Los Trompos brings free, dizzying fun to downtown Calgary in May
From May 1-28, The City is excited to bring a splash of colour and dizzying fun to Lot 6 (311 8 Street S.W.) through a large-scale, interactive installation called Los Trompos, creating a place of joy and connection in downtown Calgary.
Los Trompos, which is Spanish for spinning tops, was designed by Mexican creators Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena, and its tour produced by Creos. They drew inspiration from a toy that has been popular with children around the world and is considered one of the oldest toys in history. “The main goal behind creating Los Trompos was to generate interactions, human connection and emotions through new experiences,” says Héctor Esrawe. “We are thrilled to see people’s reactions as they enjoy sitting, spinning and playing on the structures.”
"Calgary’s future success relies on downtown being a place for Calgarians and visitors to live, work, learn and play,” says Natalie Marchut, Manager of Development & Strategy with Downtown Strategy. “Programming and activations support the ‘live’ and ‘play’ aspects of a vibrant downtown by providing a sense of community and opportunities for free and playful gathering for everyone. We’re thrilled to bring Los Trompos to Calgary, a free and inclusive activity that all Calgarians and visitors can enjoy.”
Mayor Jyoti Gondek agrees. “As we work on revitalizing our downtown, we recognize the transformative power interactive installations can have. The Los Trompos installation ignites a renewed sense of play and livability in the heart of our city. By integrating programming with downtown revitalization, we are creating engaging spaces and experiences for Calgarians and visitors alike,” says Gondek.
Los Trompos has brought joy and colour to cities around the world. “We look forward to seeing how Calgarians will engage with Los Trompos,” says Ignacio Cadena. “Will people sit and read a book, will they spin around, will they take a picture? Whatever they do, we hope it brings them joy and happiness.”
As downtown continues to transform, we along with our partners are committed to bring more events and installations downtown to support vibrancy. “Creating engaging experiences and dynamic public spaces builds community, fosters creativity and stimulates economic growth in the heart of our city," says Marchut. “Activating public spaces with installations like Los Trompos, enhances the quality of life and wellbeing of residents and visitors in the area and adds an element of fun to our downtown.”
As the event coincides with May 5th, Mexifest organizers will be hosting a family-friendly event from noon-4 p.m. Come down and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, live music and a DJ.
Downtown is where it all happens – it’s the pulse of our city and no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. Ready, set, explore! To learn more about Los Trompos and other exciting events and activations happening downtown, visit calgary.ca/exploredowntown.