Calgarians encouraged to start planning for Neighbour Day 2018

On June 16, Calgarians will come together in their communities, blocks, parks and streets to celebrate Neighbour Day 2018.

Held annually on the third Saturday of June, Neighbour Day is an opportunity for neighbours to come together and celebrate our strong community spirit in Calgary. In past years, Calgarians have celebrated in the form of front yard BBQs, community cleanups, picnics, garden parties and potlucks.

Mayor Nenshi spoke today to encourage Calgarians to participate and organize an event.

“At its core, Neighbour Day is about celebrating the strength and resilience of our community. Every time we come together—whether to build something for everyone or enjoy the company of neighbours and new friends--we’re making our communities even stronger,” said Mayor Nenshi. “It can be as simple as having tea in the common area of your apartment building, or as large as a community-wide games day in one of our many amazing parks.”

“Neighbour Day is a great opportunity for Calgarians to celebrate the unique qualities that make their neighbourhood strong and inspiring,” said Aaron Taylor, Neighbour Day 2018 organizer. “People are impacted by where they live. When a neighbourhood is thriving, it can positively affect the quality of life for everyone who lives there.”

For those wishing to host an event that requires a permit, The City is waiving its fees for approved block party and greenspace bookings on Neighbour Day. The deadline to submit permit applications for Neighbour Day is Friday, May 25, 2018.

This year, Calgarians will have the opportunity to invite Mayor Nenshi, their local Councillor, members of the Calgary Police Service, the Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Community Standards Peace Officers and 9-1-1 Communications Officers to their Neighbour Day event. An official invitation request can be submitted at Calgary.ca/NeighbourDay.

To sign-up for your Neighbour Day event and access celebration ideas, an event planning kit, information about permits, templates and other logistical considerations, visit Calgary.ca/NeighbourDay.

Neighbour Day was first held in June 2014 to celebrate the incredible outpouring of support and generosity neighbours demonstrated after the 2013 floods. It has since evolved into an annual celebration of Calgary’s strong and caring communities.

To show fellow Calgarians how you spent Neighbour Day, use #yycneighbourday.

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