Why Spruce Meadows Might Be Calgary’s Best New Concert Venue

Hey Calgary!

We did not expect to fall in love with a concert venue this far out of the city, but Spruce Meadows completely surprised us in the best way.

Adi and I headed out for the sold-out Dean Brody show as part of their new Live & Intimate Concert Series, and it honestly felt like a perfect summer night. The Equi-Plex space is beautifully transformed, twinkly lights, western charm, great acoustics, and a vibe that’s both cozy and high-energy. It reminded us a bit of the Big Four Roadhouse, but with a more relaxed, country feel, like a concert you’d stumble into during a road trip through Alberta.

What sets this series apart is the experience before the concert even begins. When you buy a concert ticket, you also get access to EPIC Weekends, and that’s where the magic really starts.

We got there early to catch the show jumping (yes, actual Olympic-level riders and horses), grabbed snacks from the food trucks, and posted up by the Scotiabank Stage to enjoy live music during happy hour. There was so much happening, Corgi races, vendors, a kids’ zone, mini train rides, you name it. It felt like a little festival tucked away just outside the city, but with the kind of organization that makes it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed.

By 7 p.m., we made our way into the Equi-Plex. It was buzzing. Whether you're in general admission or one of the seated sections, you’re right there with the artist. Dean Brody came on at 8 and the energy in the room was electric, people singing, clapping, dancing. You could feel how much the crowd appreciated the up-close setting. It felt personal, in a way that’s rare for concerts these days.

And the best part was that his was just the beginning!

There are still a few more shows coming up in this series, and if you’re looking for a night out that’s memorable but easy, relaxed but still exciting, this is one to bookmark.

Upcoming shows include:

• City and Colour (solo) – June 14 and 15 (hello, Father’s Day plans)

• Metric – June 28

• Leon Bridges – July 4, 5, and 6

• Brett Kissel – July 1 (Canada Day outdoor show, included with general admission)

What to know before you go:

• Parking is free and easy, just head to Lot 7 or 8 off Tournament Lane

• Doors to the concert open at 7 p.m. and shows start at 8 sharp

• Happy Hour across the grounds runs from 5 to 6 p.m.

• Come early for food, live music, and all the fun of EPIC Weekends

Spruce Meadows may be known for horses, but this new concert series is something special.

It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day wandering, listening, tasting, and discovering, and then cap it off with an unforgettable live show. We left feeling like we’d found a whole new side of Calgary’s event scene, one that’s laid-back, beautifully curated, and definitely worth the drive.

If you're going to one of the upcoming shows, let us know what you think.

Until then,

Happy wandering.