If you love great food, Calgary won’t disappoint. From rooftop views and cozy brunch spots to bold international flavours and craft beer halls, the city is bursting with must-try restaurants. Whether you're a longtime local or just settling in, here are the top places to eat in Calgary this year.

1. Ten Foot Henry

A favourite for its veggie-forward menu and relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. This spot makes healthy food exciting, with shareable plates that even the most devoted meat lovers enjoy.

2. Major Tom

Perched high above the city with sweeping downtown views, this upscale restaurant is ideal for a night out. Think classic steaks, crispy fries, and craft cocktails in a beautiful setting.

3. Shokunin & NUPO

For those who love Japanese cuisine, Shokunin delivers an inventive izakaya experience, while NUPO offers a plant-based omakase that’s unlike anything else in the city.

4. River Café

Located on Prince’s Island Park, this rustic-chic spot is a hidden gem surrounded by nature. A perfect pick for brunch or a romantic dinner, River Café focuses on seasonal, local ingredients.

5. Calcutta Cricket Club

Bright, bold, and full of flavour, this restaurant offers Indian-inspired dishes in a fun and playful space. From their butter chicken to creative cocktails, it’s always a good time.

6. Lulu Bar

Tucked into lively Kensington, Lulu Bar brings island vibes to Calgary with small plates, tropical drinks, and a menu that makes you want to try everything.

7. CHARCUT Roast House

This downtown staple is all about wood-fired meats, house-made charcuterie, and a warm, inviting feel. Great for dinner with friends or a weekend splurge.

🍻 Worth a Sip: Calgary’s Brewery Scene

If beer is more your vibe, Calgary’s craft brewery scene is thriving. Big Rock Brewery remains a classic, while Cold Garden in Inglewood keeps things quirky and fun. Or check out The District at Beltline, a fresh food hall with rotating chefs and tasty pairings.

🗺️ Foodie Neighbourhoods to Explore

• 17th Ave (Red Mile): Lined with pubs, bistros, and patios.

• Kensington: Ideal for brunch, cafes, and evening bites.

• Inglewood & East Village: For indie eats, bakeries, and breweries.

Calgary is a city where you can try something new every week—and still have more to discover. Whether you're booking a date night, grabbing brunch with friends, or hunting for hidden gems, 2025 is serving up something delicious.

Looking for the best things to do in Calgary in 2025? Whether you're visiting, new to the city, or a long-time local, Calgary offers world-class events, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking outdoor adventures all year long. Here's your ultimate 2025 Calgary event guide!

🎡 Major Events & Festivals in Calgary 2025

1. Calgary Stampede 2025 (July 4–13)
Experience the iconic Calgary Stampede, known as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Enjoy rodeo events, chuckwagon races, midway rides, country concerts, and daily fireworks.

2. Calgary Folk Music Festival (July 24–27)
Held on Prince’s Island Park, this 4-day music event features over 70 local and international artists, craft beer tents, food trucks, and family fun.

3. Lilac Festival (June 2025)
A free outdoor street party in the Mission District with hundreds of vendors, live music, food trucks, and vibrant community energy.

4. Otafest Anime Convention (May 2025)
Western Canada’s largest anime event returns with cosplay, gaming, panels, and fan experiences at the Telus Convention Centre.

5. Poutine Week, Hot Chocolate Fest, Snow Rodeo
Enjoy a delicious start to 2025 with Calgary’s top food events and winter festivals.

🏛️ Calgary Attractions You Can’t Miss

• Calgary Zoo – Perfect for families with new exhibits and seasonal events.

• Heritage Park – Canada's largest living history museum.

• Calgary Tower – Get 360° views of downtown and the Rockies.

• Studio Bell: Home of the National Music Centre – A must for music lovers.

• Prince's Island Park – A green escape in the city with summer festivals and river views.

🌲 Outdoor Adventures in Calgary

• Hike Nose Hill Park – One of the largest urban parks in North America.

• Raft the Bow River – A summer favourite for locals and visitors.

• Explore Fish Creek Park – Nature trails, biking paths, and picnic spots.

🍻 Calgary Food & Drink Events 2025

• Brewery & The Beast (Aug 24, 2025) – A must-attend BBQ and craft beer experience.

• Zoo Brew – Adults-only evening at the Calgary Zoo with local brews.

• New Restaurants – Discover hotspots in Inglewood, Kensington, and East Village.

🎭 Culture & Arts Scene

• Exposure Photography Festival (Feb 2025)

• Glenbow Museum (reopening in 2025) – Featuring modern Indigenous and Canadian art.

