Life is about more than just work and sleep. Having places people can go to relax, socialize, learn and play is a big part of what makes a good city great. As Calgary grows, we're creating more places where people can connect with community, nature, recreation and learning.

"Calgary is growing quickly, and we're investing in both new and improved spaces that respond to that growth," says Ryan Atkinson, Director of Public Spaces Delivery with The City. "Whether it's a park, library, athletic field or community hub, these investments mean more ways for people to connect with each other and their communities." 

More places to play and stay active 

Calgarians will soon have more opportunities to get active, join local sports leagues and enjoy recreation close to home.  

This fall, we’re finishing construction on Rocky Ridge Athletic Park with two new outdoor artificial turf fields. Artificial turf allows the fields to be available earlier and later in the season, while new lighting helps people play later into the evening. Future plans for the site include an indoor fieldhouse.   We’re also beginning work on the Northeast Athletic Complex: a new sport space which will boast four outdoor multisport fields, an indoor fieldhouse, and Calgary’s first cricket pitch designed to host competition at the local, regional and national level. 

Looking forward, GamePLAN has identified more investments in new and renewed recreation infrastructure to help meet Calgary's long-term recreation needs. Funding for these investments will be considered as part of Council's budget process this fall. 

We’re building new places to learn and connect.  

Libraries and community hubs help bring people together. They create welcoming spaces where residents can learn, access services, spend time with neighbours and build community. 

Construction began this year on the Symons Valley Centre Library, a new 15,000 square foot facility including parking and a green space. The new library is part of a larger community hub that will eventually include a transit terminal, housing and shops, bringing a growing community together.  

Construction also continues on the Belmont Fieldhouse and Library: a new community hub featuring a 10,000 square foot public library paired with fieldhouse for year-round sport. When it opens in 2027, it will be a focal point for community activity, where Calgarians in the southwest can meet, read a book, train and play all year round. Future plans include a new recreation facility that will add even more ways for residents to gather and connect.  

More places to relax and enjoy nature 

Parks give people room to breathe, explore and spend time outdoors.  

We’re upgrading Munro Park with new features like a natural play zone, community plaza, a 3-on-3 basketball court, and rainwater-powered gardens that clean water and create habitats for birds, bugs and butterflies. Finally, we’ve moved the Centennial Grove public art and the Richardson Ground Squirrel sculptures from the old Olympic Plaza here, where they can continue to be enjoyed. The upgraded park will reopen in late Fall 2026. 

We’re also creating a new feature section – the Chinese Market Gardens – to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary that honours the Chinese families who once farmed the land and helped feed Calgary’s growing population. New pathways, native plants and interpretive features will help visitors connect with local history while enjoying one of Calgary’s most loved natural spaces. When complete, this will be a new and beautiful area for people to relax, birdwatch and experience nature.  

“This is an incredible legacy that we’ve made to last. After more than 10 years now as a tradition, it’s very clear that Neighbour Day is part of Calgary’s bones – it’s a day about Calgary, and being the best neighbours in the world,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas.  

Despite periods of rain and windy weather, this past weekend, on Saturday, June 20, neighbours across our city carried out their Neighbour Day events.   

One of this year’s featured celebrations took place at the Millican Ogden Community Association, where residents marked MOCA’s 70th anniversary with a parade, historical tours, interactive activity stations, cultural performances, food, and celebrations. Mayor Jeromy Farkas joined residents, volunteers and community leaders to recognize the role community associations play in creating welcoming, connected neighbourhoods. 

“Neighbour Day is about showing up for one another and taking pride in the places we live,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “Across Calgary, neighbours came together through block parties, community concerts, barbecues, crafts, gardening and more — simple ways to spend time together and strengthen local connections. Thank you to everyone who hosted, volunteered, and took part in this year’s celebrations.” 

Neighbour Day events included arts and crafts, community markets, live music, family games, garden gatherings, cultural activities and neighbourhood picnics in communities such as Sherwood, Kensington, Highland Park, Triwood, Edgemont, West Hillhurst, Dalhousie, Acadia, Auburn Bay, Chaparral, Maple Ridge and more, giving residents many ways to connect close to home. 

Willow Ridge hosted a community picnic with neighbours’ invited to paint tiles to be added at the Greener Grounds Grand Opening of a mural mosaic. In Tuxedo Park, a free outdoor art station was offered, and the Capitol Hill Community Association hosted cool experiences to celebrate the end of the school year, the day before.  

In Acadia, the Osten & Victor Alberta Tennis Centre celebrated its 10th anniversary with tennis activities, face painting, a barbecue, and opportunities to gather. The Hidden Valley Community Association celebrated a Neighbour Day carnival with fire dances, stilt walkers, carnival games, and an outdoor movie.  

Neighbour Day also connected with Sport Calgary’s All Sport One Day, giving children and youth a free opportunity to try new sports, while Tourism Calgary’s Come Together, Colour Calgary initiative invited participants at select events to help colour collaborative canvas murals celebrating Calgary’s people, places and diversity. 

For the second year in a row, the #YYCNeighbourDay microgrant helped bring celebrations to life. This year, 54 microgrants of up to $2,000 supported community associations, business improvement areas, and non-profit organizations in hosting free, community-led events across Calgary.

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Dr. Don Henderson, the Curator of Dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, said sea stars require extremely specific conditions to fossilize, making specimens of this age very rare and limited to only a handful of sites worldwide. The boulder that holds the sea star was placed there during the playground's construction in 2005 leading us to believe the fossil has remained there for over 20 years. Dr. Henderson says he has inquired where the boulders were sourced from, but the exact location has not been confirmed.

Sitting at the playground where the fossil was found, Alyssa crouched down studying her discovery further. When asked what her favorite thing about the fossil was, she replied, “I love how preserved it is”. Even at the age of seven, Alyssa is thinking beyond this moment, recognizing the importance of preserving a piece of Alberta’s history.

Speaking with Alyssa’s parents, it was clear this was a special moment for their family filled with pride, excitement and a touch of disbelief. They described their daughter’s passion for palaeontology and the thoughtful questions she brought to the Tyrrell team, including “how do sea stars fossilize if they don’t have bones?” a question that left many adults saying, “I had never thought of that.”

