How do I create a calendar view in Notion?

Creating a calendar view in Notion requires working within a database since calendars function as specialized database views that organize entries by date properties. You can establish a calendar either as a full-page view or inline within an existing page by typing /calendar on a blank page and selecting the calendar block option, then choosing to link an existing database or create a new one. This approach transforms your data into a visual monthly grid where entries appear as draggable cards positioned according to their assigned dates. The process takes just a few clicks but requires understanding Notion's database structure to maximize effectiveness.

The setup process varies slightly depending on your starting point. For a completely new calendar, navigate to your desired workspace location, click the + New Page button, name your page, then use the /calendar command to insert the calendar block. When prompted, you'll choose between linking an existing database or creating a fresh one from scratch. If you're adding a calendar view to an existing database, simply click the current view name at the top-left of your database and select "Calendar" from the dropdown menu. Both methods create the same functional result but serve different organizational needs.

Customization options significantly enhance your calendar's utility and visual appeal. You can adjust which properties display on calendar cards through the property visibility settings, enabling you to show relevant information like due dates, tags, or project status directly on each entry. Color-coding proves particularly valuable for categorizing events – using Select or Person properties allows you to assign distinct colors to different event types or team members. Additionally, you can modify the viewing scope by adjusting visible days using the ± buttons, toggle weekends and week numbers, and switch between monthly and weekly layouts through the settings menu.

However, several limitations merit consideration when implementing calendar views. The calendar requires a properly configured Date property to function correctly – entries without valid dates simply won't appear on your calendar grid. Performance can suffer with large databases containing hundreds of entries, as Notion renders all visible events simultaneously. Mobile functionality also differs from desktop, with some advanced customization options unavailable or handled differently on smaller screens. Additionally, backward scrolling through historical months isn't supported, which can limit reviewing past events.

Success with Notion calendars depends on consistent date property usage and thoughtful customization choices. Implement drag-and-drop functionality to reschedule events intuitively, use filters to isolate relevant information for specific contexts, and leverage the ability to embed calendar views inline with other content. These practices transform your calendar from a simple scheduling tool into an integrated component of your broader Notion workspace, supporting both individual productivity and team coordination efforts.