Cannabis can be sold at 18+ events in Calgary starting next month

A cannabis plant is seen in this undated image. (Pexels)

Cannabis sales will be allowed at 18+ events in the city of Calgary starting next month.

Calgary city council approved a bylaw amendment on Tuesday, enabling temporary cannabis sales at 18+-only entertainment events and trade shows.

The new rules come into effect on May 15, 2025.

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“This amendment marks a significant step forward for Calgary, aligning our local regulations with provincial changes and supporting our city’s vibrant entertainment scene,” says Michael Briegel, the City of Calgary’s deputy chief of business safety.

“By allowing cannabis sales at 18+ events, we are ensuring compliance and implementing safety measures to protect minors.”

The amendment requires cannabis sales to be prohibited at events where minors are present.

Additionally, only local retailers with an active or current business licence can sell cannabis products at these events, with approval from Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis.

“Festivals and events make Calgary a vibrant place to live and an attractive city to visit,” the city said in a news release.

“Changes to the bylaw ensure safer cannabis sales at festivals without changing existing use regulations about where it can be consumed and builds on the safe sales environment already established for alcohol.”

Under previously announced rules, cannabis consumption at events must be confined to designated areas and cannabis products cannot be sold or sampled within those areas.