Events & Festivals
2025 Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival
A free hot air balloon festival in Southern Alberta.
A free hot air balloon festival in Southern Alberta.
Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival is a free, family-friendly event happening in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Up to 30 balloons will float above the city from May 22-25, 2025!
Please Note: All flights are weather dependant. Follow @RiseUpYXH on Instagram and Facebook for updates and locations for each scheduled take-off, before and during the festival. Balloon rides are sold out for 2025.
6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
6pm Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
6pm Fight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
Dusk (8:30ish) Balloon Glow: Located in Kin Coulee Park, sponsored by CF Industries
6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
6pm Fight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
Community Day: Located in Downtown Medicine Hat
Dusk (8:30ish) Balloon Glow: Located in Kin Coulee Park
6am Flight: Location to be announced prior to flight on social media pages.
The greatest outdoor party on dirt.
The greatest outdoor party on dirt is back for its 14th annual year. Quonset Days features a handful of Canadian artists in the span of two days. Friends and families are invited to enjoy live music, food trucks, beer gardens, and classic Quonset Days food, like the “Quonset Dog”. Quonset Days is located just outside of Medicine Hat, and all profits are donated towards ALS Society of Alberta.
“We bring in some of the biggest names in Canadian country music just outside of Medicine Hat, every third weekend in July. We’ve raised over half a million dollars to date for the ALS Society of Alberta. Dust off your cowboy boots and party for a great cause, while surrounded by miles of open farmland. A true Albertan experience.” - Beth Cash, marketing coordinator.
Brett Kissel, George Canyon, and other musicians are set to take the stage on July 19-20, 2024.
Host your next event in Medicine Hat.
Memories are made through world-class entertainment inside the Co-op Place. The facility can be quickly transformed in a short time from an ice surface, to a concert venue, to a bull riding ring.
Learn a new skill, make new friends, or spend time with your family when you GO to the Big Marble Go Centre. The cutting-edge facility is home to a 50-metre multi-use pool, Olympic sized ice rink, and so much more.
Medalta in the Historic Clay District
A National Historic Site that is well-known for its beautiful space. Music festivals, dinners, markets, and weddings have been hosted inside this cultural gem.
Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede
With a handful of rooms, there are a variety of options to host a wide array of events, from cultural to sport, at the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede.
Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
Inside is a 700-seat theatre with acoustics like no other. The beautiful building has a rooftop terrace as well, with scenic views, for outdoor events.
A rockin' September festival in a National Historic Site.
In 2022, A 12-hour, free, family-friendly festival was hosted at Medalta in the Historic Clay District. It featured Canadian legend Bif Naked and all-star rock band TOQUE as the headlining entertainment.
The festivities were non-stop, from local and Canadian musicians, an Indigenous dance group, and a salsa band. Medalta events manager Sara Dell says a series of live entertainment was presented throughout the day for families and friends of all ages.
“I was most excited to see hundreds of people come together after so long apart to enjoy the art and music Medicine Hat offers, and all the other activities and performances we had planned for the day,” says Dell. “This was more than a concert. It was a day for friends and family to enjoy quality time together in our community again.”
The National Historic Site was packed with food trucks, conversations, laughter, experience, and celebrations between community members that span the Southern Alberta region. The Yuill Gallery, Museum, and Shaw Centre were free to the public, and the local market had over 20 artists selling their creations.
“We wanted to create an event that celebrated being together. We wanted people to have a good day that’s affordable, where people have access to a bunch of activities,” says Mike Onieu, executive director, Medalta in the Historic Clay District. “Crockstock was a giant party.”
This event was funded through a Government of Canada grant.
Southern-sourced ingredients in the sunshine.
Neighbouring Medicine Hat is Redcliff, Greenhouse Capital of the Prairies. You’ll find a hub of greenhouses full of fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, salsas, herbs, and so many other nutritious and colourful vegetables. The freshly-grown veggies mix well for a sandwich, salad, or veggie charcuterie board. Visit The Hat's Olive Tap for an oil and balsamic to top off the vegetable dish.
Prairie lands have farmers and ranchers all around. Southern Alberta beef jerky can be found at Homestead Market Inc, along with an entire farmers market featuring Alberta culinary businesses, including pickled carrots, asparagus, and beans, home-made tortilla chips, and other items perfect for a picnic. 7 Rivers Trading Company also carries pickled vegetables that are local to Alberta.
