This summer, it’s time to get out and play. Calgary Recreation has FREE programs for all ages.

Birding Breaks

Birding Breaks offers bird lovers of all ages a chance to drop into Inglewood Bird Sanctuary for a guided walk. You will learn all about birds and other wildlife in Calgary. This event has traditionally taken place on Tuesdays, but no further information was available at the time of writing. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Community Nature Walks

At select times, you can head out on a 90-minute Community Nature Walk with staff from Parks and Open Spaces, and learn about the local plants and wildlife in our communities. Explore neighbourhood green spaces through guided walks and activities. You’ll discover the wild right in your backyard.

Fit Parks

Fit Parks are Calgary parks with outdoor fitness equipment. Some parks have more options than others, but there is a variety at every park. They are designed for adults (or at least 13+) and at select times, you’ll find a certified trainer there to guide you through a workout.

Mobile Skate and Scoot

Get your wheels and check out Mobile Skate and Scoot for kids who like to skateboard, scooter, and inline skate. You’ll find skateboard and inline skate instructors on-site at specific times. Free beginner skateboarding lessons are available, but you do need to pre-register for lessons. Helmets are required.

Park n’Play

Park n’ Play is a free outdoor drop-in program for children aged 6 to 12. You can normally drop your kids off from 10 AM – 3:30 PM, and they’ll keep busy with loads of activities, games, and crafts. Organizers divide the kids into two age groups where possible (ages 6-8 and 9-12) so that everyone can take part in age-appropriate activities. It’s a free drop-in on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the website to see when the program is near your community. Note: the City used to run Stay n’Play for younger kids, but that program has been cancelled.

For more info on this program, see HERE.

Wetland Wonders

Wetland Wonders is a free outdoor program aimed at children aged 5 to 12 on Wednesdays at Ralph Klein Park. There are two sessions, from 10:30 AM to 12 PM and 1:30 to 3 PM. Kids will learn about all the wonders of wetlands by exploring these natural spaces and the wildlife that call them home. Discover why wetlands are important and get an up-close view of the amazing critters that live below the surface during a pond dip. Participants must be accompanied by an adult.

YYC Trees: Guided Walks

It’s time to learn about the beautiful trees in your community or park! Take a 90-minute YYC Trees Guided Walk with Calgary Parks and Open Spaces. You’ll learn fun facts and unique characteristics, plus hear interesting stories. Learn how to identify trees in your community and what trees would make great additions to your own yard.

City of Calgary Free Programs:

Website: www.calgary.ca
Check schedules and registration here.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/calgaryrecreation
Find announcements through the Facebook page.