• Theatre Calgary, Ballet & Opera – Seasonal productions throughout the year.

🏃 Marathons & Active Events

• Calgary Marathon 2025 – Choose from 5k, 10k, half, or full races.

• Family Fun Runs & Outdoor Yoga – Join weekly events in parks across NW and SE Calgary.

📍 Bonus: Best Time to Visit Calgary in 2025

June–August is peak festival season, while winter months bring ski trips, indoor exhibits, and cozy cafes. Calgary offers fun year-round—with over 330 days of sunshine annually.

☀️ 1. Calgary is the Sunniest Major City in Canada

Calgary boasts over 2,300 hours of sunshine each year, making it the sunniest major city in Canada. With approximately 333 sunny days annually, it's a dream location for those who love clear skies and outdoor activities.

🎪 2. Home of the Calgary Stampede – “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”

Every July, over 1.4 million people flock to Calgary for the Calgary Stampede, a 10-day rodeo and exhibition that celebrates the city’s Western heritage. Visitors love the pancake breakfasts, chuckwagon races, and live concerts.

❄️ 3. Chinook Winds Can Raise Temperatures in Hours

Calgary’s unique Chinook winds are warm, dry winds that can raise the temperature by 10–15°C in just a few hours, even in the middle of winter. It’s one of the city’s most talked-about weather phenomena.

🏒 4. Calgary Hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics

In 1988, Calgary became the first Canadian city to host the Winter Olympics, drawing over 1,400 athletes from around the world. Olympic venues like Canada Olympic Park are still in use today for recreation and training.

🏙 5. World’s Largest Skywalk System – The +15

Calgary’s Plus 15 (or +15) is a network of elevated indoor walkways that span more than 16 kilometers and connect over 130 buildings downtown. It helps Calgarians stay warm during the winter while commuting.

🐿 6. Black Squirrels Call Calgary Home

A quirky fact: Calgary’s population of black (eastern grey) squirrels originated from a small group that escaped from the Calgary Zoo in the 1930s. They've since become a common sight around the city.

🌐 7. One of Canada’s Most Diverse Cities

Calgary is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada. Over 33% of residents were born outside the country, and more than 120 languages are spoken. This cultural mosaic adds richness to the city’s food, arts, and community events.

📈 8. Calgary Ranks High in Global Livability

Calgary frequently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, including top placements in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index. It's also known as one of the cleanest cities in the world, thanks to its green spaces and waste management systems.

📸 9. The Calgary Tower Offers 360° Views

A favorite among tourists, the Calgary Tower stands 191 meters tall and offers stunning 360-degree views of downtown Calgary, the Rocky Mountains, and the Bow River Valley.

🦫 10. Alberta’s Groundhog: Balzac Billy

Just outside Calgary, Balzac Billy is Alberta’s famous weather-predicting groundhog. Every February 2nd, people gather for a Groundhog Day forecast to see if spring will come early.

🎶 11. Calgary’s Music Scene is Award-Winning

Artists like Tate McRae, Jann Arden, and Feist all have roots in Calgary. The city also hosts the Calgary Folk Music Festival, attracting over 50,000 fans each summer to Prince’s Island Park.

Looking for a list of famous people who are from Calgary, Alberta? Calgary has produced a wide range of talent, from Hollywood actors to Olympic athletes. Here are some of the most notable Calgarians:

🎤 Musicians & Singers

• Tate McRae – International pop sensation known for hits like greedy and you broke me first; born and raised in Calgary.

• Feist (Leslie Feist) – Grammy-nominated indie artist who spent much of her childhood in Calgary.

• Jann Arden – Award-winning singer-songwriter and TV personality, proudly Calgarian.

🎥 Actors & Celebrities

• Elisha Cuthbert – Star of 24 and The Girl Next Door, born in Calgary.

• Kaitlyn Bristowe – Former Bachelorette and podcast host, originally from Calgary.

• Nathan Fillion – Actor known for Castle and The Rookie; born in Edmonton but raised in Calgary.

🏒 Athletes & Olympians

• Jarome Iginla – NHL Hall of Famer and Calgary Flames legend; longtime Calgary resident.

• Kaillie Humphries – Olympic bobsled gold medalist from Calgary.

• Catriona Le May Doan – World champion speed skater and Olympic gold medalist, lives in Calgary.

📺 TV Personalities & Influencers

• Bret Hart – WWE Hall of Famer and professional wrestling icon, part of Calgary’s legendary Hart family.

