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Best Live Music Venues in Calgary [2022]
Best Live Music Venues in Calgary [2022]

The 6 Best Live Music Venues in Calgary [2023]

The best live music venue in Calgary are those that can provide an experience that is truly memorable. 

There are a number of different live music venues in Calgary, each with their own unique atmosphere and offerings. Here we put together a list of our favourites based on their atmosphere,  variety of music genres, and overall experience. 

Whether you’re looking for a place to hear some up-and-coming local talent or want to see a world-renowned act, these are the best live music venues in Calgary.

After a night of great music, you must be hungry. If so, you wouldn’t want to miss the best Indian or the best Chinese restaurants in Calgary.

What to Expect at a Live Music Venue in Calgary?

At a live venue in Calgary you may expect to find:

  •  Music: The most essential part of a music venue. A live music venue is a place where you can see your favourite bands and feel a special atmosphere while listening to a live performance of your favourite songs.
  • Various amenities: Music venues often have areas where people can do other things while they are at the venue for the music performance. These may include restaurants, bars, retail outlets or some cafes.
  • VIP clubs: Some venues have VIP clubs with different perks (food, drinks, most convenient spots to enjoy the show fully) for patrons who come to their shows frequently.
  • Happy Hours: The most popular happy hours are usually between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. During those hours a venue offers reduced prices on alcoholic drinks.


Music has a way of making people feel connected. You will definitely leave the music venue with a smile on your face and unforgettable memories.

The Best Live Music Venues in Calgary

Now that we know what to expect, let’s take a look at some of the best live music venues in Calgary:

1) Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre

Studio Bell is the perfect place to celebrate music in all of its forms. The 160,000-square-foot building designed by Brad Cloepfil of Allied Works Architecture features nine subtly curved interlocking towers clad in glazed terra cotta. And, it sounds as good as it looks! 

Referencing the design of musical instruments, the facility’s open spaces resonate with the sounds of music and activity, drawing visitors up through five floors of the acoustically and visually distinct exhibition, performance, and gallery spaces. 

Whether you’re a fan of classical or contemporary music alike, Studio Bell has something for you. So come on down today and enjoy some great Canadian artistry!

Business Information:

studiobell.ca
info@studiobell.ca
+14035435115
850 4 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0L8, Canada

Customer Review:
“There were lots of wonderful exhibits and lots of interesting displays of Canada's very best artists; most of the artists were very new to me, so it was a wonderful learning experience. The 3rd floor, which is the interactive floor, is closed due to covid, but it doesn't take away from the experience - there's still plenty to see.”

2) Bella Concert Hall

The Bella Concert Hall is the perfect place to see a show. The state-of-the-art acoustics are unrivalled, and the room is tuned specifically for each performance. The comfortable and spacious soft-seating provides an all-around experience for your guests. The easily accessible loading docks and dressing rooms make for easy setup before performers hit their stage. 

With its stunning architecture and exceptional sound quality, this iconic event space will be sure to impress audiences both at home and abroad! This venue is perfect for performances of all types of music, from classical to rock. 

So whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Bella Concert Hall is the place to be.

Business Information:

mtroyal.ca
mrevents@mtroyal.ca
+14034407770
18 Mt Royal Cir SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7N5, Canada

Customer Review:
“Beautiful building located on campus. Hall has stunning architecture and great sound quality in most areas. Recommend floor seating for best experience. Hope to see more shows here soon!”

3) Arts Commons

Arts Commons is the largest performing arts center in Western Canada and offers endless ways to experience the transformative power of arts. They offer live music performances, which allow visitors to enjoy an interactive performance that is both enjoyable and educational. 

In addition, Arts Commons hosts a variety of events throughout the year including theatre productions, dance shows, and concerts. Whether you’re looking for something fun or inspirational, Arts Commons has everything you need! 

Their convenient location in the heart of downtown Calgary also makes it easy to access all the great amenities that the city has to offer!

Business Information:

artscommons.ca
booking@artscommons.ca
+14032947455
205 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0K9, Canada

Customer Review:
“Saw Classic Albums Live - Eagles @ Arts Commons last night. Fantastic show, great venue! Really no bad seats. We were in the Dress Circle Right side above the stage, the awesome view and sound was fantastic. Several bars grab a drink or snack during intermission so lineups move quickly and the staff are super friendly.”

4) Dickens

Looking for a great place to see a show? Look no further than Dickens. They have small, intimate venues that provide the ultimate experience of sound and performance. Not to mention that they have a really inclusive community where everyone is welcome to enjoy art.

The venue hosts live concerts and other events that offer attendees the opportunity to enjoy great music in a comfortable, relaxed setting. In addition, the venue offers seating options that allow attendees of all ages to attend shows comfortably. 

Whether you’re looking for something fun and exciting to do on a Saturday night or want to catch your favorite band without spending too much money, Dickens is the place for you.

Business Information:

dickensyyc.com
info@dickensyyc.com
+14032337550
1000 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2Y6, Canada

Customer Review:
“One of the best venues for rock'n'roll shows in the city. They have a great selection of on tap beers too! 10/10 will always recommend.”

5) Palomino Smokehouse

The Palomino Smokehouse is the perfect place to go for a night out with your friends. The staff is attentive and friendly, and the food is excellent – very tasty and affordable! The Smokehouse has a big capacity inside as well as outside, on the patio. 

It’s an old-fashioned smokehouse with live music, so you can enjoy some good times with your friends while enjoying some delicious barbecue. You can see your favourite local bands and musicians with perfect beef brisket and pulled pork. 

So come on down to the Palomino Smokehouse for a night of fun, food, and music – you won’t be disappointed!

Business Information:

thepalomino.ca
booking@thepalomino.ca
+14035321911
109 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3E6, Canada

Customer Review:
“Great sports bar type vibe showing a variety of channels on different screens. Amazing smokehouse themed menu with high quality and large portioned meats. Nice warm, safe vibe - recommend this place for a decent meal!”

6) The Blues Can

The Blues Can is the perfect place to go for an amazing night out. The service is awesome and always makes sure that your drinks are full. In addition, the venue is a great temperature for dancing and moving around; plus, the music is fantastic. 

With so much talent up on stage, it’s hard to have a bad time. If you want to see some fantastic live music with a cold beer on the patio this is the place. A must-go-to for any blues music fan or anyone these last few months going through withdrawal for live music!

Business Information:

thebluescan.com
info@thebluescan.com 
+14032622666
1429 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T4, Canada

Customer Review:
“It was my first time there and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. Such a friendly environment makes you feel very comfortable. Tom Phillips and the B.T's were playing. They are great entertainers, excellent music....makes for a wonderful evening.”
FAQs About Live Music Venues
There is no dress code for most live music venues, but you should dress comfortably. Keep in mind that you will be standing for long periods of time, so wear shoes that you can dance in!
Most venues do not allow outside food and drink, but check with the venue beforehand to be sure. Some venues may have special restrictions, such as no outside alcohol.
It depends on the venue and the event. Some venues only sell tickets at the door, while others recommend buying tickets in advance. Check with the venue beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Most live music venues are 18+, but some may be 21+. Check with the venue before you go to avoid any issues.
Conclusion

Live music venues are a great way to enjoy your favourite music and create lasting memories. Calgary has a number of great options to choose from, so be sure to check out our list of favourites! And don’t forget to dress comfortably and bring your dancing shoes!

Look for more fun things to do in Calgary. If so why not check out some of the best yoga studios in the city? Or if you want to show off in the next live show, you get get a tattoo at one of the best tattoo shops in Calgary!