Taylor Jaine