When the sun’s out, the cans can come out to play — the beer cans that is. Calgary’s riverbanks and parks are popular places to gather with your friends and sip a few cold ones without getting a bylaw ticket — if you follow the rules that is. As of 2021, the city finally embraced allowing Calgarians to responsibly enjoy some suds in the sun as long as they follow the rules. Here’s a guide to some hot spots where you can enjoy a six‐pack outside without breaking the bank with a fine for open alcohol. Cheers, hooligans.
RILEY PARK
This Beltline-adjacent haven boasts picnic tables that have the benefit of shade from nearby trees and a relaxed vibe.
BOWNESS PARK
This quaint spot is a perfect spot to enjoy drinks either before or after your river journey. Don’t forget your life jackets if you plan to hit the river, and most importantly, remember that drinking on beaches, in water, or while floating is illegal.
ST. PATRICK’S ISLAND
This inner-city family-friendly urban oasis is a beautiful spot for a stroller ride and you can also enjoy the art installations along the way.
RICHMOND GREEN PARK
This cozy community gem is often less crowded so there’s usually extra space to lounge with your blanket, some drinks and some friends.
SHOULDICE TO EDWORTHY OR GRIFFITH WOODS TO SANDY BEACH
If you’re of legal drinking age, you can park your beach chairs along these popular river spots and enjoy some cold ones while people watch.
NEED TO KNOW
City public drinking is allowed from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. in more than 80 designated zones and picnic tables marked by signage, as long as you are snacking at the same time, but no glass or litter is allowed. And don’t forget, you can still be ticketed if you’re causing chaos or are publicly intoxicated, so save that for Vern’s later, you menaces.