Dr. Henderson explained that “Tyrrell’s mandate is to preserve the fossil heritage of the province” meaning the fossil must be carefully removed from the park and stored in a controlled environment for research and conservation. The Tyrrell team used a diamond saw to diagonally cut into the stone, removing the section of rock containing the fossil, leaving the remaining boulder in place. City crews are working to smooth out the area and will be pouring new concrete to reconstruct the remaining rock. The fossil was taken back to the Tyrrell Museum where it will be cleaned, cataloged, and may eventually go on display.

Alyssa watched from a distance as the fossil was removed, climbing to the highest point of the playground for a better view. Once the rock was lifted, she had a chance to hold her discovery — a small but meaningful moment after her curiosity set everything in motion.  

Laureen Bryant, an Archaeologist from The City of Calgary’s Cultural Landscapes group, says in Alberta fossils are protected under the Historical Resources Act. It is very important to report suspected fossil finds directly to the Royal Tyrrell Museum. This includes noting the location, photographing the find, and most importantly leaving it undisturbed, making sure not to damage any fossils you encounter. For more information about reporting fossil finds, visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum website.

The City of Calgary Parks & Open Spaces team was amazed by Alyssa’s commitment to conservation and recognized her unbound potential and enthusiasm for science. As a thank-you, Parks & Open Spaces presented her with some small tokens of appreciation. These included swimming passes from The City of Calgary’s Recreation and Social Programs group, admission from Calgary Civic partners at the Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark Center and Heritage Park along with a tree to plant in memory of the day she uncovered a remarkable piece of history.

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Media contacts

Royal Tyrrell Museum 
Ashley Makohoniuk, Head of Marketing and Public Relations
Ashley.Makohoniuk@gov.ab.ca

The pilot, led by Recreation & Social Programs, is taking place at Glenmore and Frank McCool Athletic Parks. The goal is to better understand how the technology performs in real-world conditions and where it may be appropriate to use in the future.  

“This is a small, controlled trial that allows us to explore how new technology can support our crews and day-to-day operations,” says Marc Sackman, Team Lead, Recreation & Social Programs. “We’re focused on learning what works well and where it makes sense to use tools like this.” 

Supporting crews and improving field conditions 

The autonomous mowers are designed to handle routine grass cutting in open areas, operating along pre-programmed routes. By taking on some of this routine work, the pilot allows staff to focus more time on detailed maintenance and site upkeep.  

The technology can also support more consistent mowing throughout the week, helping maintain healthier and more even playing surfaces. In addition, flexible scheduling allows mowing to take place overnight or between bookings, which can be difficult to achieve with traditional equipment and competing site demands. In addition, the units operate at a low noise level of up to 52 dB, similar to a conversation, helping minimize noise impacts to nearby users and communities. 

Focused on learning 

The pilot will continue through the 2026 season, with a focus on safety, reliability and overall performance. 

The City will use what it learns to assess where this technology adds value and where it does not. There are no current plans to expand beyond the two pilot sites. Any future decisions will be made after results have been fully reviewed. 

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As the first point of contact in an emergency, Emergency Communications Officers (ECOs) play a vital role in keeping both the public and first responders safe. Before emergency crews arrive at the scene, it’s the Calgary 9-1-1 ECO who is there, gathering critical information, reassuring the caller, providing life‑saving instructions, coordinating complex multi‑unit responses, and relaying critical information to help emergency crews respond quickly and safely.

In addition to supporting the Calgary Police Service, Calgary Fire Department, and Community Safety Peace Officers, Calgary 9‑1‑1 serves as the fire dispatch centre for 11 regional fire departments.

As Calgary continues to grow, demand for 9‑1‑1 services is increasing, with more than one million emergency and non‑emergency calls answered by Calgary 9-1-1 each year.

In 2025, Calgary 9‑1‑1 saw a four per cent increase in overall call volume compared to the previous year, accompanied by growth in events created and supported across multiple public safety partners. Calgary Police Service and Calgary Fire Department events each increased by five per cent in 2025, while regional fire events rose by 14 per cent.

Calgary 9‑1‑1 also supported more than 18,000 Community Peace Officer events and redirected more than 2,000 calls to 2‑1‑1, helping ensure callers were connected to the most appropriate services while reducing pressure on emergency response resources.

Beyond higher call volumes, the complexity of calls has also increased. Over the past two years, the time spent on each call has risen by 10 per cent.

Contributing factors include a growing number of calls requiring language services, which typically take three times longer to process and add significant complexity to emergency response. Between 2024 and 2025, calls requiring language support increased by 10 per cent.

At the same time, dispatchers may manage up to 2,000 radio transmissions in a single shift, while maintaining constant awareness of responder safety and providing critical scene support.

Requests from public safety partners for dispatch support at large public events and demonstrations have also increased, rising by approximately five per cent annually over the past five years. Dispatchers assigned to these events require additional, specialized training to manage heightened public safety risks. One of the largest examples is the Calgary Stampede, which continues to grow in both size and attendance, resulting in additional incident command posts and expanded monitoring needs across the city. As a result, requested dispatch support has increased from three dispatchers per day in 2023 to five per day in 2025.

“Year after year, our Emergency Communications Officers and Dispatchers are handling more calls and increasingly complex situations - all while continuing to do their work with professionalism and compassion,” says Lori Bailey, Chief of Calgary 9‑1‑1. “Their work is often unseen, but its impact is felt across our community every day. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is an opportunity to recognize these dedicated professionals and the vital difference they make in our community every day.”

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Applications are closing on March 20, 2026, for Camp Courage Calgary – a camp for young women and gender-diverse youth, aged 15 to 18, that are interested in pursuing a career as a First Responder.

Camp Courage was originally founded by Andréa Speranza in Halifax in 2006 and we are excited to offer Camp Courage for the fifth year in Calgary.

Camp Courage Calgary is a free week-long camp for young women and gender-diverse youth, aged 15 to 18, who are interested in pursuing a career in fire services, policing, and/or paramedicine. The camp provides participants with the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of what it is like to work in emergency services, while empowering them to reach their full potential through challenging activities, leadership opportunities, and team building.

“I really love being able to encourage others, especially youth who are considering a career as a first responder. Mentoring campers at the fire stations has always been a highlight for me watching them learn, grow, and accomplish new things alongside their peers is incredibly rewarding. It can be so hard for teens to figure out what they’re passionate about, and choosing a career can feel overwhelming. Camp Courage helps bridge that gap by connecting them with inspiring mentors and showing them that a career like this is possible,” said Calgary Fire Recruitment Officer and Camp Courage Calgary Spokesperson, Tania Tyson.

