Nestled amidst the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is a city that is known for its outdoor festivals. Visitors to Calgary are encouraged to explore beyond its skyscrapers and venture into its parks and gardens. Whether admiring the wild rose in bloom, attending a bustling floral festival, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a botanical garden, Calgary offers a floral tapestry that captivates and rejuvenates.

Each year, the city is host to the iconic country music festival Calgary Stampede, and this year Fleurs de Villes will join in the fun. From July 5 – 14, discover country music artists through a whole new floral perspective at Fleurs de Villes COUNTRY. Local florists will create 22 floral mannequins inspired by country music icons, from legends such as Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash, to contemporary Canadian icons like Shania Twain and Orville Peck. This floral exhibition is included in Stampede Park admission – click here to book. 

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FLORAL EMBLEMS

Flowers have deep roots in Calgary's history, with indigenous peoples such as those of Blackfoot Nations using local flora for medicinal and ceremonial purposes for centuries. European settlers later introduced ornamental gardens, influencing the city's landscaping traditions.

The Wild Rose (Rosa acicularis), adopted as Alberta's provincial flower in 1930, holds special significance. Its delicate pink petals and sweet fragrance symbolize the province's natural beauty and resilience. While not exclusive to Calgary, the Wild Rose can be spotted in various parks and gardens throughout the city, adding a touch of provincial pride to urban landscapes.

In addition to the Wild Rose, Calgary has embraced the Red Pasque Flower (Anemone pulsatilla rubra) as its city flower. This red bloom, resembling the native Prairie Crocus, was selected as the result of a city-wide survey by the Calgary Horticultural Society. Calgary's dedication to preserving green spaces and integrating floral beauty into urban planning reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.

CALGARY PARKS AND GARDENS: OASIS IN THE URBAN JUNGLE

Prince's Island Park

Calgary boasts an impressive array of parks and gardens that serve as peaceful retreats within the bustling cityscape. One of the most iconic parks is Prince's Island Park, located on an island in the Bow River. This urban oasis is not only a favourite spot for picnics and leisurely strolls but also home to a variety of native and cultivated flowers. In spring, visitors can admire beds of colourful tulips, daffodils, and Alberta's provincial flower, the wild rose. It is also home to Canada Day celebrations on July 1 and the Calgary Folk Festival.

Botanical Garden of Silver Springs

Another urban park with a focus on native plant species, the Botanical Garden of Silver Springs offers a rose bowl, a Shakespeare Garden, a shade garden and a labyrinth. Look for raised beds dedicated to ever-changing annuals, peonies and sunflowers.

Reader Rock Garden

For those seeking a panoramic view of the city amidst floral splendor, the Reader Rock Garden offers an award-winning retreat with National Historic Designation. It was originally cultivated in the early 20th century by the former Superintendent of Parks for Calgary, William Roland Reader, who transformed a bare hillside into this nationally acclaimed parkland. The garden features a mix of alpine plants, perennial beds, and heritage roses. It's a serene spot to wander and appreciate Calgary's botanical history.

FLORAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

4th Street Lilac Festival

Calgarians take pride in their floral heritage, evident in the city's vibrant festivals celebrating blooms throughout the year. To kick off the season, the Calgary Lilac Festival in June transforms 4th Street into one big food, music, and craft festival, getting it's name from the fragrant lilac bushes that bloom at that time of year. This free festival, one of the largest of its kind in Canada, attracts flower enthusiasts and community revelers alike, inviting them to shake off their winter blues.

Calgary Horticultural Society Gardeners Market

In summer, the Calgary Horticultural Society Gardeners Market showcases the best in local gardening talent, with free talks, gardening resources and tools, and specialty plants. With 1,500 attendees, it's a perfect opportunity to learn from gardening experts and marvel at creative floral arrangements.