Top 5 Free Contests You Should Attend in Calgary
Top 5 Free Contests You Should Attend in Calgary
Calgary is a vibrant city bursting with creativity, culture, and community pride — and one of the best ways to experience it all is by joining local contests! Whether you’re passionate about food, photography, writing, or local culture, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, show off your skills, and have some fun — all without spending a dime. Here are the Top 5 Free Contests in Calgary that you should absolutely check out this year.
1. Calgary Stampede Window Decorating Contest
When Stampede season rolls around, Calgary transforms into a western wonderland, and the Calgary Stampede Window Decorating Contest is at the heart of this citywide celebration. Local businesses from coffee shops and boutiques to restaurants and corporate offices compete to design the most impressive, creative, and cowboy-inspired storefronts. Expect to see everything from rustic saloon setups and playful western props to hand-painted murals and over-the-top decorations that capture the spirit of the Stampede.
The best part? Exploring these windows is like taking an open-air art gallery tour. You can plan your own route through popular neighborhoods like 17th Avenue SW, Kensington, Inglewood, and Stephen Avenue, soaking in the creativity and the festival vibe along the way. The contest invites public participation — you can cast your vote online for your favorite display, making you a part of the Stampede’s lively community celebration. Occasionally, you’ll even spot live painting sessions, local performers, and pop-up events around these decorated businesses.
If you’re looking for a fun, free, and family-friendly way to embrace Calgary’s Stampede spirit, this contest is a must.
2. Y Not Today Monthly Photo & Video Contest
The Y Not Today Monthly Photo & Video Contest is all about capturing authentic moments and celebrating everyday life in Calgary. Whether you’re using a professional camera or just your smartphone, this contest invites everyone — from seasoned photographers to casual creatives — to share their unique view of the city.
Each month, participants submit photos or short videos that highlight Calgary’s beauty, community, and inspiring day-to-day scenes. From sunsets over the Rockies to cozy coffee shop moments or vibrant street life, every entry tells a story about what makes this city special.
More than just a contest, Y Not Today focuses on connection and creativity, encouraging participants to showcase real, relatable perspectives rather than picture-perfect polish. Winners are selected monthly and receive exclusive Y Not Today branded gifts — including limited-edition apparel, mugs, and accessories designed to reflect the brand’s positive, community-focused spirit.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro, the Y Not Today Monthly Photo & Video Contest offers a fun, free, and meaningful way to explore Calgary, connect with others, and celebrate the small moments that make life memorable.
3. YYC Food Trucks’ Burger Battle
Calling all burger enthusiasts! The YYC Food Trucks’ Burger Battle is one of Calgary’s tastiest and most interactive food contests. This annual showdown brings together local food trucks and restaurants, each competing to craft the most mouth-watering, innovative, and Instagram-worthy burger.
While tasting the contenders does involve buying the burger, participation in the voting process is totally free. You can vote for your favorite creation online and join in on social media challenges, giveaways, and vendor-hosted mini-events. Many participants sweeten the experience by offering exclusive discounts or hosting fun community gatherings during the contest period.
Beyond the burgers, the contest is a celebration of Calgary’s vibrant food truck culture, creative culinary talent, and the ever-growing foodie community. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite food truck or supporting local chefs, the YYC Burger Battle offers a perfect mix of flavor and fun, especially if you’re looking for free ways to engage with the city’s food scene.
4. Calgary Public Library Writing Contests
For those who love words and storytelling, the Calgary Public Library Writing Contests are an inspiring way to share your creative voice with the community. These contests are open to writers of all ages — from curious kids and budding young authors to seasoned adult storytellers — and welcome a wide range of genres including poetry, short stories, memoirs, and creative essays.
Entering is completely free, and beyond the excitement of competition, participants often gain access to valuable writing resources. The Calgary Public Library frequently hosts free writing workshops, author talks, and critique groups to help entrants polish their submissions and develop their writing skills. Winning entries are usually published on the library’s website, featured in community showcases, or even shared during special public readings, giving writers well-deserved recognition.
Whether you’re looking to start your writing journey or sharpen your storytelling chops, the Calgary Public Library contests offer an excellent, cost-free platform to connect with the local literary community
5. Calgary Community & Tourism Photo Contests
If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to explore Calgary through your camera lens, the city’s Community and Tourism Photo Contests are the perfect motivator. Throughout the year, local organizations such as Tourism Calgary, local art collectives, community associations, and media outlets host themed photo competitions open to everyone — from smartphone hobbyists to professional photographers.
The themes are designed to showcase Calgary’s rich and diverse personality. Some contests focus on iconic landmarks like the Calgary Tower, Peace Bridge, or Bow River pathways, while others highlight seasonal beauty, community life, or major city events like The Calgary Stampede or GlobalFest. Submitting is usually as easy as uploading your image through an online portal, and winning photos are often awarded gift cards, free experiences around the city, or the opportunity to have your work featured in regional campaigns or tourism brochures.
This is more than a contest; it’s an open invitation to explore, appreciate, and document what makes Calgary such a stunning place to live and visit.
Conclusion
Calgary is more than just a city — it’s a hub for creativity, culture, and connection. Whether you’re passionate about photography, writing, food, or community spirit, these free contests in Calgary give you the perfect reason to get involved, explore new corners of the city, and showcase your talents.
From snapping stunning photos of local landmarks, crafting captivating short stories, or simply voting for the city’s best burger or storefront window, these contests offer countless ways to engage — and all without spending a dime.
So why not take part? Whether you’re a creator, an explorer, or a local supporter, Calgary’s contests will give you fresh reasons to fall in love with your city, one experience at a time.
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