• Bruce McCulloch – Comedian from The Kids in the Hall, Calgary native.

Thinking about selling your home in Calgary? Preparing your house for sale is a critical step to getting top dollar—and with Reece Hornby from RE/MAX House of Real Estate, you’ll get expert guidance every step of the way.

As a seasoned Calgary real estate agent, Reece Hornby knows what buyers are looking for in today's competitive market. From curb appeal to final touch-ups, staging tips to strategic pricing, Reece helps you prep your home to stand out and sell faster.

What’s covered in your home prep consultation with Reece?

• A customized checklist to boost buyer appeal

• Tips on decluttering, deep cleaning, and depersonalizing

• Small upgrades with big return on investment

• Professional photography and marketing advice

Selling your home in Calgary doesn’t have to be stressful. Trust Reece Hornby, your local expert with years of experience and results to match.

403-992-5310 

Contact details below!

Everything You Need to Know Before Taking the Leap Into Homeownership

Buying your first home is a big milestone—and doing it in Calgary, with its vibrant neighborhoods, mountain views, and diverse real estate market, makes it even more exciting. If you're a first-time homebuyer in Calgary, this guide is here to help you navigate the process with confidence.

🔑 Why Buy in Calgary?

Calgary is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, offering:

• Affordable housing compared to other major cities like Vancouver and Toronto

• A diverse economy, especially in energy, tech, and health

• Access to top-rated schools, public transit, and the outdoors

• Family-friendly neighborhoods and up-and-coming communities

Whether you're drawn to the trendy energy of Beltline, the family vibe in Mahogany, or the mountain views in Tuscany, Calgary has a home for everyone.

🧭 Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers

1. Determine Your Budget

Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps you:

• Understand what you can afford

• Lock in an interest rate

• Show sellers you’re serious

Tip: Don't forget to factor in closing costs, property tax, and home insurance.

2. Find the Right Realtor

A local expert (👋 like myself!) will:

• Guide you through the buying process

• Negotiate on your behalf

• Help you spot red flags or hidden gems

3. Choose the Right Area

Consider:

• Commute time

• School zones

• Future developments

• Lifestyle—do you want walkable, quiet, or close to nature?

Popular Calgary communities for first-time buyers include:

• Evanston – Affordable new builds

• Copperfield – Family-friendly, SE Calgary charm

• Bowness – Character homes near the river

4. Start the House Hunt

Make a wishlist of must-haves (3 beds? Finished basement? Garage?) and nice-to-haves. Be open-minded—sometimes homes surprise you!

5. Make an Offer

Your realtor will help craft a strong offer based on:

• Market conditions

• Comparable sales

• Seller motivation

6. Home Inspection & Conditions

Don’t skip the inspection! It can reveal potential issues and give you negotiating power.

Common conditions include:

• Financing approval

• Satisfactory inspection

• Condo document review (if applicable)

7. Closing the Deal

Once conditions are met, your lawyer finalizes the paperwork, and you get the keys! 🗝️

💡 Bonus Tips for Calgary Buyers

• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive: A federal program to reduce your mortgage.

• RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan: Withdraw up to $35,000 tax-free from your RRSP.

• Check for property tax estimates and school catchment zones before finalizing.

🤝 Ready to Start Your Home Search?

Whether you're just browsing or ready to buy, I’m here to help make your Calgary home buying journey smooth and successful. Reach out anytime for a free consultation or just to chat about the market.

Buying a house in Alberta can feel overwhelming — especially if it's your first time. But with the right knowledge and support, the process can be smooth and even enjoyable.

Whether you're looking in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, or a small Alberta town, this guide breaks down the step-by-step process of buying a home in Alberta, updated for 2025.

🔍 Why Buy a House in Alberta?

Alberta offers some of the most affordable real estate in Canada, no provincial sales tax, and — unlike other provinces — no land transfer tax. It’s a great place to put down roots whether you're a first-time buyer or upgrading your home.

📋 Step-by-Step Process to Buying a House in Alberta

1. ✅ Check Your Financial Readiness

Before house hunting, evaluate your financial situation:

• Get a copy of your credit report

• Use an online mortgage affordability calculator

• Start saving for your down payment (minimum 5% of purchase price)

💡 Bonus Tip: Set aside 1.5%–4% of the purchase price for closing costs like legal fees, home inspection, and insurance.

2. 💰 Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

A pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear price range.

You’ll need:

• Proof of income and employment

• Recent bank statements

• Credit history

📍 Alberta lenders to consider: ATB Financial, First Calgary, RBC, TD, CIBC.