This camp is only possible through the collaborative initiative delivered by women in Calgary Police Service, The Calgary Fire Department, and Emergency Health Services. It is funded by the Calgary Police Youth Foundation and the Bridges to Brighter Futures Program, which is proudly supported by the Shaw Family Foundation.

Applications Close: March 20, 2026 (Open Jan. 1 - March 20, 2026)
Successful Applicants Receive Notice: May 1, 2026
Camp Dates: July 13-19, 2026
Website to Apply: https://campcourage.ca/apply/how-to-apply/

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They were loaned to The City on a handshake and a smile back in 1986. A prolific craftsperson, Tom never sold any of his creations but instead loaned it to organizations that displayed them. From the late 1960s until his death in 1984, Tom carved approximately 200 masks out of pine and spruce burls harvested from the Jumping Pound Area of Alberta.

On March 6, The City and Tom Ward’s family are honouring the Calgarian and his creations by signing a formal agreement ensuring the wood carvings stay on display at Devonian Gardens.

“It’s extremely important to our family that these carvings remain in a public place where they can be appreciated by park visitors,” said Tim Ward, Tom’s son.

Carving was just one of Tom’s hobbies that helped him unwind after a day working in The City’s planning department and later as lead for The City’s first bylaw enforcement office.

“My father was a prolific craftsperson,” said Tim. “While he was recovering in England following the Second World War, someone showed him how to do needlepoint. From there he started also creating rugs and then taught himself wood carving.”

Tom, along with his family and neighbours, built an outdoor studio and community gathering place in his backyard. There, he would work in front of an enormous fireplace for 10 to 20 hours per week. The family also made numerous trips outside Calgary to collect logs to fuel his passion.

“He got a permit from the Head of Forestry in those days to harvest dead and diseased trees that had knots,” said Tim. “We would go out in the dead of winter because the trees grew in areas with moist muskeg that were only accessible when it was really cold. So, we would trek in, cut down these logs with knots in them, carry them out then attach them to our 1950s four-door sedan and drive home.”

Tom was known as a generous force of nature that was always open to sharing his time, including teaching others how to carve and shared many conversations in front of the fire.

“He would look at a piece of wood and already see the creation he was going to make,” said Tim. “When he carved you could watch him take the face out of that piece of wood; that unto itself was unique.”

The family feels that there really is no better place than in a park for Tom’s unique wood carvings as he deeply loved the outdoors and the company of trees.

“Having his carvings in Devonian Gardens is really perfect, quite serendipitous; we actually couldn’t imagine them anywhere else,” said Tim, adding that he has heard this from many family members.

A festival built for everyone

Now in its sixth year, Chinook Blast brings Eau Claire Plaza and Princes Island Park Lagoon to life with art, music and winter experiences. For many Calgarians, the festival has become a bright spot in the season, and this year it’s even easier to enjoy. A calm Chill Out Zone, easy‑to‑ride Ice Bikes and on‑site All‑Terrain Wheelchairs are helping more people take part in the way that works best for them, whether they’re locals embracing the season, newcomers getting to know the city or families planning their long weekend outing.

These features are supported by The City of Calgary’s Winter City Strategy, which aims to reduce social isolation and improve access to outdoor activities and cultural experiences during the typically colder months. Even in this unusually warm stretch, the Strategy’s goal remains the same: creating opportunities for people to get outside, connect and enjoy winter – whatever form it decides to take.

“Winter can feel long for many people – we want to make it easier to step outside and feel part of something,” says Mary Quinlan, Project Manager with Arts & Culture at The City of Calgary. “When people can move through the festival comfortably and enjoy it on their own terms, you can see what the Winter City Strategy is meant to do. Small changes create real moments of connection.”

What’s new

Chill Out Zone – A quiet, low‑stimulus space where people can reset, warm up or take a breather. The tent is wheelchair accessible and has already become a welcome stop for families, sensory‑sensitive visitors and anyone who needs a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the festival.

Ice Bikes (Prince’s Island Park Lagoon) – With skates and a wide base, Ice Bikes offer a way to enjoy the ice without needing skating experience. They are designed for a range of ages and have been constant conversation starters on the lagoon. With warmer‑than‑usual weather, availability may vary. Please check chinookblast.ca for updates and calgary.ca/rinks for ice status.

All‑Terrain Wheelchairs (Eau Claire Plaza pathways) – These adaptive wheelchairs allow people who benefit from the use of a mobility device to safely explore snowy or uneven pathways around the festival. Check out The City’s new Winter All-Terrain Wheelchair pilot project, which is providing the chairs available at the festival and can also be booked for use at select parks. 

“The Chill Out Zone shows how low-stimulation spaces can support cultural participation by giving people a place to pause, decompress and choose how and when to re-engage with the festival,” says Michelle Brandenburg, Director of Relationships at Inside Out Theatre and facilitators of the Chill Out Zone. “While it was developed with neurodivergent audiences in mind, it’s been embraced by families, seniors and anyone needing a break from noise, crowds and sensory intensity – reinforcing that when access is built in, cultural experiences become more welcoming for everyone.”

More than a strategy

The Winter City Strategy is not just a policy document. It’s a lens used by The City and its partners to design winter experiences that feel welcoming to more people. At Chinook Blast, that work includes providing these new features at no cost to the festival and attendees. Placing these options in a busy, central space gives thousands of visitors the chance to see, experience and learn about them.

Celebrate the season this long weekend

Chinook Blast was created to bring people downtown and energize Calgary’s winter economy – a goal that continues to shine through its installations, performances and community partnerships. That spirit continues into the final weekend, which also includes The GOOD Games – Winter Edition at the BMO Centre, a celebration of inclusivity in sport that adds an extra spark of movement and connection.

Discover what makes winter in Calgary vibrant, active and full of possibilities. Learn more at calgary.ca/lovewinter.

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When Candice McLellan visits a Calgary park with her family in the winter, she has a lot more to consider than remembering to bring mitts, hats and hot chocolate.

“Having a child who is a wheelchair user makes it very difficult to get out and enjoy many parks due to how wheelchairs are built,” said McLellan. “The front caster wheels are small and easily get stuck when not on well paved surfaces. When it comes to winter, these issues are exacerbated due to snow and slush and all the uneven surfaces.”

