Availability
Picnic Site Booking Information
- Picnic sites are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
- For booking times see the Picnic Site Booking FAQ.
- Please view the Picnic Site Amenities for details about each site's amenities, capacities, fees, power outlets, washroom accessibility and more.
- Dogs are allowed in the park if they are on a leash, or in off-leash areas.
- Alcohol is permitted only in designated areas which are clearly signed. Alcohol is strictly prohibited in all areas of the park.
- Bowness Park cannot be booked on long weekends due to the high volume of citizens using the Park.
Picnic Site and Special Events Application Information
- Picnic Site vs. Special Event
- Picnics: Gatherings using the existing picnic site amenities (picnic tables, fire pit, barbeque, pavilion/shelter or power) or back-yard propane BBQs.
- Special events: Events that have an impact on neighbouring communities and require equipment brought to the park (tents, inflatables, large BBQs, vehicle access, etc).
- Weekend or weekday bookings - must be made 5 days before the booking.
- Picnic sites cannot be reserved without payment.
Picnic Site Payment Information
- Full payment is due immediately upon booking.
- Once full payment has been made, you will be issued a permit and a receipt. Your permit is your confirmation of your picnic site booking. Bring the issued permit with you to the site as confirmation of your booking as sites can be used on a first-come, first-served basis if not booked. A facility rental permit holder will always have priority over a non-permit holder, for the specific date, time and location booked.
- Payment options - You can pay for your booking by phone or in person. Click here for payment instructions.
- Book and Pay online
Your permit is your official invoice.
Picnic Site Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations and amendments require a minimum of 7 calendar days’ notice prior to the rental date.
- A $10.00 administration fee plus applicable GST will apply for cancellations or changes that result in freeing up a bookable space.
- Within 7 calendar days of the booking, it is non-refundable.
- To cancel a booking, logon to Calgary Live and Play to use the self-serve option online. Contact Facility Bookings if you require assistance or you do not have a Calgary Live and Play account.
- In order to amend a picnic site booking, make changes to the date, time or location, the renter must notify the Recreation Facility Bookings office.
- Inclement weather refunds are not provided. It is the permit holder’s responsibility to check the upcoming weather forecast at least 8 days before the event to decide if you wish to keep or cancel a booking.