The bakeries in Medicine Hat all bring something unique to the breads they bake, and each is soft, fluffy, and melts in your mouth. You can find loaves from Redcliff Bakery, Country Crumbs Bakery & Cafe, or McBride’s Bakery. House-made bagels from King Bagel are a nice choice. Homestead Market Inc. has a variety of spreads to pair — Yummy Hummy’s hummus dip, Lucky’s Grit Dip, locally-canned jams and jellies, and Sweet Pure Honey.
A refreshing, cold beverage on a warm summer’s day is music to the ears. Find Hell of a Root Beer from Hell’s Basement Brewery, sparkling hop water 'Auggie' from Medicine Hat Brewing Company, sparkling cucumber lime water 'Frest' from Big Marble Farms, or kombucha and water kefir from Your Preference Kombucha.
Medicine Hat is a place where your dog can feel at home.
Many Medicine Hat parks are a stunning escape into nature and the tree-lined trails are great for shade on those sunny days. Some trails allow for dogs to roam off-leash, while others are on-leash only — designated signage can be found in these areas.
For a fenced in, outdoor, off-leash spot, Westvue Dog Park near Gas City Campground is a popular space for big and small dogs. Near Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown is another fenced-in space, Saratoga Dog Park.
Over 20 eateries allow dogs on their patio. Edmonton-influencer Linda Hoang put together a blog that lists them all. Almost all eateries in Medicine Hat allow dogs on their patio, but calling ahead to confirm is the best option as things do change throughout the years.
If your furry friends need stimulation to burn some energy, True North K9 Compound has an open area and playground area, with equipment and toys, where owners and dogs can play, train, or bond in a safe and controlled environment.
Botanicals is a pet-friendly plant shop that is happy to see dogs come through the door. More small shops are becoming pet-friendly every year. Call before you shop and ask if your puppers can tag along.
Most hotels in Medicine Hat offer pet-friendly rooms. Be sure to call ahead to ask what the rules and regulations are.
Wherever the exploration takes you, furry four-legged friends should be well behaved, listen well, and, unless on a designated off-leash area, be on-leash.
Southeast Alberta is a playground for adventurers!
Red Rock Coulee
56 kilometers / 35 miles
The many large, red boulders in Red Rock Coulee were formed in prehistoric seas — layers of sand calcite and iron oxide collected around a nucleus, formed by shells, leaves, or bones. These concretions grew larger as the circulating waters deposited more layers. At up to 2.5 metres in diameter, they are among the largest in the world. Along with the exposed rocks, you will also find prairie inhabitants such as deer, coyotes, rabbits, rattlesnakes, and nighthawks. Being a natural area, this park does not have bathrooms or garbage disposal.
To reach Red Rock Coulee, drive southwest from Medicine Hat on Highway 3. Just before the village of Seven Persons you will turn south on Highway 887, a secondary highway to Manyberries. Continue south on Highway 887 until you reach Red Rock Coulee, which is open year-round.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
158 kilometers / 98 miles
Discover and experience a unique landscape of haunting formations and rich fossil resources at Dinosaur Provincial Park. You will be amazed when the gently rolling prairie grasslands suddenly drop off, plunging you into a remarkable world of hoodoos, pinnacles, coulees, and buttes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest area of badlands in Canada and one of the richest sites in the world for late Cretaceous fossils.
To book tours and learn more
dinosaurpark.ca | 403.378.4344
For campground reservations
reserve.albertaparks.ca | 1.877.537.2757
Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park / Áísínai'pi
168 kilometres / 105 miles
The hoodoos that sit in this Natural and Cultural Heritage Site, in the heart of Traditional Blackfoot Territory, were formed over 85 million years ago, at the edge of a great inland sea. Take a pamphlet to embark on the hike, where you’ll read stories and, at the end, see carvings from Indigenous peoples from many years ago.
For campground reservations
reserve.albertaparks.ca | 1.877.537.2757
Etzikom Museum and Historical Windmill Center
87 kilometers / 54 miles
Located on the Red Coat Trail, is the Etzikom Museum and the Canadian National Historic Windmill Centre. The Centre features outdoor restored examples of windmills encompassing over 200 years of Canadian wind power (particularly water pumpers). Indoors at the Museum are many hands-on displays in time-period settings, featuring early pioneer life, native artifacts, fossils, petroglyphs, homesteader tools and a historic church.
