The National Franchise Show 2026
Event Date
October 3–4, 2026
Location
Calgary, Canada
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe National Franchise Show in Calgary — also known as the Calgary Franchise Show — is a two-day consumer event for anyone interested in owning their own business. On October 3 & 4, 2026, the Calgary Franchise Show invites consumers wanting to start their own business to attend this two-day event. Billed as Calgary's largest "Own Your Own Business" event, it brings established franchise brands and brand-new opportunities together under one roof.
The show is built around face-to-face meetings. Proven, money making businesses that are now expanding in Calgary are on hand to meet new potential owners, giving attendees the chance to ask questions and get information in a no-pressure environment. Opportunities span every industry and investment level, with both full- and part-time options available.
It is worth attending because franchising lowers the risk of going it alone. Buying a franchise or proven business opportunity eliminates much of the hard work of opening a business independently and helps avoid much of the risk of starting a new business. Prospective owners can compare brands side by side and attend free educational seminars, all in a single weekend.
Show Highlights
- Meet brands face to face: Established franchises and new opportunities from every industry, at every investment level.
- Free seminars: Learn the ins and outs of franchise ownership so you can make an educated decision about your future, plus how to start and grow your business. Seminar topics include legal advice, how to choose the business for you, financing options, government assistance programs and much more.
- Show features: Speaker biographies, an Industry Suppliers & Advisors section, Visitor Success Stories, and a "How to Franchise Your Business" workshop.
- Past exhibitors have included recognizable brands such as McDonald's, Teriyaki Experience, Freshslice Pizza, BarBurrito, WingsUp!, Maverick Donuts and INS Market.
Registration
Admission is free with advance online registration, though tickets are limited. Visitors can register for a free admission ticket online, subject to limited availability, while tickets will be $12 at the door.
- Visit the official Calgary Franchise Show website.
- Click the "Get Free Tickets" link to register through the Unity Event Solutions ticketing platform.
- Bring your ticket to the BMO Centre on show days.
For help with tickets, you can reach the Unity Event Solutions customer support team via email at support@unitytickets.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Calgary National Franchise Show taking place?
The show runs October 3-4, 2026 at the BMO Centre (Hall D) at Stampede Park, 1912 Flores LaDue Parade SE, Calgary. Hours are Saturday 11am-5pm and Sunday 11am-4pm.
How much does admission cost and how do I register?
Admission is free with advance online registration, but tickets are limited. Tickets are $12 at the door. You can register through the Unity Event Solutions ticketing link on the official show website.
Who should attend the National Franchise Show?
It is designed for consumers who want to start or own their own business. Attendees can meet proven, expanding franchise brands face to face and explore full- and part-time opportunities across every industry and investment level.
What can I do at the show besides meet exhibitors?
The show offers free seminars covering topics such as legal advice, how to choose the right business, financing options and government assistance programs. There are also speaker sessions, industry advisors and a workshop on how to franchise your business.
What are the parking and transit options at the BMO Centre?
Parking at Stampede Park is $15 per day, with additional auxiliary lots nearby. The venue is next to the Victoria Park/Stampede C-Train station and is served by Calgary Transit CTrain and bus routes; Calgary International Airport is about 16 km away.
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