:format(webp)/media/assets/7739/Global_fest_Logo.png){kind=logo}
FAQs
GlobalFest 2026 runs August 27-30, 2026.
The event is moving to Spruce Meadows at 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary.
The goal is to improve the guest experience by creating more room for programming, and solving long-standing access, parking, and growth constraints.
Tickets are on-sale now at www.globalfest.ca
Admission includes access to the festival grounds, cultural pavilions, live entertainment, food/vendor areas, family programming, and the evening fireworks and drone shows.
Yes, the various types of tickets will have corresponding upgrades associated with them like preferred viewing areas, Premium VIP Parking, or all-inclusive experiences.
Gates open at 5pm but free parking is limited so we encouraged guests to arrive early to enjoy food, pavilions, performances, and to find parking and avoid peak arrival traffic before the fireworks and drone shows.
Drone and fireworks shows start when the sun is going down to maximize the experience for viewing. The approximate start time is 9:30pm but the exact times will be posted closer to the event.
Yes we are very excited to launch our new 600 flying drone show experience at GlobalFest 2026 which will be customized to the themed country for that night.
Our 4 nights are themed to the countries of Japan, Mexico, Italy, and the world finale evening from Aug. 27 - Aug. 30th 2026.
Parking is free for guests of GlobalFest at Spruce Meadows but spots are limited so we encourage guests to carpool, use rideshare services, or arrive as early as possible to secure a parking space.
Guests can travel to GlobalFest using Calgary Transit, rideshare services or complimentary on-site parking at Spruce Meadows. Please note that a dedicated festival shuttle will not be operating this year.
Please view the site map to see the location of the drop-off area.
Yes, but we ask that all guests bring low-profile (low back, low legged) lawn chairs. These may be no higher than 26 inches off the ground, with legs/seats no higher than 8 inches from the ground. We want to make sure all guests can enjoy the drone and fireworks show.
No outside food or drink is permitted.
Yes, there will be an array of international food vendors/global cuisine, with the final vendor and food truck list expected to be released closer to the event.
Yes, this event is family-friendly with entertainment and children's programming throughout.
The festival is rain-or-shine but for safety reasons the fireworks and drone show may be delayed or cancelled depending on conditions.
Accessibility
The viewing area for guests with General Admission tickets will be in a flat, concrete area, which is fully wheelchair accessible, though GA spots are first come, first served. Other ticket types may include grassy or uneven terrain. If you have mobility needs, please reach out to our support team beforehand and we'll do our best to accommodate you. The Spruce Meadows property spans more than 360 acres, with approximately 60 acres dedicated to our public entertainment core. Due to the large size of the venue and variable terrain, we recommend guests who experience difficulty walking make arrangements to rent or bring their own wheelchairs or mobility aids prior to arrival, as Spruce Meadows does not offer wheelchair rentals on site.
Yes. Designated accessible parking is available for guests displaying a valid government-issued placard. These spaces are located in Lots 7 and 8, situated on the west side of Spruce Meadows, accessible via Tournament Lane. Event staff and signage will help guide guests to the appropriate areas. Traffic attendants will be on-site allowing entry only to VIP ticket holders or guests with a valid government-issued accessible parking permit.
Yes. Accessible washrooms are located at Founders Plaza, near the cultural pavilions, behind the Southwest Grandstand, near the International Ring, and in the Equi-Plex building.
Service animals are welcome at GlobalFest at the guest’s discretion. Please note that the event includes fireworks, drone shows, live entertainment, crowds, and other loud or high-stimulation elements, which may be stressful for some animals. Service animals must be clearly identified and remain under control at all times while onsite.
Support-person tickets may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please contact our Support team before purchasing your tickets and let us know what accommodation is required so our team can review the request and help with next steps.