As the last breaths of winter linger over the Bow River, Calgarians are looking for ways to chase away the February chill. While the temperatures outside may hover well below freezing, the city’s cultural scene is heating up with one of the most enchanting live music experiences touring the globe. This weekend, from Friday, February 20, to Sunday, February 22, 2026, the internationally acclaimed Candlelight concert series returns to Calgary, transforming some of the city’s most stunning architectural spaces into seas of flickering warmth and sublime sound.
For those unfamiliar with the phenomenon, Candlelight concerts are not your typical tribute shows. Forged by Fever, the global entertainment platform, these events strip away the pyrotechnics and the loud amplification. Instead, they place classically trained musicians—usually string quartets or pianists—in the centre of rooms illuminated by thousands of LED candles. The result is a multi-sensory experience that allows audiences to reconnect with beloved music on a deeply emotional level . Whether you are a die-hard fan of classic rock, a follower of contemporary R&B, or looking for a serene evening of introspection, Calgary’s Candlelight lineup this weekend offers something for every mood.
A Weekend of Musical Tributes
The beauty of the Candlelight series lies in its ability to bridge the gap between generations. By reinterpreting the catalogues of modern icons through a classical lens, these concerts invite listeners to hear familiar melodies as if for the first time. This weekend, the city’s historic venues will host a rotating cast of tributes, creating a cultural smorgasbord that positions Calgary as a must-visit destination for arts lovers this February.
Friday, February 20, 2026 – The Modern Icon & The Rock Legends
The weekend kicks off on Friday evening with a tribute to one of the biggest pop stars to ever come out of Canada. At 6:30 PM, Grace Presbyterian Church will open its doors for Candlelight: A Tribute to The Weeknd. Located in the heart of the Beltline at 1009 15 Ave SW, this venue provides the perfect acoustics for the ethereal reinterpretations of hits like Blinding Lights, Starboy, and Save Your Tears. The 60-minute performance, delivered by a string quartet, promises to highlight the haunting melodies and cinematic scope of Abel Tesfaye’s discography in a way that stadium shows simply cannot replicate .
For those who prefer their music with a side of classic rock grandeur, the same venue offers a second session later that evening. At 8:45 PM, the quartet will return to the stage for Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen and The Beatles. This double-header is a crowd favourite, weaving together the anthemic rock of Bohemian Rhapsody and We Will Rock You with the timeless songwriting of Hey Jude and Here Comes the Sun. Watching a string quartet navigate the complex harmonies of Queen juxtaposed with the delicate simplicity of The Beatles is a masterclass in musical versatility .
Saturday, February 21, 2026 – Rock Royalty & Modern Anthems
Saturday evening continues the residency at Grace Presbyterian Church with another double feature. At 6:30 PM, audiences can settle in for Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac. The Rumours album is often cited as one of the greatest breakup albums of all time, and its songs—Landslide, The Chain, Go Your Own Way—take on a new, poignant gravity when played in a candlelit sanctuary. The classical arrangements strip back the famous vocal harmonies to their core, allowing the lyrical vulnerability and intricate instrumentation to shine through .
Later that evening, at 8:45 PM, the vibe shifts to the 21st century with Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons. This performance is particularly popular among younger audiences and families, as it features the uplifting, arena-filling sounds of Viva La Vida, Yellow, Believer, and Radioactive. When performed by a string quartet, the electronic elements of Imagine Dragons are replaced by dramatic cello strokes and soaring violins, offering a fresh perspective on the energy that defines modern rock .
A Note on Venues: Grace Presbyterian Church
It is worth noting that Grace Presbyterian Church has become the de facto home for the Candlelight series in Calgary. Built in 1912, this historic building offers more than just a roof; it provides a sonic ambiance that modern halls struggle to achieve. The high ceilings and wooden interiors create a natural reverb that cradles the sound of the strings .
However, potential attendees should note the venue’s specific accessibility details. Zone A (the Balcony) is not accessible for those using wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices. For accessible seating, patrons must specifically book “Accessible Seating Only” tickets, which are located on the main floor. Seating within each zone is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving when doors open—typically 45 minutes prior to showtime—is recommended to secure preferred spots. It is also crucial to note that late arrivals are not permitted once the performance begins, a strict policy designed to preserve the intimate experience for all guests .
Beyond the Mainstream: KIRTAN by Candlelight
While the Fever presents series dominates the weekend listings, Calgary’s candlelit offerings extend beyond the mainstream tribute format. For those seeking a completely different kind of community experience, The Birdhouse, a private home in the Northwest community of Charleswood (133 Capri Ave NW), is hosting KIRTAN by Candlelight on Friday, February 20, at 7:30 PM.
This is not a concert in the traditional sense, but a gathering. Described as “a community kirtan to rest the mind, open the heart, and remember our shared belonging,” this event moves away from performance and toward participation. Kirtan is a traditional practice from the Bhakti yoga lineage, centred around call-and-response chanting of sacred mantras. Hosted in a “lived-in, love-held space,” attendees are invited to sing, listen, or simply sit in silence as the room fills with communal voice and candlelight. The event operates on a donation basis, making it an accessible option for those looking for spiritual solace rather than a structured concert
