What’s Streaming in August for Kids and Families

It’s hard to believe that summer is almost over, yet August is here with those final few weeks of sweltering heat before school resumes next month. Sure, having the kids home or participating in new camps and activities has been nice, but if you’re craving that back-to-school routine, you’re not alone. It can be a lot, which is why having a few new TV series or movie debuts to fall back on when you need some downtime is key. Luckily there are many options for families with kids of all ages
streaming in August. If you’re looking for suggestions, here’s what’s on popular Canadian streaming services this month.

What’s Streaming in August for Kids & Families

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Wednesday August 2 on Disney+

If your family failed to catch the third edition of James Gunn’s superheroes when they hit theatres in May, now is your chance to see them from the comfort of your couch. In Volume 3, Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) rallies his team to defend the universe and protect one of their own. Otherwise, it could be the end of the Guardians as we know them.

Heartstopper (s2)
Wednesday August 2 on Netflix

Nick, Charlie, and the rest of the gang are back for a second season of this queer, coming-of-age story. The first installment took the internet by storm, so expectations are high as these kids figure out their next stages of life, love and friendships. Plus, there’s a school trip to Paris and prom to look forward to.

Eva the Owlet
Friday August 4 on Apple TV+

If your kids are fans of Rebecca Elliott’s bestselling Scholastic series Owl Diaries, check out this new series of shorts. They follow a creative and cheeky owlet named Eva, who lives in Treetopington and embarks on plenty of adventures with her feathered friends.

Saved from a Shark
Friday August 4 on Disney+

Families with older kids into sharks should mark their calendars for this underwater quest. The doc goes deep into the scientific community, where experts continue to debate whether dolphins and whales will deliberately save you from a shark attack. These scientists may be conflicted, but the interview subjects who have lived through such attacks have very definitive opinions.

The Big Nailed It Baking Challenge
Friday August 4 on Netflix

If your family loves watching aspiring bakers on this series recreate professional cakes and treats, you’ll want to check out this new twist. Here, Nicole and Jacques team up to give a group of inexperienced bakers the schooling they need “to go from OH NO to PRO.” A lineup of pastry chefs is ready to guide them, plus there’s a huge cash prize to motivate these wannabe bakers when the dough gets tough.

Hey Duggee (s2)
Friday August 4 on CBC Gem

The animated preschool series about an oversized dog and his afterschool club of friendly animals is back for a second season. Follow along on new exercises and learning adventures as this ragtag group works to earn badges.

Cocomelon
Saturday August 5 on Crave

Your preschooler’s favourite animated musical series is available to stream on Crave this month.

Gabby’s Dollhouse (s8)
Monday August 7 on Netflix

If you’ve got preschoolers obsessed with Gabby, Pandy Paws, and all of the dollhouse fun, you’ll be pleased to know a new season drops this month. In other words, it’s time to get tiny!

Super Agent Jon Le Bon (s5)
Monday August 7 on CBC Gem

The Agency is back for a new season of Earth-protecting adventures when 20 new, seven-minute episodes hit the Canadian streaming service this month. At the helm is Super Agent Jon Le Bon, the best secret agent deer in the world.

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (s4)
Wednesday August 9 on Disney+

The most meta season of this meta series is here to help older kids get excited about their upcoming high school experiences. The action returns to East High this season, where the kids prepare for a stage production of High School Musical 3: Senior Year. At the same time, they learn Disney is filming the anticipated High School Musical 4: The Reunion at the school, so expect plenty of original cameos.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Friday August 11 on Prime Video

If you haven’t yet given into your kids’ pleas to purchase the movie for continual and unlimited viewing, now you can watch it for free when it hits streaming this month. Catch Mario as he works to save his brother, Luigi, and the Mushroom Kingdom from the evil Bowser with some help from his new friends Princess Peach, Donkey Kong, and Toad.

My Dad the Bounty Hunter (s2)
Thursday August 17 on Netflix

This action-packed animated series for younger viewers is back for a second season this month. Follow along when Terry mysteriously goes missing, forcing his family to band together and search for him across the universe.

Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie
Friday August 18 on Apple TV+

The latest Peanuts special puts introverted Marcie front and center as she helps Peppermint Patty train for the school golf championship. Meanwhile, after helping many of her classmates with their problems, she is unexpectedly elected as class president, where she’s forced to adjust to life in the spotlight.