The City of Calgary’s Winter All-Terrain Wheelchair (ATW) pilot project aims to make it easier for families like Candice’s to enjoy our beautiful winter park spaces. Between now and early March, Calgarians can reserve an ATW to explore two parks — North Glenmore Park and Prairie Winds Park. There is no cost to book an ATW, you just need to login or create an Live and Play account.

An ATW is a rugged chair designed to allow users to visit places and landscapes that would otherwise be inaccessible. These wheelchairs have extra-wide tires to increase stability on uneven or unsteady terrain and skis to help navigate snow.

“We are very focused on making it easier for everyone to enjoy our parks and we recognize that for some people winter presents unique challenges,” said Mark Murias, Superintendent, Parks & Open Spaces. “Now Calgarians can borrow an ATW to explore these two parks freely, including using the wheeled version on our skating rinks and ice trails.”

Executive Director of Cerebral Palsy Kids and Families Sheralee Stelter said winter creates uneven terrain and slippery conditions for their clients that can turn a simple outing into something unsafe or even impossible. This pilot is an example of inclusive programming that supports a healthy, active lifestyle year-round for individuals needing a mobility device.

“Winterized All-Terrain Wheelchairs (ATW) are life-changing, but they’re simply too expensive for many families who are already carrying the cost of caring for someone with a disability,” said Sheralee. “By offering them for free, the City is removing a major barrier and creating more equitable access to outdoor play and recreation for people with disabilities.

“Access to outdoor spaces brings immense joy and improves both physical and mental well-being for our clients. Through our accessible equipment programs, we see increased confidence, social connection, and happiness when individuals and families can fully participate in outdoor experiences.”

Once the pilot wraps up in March, Parks & Open Spaces will review the results and determine if they will extend the pilot.

“We are super thankful for projects like this so that we can get out as a family in all seasons,” said Candice. “Having tried the ATW with skis in deep and hard packed snow, I was surprised with how easy it was to push. With Kanen being a teenager now, who is taller than me, I was able to run and push him with ease! I’m really excited for the chance to get out and try these chairs throughout our city.”

Users can choose from an ATW with wheels to travel pathways, snowy areas and skating rinks or an ATW with skis to traverse the snow. ATWs can be used by anyone who would benefit from using a mobility device, however, there are weight restrictions and height guidelines. To find out more about the program, how to book an ATW and additional guidelines for use, visit calgary.ca/atw

This is another example about how The City helps more Calgarians stay active, connected and included through the winter months. For more ideas about how to enjoy our Winter City, visit calgary.ca/lovewinter.

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This year, guest curators, Paul Magnuson, Victoria Bucholtz (aka Karla Marx), and Kayla Bigras (aka Smokey Waters/B.Sassidy) bring their creativity and experience to the festival hub, filling it with new installations, dynamic entertainment, and the kind of winter magic you can only find at Chinook Blast.
From larger-than-life light installations, a drag show on ice and electronic music showcases to artist markets and live performances, Chinook Blast proves that winter in Calgary is meant to be embraced.

“Chinook Blast is an event that has been building from strength to strength over the past six years, providing amazing experiences for visitors from far and wide,” says Alisha Reynolds, President and CEO of Tourism Calgary. “We are very lucky to be living in one of Canada’s fastest-growing major cities, and in many ways, our winter season is just as vibrant as our summer. Chinook Blast kicks off a busy year with a sport or cultural event almost every week in the first few months of 2026, so we encourage everyone to get out and have a “cool-cation” in Calgary!”

Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO, Tourism Calgary 
(Part of Chinook Blast’s Executive Committee) 

 WEEKEND 1 – Electrifying performances ignite Eau Claire Plaza

● Friday, January 30 - High Performance Rodeo kicks off Chinook Blast at the RISE UP Outdoor Community Stage with the dynamic duo Cedric Lightning and Kris Demeanor. Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater returns with performances from L’omelette and Tribe Artist Society.

● Saturday, January 31 - Drag on Ice 4 returns with a full-on Frozen Disco Extravaganza featuring, for the first time, a queen from RuPaul’s Drag Race U.S. Joey Jay of season 13 takes to the ice with Calgary’s own comedian and drag queen Karla Marx at Prince’s Island Lagoon. Joey Jay will also be doing a meet-and-greet with fans before the show! Then Dos Leches, DJ Molly Fi and DJ Cybervvitch take over the outdoor stage with unforgettable dance music.

Between the live performances and 14 larger-than-life art installations (open to the public daily Jan. 30–Feb. 16), you’ll find glowing, engaging roving performances from Three Left Feet, Le Cirque de la Nuit and Puppet Stuff Canada, and the opportunity to try drytooling, Canada’s next Olympic Sport, with the Alpine Club of Canada. Then just next door, Seconds Collective Market (Jan. 30–Feb. 1) takes over the Chinese Cultural Centre (197 1 St SW) with the best vintage finds from local vendors.

Plus skate on Prince’s Island Lagoon! Don’t have your own pair? No problem, the Skate Hut has rentals with Alberta Blue Cross offering the first 50 rentals free on selected days.


WEEKEND 2 – High-energy beats meet immersive cultural experiences

● Friday, February 6 - Eau Claire Plaza will be packed with live performances from Prairie Sparks: Local Lights presented by The Werklund Centre as well as local artists Dempsey Bolton and the Cruz Brothers (DJ Fatrok & DJ C-SIK). Join the National Music Centre at The Dome (sponsored by Calgary Foundation) for the Canadian Song Circle, an outdoor sing-along featuring songs by iconic Canadian artists, try snow tie-dyeing with Mohar Gupta. DJ Molly Fi is back, this time spinning the beats at the Lagoon for those who want to skate their hearts out.

● Saturday, February 7 - PK Sound & Friends present - MOVE - an open-air electronic music showcase is sure to heat up the season with deep beats (using PK T8 sound system) and standout local and regional talent including, The Librarian, Esette B2B Jon Delerious, Cary Chang, Safi, DJ Hannah and Dan Solo. In collaboration with Le Cirque de la Nuit, Versions, I Love Techno YYC (ILTYYC), and B!G ART, this vibrant night blends music, art and fire spectacle where friends and family can gather and dance! Discover Cirque in the Snow! (SnowGlow Circus) with the Little Red Ball Company. 

