Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): As thousands of devotees, families, and visitors prepare to participate in this weekend’s Nagar Kirtan, organizers, police, and city officials are encouraging residents to cooperate with temporary traffic and parking measures to help ensure a safe, respectful, and well-organized celebration.
Authorities confirmed that temporary road closures, parking restrictions, and bylaw regulations will be in effect throughout Northeast Calgary on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., as one of Calgary’s largest annual Sikh community events takes place. Management Committee members from the Dashmesh Culture Centre (DCC), one of the main organizers of the Nagar Kirtan, described the event as a celebration of faith, equality, volunteerism, and multicultural unity that welcomes people from all backgrounds. “Thousands of families, volunteers, and visitors participate in Nagar Kirtan every year. We request everyone attending to cooperate with volunteers, police, and city officials so the event can remain safe, peaceful, and enjoyable for all,” DCC Chairman Ranbir Parmar and President Harpal Grewal said while speaking to National Times Media.
DCC management also encouraged attendees to respect nearby residents and businesses by following parking regulations, using designated parking areas, and helping keep public spaces clean throughout the celebrations.
The Calgary Police Service confirmed that officers, Calgary Community Safety Officers, and the Calgary Parking Authority will be present throughout the parade route to assist with traffic management, public safety, and enforcement. Calgary Police said public safety remains the top priority during large community events and encouraged residents and visitors to plan ahead, expect delays, follow all traffic and parking restrictions, and cooperate with officers and event volunteers.
Police also warned that illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed during the event. Authorities noted that stopping or parking on sidewalks or boulevards could result in fines ranging from $40 to $68, while parking in areas prohibited by traffic control devices may also lead to similar fines.
Temporary no-parking restrictions will remain in effect on Saturday, May 9, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. along key sections of the parade route, including Martindale Blvd. N.E. between Martinbrook Road N.E. and Falconridge Blvd. N.E., as well as 54 Ave. N.E. between Castleridge Blvd. N.E. and Westwinds Drive N.E.
Calgary Police and city officials also reminded residents and visitors that parking on private property lawns is not permitted and improper parking in front of homes could result in fines ranging from $200 to $400. Vehicles parked in restricted zones may also be ticketed or towed to maintain emergency access and keep the route clear.
Several roads in Northeast Calgary will experience closures or lane reductions during the Nagar Kirtan procession. Martindale Boulevard N.E. will be closed between Martinbrook Road and Falconridge Blvd. N.E. Falconridge Boulevard N.E. will be reduced to a single northbound lane between Taradale Drive N.E./Martindale Blvd. and Castleridge Blvd. N.E./Falconridge Drive N.E., while no southbound traffic will be permitted south of Taracove Estate Drive N.E. In addition, 64 Avenue N.E. will be closed between Martindale Gate and Falconridge Blvd. N.E., Castleridge Boulevard N.E. will be closed between Falconridge Blvd. and Westwinds Crescent N.E., and 54 Avenue N.E. will be closed between Castleridge Blvd. N.E. and Westwinds Drive N.E.
Authorities are advising motorists to plan ahead, use alternate routes where possible, and remain patient as temporary traffic diversions are expected throughout the day.
DCC Chairman Ranbir Parmar said the Nagar Kirtan continues to reflect Calgary’s multicultural spirit and community harmony by bringing together thousands of people in a celebration centered on faith, volunteerism, and unity.