Junior Baking Show
Friday August 18 on CBC Gem

Harry Hill is back to oversee another season of talented junior bakers as they head under the white tent to whip up their best baked goods. There are 16 new bakers, aged nine-to-12, baking it out under the watchful eyes of judges Liam Charles and Ravneet Gill.

The Monkey King
Friday August 18 on Netflix

Need a new animated flick for the family to watch on movie night this month? Netflix isn’t monkeying around with its latest addition. This movie features a stick-wielding monkey who teams with a young girl for an epic quest. On the line? Immortality, demons, dragons, gods, and of course, victory.

Ahsoka
Wednesday August 23 on Disney+

After much anticipation, the latest installment in the Star Wars universe is finally here. This eight-episode series picks up after the fall of the Empire and revolves around fan favourite Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano (Rosario Dawson) as she investigates an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy. Two episodes debut on August 23, with a weekly release to follow.

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah
Friday August 25 on Netflix

Families with older kids looking for a laugh may want to check out Adam Sandler’s newest movie on Netflix when it debuts this month. The film follows a young girl preparing for her bat mitzvah, but a series of unfortunate events threatens to derail it. Idina Menzel, Jackie Sandler, Sadie Sandler, and Sunny Sandler also star.

Why Does it Feel Like We’re Always Doing it Wrong?

August makes me anxious.

By mid-month I’m beyond over the “lazy, carefree” days of summer (said no parent ever) and anxious to get back to routine. And when I think about the new school year I start thinking about the new habits and routines I surely must develop to help me be organized and efficient.

September feels more like the start of a new year than January so August is when I lie awake thinking of all the ways I could (but probably won’t) become a better mother, teacher, writer, pet parent, human being, etc.

And the natural conclusion to that train of thought is that, right now, I’m doing it all wrong.

Most of the time I’m happy with my decision to be a working parent. For me, the positives have always outweighed the negatives but as I think about grade six and grade three, about my kids getting older and seeking more independence and spending more time away from my watchful eye I start panicking: should I be home every day after school? Should I be more involved in the day-to-day of their education and extracurriculars? Should I get a home alarm system? Should I bake? What about lice and pedophiles and sex education?

Everyone wants moms of littles to soak up every minute because, as people love to tell us, “they’re gone before you know it”, so how do I square that with choosing to (and loving) being out of the house, even part-time?

This is not a new dilemma but one that rears its ugly head every year at this time.

And then there’s the whole “free range” kids thing. I try to let my daughters learn, discover, fall down, get hurt, etc. without hovering too much but this summer after one was in a car accident and the other landed in a ditch after being thrown from a golf cart I’m starting to question myself. Neither incident was a result of my parenting style but they did make me think about stopping to refocus, about keeping my girls a little closer and encouraging them to take fewer risks, to live smaller lives.

Was this the universe telling me to pay closer attention? Am I doing free-range parenting wrong too?

I’m no domestic Goddess either, so as the dust bunnies swirl around my feet, the recycling piles up and the cat decides he will only take his meals on the kitchen counter, I’ve started looking around my house and thinking, “Shit. How did this happen?”

When my kids ask why they need to brush their hair or wear clean clothes when we leave the house I talk about respect and explain that being clean and tidy is one way we respect our bodies and ourselves.

Showing up to Grandma’s in a food-stained shirt with dead squirrel breath and birds living in our hair is not respectful to us and it’s not respectful to Grandma. And yet my house feels like it’s always a mess. I can’t tell you it “got away from me” because I never had it in the first place.

Will my kids hate me because I didn’t teach them to make their beds every day or how to use an iron? Will they get kicked out of their first shared accommodations because I haven’t taught them how to keep their living spaces tidy? Never mind that they are eight and 11 because it never seems too early to start worrying about these things.

Most days I don’t stress about this too much. My mom never obsessed about a clean house and I went on to lead a relatively productive life. On the upside, my kids have really strong immune systems, the kind you can only get from repeatedly licking a subway pole, so that’s something.

Winding down the summer and ramping up the anxiety is something I go through every year, and I always think I’m going to get better at it. I think, “Next year will be different because I will have figured out how to X.” But the truth is, the worries just change. The anxiety about new teachers, new friends, new expectations, new routines never goes away.

As parents, we need to find ways to make peace with the way things are, the way we are. We need to isolate what we can change, what we want to change and forget about the things we can’t.

