This post covers unique Calgary souvenirs and gifts.
Looking for things to buy in Calgary? Then you have come to the right place! Calgary, nestled in the Canadian province of Alberta, is a dynamic metropolis and is known for the Calgary Stampede and perhaps the Calgary Flames. If it is your first time to the city, you will want some iconic souvenirs that represent Calgary or Canada. If you are looking for gifts for family, you will find ideas here as well!
Maple Syrup
Probably what most people think of as one of the things that represent Canada is maple syrup. Available in gift shops anywhere in Calgary, as well as in airports and grocery stores, grab some to take home as it is one of the best presents from your time in the city. If you want the best bag for your buck, grab a bottle from Costco!
Calgary Stampede Merch
The Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo and exhibition event that takes place in Calgary. It is often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” and is one of the largest and most famous rodeos in the world. The event typically occurs in early July and lasts for about ten days. If you are going to be in Calgary during this time, get yourself some stampede merch to bring home.
Canadian Wool Blanket from HBC
The Hudson’s Bay Company, HBC or “the Bay” is a retail department store whose history lies in the fur trade and has been around since the 1600s. Currently, it is the outfitter for the Canadian Olympic Team and features Canadian gear. Its iconic coloured striped blankets and clothing are also popular Canadian souvenir ideas.
Sports Gear Canadian Souvenirs
Canada may be a small country in terms of population, but Canadians love sports, especially hockey! While in Calgary, get yourself a Flames jersey. It is also the perfect gift from Calgary to bring home for someone (especially kids).
Tim Hortons Mug
Coffee and Tim Hortons are synonyms in Canada. Asking someone if they want a “Timmys” is the same as asking if they want a coffee. If you want to know what to buy in Calgary and have a thing for coffee, skip the Starbucks cups and get yourself a Tim Horton’s Travel Mug from any Tim Horton’s store. You can even buy some of their coffees and they come in K Cups too!
Indigenous Art
Indigenous peoples have always made objects of artistic value. If you want to know what to buy in Canada to display in your home or to give as a gift, purchase some authentic indigenous art. If you are looking for more information on how to have authentic experiences with the Indigenous peoples in Canada, have a read of my article on Indigenous experiences in Alberta.
Christmas Ornaments from Calgary
Many travelers like to pick up a souvenir ornament from the places they visit. Calgary offers plenty of Canadian ones, as well as Calgary-specific ones as well. Just pop into any of the gift shops and you are sure to find something that suits your taste! You can also find them as a last-minute souvenir at the airport!
Roots Clothing
Roots clothing is known for its craftsmanship and functionality. Comfy sweats are also back in style and sweat pants and hoodies are all over retail store windows. I live in their sweatpants when I am at home and there is nothing comfier in my wardrobe. If you are shopping for the best souvenirs and gifts from Calgary that you can wear for years to come, grab yourself a pair of Roots sweatpants or a sweatshirt, or bring one home for someone who loves comfort.
Canadian Food and Snacks
There are some things you can only buy in Canada that you should consider taking home from your trip to Calgary. These include Ketchup chips, Smoked Salmon, Smarties, Coffee Crisp, Purdy’s Chocolates and Laura Secord Chocolates.
Photo Souvenirs from Calgary
Photos of your trip make amazing souvenirs. I have found that I almost always end up behind the camera. More and more when I travel I have looked for professional photographers who I can book a photo session and then not stress about getting great family memories! If you are like me and love photos, consider booking a photoshoot.
Some trips deserve more than selfies! Occasions like honeymoons, anniversaries, family holidays, solo adventures and even surprise proposals are perfect moments to capture with a Flytographer shoot — or simply because you believe that memories are the best souvenir.
I have booked and used Flytographer on my travels. If you use the code LINDSAY you will save $25 off your booking!
Make the effort to print these memories or make a photo book. It might be one of the best souvenirs from Calgary and will last for years to come.
Aurora Heat Hand Warmers
While these have to be bought online, Aurora Heat hand warmers are one of my favorite souvenirs that come from Canada. If you are coming to Calgary in the winter, or are looking for something you can use each winter at home, you are going to want to get some of these natural hand warmers (I love the wrist ones the best). They are made in Northern Canada and offer amazing protection from cold! My favorite use is when I am watching my son’s hockey game in the cold ice rink! Check out my full review of them as well as where to buy!
You may also like these related posts: Canada souvenirs, Jasper souvenirs, Victoria souvenirs or Montreal souvenirs to grab while in Quebec or Unique Vancouver Souvenirs & Gifts or the Best Banff Souvenirs and Gifts to Buy on Your Trip or Classic Quebec City souvenirs!
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.