All weekend discover roving performances from Three Left Feet, skate the lagoon or visit the Authentically Indigenous for the Winter Frost: Indigenous Market (Feb. 6–8) at the Chinese Cultural Centre.

WEEKEND 3 – Fest finale packed with family fun

● Friday, February 13 - Calgary Opera will present Serious Family Fun: Little Red Riding Hood, the classic tale brought to life through a delightful and charming children’s opera at The Dome. Asian Heritage Foundation will be taking over the outdoor stage with the ImaginAsian Showcase, featuring over a dozen artists, who will explore diverse genres of music and performances, including a dragon dance, Korean drumming, and martial arts demonstrations. 

● To celebrate Lunar New Year and Chinook Blast, the Chinatown BIA presents a live ice sculpture activation (Feb. 6–13), with live carving taking place at Eau Claire Plaza on February 12 and 13. Master ice sculptors from Harbin, China, the world’s largest ice and snow festival, will transform large blocks of ice into striking works of art, with additional sculptures on display throughout Chinatown. This free, family-friendly experience invites visitors to experience the artistry and cultural tradition of ice sculpting as part of Calgary’s winter festival season.

● Saturday, February 14 - On Valentine’s Day, Blue Jay Sessions: Amped Up! will bring Calgary’s favourite singer-songwriters, including Tea Fannie and Alex Hughes, to perform collaborative high-energy sets of love songs and heartbreak anthems.

● Sunday, February 15 - YYC Music Awards, in partnership with JazzYYC, will present a vibrant showcase including Métis/Colombian singer-songwriter Damase Elis, Indigenous techno/electronic artist Sean Beaver, folk-pop phenom Maclayne, and multi-award-winning hip-hop king K-Riz & The Family. Or take a beat and watch live freeform sculpting with wood carving from Michael Penny and ice carving by Marie-Line Gagne. Plus, The GOOD Games will present a high-energy freestyle soccer showcase, led by five-time world champion Andrew Henderson. This dynamic performance blends athleticism, creativity, and modern street-soccer culture as part of the festival’s sport programming.

●  Monday, February 16 - Festival of Animated Objects takes over the Plaza with winter-themed roving puppets and masked characters. Ethnik Festivals returns with performances from Skinny Blaiz and Ray Val. Then Bollywood Jam with Dhanak, a high-energy fusion music experience, takes to the stage, followed by DJ Jadé, who will wrap up Chinook Blast with her genre-bending dance music.

In addition to this back-to-back entertainment, Family Day long weekend at Chinook Blast will also feature engaging all-ages entertainment fit for the whole family including, Bravo Circus (Feb. 13–14) and YYC Princesses (Feb. 15–16).

With Lunar New Year around the corner, the Chinese Cultural Centre will be home to a Chinese Market and Celebration (Feb. 14–16) which will include dragon and lion dances, multicultural performances, local food vendors, a marketplace, and other festive activities celebrating culture and community.

A New Spot to Sip and Warm Up

Chinook Blast is expanding the festival experience with a new beer garden from Eighty-Eight Brewing Co., who will serve their signature craft beers along with mulled wine, Baileys, and other seasonal favourites to help you warm up and enjoy the winter fun.

Chinook Blast brings people downtown during a traditionally quieter season, supporting local artists, performers, makers, businesses, and restaurants while activating Calgary’s winter core. As a free, community-driven festival, it encourages winter participation and connection, and in past years has generated up to $15 million in economic impact. Chinook Blast continues to strengthen Calgary’s reputation as a vibrant, creative, and welcoming city.
 

“Calgary’s creative economy isn’t just about art, music or performance—it’s about innovation, vibrancy and bright minds seeing the world with a unique lens. Events like Chinook Blast show the world that Calgary is a city where creativity fuels economic growth and builds a strong sense of community. People want to live in an inclusive city where they can work hard, play hard and feel connected, and this winter festival is proof of the creative pulse that makes Calgary that place, all year round.”

Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development 
(Part of The Chinook Blast Executive Committee)

As Calgary’s signature winter festival, Chinook Blast continues to anchor and energize the city’s cold-season calendar. The festival is proud to see the momentum it has helped build, inspiring other major winter experiences, including The GOOD Games Winter Edition at the BMO Centre, February 13–15, Sport Calgary All Sport One City February 7–16, East End Cold Spell, and other local events, adding even more vibrancy to the season for Calgarians and visitors alike.

See the full lineup, explore other winter events in Calgary, and discover food and hospitality specials at ChinookBlast.ca.

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About Chinook Blast

Chinook Blast is Calgary's signature winter celebration that unites partners from arts, nonprofit, neighbourhood, tourism, and sports communities to showcase the best of the city during the winter season. Our vision is to create a uniquely Calgary winter experience that attracts visitors globally. Learn more at www.chinookblast.ca.

Chinook Blast Executive Committee is comprised of the following organizations:

About The City of Calgary 
Chinook Blast is The City of Calgary’s Winter City Strategy in action, bringing people together to celebrate the season through art, culture and community. By winterizing public spaces, supporting local businesses and creating experiences that celebrate the season, Calgary is a city where winter is something to embrace. Learn more about how to love winter at Calgary.ca/LoveWinter. For media inquiries, contact media.relations@calgary.ca or 403-828-2954.

About Calgary Arts Development

As the city’s designated arts development authority, Calgary Arts Development supports and strengthens the arts to benefit all Calgarians. We invest and allocate municipal funding for the arts provided by the City of Calgary and leverage these funds to provide additional resources to the arts sector. Our programs support hundreds of arts organizations, individual artists, artist collectives, and ad hoc groups in Calgary. For more information, visit: calgaryartsdevelopment.com.

About Calgary Economic Development
Calgary Economic Development is an opportunity-maker, helping to spark and fuel Calgary’s growth. Our job is to connect people with resources that can help them grow their careers or businesses, thrive in new locations or markets and feel at home in our community. We steward the economic strategy, Uplook: An Action Plan for Our Economy with the mandate to position Calgary for long-term economic success by supporting the expansion, retention and acquisition of companies, capital and talent. We offer a wealth of information to help everyone succeed and we tirelessly promote Calgary, in Canada and around the world. For more information, visit www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com and follow us on LinkedIn.  For media inquiries, contact media@calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com or 403-880-7040.