I might be doing it all wrong, or some of it wrong, but I know I can’t address it all at once. And a panicked, anxious state is no state in which to be making decisions.

I have a bracelet inscribed with the word “BREATHE”, which I bought to remind myself that not everything can be understood, dealt with, or fixed immediately. And some things don’t need to be changed at all because they’re just how we choose to do things.

Sometimes we have to stop and breathe, and figure out the difference.

Social media makes it horribly easy to fall victim to the parenting equivalent of keeping up with the Joneses. I didn’t take my kids camping this summer, I don’t buy organic, the iPad is our babysitter … There are a million ways to feel less-than, and we might spend our entire “careers” wondering if we did it all wrong.

But when I look at my kids, I see two little girls who are happy, confident, carefree, kind and sorta clean. And if that’s not the most important measure of parenting success I don’t know what is.

So as September approaches parents, remember to breathe and just take this new year as it comes. You’ve got this.

Vancouver: The Savvy Guide to August

Don’t let all the back-to-school sales fool you, there’s still a full month of summer vacation left and we intend to savour it. August can be tricky as we try to pack in as much fun in the sun as possible while also (let’s face it) trying to get organized for the upcoming school year. From road trips and streaming tips, and just a teensy bit of organizing, our Savvy Guide to August in Vancouver can help make the second half of your summer a blast.

The Savvy Guide to August in Vancouver

DO

Make a list and then put it away

Why? You want to relax at the beach and go on picnics and play in the sprinkler. We know you do. But if you’re a mom, your brain is always spinning with all the things that need to get done. So go ahead and get them off your mind. Write a list, make it two lists, three! Include all the back-to-school tasks you need to do. Go ahead and jot down some kick-ass work projects you want to sink your teeth into come September, too. Then put them aside until the end of the month so you can fully enjoy the rest of summer, knowing that those lists can wait.

GO

Explore & Play Close to Home

You’ve still got a bunch of weekends to make plans for local adventures or day trips or quick getaways. There are lots of fun things to do in August in Vancouver. And then there’s around Vancouver.. I know, I know, we’re all staycationed out. BUT! Don’t dismiss the benefits of a day away from the everyday. Even a few hours can refresh and rejuvenate.

ENJOY

11 Summer Cocktails Perfect for Sipping

Why? Don’t give up on those summer nights so easily! Grab your cocktail shaker and wipe down that patio furniture. Summer is not over yet and we’re allowed to have people over. Maybe even plan a retro garden party? These 11 adult beverages will take you all the way through to the Labour Day long weekend, and beyond if we’re lucky. (Don’t forget to treat the backyard bartender in your life!)

PLAY

Geocaching

Why? Before there was Pokémon Go, there was Geocaching. It’s basically a giant, world-wide, player-supported treasure hunt. People hide little caches (usually small boxes or cases) that contain a book or paper where people who find it can sign their name. There are often trinkets left that you can swap for your own trinket too. To play, download the Geocaching app to find a list of caches near you. They will each have descriptions that include levels of difficulty (start easy with kids), clues and coordinates, and a map. It’s great fun for the whole family, whether you’re playing right downtown or in the woods.

STAY

If time and/or finances are preventing that big family trip you’ve been dreaming about, a backyard vacation can be a fun and inexpensive way to spend time together and build new memories as a family while spending time in green space. Here’s how to successfully plan a FUN backyard vacation.

WATCH

Why? We want to as much of the rest of the summer, of course. but we still look forward to family movie nights and new seasons of our (and their!) favourite shows. Here’s a round up of movies and series for families and kids streaming in August.

RIDE

It’s a rite of passage for any youngster — making the leap from training wheels to two wheels. And it’s a big deal for parents, too. But nobody teaches parents how to teach a kid to ride a bike. If you’ve yet to explore the many family-friendly bike paths and trails in and around Vancouver, here’s how to teach your kid to ride a bike.

The Savvy Guide to August

Don’t let all the back-to-school sales fool you, there’s still a full month of summer vacation left and we intend to savour it. August can be tricky as we try to pack in as much fun in the sun as possible while also (let’s face it) trying to get organized for the upcoming school year. From road trips and streaming tips, and just a teensy bit of organizing, our Savvy Guide to August can help make the second half of your summer a blast.

