River Hall, the City of Calgary's free downtown gathering space, is back for a third season starting July 23 and running through September 27. Last summer the temporary hub drew more than 10,000 visitors, hosted 34 events, and partnered with over 80 local programming groups — and this year it's expanding to four days a week for its first 10 weeks.

Set up in a parking lot at Lot 6, 311 8th Street S.W., River Hall turns the site into an outdoor destination overlooking the Bow River. Ten shipping containers house local vendors selling everything from craft beer and cocktails to coffee, fried chicken, and ice cream, and the space includes a stage for live music and DJs, shaded picnic areas, and family activities. Shirley's Greenhouse also returns this year, offering fresh produce through Calgary's Farm Stand Program on select dates. Admission is free, pets are welcome, and the event runs Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 10 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

"What makes River Hall special is that it's completely free and designed for everyone," said Carlie Ferguson, Leader of Strategy & Placemaking with the City's Downtown Strategy team. She said the space is meant to make downtown feel welcoming and accessible, whether people are stopping by after work or spending a Saturday afternoon with family.

Kate W. Mak, founder of Mynah School of Yoga, which runs classes at the site, said the space offers something rare in a busy city — a place to slow down and connect without needing a ticket or membership.

The season kicks off Thursday, July 23, with performances from Back & Forth, Jadé, Jenuiine, and DJ Sonidef, alongside a first look at the site's expanded greenspace and programming. If a summer evening downtown sounds appealing, this is shaping up to be the place to be.