Open from Victoria Day weekend to Labour Day weekend
foremostalberta.com | 403.666.3737
Prairie Memories Museum, Irvine
35 kilometers / 22 miles
A must-see attraction for anyone interested in rural history, this museum portrays various aspects of pioneer life. They have many artifacts and buildings including an old schoolhouse, church, and lumber store. Be sure to check out Irvine’s 20 Milepost Days held annually on September long weekend. This event features all kinds of events, including a parade, rodeo, gymkhana, bench show, and much more.
403.834.3923
Redcliff
8.8 kilometre / 5.5 miles
Being the Greenhouse Capital of the Prairies, there is a hub of seasonal huts with freshly-grown produce and hand-made salsas and sauces in Redcliff. Along with the crisp vegetables, the red rock coulees are a playground for mountain biking, leisure biking, river floating, or taking a stroll along the paved pathway near the South Saskatchewan River. Spot some cactus underneath the summer sun in the town that’s just 10 minutes outside of Medicine Hat.
Find chef-curated menus using local, Southern ingredients.
Listen to live music almost every weekend at this bustling spot in downtown Medicine Hat. With a flavourful food menu that features a salsa flight, and an exciting drink menu that features a tequila flight, you won’t have to book any flights for an authentic feel for Mexico.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Reserve a date night inside this romantic pasta house, and be sure to call a week in advance. Offering a ‘build your own pasta’ menu, the owner and chef cooks every dish with detail and passion, inside the Italian inspired patio atmosphere.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Chef Adam and General Manager Jen opened Hometown on historic North Railway Street, bringing a beautiful view of the Canadian Pacific Railway. A familiar place emulating a welcoming home, and serving upscale comfort dishes, elevated brunch, and a blind menu for Sunday Dinner Feature. Alberta-sourced ingredients are sprinkled throughout the seasonal menu, to pair with a premium cocktail and mocktail list and local craft beer.
435 North Railway Street SE
Jj Kitchen Korean Food opened in 2022, after owners Jane and Brian attended Medicine Hat Farmers’ Markets for two years and were encouraged to open a storefront eatery. A weekly rotating manu is featured, with ready-to-take-home kimchi and baked goods.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
A cozy eatery serving soups, sandwiches, salads, and shareables inside the historic site Hargrave-Sissons Block. Owners Miranda and Bryton want guests to feel at home and feature local artists, local ingredients, and a comfortable space to spend time in downtown Medicine Hat.
675 2 St. SE
Ralph’s Texas Bar & Steakhouse
Located in the prairies, an authentic country-feel steakhouse is a must, and the owners of Ralph’s partner with local producers to serve 100%, Alberta-raised steak. Have an evening dinner in the steakhouse, and then join the bar where a dance floor is featured, where live music is often hosted.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
This refined local restaurant is located inside the Medicine Hat Lodge, and specializes in premium-cooked steaks, scallops, crab, salmon, ribeye, sirloin, and lobster tail. R Kitchen serves an exquisite dinner experience with premium plating.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
For the last 20 years, Chef Chris has created a menu at Rustic Kitchen + Bar that features Albertan ranchers and greenhouses. He drives two hours for his elk to meet the owners of North Fork Ranch, and over two hours to Ewenique Farms to pick up his lamb. To complement the mains, seasonal vegetables are sourced from the greenhouses in Redcliff. Along with the farm to fork produce, absolutely everything on the menu is made from scratch.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
A dimly lit restaurant with gold chandeliers that reflect beautiful patterns on the walls. Authentic Thai cuisine is served on a bed of rice or noodles. From curry bowls to pad thai, your tastebuds will come alive with each and every bite of a perfectly saucy and seasoned dish.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Chef for 37 years, Sammy opened Sammy's Kitchen + Bar in downtown Medicine Hat in late 2022. Learning from the best of chefs throughout her years in Korea, while cooking for the Korean Embassy, India, and Calgary, Sammy has developed her culinary skill and now serves the Medicine Hat community fine dining cuisine.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Chef SeHo specializes in steaming ramen, fresh sushi, and so much more that will have your curious taste buds ordering a feast. Over 27 years, he’s cooked in Seoul, San Francisco, Tokyo, and, in 2012, he opened his restaurant in Medicine Hat.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