The Savvy Guide to August

DO

Make a list and then put it away

GO

Explore & Play Close to Home

You’ve still got a bunch of weekends to make plans for local adventures or day trips or quick getaways. There are lots of fun things to do in August in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver. And then there’s around Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver… I know, I know, we’re all staycationed out. BUT! Don’t dismiss the benefits of a day away from the everyday. Even a few hours can refresh and rejuvenate.

ENJOY

11 Summer Cocktails Perfect for Sipping

PLAY

Geocaching

STAY

A getaway doesn’t have to mean literally getting away.

Why? If time and/or finances are preventing that big family trip you’ve been dreaming about, a backyard vacation can be a fun and inexpensive way to spend time together and build new memories as a family while spending time in green space. Here’s how to successfully plan a FUN backyard vacation.

WATCH

What’s new on streaming services this month…

RIDE

Two wheels are better than four…

Why? It’s a rite of passage for any youngster — making the leap from training wheels to two wheels. And it’s a big deal for parents, too. But nobody teaches parents how to teach a kid to ride a bike. If you’ve yet to explore the many family-friendly bike paths and trails near you, here’s how to teach your kid to ride a bike.

PREP

Ok — now you have to get to work…

Why? You know we hate to think about it. But we kind of have to. It’s time to think about getting the kids ready for Back to School. The sooner you get started the sooner you can finish and there’s no need to be Debbie Downer about it. If you get everything sorted and out of the way as early as possible the more you can truly enjoy the last weeks of summer break.

Toronto: The Savvy Guide to August

Don’t let all the back-to-school sales fool you, there’s still a full month of summer vacation left and we intend to savour it. August can be tricky as we try to pack in as much fun in the sun as possible while also (let’s face it) trying to get organized for the upcoming school year. From road trips and streaming tips, and just a teensy bit of organizing, our Savvy Guide to August in Toronto can help make the second half of your summer a blast.

The Savvy Guide to August in Toronto

DO

Make a list and then put it away

GO

Explore & Play Close to Home

You’ve still got a bunch of weekends to make plans for local adventures or day trips or quick getaways. There are lots of fun things to do in August in Toronto. And then there’s around Toronto… I know, I know, we’re all staycationed out. BUT! Don’t dismiss the benefits of a day away from the everyday. Even a few hours can refresh and rejuvenate.

ENJOY

11 Summer Cocktails Perfect for Sipping

PLAY

Geocaching

STAY

WATCH

RIDE

It’s a rite of passage for any youngster — making the leap from training wheels to two wheels. And it’s a big deal for parents, too. But nobody teaches parents how to teach a kid to ride a bike. If you’ve yet to explore the many family-friendly bike paths and trails in and around Toronto, here’s how to teach your kid to ride a bike.

Ottawa: The Savvy Guide to August

Don’t let all the back-to-school sales fool you, there’s still a full month of summer vacation left and we intend to savour it. August can be tricky as we try to pack in as much fun in the sun as possible while also (let’s face it) trying to get organized for the upcoming school year. From road trips and streaming tips, and just a teensy bit of organizing, our Savvy Guide to August in Ottawa can help make the second half of your summer a blast.

The Savvy Guide to August in Ottawa

DO

Make a list and then put it away

GO

Explore & Play Close to Home

You’ve still got a bunch of weekends to make plans for local adventures or day trips or quick getaways. There are lots of fun things to do in August in Ottawa. And then there’s around Ottawa… I know, I know, we’re all staycationed out. BUT! Don’t dismiss the benefits of a day away from the everyday. Even a few hours can refresh and rejuvenate.

ENJOY

11 Summer Cocktails Perfect for Sipping

PLAY

Geocaching

STAY

WATCH

RIDE

It’s a rite of passage for any youngster — making the leap from training wheels to two wheels. And it’s a big deal for parents, too. But nobody teaches parents how to teach a kid to ride a bike. If you’ve yet to explore the many family-friendly bike paths and trails in and around Ottawa, here’s how to teach your kid to ride a bike.

Calgary: The Savvy Guide to August

Don’t let all the back-to-school sales fool you, there’s still a full month of summer vacation left and we intend to savour it. August can be tricky as we try to pack in as much fun in the sun as possible while also (let’s face it) trying to get organized for the upcoming school year. From road trips and streaming tips, and just a teensy bit of organizing, our Savvy Guide to August in Calgary can help make the second half of your summer a blast.