3. 🧑‍💼 Hire a Licensed Alberta Real Estate Agent

Your REALTOR® will help:

• Identify suitable properties

• Book showings and tours

• Negotiate offers and conditions

• Guide you through contracts and deadlines

✅ In Alberta, real estate agents are regulated by RECA (Real Estate Council of Alberta).

4. 🏘️ Start House Hunting

Explore properties based on your budget and lifestyle. Consider:

• Property type (detached, townhouse, condo)

• Proximity to schools, work, transit

• Future resale value

Use MLS® listings or work directly with your agent to stay ahead of new listings.

5. ✍️ Make an Offer to Purchase

Your agent will draft your Offer to Purchase, which includes:

• Price

• Deposit amount (typically 1–5%)

• Conditions (financing, home inspection, condo doc review)

• Proposed possession date

📌 Tip: Always include conditions to protect your deposit and avoid surprises.

6. 🔎 Satisfy Conditions

Once the seller accepts your offer, you’ll have a few days to:

• Finalize your mortgage

• Complete a home inspection

• Review condo documents (if applicable)

If everything checks out, you waive conditions and the deal becomes firm.

7. ⚖️ Hire a Real Estate Lawyer in Alberta

You’ll need a lawyer to:

• Conduct a title search

• Handle fund transfers

• Register the property with Alberta Land Titles

💰 Legal fees typically range from $1,000–$2,000.

8. 🧾 Prepare for Closing Day

Before possession, you’ll need to:

• Obtain home insurance

• Transfer utilities

• Meet with your lawyer to sign documents

On closing day, the property is officially yours, and you’ll receive the keys!

📦 Summary of the Alberta Home Buying Process

💡 Alberta Home Buying FAQs

Do I have to pay land transfer tax in Alberta?
No! Alberta doesn’t charge a land transfer tax — a major savings compared to Ontario or BC.

How much do I need for a down payment?
Minimum 5% for homes under $500,000. For homes between $500K–$999K, it's 5% on the first $500K, then 10% on the remainder.

How long does it take to buy a home in Alberta?
The process usually takes 30–60 days from offer to possession.

🔑 Ready to Buy a Home in Alberta?

Whether you're buying in Calgary, Edmonton, Airdrie, Cochrane, or surrounding areas, I can help guide you every step of the way.

📞 Contact me for a free consultation
📍 Based in Calgary | Serving all of Alberta
📧 yycdreamhomes@gmail.com | ☎️ (403) 992-5310

Calgary is one of Canada’s most affordable major cities, with a strong job market, beautiful communities, and no provincial sales tax (hello, savings!). Whether you’re eyeing a trendy condo in Beltline, a family home in Auburn Bay, or a townhome in Seton, Calgary has something for every budget and lifestyle.

🗺️ Step-by-Step Guide to First-Time Home Buying in Calgary

1. Determine Your Budget

Start by calculating how much you can afford. Consider:

• Your down payment (minimum 5% for homes under $500,000)

• Monthly mortgage payments

• Property taxes

• Utilities, insurance, and maintenance

Tip: Use the CMHC affordability calculator to get an accurate idea of your budget.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Getting pre-approved shows sellers you’re serious and gives you a competitive edge in Calgary’s busy market.

Local lenders to check out: ATB Financial, First Calgary, RBC, and TD.

3. Work with a Local Calgary Realtor

A real estate agent who knows Calgary inside and out (👋 hey, that's me!) will:

• Guide you through neighborhoods

• Help you avoid red flags

• Negotiate the best deal

📍 Top Neighborhoods for First-Time Buyers in Calgary

• Mahogany: A newer lake community with schools, shopping, and great amenities.

• Evanston: Affordable detached homes and close to Stoney Trail.

• Bridgeland: Urban vibe with walkability and river views.

• Copperfield & Cranston: Popular for young families and first-time homeowners.

🧾 First-Time Buyer Incentives in Alberta (2025)

Take advantage of programs designed to ease your path:

• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI): Shared equity program with the federal government

• RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan: Withdraw up to $60,000 tax-free from your RRSP

• Land Transfer Tax Relief: Alberta doesn’t charge a land transfer tax — win!

❓ FAQs from First-Time Buyers in Calgary

Q: How much do I need for a down payment in Calgary?
A: The minimum is 5% of the purchase price for homes under $500K. Over that, it’s 10% on the amount over $500K.

Q: Is now a good time to buy in Calgary?
A: Calgary’s market remains competitive, but prices are more stable than Vancouver or Toronto. A local agent can help you time it right.