About Tourism Calgary

Tourism Calgary is the destination management organization that, for over 60 years, has enthusiastically told the story of the warm hospitality and adventurous spirit our city is known for. From conventions to leisure travel, major sports events to music and arts, Tourism Calgary promotes our unique experiences to the over 8 million people who visit Calgary every year. We market Calgary in new and exciting ways, driving over $3B in visitor spend for the local economy and advocating for Calgary’s growing tourism industry to host visitors, offer shareable experiences, and activate experiences in ways that attract, connect, and inspire. For more information, visit: visitcalgary.com.

New Year, New Winter Adventures - All Free 
The new location at Eau Claire Plaza is just the tip of the iceberg. This year, guest curators, Paul Magnuson, Victoria Bucholtz (aka Karla Marx), and Kayla Bigras (aka Smokey Waters/B.Sassidy) bring their creativity and experience to the festival hub, filling it with new installations, dynamic entertainment, and the kind of winter magic you can only find at Chinook Blast.

Art That Shines Bright 
The Plaza will shine with 14 of the best and brightest installations created by Calgary artists alongside select international works. Local highlights include a 13 metre geodesic light-up dome that anchors the site with an unmistakable glow and two Winter City Design Competition winners, Out from Under the Shadows3 and Luminisona +. International showstoppers include Electric Dandelions, a series of 28-foot-tall firework sculptures from California and The Cloud Swing, an illuminated swing that lights up with colour as you move. See the full lineup of projection mapping, LED displays, and other glowing art at ChinookBlast.ca.

Live Entertainment That Turns Up the Heat 
It’s going to be a party at Chinook Blast as the festival turns up the heat with these first big reveals. 

● January 31 with Drag on Ice 4, a Chinook Blast favourite, returns bigger and better for a full-on Frozen Disco Extravaganza at the Prince’s Island Lagoon. Joey Jay from RuPaul’s Drag Race 
and Calgary’s own comedian and drag queen Karla Marx will light up the ice with big wigs, bold looks, and a show that proves drag on skates is the only way to start a festival. 
● The energy keeps building on February 7 as PK Sound & Friends present -MOVE- an open-air electronic music showcase sure to heat up the season with deep beats & standout local and regional talent. In collaboration with VERSIONS, ILTYYC, and B!G ART, this vibrant night blends music, art & spectacle where friends and family can gather and dance! 
● On February 14, Blue Jay Sessions will bring a Valentine’s Day edition packed with Calgary’s favourite singer-songwriters such as Tea Fannie and Alex Hughes, performing collaborative high-energy sets of love songs and heartbreak anthems.

“What began as a way to brighten the coldest months has become a winter tradition that celebrates the artists, performers, and community builders who make Calgary what it is. This year, we're welcoming a handful of international creators to join our amazing local talent for a festival that is sure to excite, inspire and delight.” - Patti Pon, Chair of Chinook Blast Executive Committee and President and CEO of Calgary Arts Development

Festival Partners Bringing Crowd Favourites to the Hub 
Chinook Blast’s Pillar Festival Partners are bringing their talent to the RISE UP Calgary Outdoor Community Stage. 

High Performance Rodeo kicks off the celebrations on January 30 with Kris Demeanor and Cedric Lighting. A multidisciplinary artist and Calgary’s inaugural Poet Laureate (2012–2014), Kris brings his signature blend of sharp wit, storytelling, and music to the audience. 

Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater keeps the momentum going on January 30 with two back-to-back performances, starting with L’omelette and their colourful, genre-blending art-rock sound, followed by Tribe Artist Society, an Indigenous-led Hip Hop and arts collective dedicated to mentorship, empowerment, and creative expression. 

Ethnik Festivals brings the vibes on February 16 with Skinny Blaizfaya, an Afropop artist, and Ray Val, a singer and songwriter, creating an energetic Family Day performance.

New Market Location 
The markets are back with a new home and a fresh mix of local artists and businesses. The Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre (197 1 St SW), just steps away from Eau Claire Plaza, will welcome the return of Authentically Indigenous, along with Seconds Collective, Calgary’s coolest vintage and secondhand pop-up market.

A New Spot to Sip and Warm Up 
Chinook Blast is expanding the festival experience with a new beer garden from Eighty-Eight Brewing Co., who will serve their signature craft beers along with mulled wine, Baileys, and other seasonal favourites to help you warm up and enjoy the winter fun. 

With three weekends packed with FREE entertainment, arts, culture, markets and more, this is just a glimmer of what is to come, stay tuned! The full line-up for the sixth edition of Chinook Blast will be released in January 2026. 

As Calgary’s signature winter festival, Chinook Blast continues to anchor and energize the city’s cold-season calendar. The festival is proud to see the momentum it has helped build, inspiring other major winter happenings, including The GOOD Games Winter Edition at the BMO Centre from February 13 to 15 and East End Cold Spell, adding even more vibrancy to the season for Calgarians and visitors alike. 
 

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When temperatures dip below zero, Calgary parks come alive with winter-only experiences made possible by ice, snow and earlier sunsets. Resist the urge to hibernate by trying these winter activities available in city parks during the colder months of the year.

Twinkly, cheery light displays

Skies darken earlier in the winter creating the opportunity for free, fantastic light displays to take centre stage in many of Calgary’s parks. Here are a few showstoppers for you to check out.

Eau Claire Plaza - Snap your holiday magic here! A giant 40-foot Christmas tree steals the show, joined by a forest of festive trees, a glowing polar bear, wreaths, and more. Eau Claire Plaza is also hosting The City’s New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31, ending the night with spectacular fireworks. Visit calgary.ca/nye for details.

Prairie Winds Park - The outdoor skating rink is glowing brighter than ever—festive lights have tripled, and we’ve added even more fire pits and seating for the ultimate winter hangout.

Confederation Park Golf Course – For 39 years, Lions Festival of Lights has lit up the night along 14 St NW north of 24 Avenue. This family-friendly free light display will be available every evening, ending after January 8, 2026.

Bowness Park - The magical atmosphere created by so many trees wrapped in lights that you can see it from kilometers away is a sight not to be missed. This winter wonderland will brighten your evening walk or skate along the ice trail or lagoon.

North Glenmore Park - Explore this park bursting with bright lights and fantastic winter fun including an illuminated tunnel over the ice trail, beautiful strings of light along the skating area that includes two Crokicurl rinks, curling and shinny hockey rink.