The Savvy Guide to August in Calgary

DO

Make a list and then put it away

GO

Explore & Play Close to Home

You’ve still got a bunch of weekends to make plans for local adventures or day trips or quick getaways. There are lots of fun things to do in August in Calgary. And then there’s around Calgary… I know, I know, we’re all staycationed out. BUT! Don’t dismiss the benefits of a day away from the everyday. Even a few hours can refresh and rejuvenate.

ENJOY

11 Summer Cocktails Perfect for Sipping

PLAY

Geocaching

STAY

WATCH

RIDE

It’s a rite of passage for any youngster — making the leap from training wheels to two wheels. And it’s a big deal for parents, too. But nobody teaches parents how to teach a kid to ride a bike. If you’ve yet to explore the many family-friendly bike paths and trails in and around Calgary, here’s how to teach your kid to ride a bike.

12 Kids Books Grown Ups Love Too

It’s time to get their brains in gear and their imaginations lit. What’s better than a good book to do just that? Start with our list of 12 kids books grown ups love too and maybe you’ll both be inspired to read a little more …

12 Kids Books Grown Ups Love Too

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

This vibrant and imaginative children’s story about colours and resolving conflicts follows young Duncan as he opens up his crayon box one day only to find that the colours have quit due to a variety of hilarious, colour-specific grievances. Red is overworked, beige is tired of playing second fiddle to brown, etc.

Recommended Ages: 3 and up

Night Light by Nicholas Blechman

An appealingly illustrated counting book that uses dark and light to keep kids guessing what object is creating the effect (street lights, train lights and more). They’ll enjoy uncovering the source of each light pattern while learning (or showing off) their early math skills at story time.

Recommended Ages: 2 and up

That’s a Possibility! by Bruce Goldstone

A perfect example of an educational-yet-still-totally-entertaining read for kids. Goldstone’s book is all about the idea of something being probable, possible, or impossible using relatable scenarios that they (and you) will get a kick out of.

Recommended Ages: 5 and up

Pete the Cat and his Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin

From the popular Pete the Cat series, this story includes the concept of counting, rhyming, and not crying when things go wrong—like loosing your four ‘groovy’ buttons off of your favourite shirt. All good lessons that add up to an entertaining book.

Recommended Ages: 2.5 to 6

The Case of the Missing Donut by Alison McGhee

Younger kids might need a tiny bit of help figuring out the ‘whodunnit’ in this fun and creative book about a boy sheriff and his deputy dog tasked to bring home a dozen donuts. Along the way, one of the sweet treats goes missing—preschoolers will clamour to let you in on how they so quickly solved the mystery.

Recommended Ages: 3 to 6

Press Here by Herve Tullet

While their imaginations run wild with the words, reading a book can still be considered a passive hobby. But with this picture book, young audiences (and old) are encouraged to press, rub, shake, tilt, blow, and clap to make the dots on each page grow, move, and change. Our kind of interactive activity!

Recommended Ages: 3 and up

Count the Monkeys by Mac Barnett

Unlike the story about those other monkeys who just kept jumping and falling off the bed, the primates in this original book aren’t as easily added up (or subtracted). A very funny story that will keep the kids surprised and counting with every page they turn.

Recommended Ages: 3 and up

Sophie’s Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller

Love, like beauty, is often in the eye of the beholder. So when Sophie falls for an ordinary squash at the market, gives it a name and treats it like a pet, she’s shocked to find that her beloved squash begins to rot. A lovely story about patient parents, persistent kids, and finding a solution to life’s big (or not so big) problems.

Recommended Ages: 2.5 and up

Bully by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

This simple book with little text stars a big bull that is down on every one of his ‘friends’ until he is given a second chance. A gentle way to begin the conversation about what makes a bully, kindness to others and the hurt in calling others names.

Recommended Ages: 3 and up

Chamelia and the New Kid in Class by Ethan Long

Making new friends isn’t supposed to be hard, but what if they seem to upstage you at every turn? Chamelia, and the young readers who hear her story, learns an important lesson about accepting new friends and not always needing to be the centre of attention.

Recommended Ages: 4 and up

Rocket’s Mighty Words by Tad Hills

How Rocket Learned to Read and Rocket Writes a Story were bestsellers, and quintessential kids books grown ups love too. This follow-up is perfect for encouraging early readers. Follow the little yellow bird as he teaches Rocket (and your little wonder) a plethora of new words and meanings in an easy-to-understand picture book.

