Before the big football game is the big party and it is now in full swing in Calgary ahead of the 113th Grey Cup. Canadian Football League fans from all over have arrived in the city for days of partying and celebration before the Montreal Alouettes and Edmonton Elks square off on Sunday. “We have a tailgate section, we’ve got performers on the Coca-Cola stage, lots of fun and games,” said 2026 Grey Cup executive director Karen Dommett. Concerts, pancake breakfasts, two rodeos and free fan activities are happening on Stampede Park for the Grey Cup Festival. Ticketed events are happening at The Big Four, Nutrien Centre and BMO Centre, while a free street festival has taken over the parking lot at the park. “It doesn’t really matter who’s playing in the game. We see jerseys from coast to coast represented here at the Gray Cup Festival. Folks come year after year,” Dommett said. Kathy Brennan is volunteering at her sixth Grey Cup and says CFL fans and volunteers keeps her coming back. “Big smiles, great friends and a great time. It’s just that we are such passionate volunteers in Calgary and I’ve been able to do this for a lot of different things and events and it’s so much fun,” she said. “As I get older, I wouldn’t trade it for a thing.” Elks fan Kyle Kawanami said he was already planning to travel to Calgary from Edmonton for the big game — his team being in it is a major bonus. “The last few Grey Cups I’ve really enjoyed the atmosphere and the Canadiana, the togetherness of all of the fans,” Kawanami said. “Even if their team is not there, they’ll have the jersey of their respective teams and it’s always a good week.” The Grey Cup Festival runs Nov. 11-15.
