Calendar link generators create URL-based links that, when clicked, let users add an event to Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Outlook, or Yahoo with a single click - no file download required.

AddEvent

The most complete calendar link generator. Generates separate links for each calendar platform (Google, Apple, Outlook, Office 365, Yahoo) plus a universal link that lets the user choose. Links can be customized, tracked with analytics, and embedded in emails, websites, SMS, and social media. Free plan includes 100 Add to Calendar clicks/month.

Google Calendar direct URL

Google provides a public URL structure for creating Google Calendar events: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/render?action=TEMPLATE&text=Event+Name&dates=20261201T100000/20261201T110000

Free, no setup required, but only creates Google Calendar events. Does not support Apple Calendar, Outlook, or Yahoo.

Outlook.com calendar URL

Similar direct URL approach for Outlook.com users. Same limitation - one platform only.

ICS file (iCalendar)

Generate a .ics file and link to it. When downloaded and opened, it imports into the user's default calendar app. Works universally but requires a file download step, behaves inconsistently across email clients, and cannot be updated after sending.

AddEvent vs. manual URL approach

The manual URL approach is free but locks you into one calendar platform per link. AddEvent generates all platform links from one event definition, adds analytics, provides a hosted landing page, and keeps links updatable after sending - the event details sync if you change them in the dashboard.

Most teams using Add to Calendar at scale (email campaigns, websites) use AddEvent for the cross-platform coverage and analytics.