Recommended Ages: 2.5 to 5

Daredevil by Meghan McCarthy

Of course, we’ve all heard of Betty Skelton…right? Guess it won’t just be the kids who learn a thing or two in this entertaining, written-for-children picture book about the young aviation pioneer and daredevil who followed her own ‘flight’ plan at a time when girls weren’t always given the green light to be bold, daring, or different. A great ‘girl power’ story for any gender.

Recommended Ages: 4 and up

A College Packing List for Big Kids Going Back to School

Having six kids close in age meant that for a long time, “Back to School” involved purchasing countless little backpacks, pencil crayons, safety scissors, easy-to-open lunch containers, new shoes, and uniforms. I did a lot of shopping, organizing (and yes, labeling!) all the items I purchased for my crew of elementary school aged school-aged kids. The thought of a college packing list wasn’t on my radar.

Julie Cole's Three Grads - SavvyMom — Julie Cole’s 3 Grads

Fast forward a few years, and I am now preparing to send my fourth child off to university. I have now acquired a lot of experience with birds leaving the nest as they embark on their post-secondary education.

Back to school looks very different for our big-sized kids, but there are still must-have items for a college packing ist and things to consider when you have a kiddo heading off for residence living.

Upon high school graduation, my teens have always gone off to a traditional residence hall style in a double room with a roommate who is a stranger. For kids in a family of our size, they found only having to share a room with one other person quite civilized. With social media and all the apps available now, kids can often connect with their future roommates prior to moving in, which is helpful when deciding who is bringing what. You certainly don’t need two of everything in those small rooms.

Here is my college packing list of must-haves for residence living in first year of college or university…

University or College Packing List for Residence Living:

– Lysol wipes/cleaning supplies – for move in day, to make sure the room is clean
– Shower caddy – this will hold all their toiletries as they head to the communal bathroom
– Flip-flops or shower shoes for communal showers
– Bathrobe and slippers
– Bath towels
– Medications/birth control/first aid kit/sanitary products
– Clothing hangers
– Alarm clock (put that phone away)
– Extension cord and power bar
– Laundry basket or bag for communal laundry facilities
– Laundry detergent
– Noise cancelling headphones (residence living can be loud!)
– Bedding, including a mattress cover or foam cover for comfort
– Fan – early in the school year, those rooms are hot, and often with no AC
– Bar-sized fridge (confirm with residence policy)
– Printer (My experience is that one roommate brings the fridge, and the other brings the printer to share both)
– Computer paper
– Thumbtacks for a bulletin board. Blue tac for posters
– Clothes. Note – if your student is close to home, only send seasonal clothes. They can get all the winter boots/coats when they get home for Thanksgiving. If the child is out of province/state, pack for all seasons
– Desk lamp
– Photos of family and friends, decorations for bedroom – posters, throw pillows, etc.
– Mabel’s Labels. Yes, we have mature/age-appropriate labels for this age group.

What Not to Pack:

It is equally important to consider what NOT to pack. Leave these items off the list:

– Candles and incense
– Space heaters
– Loudspeakers
– Drinking/Drug paraphernalia

And more important than any college packing list, send your kids away knowing that you are confident in them and that you will honour their independence while providing support. The transition can be tough, particularly for this cohort, who has spent a lot of time with their parents through the Covid times.

This will be a big change for everyone in your family. You’ve got this!

Fun Family Activities in Calgary in August

It’s hard to believe that August is creeping up on us already, but summer is far from over in YYC. There are family activities in Calgary like festivals and fun galore to check out before heading back to school – check out our roundup below!

Fun Family Activities in Calgary in August

Calgary International Blues Festival | calgarybluesfest.com
Monday July 31 – Sunday August 6

Blues fans won’t want to miss the 19th annual Calgary International Blues Festival, held at Shaw Millennium Park. This 4-day celebration is filled with music, workshops, food trucks, markets, dance parties and more. Some big names attending this year’s festival include Grammy nominated Sugaray Rayford, “The People’s Queen of the Blues,” Rita Chiarelli, Will Crosby, Angelique Francis and more. Tickets are $40 each for Thursday and Friday, $55 each for Saturday and Sunday, or $135 for a 4-day pass. Children 12 & under are admitted free.

