Calgary 
Calgary’s fireworks festival, GlobalFest, returns this Thursday at a new location, sparkling the skies for four days.
Credit: GlobalFest
GlobalFest is packing four country-themed nights into Spruce Meadows from August 27 to 30. During the festival, you can explore cultural pavilions, catch live performances, sample dishes from more than 30 food trucks and end the evening with fireworks and a 600-drone show. Gates open at 5 p.m., with nighttime shows expected around 9:30 p.m. at the new site.
The International Fireworks Festival is celebrating its 24th anniversary this year. GlobalFest is a not-for-profit society dedicated to celebrating and showcasing Calgary’s cultural diversity and artistic excellence within its communities and across the globe.
What to See & Do:
Each evening focuses on a different culture. Japan takes over August 27, Mexico follows on August 28, Italy is featured on August 29, and the GlobalFinale closes things out on August 30. You can expect everything from Japanese drumming to mariachi music before the night shifts toward the sky.
Fireworks & Drone Show
The fireworks are culturally curated and choreographed to music, while the new drone component uses more than 600 custom-designed drones flying in synchronization. Organizers say they are “very excited to launch” the 600-drone experience, with each show customized to that night’s featured country.
The approximate start time for the drone and fireworks shows is 9:30 p.m., although exact times will be posted closer to the event.
You can bring strollers, blankets and low-profile lawn chairs, provided chairs are no higher than 26 inches overall and seats stay under eight inches.
Cultural activities
The OneWorld Festival presented by TD spreads cultural pavilions throughout Spruce Meadows. You can meet volunteers from local cultural associations, explore displays, see traditional art and fashion, and take part in hands-on activities.
Live performances run from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. across the TD Main Stage, Air Canada Stage and other spaces.
On Thursday, you can also check out more than 30 Japanese cars, including classics, JDM imports, tuner builds, modern models and a special Fast & Furious display.
Credit: GlobalFest
Food and Vendors:
Food is a major part of the weekend, with more than 30 food trucks listed. Options include Empanada Queen, Viet 2 Go, BBQ BOB, Perogy Boyz, Arepas Ranch, Uzu Ice Cream, Wonton Ninjas and Pizza No. 1.
Those with VIP tickets can get food from celebrity chefs, who are also scheduled for the country-themed nights: Shota Nakajima for Japan, Aarón Sánchez for Mexico and Antonia Lofaso for Italy.
If shopping is more your speed, the night market brings together local and international vendors including River Rock Fudge, National Music Center, Summit Dogwear and Cheddar Dogs Dog Treat Company.
PLANNING YOUR TRIP – GLOBALFEST:
When:
August 27 to 30, 2026 | 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
JAPAN- Thursday, August 27
MEXICO – Friday, August 28
ITALY – Saturday, August 29
WORLD FINALE – Sunday, August 30
Gates open at 5 pm
Drone and fireworks shows begin at ~ 9:30 p.m.
How Much:
General Admission | Adults: $39; Child: $15
Includes pavilions, performances, food, market, fireworks, drones and complimentary parking.
GA Plus | Adults: $59, Child: $20
Adds gated lounge seating and prime fireworks and drone viewing.
VIP | Adults : $89, Child: $25
Includes VIP lounge, waitstaff, premium service, priority entry, exclusive viewing.
Super VIP | Adults 18+ | $239
Offers premium parking, food, drinks, table service, surprises, best views.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Spruce Meadows, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary,
Free parking is available at Spruce Meadows for GlobalFest, but spaces are limited, so arriving early is recommended.
You can also carpool, use rideshare services or take Calgary Transit.
There will be no dedicated festival shuttle this year.
Rideshare, taxi and drop-off passengers should check the site map for the designated drop-off area.
