Visit Marda Loop

Marda Gras is a FREE family-friendly event in the heart of Marda Loop and the longest running street festival in Calgary. Take part in a pedestrian friendly, car-free day with your friends and family – shopping local and reconnecting with the community.

This year, the festival’s focus is on the street! Walk the street and connect with your community and local business. There is a full lineup of live music, dance and entertainment for all ages. Local businesses and artisans promote and sell a variety of products and services.

For kids of all ages there will be an exclusive colouring sheet of the Marda Loop neighbourhood, handed out at the Kids Quarter!

DOWNLOAD THE FESTIVAL MAP >
DOWNLOAD THE 2023 PROGRAM GUIDE >

Pet Photo Booth and Pet Pageant

Everyone’s favorite part of Marda Gras! Registration to be a pet contestant is now open! Registrations will be donated to Tails of Help pet charity who helps fund essential veterinary care for ill or injured pets of owners who are experiencing financial hardship, with the goal to keep pets healthy and with their loving families.

Register now HERE.

Don’t miss a chance to dress up your pet in costume for a FREE photo in the “Marda Gras Pet Photo Booth”. 

Follow on social at @mardagrascalgary and tag us using the hashtag #mardagras23

Find out more about the history of Marda Gras here: Visit Marda Loop | Back to the Origins of Marda Gras

Marda Gras is hosted on the streets of Marda Loop, on 33rd Avenue SW between 19th and 22nd street.

If you’re nearby, the best way to get here is on foot!  If you are a little further, there is Calgary Transit service via Max Yellow BRT, and Routes 7, 20, 22 and 66.  You can also scoot here.

Shuttle service to and from the festival to the Military Museums is provided by Southland Transportation from 10:00 am – 5:20 pm (last bus leaving for the museum). The shuttle drops off on Garrison Gate SW just south of 33rd Ave. Download the shuttle drop off and pick up map >

If you are driving, there is street parking in the general area.

In the past, Marda Gras has hosted over 35,000 visitors during this single-day annual festival.  Volunteers are a major contribution to its success.

Volunteers are encouraged to register with us and join a warm, welcoming Marda Gras family committed to excellence.