On the south side of the city, this restaurant brings comfort while you treat yourself to mouthwatering, family recipes from Northern Thailand. The menu displays a wide array of authentic, skillful, and exceptional cuisine that’s bound to pique your interest.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
The Clubhouse at Paradise Valley
Owner and Chef Sourav has managed kitchens and curated menus in India, Toronto, and Banff National Park. He also competed on the Food Network Canada television show, Fire Masters, with his episode airing in May 2023. From splendid appetizers, light meals, fresh salads and sandwiches, and premium entrees, The Clubhouse at Paradise Valley satisfies cravings for tasteful food, and is great to indulge before or after a game of golf at Paradise Valley.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
You’ll find over 75 quality oils and balsamics inside this exquisite, Tuscany-themed taphouse. Owner Carmen has a passion for creating wholesome and nutritious dishes, with sustainability at top of mind. There is a list of creamy soups, pressed sandwiches, and fresh salads made with Alberta-farm chickpeas, locally-grown produce, and the high-quality oils and balsamics featured in the taproom.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
The Mexican Hat’s brick walls invite you into this colourful, small space with big food portions. The menu is full of authentic Mexican cuisine, from a salsa bar, to enchiladas, tacos, and burritos.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Chef Alex has cooked incredible food for the Medicine Hat community for years, and he’s brought his expertise to The Silver Buckle’s new kitchen. The fresh, new menu serves twists on favourite dishes and seasonal specialties, perfectly paired with a curated beverage. Local ingredients are sourced, from Alberta beef to local vegetables.
687 S Railway St.
On the third floor of the Badlands View building, this eatery is found just off the Trans-Canada Highway. Bask on the raised patio, with its one-of-its-kind view of the Saamis Tepee and of people traveling by on the Highway.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Tracy’s Place the Chocolate Shop
Nearby Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, this Betty Boop-themed diner will bring you back in time while you enjoy a classic breakfast. Pancakes, waffles, omelettes, and french toast can be ordered from the large menu, along with burgers, salads made fresh to order, and home-made soup.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Annegret’s Fine European Chocolates
Owner Annegret mixes and molds silky chocolate using her very own recipe year-round, and in the summer she adds 10 gelato flavours to the mix. Everything is made in-house and from scratch, by Annegret herself.
Dairy-Free Available | Seasonal
Serving annual and seasonal flavours handcrafted in-house, you can order by the scoop with a waffle cone, or fill up on a pint. One dollar from every pint is donated to camps across the province.
Dairy-Free Available | Year-Round
Alberta-made ice cream from Foothills Creamery is served at this convenience store. Order a classic scoop with a cone, or add it to your slushie. If you browse around, you just might spot some hard-to-find snacks and candy.
Dairy-Free Available | Year-Round
A classic ice cream spot since 1984, Swirls is a place where you park and stroll up to the window and order. With 75 flavours to choose from, you’re sure to find a nostalgic favourite or the excitement to try a new one.
Dairy-Free Available | Seasonal
This vibrant café roasts freshly-imported beans from all over the world to perfection, using a roaster from the ‘80s. The beans can be ground and bagged to suit your home brewing machine, or sit inside and enjoy a cup. Let yesterday’s frets and today’s concerns ease away into gentle waters at Poolhouse Café & Roastery.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
A hip shop with exposed brick walls and an always buzzing espresso machine. The baristas have some impressive creations up their sleeves, including The Root Beer Godfather, a chilled concoction made up of local Hell’s Basement Brewery’s root beer, two shots of espresso, and a little bit of cream.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
As you walk towards the baked goods, admire the local art gallery on the walls. Time is taken to steep tea, blend lattes, brew coffee, layer sandwiches, simmer soups, and bake treats at this modern café.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
A fresh pastry, hot coffee, and a pop of colour is the specialty at this market and café. A spot with a full lunch menu, and where you can find sweet macarons.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
Zucchini Blossom Market & Café
For two decades, this market and café has prepared bright-coloured meals that feature Southeast Alberta-grown ingredients, and is located in one of Medicine Hat’s most historic neighbourhoods.
Options Available: Vegetarian | Gluten Free | Dairy Free
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