Things to do in Canada, Canada: The Best Events

Banff Snow Days runs for an entire month in the magnificent Banff National Park, which sits among the Canadian Rockies. There are a variety of cultural and historical activities, many of which are free, that can cater to anyone's preferences, whether you have a craving for speed or relaxation among the stunning nature and fresh mountain air. People can watch the Ice Magic Festival at the famous Lake Louise or explore the area by dog sledding or cross-country skiing. Banff Snow Days offers activities and stunning scenery that can't be found in other parts of the country.

Founded in 1987 by Korean War veteran, Fred Anderson, Peterborough Musicfest offers free-admission concerts (thanks to our sponsors) every Wed. & Sat. at 8 pm from the end of June to the end of August in Del Crary Park in downtown Peterborough ON. Our stage has hosted the likes of Tegan & Sarah, City and Colour, Our Lady Peace, Big Wreck, The Reklaws, 54.40, Sloan, Serena Ryder, k-os & more

Every July, millions of people come to Calgary's Stampede Park to take part in one of the world's largest rodeos and other popular activities such as chuckwagon racing and agricultural shows. The event's origins date back to 1912, when American Guy Weadick, a successful trick roper, got support to host an event called "Stampede" to celebrate the "disappearing" Old West. Since then, the event has grown drastically and has evolved into a celebration of the Old West, while reflecting the modern, multicultural aspects of the city.

The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is a week-long event held every year in one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces.Take part in educational workshops, exciting festival events and of course, our daily two-and-a-half hour show jam-packed with world-class entertainment, sure to delight the whole family.This show is fast-paced – every scene only lasts about 3-6 minutes, so there is always something new to see and experience.Looking for a taste of true Nova Scotia? There’s bagpipes, highland dancers, la culture de l’acadie and military traditions.Hoping for something more modern? The Tattoo also features innovative acrobatic acts, modern music, contemporary dancing, trampoline routines and cutting-edge videos.Don't miss the world’s largest annual indoor show. Only in Nova Scotia.

The Canadian Grand Prix is an annual motor race that has been held in Canada since 1961. This exhilarating race is currently hosted in Montreal every year, and fans gather at Rue Ste Catherine, not only for the race itself, but to enjoy the street parties, driver appearances and F1 exhibitions. Rue Ste Catherine is a great area for local and international guests as there is vibrant nightlife, fantastic food, friendly people and great shopping.

Since the festival was first inaugurated by the great Ray Charles in 1980, thousands of musicians and public entertainers from around the world gather every year to indulge in their passion for jazz music in the heart of downtown Montreal. Over ten days, more than two million music lovers can enjoy the choice of 1,000 concerts and activities. Between shows there is a plethora of food to explore, from fine dining by world-class chefs to food trucks, and a variety of shopping options. It's the perfect event that everyone can enjoy, with plenty of family-friendly shows and activities. Best of all, most of the shows are free!

The Osheaga Music and Arts festival has been hosted in Montreal since 2006, with the goal of discovering emerging local and national talent. Every summer, over a few days, music lovers from around the world come to Parc Jean-Drapeau to indulge in the variety of music styles played out on several outdoor stages. The lesser-known artists play right alongside the big international names such as Coldplay, The Black Keys and The Cure. People of all ages can enjoy several concerts and exhibitions in different locations around Montreal, leading up to the main event.

Over three weeks, Toronto explodes with the fast and vibrant rhythms of Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Chutney, Steel Pan, and Brass bands. Over a million people take over the streets and venues to dance alongside the passionate dancers wearing eye-popping and colorful costumes. The music styles integrate the staple Calypso beat that has been a part of the festival since its first debut in 1967 and newer music styles like Soca. The main events include the Carnival Ball, and the Grand Parade (the largest Caribbean parade in North America).