🧭 Final Tips for First-Time Buyers

✅ Don’t skip the home inspection
✅ Get pre-approved before browsing homes
✅ Understand closing costs (usually 1.5–4% of purchase price)
✅ Always ask questions — no question is too small!

🏠 Ready to Start Your Calgary Home Search?

As a local Calgary Realtor, I specialize in helping first-time homebuyers like you navigate the process confidently. Let’s make your dream of homeownership a reality — without the stress.

📞 Book a Free Home Buying Consultation
📍 Serving Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks & surrounding areas
📧 yycdreamhomes@gmail.com | 📱 (403) 992-5310

🏡 Calgary Real Estate Market 2025: Expert Insights, Trends & What It Means for You

The Calgary real estate market in 2025 is evolving rapidly — and whether you're buying your first home, selling a longtime property, or investing for the future, staying informed is key to making smart decisions.

With a mix of price growth, increased inventory, and new buyer behavior, this year is shaping up to be one of the most strategic times to engage in Calgary’s housing market.

📊 Calgary Real Estate Market Overview – Mid-2025

The local housing market has seen significant changes over the last year. While prices continue to rise in many segments, a surge in new listings has shifted the dynamic between buyers and sellers.

• Average Home Price: Home prices in Calgary have grown modestly, with single-family homes, condos, and townhouses all seeing healthy appreciation.

• Inventory Growth: There's been a noticeable increase in available homes, offering buyers more choice than in the previous few years.

• Sales Volume: Although overall sales activity has slowed slightly, homes in desirable areas are still moving quickly when priced competitively.

🏘️ Calgary Real Estate by Property Type

Detached Homes: Demand remains strong, especially in family-oriented neighborhoods. However, higher price points and increased selection mean buyers have more leverage during negotiations.

Semi-Detached & Duplexes: These continue to be a popular option for both first-time buyers and downsizers seeking affordability without sacrificing space.

Townhomes: The townhome market has become increasingly competitive due to price-conscious buyers looking for modern amenities and manageable footprints.

Condo Apartments: Condos have seen a resurgence, particularly among young professionals and investors. Downtown units and transit-accessible developments are drawing steady interest.

📍 Neighborhood Hotspots in 2025

While established communities like Altadore, Bridgeland, and Killarney remain popular, we're also seeing momentum in growing suburbs and emerging inner-city areas. Buyers are increasingly considering communities like Seton, Livingston, Evanston, and Mahogany for their blend of affordability, lifestyle, and future growth.

If you're selling in one of these hot zones, now may be the ideal time to list and take advantage of strong demand.

📈 What’s Driving the Calgary Real Estate Market?

Several key factors are shaping the local housing market this year:

• Population Growth: Calgary continues to attract newcomers from across Canada and beyond, adding pressure to housing supply.

• Interest Rates: With interest rate adjustments stabilizing, more buyers are returning to the market after sitting on the sidelines in 2023–2024.

• Job Market Stability: Calgary’s growing tech sector, along with its energy and healthcare industries, supports strong local employment and buyer confidence.

💡 Tips for Buyers, Sellers & Investors

For Buyers

• Be ready to act quickly in competitive neighborhoods.

• Get pre-approved to strengthen your offer.

• Consider newer or revitalizing communities for better long-term value.

For Sellers

• Price strategically based on current comparables.

• Invest in curb appeal and staging to maximize interest.

• Work with an agent who can showcase your home across digital platforms.

For Investors

• Multi-family and pre-construction condos continue to offer strong rental ROI.

• Look to up-and-coming neighborhoods for future appreciation.

• Keep an eye on city infrastructure and transit expansion projects.

🌟 Why Work With a Calgary Real Estate Expert?

With more listings hitting the market and buyer expectations evolving, working with a knowledgeable local agent has never been more important. Whether you're looking to sell fast, buy smart, or make a data-driven investment, a professional can help you navigate this fast-changing environment.

As a dedicated Calgary real estate expert, I offer:

• Personalized guidance based on your goals

• Deep knowledge of local neighborhoods

• Marketing strategies designed to get results in today’s digital world

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to move forward, I’m here to help. Reach out today for a no-pressure conversation about your plans — and let’s make your next move in Calgary a confident one.

Welcome to our Real Estate Blog! Here you can find timely updates of my latest properties, open houses, just solds and much more.

Whether you are interested in buying or selling real estate, I am here to help guide you every step of the way.

If you have any questions about real estate from home evaluations to mortgages to searching for properties in your area, don't hesitate to contact me today!