So many places to skate

There are so many options for getting your skate on in Calgary. We have eight outdoor, natural skating rinks, over 60 volunteer-run Adopt-a-Rinks and indoor skating. Keep in mind that the building of outdoor natural ice rinks can only start once temperatures are consistently between -7 and -12. As a result, our outdoor rinks are typically available around mid-to-late December. Visit Calgary.ca/rinks to check the status of rinks near you throughout the season.

Downtown skating destinations 
Looking for a place to skate downtown after enjoying the festive lights at Eau Claire Plaza? Prince’s Island Park lagoon skating rink is less than a five-minute walk from the plaza. Just cross the brightly lit Jaipur bridge to the lagoon. Skate rentals will be available for the first time this year and more firepits and seating has also been added. Downtown skating enthusiasts can also visit the popular rink at Thomson Family Park.   

Experience the beauty of enchanting ice trails
Calgary’s answer to the Rideau Canal is our ice trails. Visit North Glenmore and Bowness parks this winter to enjoy a skate along an illuminated natural ice pathway. At Bowness Park you skate past trees wrapped with hundreds of lights. North Glenmore Park’s trails are lit by draped strings of lights and a light tunnel you can skate through. 

Unique winter experiences
Across Calgary, winter transforms our parks, streets and neighbourhoods into spaces for connection, celebration and creativity. It’s a season that offers unique experiences that are unavailable during any other season. Here are a few unique activities that you can look forward to trying this winter. 
 
 

Try a bicycle built for…skating?! 
Does the thought of gliding across ice on two thin blades make you queasy? Try an ice bike instead. Ice bikes can be rented at Bowness Park and offer a safe, stable alternative for all ages and skill levels. If you are not a strong skater, you can still join in and have fun on the ice. The front wheel of an ice bike has been replaced by skates and the back wheel moves on the ice and is surrounded by skates. It has a wide base, so you don’t even have to balance, just pedal and steer as if you’re riding a normal bike.

These boots are made for…playing Crokicurl 
Try out this fun winter activity suitable for all ages — no prior experience required! All you need to do is travel to Bowness Park , North Glenmore Park, and, new this year, Barb Scott Park and bring your mitts, boots and a friend or two and you are set. Crokicurl is a large-scale version of the Crokinole board game combined with curling. The only equipment needed is the curling stones which are provided at the park during the rink’s opening hours. Bowness Park has four full-sized Crokicurl rinks — three with a firepit in the middle — and a junior Crokicurl rink. North Glenmore’s two full-sized Crokicurl rinks are located near the scenic ice trails. Barb Scott Park has one Corkicurl rink in the main greenspace.   

Plan a cozy downtown adventure
This season, downtown Calgary is your ultimate winter wonderland! From free events like Chinook Blast to cozy café dates, twinkling lights, and delicious treats, there’s something for everyone. Bundle up, bring your friends, and make this winter unforgettable.

As Calgarians, we don’t just survive winter, we celebrate it! This is your invitation to step into the heart of the city and enjoy a winter packed with festivals, activities and cozy vibes you can’t find anywhere else. From November – March, check out new monthly itineraries that provide a mix of fresh, fun and unique ideas to plan your perfect downtown winter outing with friends, family, or just yourself. Plan your downtown adventure today at www.exploredowntownyyc.com.  

Frosty fun at Chinook Blast
Chinook Blast is back for its sixth year, January 30 to February 16, 2026. Chinook Blast is Calgary’s signature winter celebration that brings together partners from the arts, nonprofit, tourism and sports communities to create an event that showcases the best of our winter city. New for 2026, Eau Claire Plaza will serve as the central hub for Chinook Blast, offering a fresh, purpose-built space for winter celebration in downtown Calgary.

There is so much to experience in our City parks this winter including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, booking winter fire pits and more. Looking for more ideas on how to fall in love with winter? Visit Calgary.ca/LoveWinter

“We are very proud to collaborate with so many partners that provide festive programming, activities and experiences for all Calgarians – this month, and through the winter,” said Tim Mowrey, The City’s Acting  Director of Partnerships. “By working together, city partners are able to create experiences that strengthen our communities, support local creators and businesses, and ensure everyone can enjoy the magic of the season.” 

The City has more than 25 Civic Partners, which receive the most significant City investments including grants, and manage and operate City-owned facilities. Through our Partnerships team, we also support almost 500 sport, social, and community partner organizations, that vary in size, but all help make Calgary great for everyone.   

All our partners help transform Calgary during the holidays with unique experiences, whether it’s lighting up the night with dazzling holiday light displays, offering festive outdoor activities, or organizing seasonal events that showcase local talent, we are thankful for our many wonderful partners. Here are some of the events and activities of just a few City partners.  

 “The winter season is the perfect time to visit your local Library to stock up on cozy reads, including our Books of the Year picks, and enjoy winter programming," says Heather Robertson, Executive Director, Service Design and Innovation for Calgary Public Library. "Thanks to a strong partnership with The City of Calgary, we are excited to offer free, family seasonal activities, along with regular library services." 

City of Calgary Civic Partners 

Calgary Public Library 

Mayor's Holiday Storytime:  Calgary's Mayor Jeromy Farkas will read books, share songs and rhymes, and answer questions from the audience. After story time, enjoy holiday snacks and festive tunes from Rozsa Arts musicians. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. (Central Library) 

Rozsa Arts at the Library brings performances at the Central and Memorial Park Libraries. There are multiple dates and times this month. 

Winter Wishes Movie Night: Frozen 2: Join us for a screening of Frozen 2 and see Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven as they journey into the enchanted forest to uncover the origins of Elsa’s powers. Bring the whole family for a festive night out and enjoy our free hot chocolate bar. Dec. 11, 2025, at 6 p.m. at Memorial Park Library. 

Winter Wishes Movie Night: Love Actually: Enjoy this classic holiday rom com, which follows an ensemble cast of characters as they navigate the holiday season and the twists and turns it brings for their love lives. You bring the holiday cheer; we'll bring the popcorn! Dec. 16, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Central Library. 

Creative Arts for Adults, Holiday Paint Night: Join artist Rozzie Lee for a festive holiday themed paint night, designed for adults to relax and enjoy. Embrace the spirit of the season and connect with your creative side. Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Park Library. 

