Marda Gras Street Festival

Marda Gras is turning 40, and the streets of Marda Loop are ready to celebrate.

Calgary’s longest-running outdoor street festival returns Sunday, August 10 with live music, local food, family fun, and a whole lot of community spirit.

Photo Credit: Marda Loop

Marda Gras Celebrates 40 Years as Calgary’s Longest-Running Street Festival

Fabulous free family festival returns Sunday, August 10 with live music, local vendors and historical community spirit. Originally launched in 1985 as “Summerfest,” the festival rebranded as Marda Gras in 1987, drawing inspiration from New Orleans’ Mardi Gras. What began as a small street party has grown into a landmark Calgary event — one that continues to reflect the diversity, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Marda Loop community.

On Sunday, August 10, the Marda Loop Business Improvement Area proudly presents the 40th anniversary Marda Gras Street Festival, a beloved summer tradition that continues to unite Calgary communities through music, art, food and family fun. As Calgary’s longest-running outdoor street festival, Marda Gras returns bigger and better this year to celebrate four decades of local culture and community connection.

Spanning the vibrant streets of Marda Loop along 33rd Avenue SW, this car-free event will transform the neighbourhood into a pedestrian paradise from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, welcoming over 35,000 attendees to experience a day of live performances, artisan shopping, interactive activities, and local food trucks.

Highlights Include:

  • Four entertainment stages featuring live music, dance and cultural performances.
  • The Kids’ Quarter with family-friendly games, crafts and activities. The Kid’s Quarter welcomes an entertainment stage this year!
  • The ever-popular Pet Pageant with costumes, photo ops and charitable fundraising in support of Parachutes for Pets.
  • Over 200 local vendors offering handmade goods, fashion, food and more.
  • Interactive zones showcasing community groups, artists and local businesses.
  • A free shuttle to and from the Military Museums and nearby parking areas.
  • Drop off your bike, scooter, or stroller with our volunteers at the Bike Valet.

Getting There:

Marda Gras is easily accessible by public transit (MAX Yellow BRT, Routes 7, 20, 22, 66), walking, cycling or scooting. Shuttle service to offsite parking at The Military Museums is available throughout the day.

Full event details, vendor maps, and transit information are all available at www.visitmardaloop.com/mardagras