High Tea At The Zoo | calgaryzoo.com
August 1, 13, 15, 20, 27 & 29

Nothing beats a day at the zoo, except maybe a day at the zoo that includes high tea in the ENMAX Conservatory. This mouthwatering family friendly event comes complete with treats like scones, finger sandwiches, and desserts along with a selection of yummy loose-leaf tea. Tickets to high tea include admission to the zoo, so be sure to take in a visit with your favourite furry and frolicking friends before or after your tea time at 2:30, 3:00 or 3:30 pm! Tickets are $80 + GST for adults 16 and up, $45 + GST for children between 3 and 15, and $74 + GST for seniors. Engage and Inspire members save 20% off their ticket price. Tickets must be purchased at least 48 hours in advance.

Calgary Fringe Festival | calgaryfringe.ca
Thursday August 3 – Friday August 11

The Calgary Fringe Festival brings all the fun of the theatre to multiple venues around the city for 10 days. Check out live performances, or enjoy shows from the comfort of your own home with on-demand offerings. Grab your tickets for in-person shows here or for on-demand shows here, and check here for a detailed breakdown of what’s happening daily!

Lantern Peace Festival | calgaryfloatinglanterns.com
Saturday August 5 from 5:30 – 9 pm

Head down to Olympic Plaza for a beautiful celebration of peace set to the backdrop of lanterns floating on the Olympic Plaza pool, vibrant music, and a free Kid’s Zone to play in! Rent a lantern to add to the pool for $5.

GlobalFest | globalfest.ca
Thursday August 17 – Saturday August 26

Everyone’s favourite summer festival is back! Although fireworks are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of GlobalFest (and for good reason – they are incredible!), this festival is so much more than the beautiful night sky displays it’s come to be known for. Join in the celebration of Calgary’s multi-cultural communities by visiting the pavilions, taking in performances, tasting a variety of cultural delicacies, enjoying children’s programming and, of course, watching the fireworks. The fireworks displays will be presented by world-class pyro musical artists from Austria (August 17), Italy (August 19), Portugal (August 22), Spain (August 24) and Canada (August 26). To save on gate prices, daily tickets can be purchased in advance for $18.50 (finale night is $21). 5 day passes are $74. VIP tickets are also available for an additional fee.

Country Thunder | countrythunder.com
August 18 – 20

It’s time to get your boots (back) on! Country Thunder Alberta is headed to Fort Calgary for 3 days, featuring popular artists like Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Midland, Jo Dee Messina, Hailey Whitters, Nate Smith, Mackenzie Carpenter and more! Tickets start at $175 per day or $300 for all 3 days.

Expo Latino | expolatino.com
Friday August 18 – Sunday August 20

The 25th annual Expo Latino is coming to Prince’s Island Park for 3 days, bringing delicious foods, fantastic performances and an art market filled with one-of-a-kind wares. Daily admission is $20 on Friday, $40 on Saturday or $30 on Sunday. A 3-day wristband can also be purchased for $60. There’s also free access for all between 11:30 and 2 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Kids aged 12 and under and seniors aged 65+ are always free!

TD Chinatown Street Festival | eventbrite.ca
Saturday August 19 from 11 am – 7 pm

The Chinatown Street Festival is a day filled with live performances, dancing, music and more. Vendor tents will be filled with cultural products and handmade crafts and cultural tents will bring visitors Chinese traditions, arts, and crafts. Don’t forget to stop at the food trucks for a tasty snack or meal!

Monster Jam | monsterjam.com
Saturday August 19 – Sunday August 20

Monster Jam brings an adrenaline pumping experience that all members of your family will love! Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of watching trucks like Grave Digger and Max-D crush cars and tear up the track. Bring your earplugs – these trucks are loud! For a fun addition to the main event, grab a pass to the Pit Party from 12:30 til 2 which includes opportunities to get up close with the trucks and their drivers, enjoy the Pit Stop Play Area, play on the inflatable slides, check out remote control truck course, and more. Tickets start at $40 per person aged 2 and up.

The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival | tixr.com
Saturday August 26 – Sunday August 27

The ever-fabulous Jonathan Van Ness is headlining the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival alongside Drag Race favourites Monet X Change and Priyanka on August 26. If that’s not enough to get you excited, comedy champs including Nick Offerman and Andrew Schulz, as well as local stand up stars are bringing the laughs for 2 days in Prince’s Island Park. VIP tickets can be purchased for between $69-$169 for August 26 and between $99-$199 for August 27. General admission tickets are available for between $39-$69 for August 26 and between $69-$89 for August 27.

