Calgarians looking to connect spiritually with their faith, or just find some fun outdoor family activities will have a number of options this weekend.

Among them is the first outdoor Way of the Cross procession to be held in Calgary since 2019.

The Catholic tradition, which through various stops depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, is eschewing the traditional walk through Mission from St. Mary’s Cathedral and is instead doing a route from St. Mary’s University to the Father Lacombe Care Centre next to Fish Creek Park.

“All are invited to join Bishop McGrattan on the Outdoor Way of the Cross on Good Friday,” said the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary.

That walk starts on March 29 at 9 a.m.

Visitors looking to attend the Way of the Cross can access the walk from the Father Lacombe–Fish Creek LRT station.

Calgary Transit is running on holiday hours throughout the Easter long weekend.

The Calgary Parking Authority is offering free parking on all on-street parking zones on March 29, March 31, and April 1. Weekend parking rates will apply for all lot parking and parkade parking.

Zoo to put on annual Easter fun for both visitors and animals alike

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s annual Easter Eggstravaganza is back from March 29 to April 1.

Visitors will be treated to a number of eggculent activities, including games, photo stations, viewing outdoor enrichment activities for the zoo’s animals, and for children under 12, Easter themed treat stations.

The zoo will also be opening Grazers temporarily over the long weekend on March 30 and 31 to serve up a special Easter buffet.

“A bountiful brunch will be given a bunny boost with themed décor and interactive activities,” said the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.

Easter tea to take Calgarians back to another era of elegance

Heritage Park is holding it’s annual Easter Weekend tea, with all of the elegance and fun of tea time from a bygone era.

“Easter Weekend is a perfect time for tea! Enjoy petit finger sandwiches, your favourite treats from the Alberta Bakery and buttermilk scones with your freshly brewed cup of tea,” said Heritage Park.

Admission to the tea also includes post-tea admission to the Gasoline Alley Museum, which is now showing That Special Place We Call Heritage Park: 60 Years of Community.

Sittings are available on March 29–31, at 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. For more information, and to book tickets, see heritagepark.ca/easter.

Let your furry friends do the hunting for eggs

The Calgary Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs—and people—is returning to Calaway Park on March 29 in support of National Service Dogs.

Dogs will get to go on their own hunt for Easter Eggs in the field next to the Calaway Park parking lot, with an opportuntity to get some great doggie treats and the chance to win some poochtacular prizes.

All of the money raised from the event will be going towards National Service Dogs, which helps to provide individuals with autism or PTSD with certified service dogs.

“Together, we will empower children with autism and restore independence to veterans and first responders living with Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD),” said NSD.

Registration at the door is $30 per family, with online booking before Good Friday saving attendees $5 of the registration price.

Crescent Heights Village BIA is offering up fun and prizes

Crescent Heights Village is holding their second annual Easter Egg hunt on March 30, at participating businesses along Centre Street, 16 Avenue, and Edmonton Trail.

Each participating business will have an Easter Egg in their window, with each location offering a chance to enter to win a $250 gift package alongside some easter chocolate and activities.

Among those businesses include Don’s Costume and Makeup Shop, which will be offering free temporary tattoos for kids. A full list of activities is available at crescentheightsvillage.ca/easter-egg-hunt-2024.

Hunting for eggs begins at 1318 Centre Street at 10 a.m., at 100 16th Ave NW at 11:30 a.m., and at 1112 Edmonton Trail NE at 1 p.m.

Free Kids Comic Con at Central Library

Families wanting to do something fun during the long weekend that is different than the traditional Easter faire, will have to go no further than the Calgary Public Library.

CPL is hosting a free Kids Comic Con with a focus on learning, reading, and imagination at the Central Library on March 30 from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Activities include art, creative classes, talks by special guests, and of course comics.

Tickets are free but registration is required. Signs up can be made online at calgarylibrary.ca/events-and-programs/programs/calgary-kids-comic-con.