Which events are your favourite family activities in Calgary in August? Let us know in the comments!

What’s Streaming in August for Kids & Families

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Wednesday August 2 on Disney+

Heartstopper (s2) Wednesday August 2 on Netflix

Eva the Owlet Friday August 4 on Apple TV+

Saved from a Shark Friday August 4 on Disney+

The Big Nailed It Baking Challenge Friday August 4 on Netflix

Hey Duggee (s2) Friday August 4 on CBC Gem

Cocomelon Saturday August 5 on Crave

Gabby’s Dollhouse (s8) Monday August 7 on Netflix

Super Agent Jon Le Bon (s5) Monday August 7 on CBC Gem

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (s4) Wednesday August 9 on Disney+

The Super Mario Bros. Movie Friday August 11 on Prime Video

My Dad the Bounty Hunter (s2) Thursday August 17 on Netflix

Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie Friday August 18 on Apple TV+

Junior Baking Show Friday August 18 on CBC Gem

The Monkey King Friday August 18 on Netflix

Ahsoka Wednesday August 23 on Disney+

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah Friday August 25 on Netflix

The Savvy Guide to August in Vancouver

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The Savvy Guide to August

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The Savvy Guide to August in Toronto

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The Savvy Guide to August in Ottawa

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The Savvy Guide to August in Calgary

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12 Kids Books Grown Ups Love Too

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

Night Light by Nicholas Blechman

That’s a Possibility! by Bruce Goldstone

Pete the Cat and his Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin

The Case of the Missing Donut by Alison McGhee

Press Here by Herve Tullet

Count the Monkeys by Mac Barnett

Sophie’s Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller

Bully by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

Chamelia and the New Kid in Class by Ethan Long

Rocket’s Mighty Words by Tad Hills

Daredevil by Meghan McCarthy

University or College Packing List for Residence Living:

What Not to Pack:

Fun Family Activities in Calgary in August

Calgary International Blues Festival | calgarybluesfest.com Monday July 31 – Sunday August 6

High Tea At The Zoo | calgaryzoo.com August 1, 13, 15, 20, 27 & 29

Calgary Fringe Festival | calgaryfringe.ca Thursday August 3 – Friday August 11

Lantern Peace Festival | calgaryfloatinglanterns.com Saturday August 5 from 5:30 – 9 pm

GlobalFest | globalfest.ca Thursday August 17 – Saturday August 26

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Wednesday August 2 on Disney+

Heartstopper (s2)
Wednesday August 2 on Netflix

Eva the Owlet
Friday August 4 on Apple TV+

Saved from a Shark
Friday August 4 on Disney+

The Big Nailed It Baking Challenge
Friday August 4 on Netflix

Hey Duggee (s2)
Friday August 4 on CBC Gem

Cocomelon
Saturday August 5 on Crave

Gabby’s Dollhouse (s8)
Monday August 7 on Netflix

Super Agent Jon Le Bon (s5)
Monday August 7 on CBC Gem

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (s4)
Wednesday August 9 on Disney+

The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Friday August 11 on Prime Video

My Dad the Bounty Hunter (s2)
Thursday August 17 on Netflix

Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie
Friday August 18 on Apple TV+

Junior Baking Show
Friday August 18 on CBC Gem

The Monkey King
Friday August 18 on Netflix

Ahsoka
Wednesday August 23 on Disney+

You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah
Friday August 25 on Netflix

Calgary International Blues Festival | calgarybluesfest.com
Monday July 31 – Sunday August 6

High Tea At The Zoo | calgaryzoo.com
August 1, 13, 15, 20, 27 & 29

Calgary Fringe Festival | calgaryfringe.ca
Thursday August 3 – Friday August 11

Lantern Peace Festival | calgaryfloatinglanterns.com
Saturday August 5 from 5:30 – 9 pm

GlobalFest | globalfest.ca
Thursday August 17 – Saturday August 26

Country Thunder | countrythunder.com
August 18 – 20

Expo Latino | expolatino.com
Friday August 18 – Sunday August 20

TD Chinatown Street Festival | eventbrite.ca
Saturday August 19 from 11 am – 7 pm

Monster Jam | monsterjam.com
Saturday August 19 – Sunday August 20

The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival | tixr.com
Saturday August 26 – Sunday August 27