Heritage Park Historical Village 

Once Upon a Christmas: Step into a winter wonderland at Heritage Park’s Once Upon a Christmas, filled with festive charm, cozy wagon rides, carolers, visits with Santa and holiday magic around every corner. New this year, make the season even brighter with the Heritage Holiday Train Add-On — the Park’s first-ever winter train ride aboard our new diesel-electric locomotive, complete with onboard entertainment and holiday cheer for all ages. Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23, 2025. 

Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo 

ZOOLIGHTS: Experience the wonder of twinkling lights and dazzling displays, where the joy of the season brings you closer to family, friends, and the heart of the community. With axe throwing, daily interactive activities, delicious treats, animal facts, and more, there are so many memories to be made on chilly nights under the warm glow of shimmering lights! Now through Jan. 4, 2026. 

TELUS Spark Science Centre 

Merry & Matter: From twinkling lights to hands-on science, Spark is full of things to do, see, and experience this holiday season. The exhibit is included with General Admission or a Spark Membership. Some workshops or experiences may require an additional ticket. Now through Jan. 4, 2026. 

YMCA Calgary – Learn more at ymcacalgary.org/events 

WinSport – Learn more at winsport.ca 

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland – Learn more at theconfluence.ca 

Tourism Calgary – Learn more at visitcalgary.com/events 

Business Improvement Area Events  

Christmas in Kensington: Enjoy free hot chocolate and coffee while enjoying holiday activities and entertainment in Kensington Village. Snap a magical photo with Santa, and more! Now through Dec. 21, 2025. 

Let's Glow returns to Tomkins Park (17 Ave and 8 St S.W.); a stunning display of lanterns and lights by local artist Dylan Toymaker. This colourful display illuminates the park for the entire month, creating unique opportunities for magical Instagram moments. Now until Dec. 31, 2025. 

Historic Inglewood - visit inglewoodyyc.ca 

Community Associations 

Check out your local Community Association. There are more than 150 volunteer-run associations that provide all kinds of social, sport, arts and cultural opportunities for Calgary’s more than 200 neighbourhoods. You can find your local Community Association through the Federation of Calgary Communities here. 

We hope all Calgarians will find a winter holiday experience to enjoy. Happy Holidays to our partners and all Calgarians!  

NG9-1-1 replaces legacy 9-1-1 systems across Canada with a faster, more resilient Internet Protocol (IP)-based network that is capable of transmitting both voice and data. This upgrade paves the way for new 9-1-1 services in the future such as real-time text messaging and other advanced tools that will provide quicker and more accessible communication for Canadians and first responders during emergencies. While the Federal Government advises these enhancements are still several years away, Calgary’s successful transition to NG9-1-1 ensures The City is ready to adopt new services as they’re rolled out across Canada in the years ahead.

The transition to NG9-1-1 does not change how Calgarians connect with 9-1-1. In an emergency, residents should continue to call 9-1-1 for police, fire, or ambulance services, just as they do today.

“We are proud to be taking this important step forward in modernizing Calgary’s emergency communications system and preparing for the future of 9-1-1 in Canada”, said Dan Heyde, Deputy Chief of Operations, Calgary 9-1-1. “When the new features become available, our technology and our team will be ready.”

In addition to laying the foundation for future services, the new system brings several behind-the-scenes improvements, including enhanced cybersecurity, increased network resilience, and expanded backup capabilities.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has directed all Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in Canada to migrate emergency calls to the NG9-1-1 network by March 31, 2027. Calgary 9-1-1 completed the transition on October 30, 2025, well ahead of the national deadline. Once all PSAPs have made the switch to NG9-1-1, further details about the timeline for the rollout of new services and tools are expected.

This milestone was made possible thanks to the dedication of The City’s NG9-1-1 project team and Calgary 9-1-1 employees, with support from our City and regional partners, and in collaboration with our telecommunications partners - TELUS and Intrado.

Calgary 9-1-1 answers more than one million calls each year, making us one of the largest PSAPs in western Canada. Our team of highly trained Emergency Communications Officers serve as the critical link between residents and the emergency support they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information about NG9-1-1 in Canada, visit: Next-generation 9-1-1 | CRTC

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• Cats: $84.52 + GST (regularly $169 + GST)
• Dogs: $100 + GST (regularly $225 + GST)

“Every adoption gives an animal a second chance and opens space in our shelter for others who need help,” says Kathleen Dickson, Coordinator of Animal Care and Clinic Services. “We hope this price reduction encourages more Calgarians to come meet the incredible pets waiting for homes.”

All animals adopted from Animal Services are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, health-checked, and include a one-year City of Calgary pet license. These comprehensive adoptions ensure pets are healthy, identifiable, and ready to start their new lives safely.

With colder weather arriving, Animal Services is also reminding Calgarians to keep pets warm and safe this season. “If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them,” adds Dickson. “Bring pets indoors, ensure they have warm bedding, and limit outdoor time when temperatures drop.”

Adoptions take place at the Animal Services Centre (2201 Portland Street S.E.), open seven days a week. Visit calgary.ca/adoptapet to view available animals, learn about the adoption process, and schedule a visit.

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“This award recognizes what a special place Dale Hodges Park is,” said Director of Parks & Open Spaces Kyle Ripley. “I’m proud of the team that transformed this space into a vibrant, functional park that serves both the community and the environment. Their ongoing work to operate and maintain this area has helped it become a cherished gem in Calgary’s park system.”

World Urban Parks (WUP) recognized Dale Hodges Park as the winner of the Large Urban Park Award in the North America Region category as part of their WUP@10 Awards 2025. The awards celebrate excellence and innovation in parks, public spaces and community initiatives around the world. The award ceremony took place on October 10 during the World Urban Parks Symposium in Istanbul, Türkiye.

“We received over 100 nominees from around the globe, and the quality and diversity of the projects was truly inspiring,” said Michael Boland, Chair of the WUP@10 Awards program. “The winners of the WUP@10 Awards represent the best of what our profession can achieve—parks and public spaces that connect communities, restore nature, and improve lives. It has been a privilege to chair this year’s awards program and to recognize such outstanding work.”

The WUP@10 Awards were established to celebrate World Urban Parks’ 10^th anniversary and to recognize organizations that are making an exceptional impact on the parks and public space sector. WUP is the international representative body for urban parks, open space and recreation.

Nestled along the bank of the Bow River, adjacent to Bowmont Park in the northwest, Dale Hodges Park demonstrates the value of habitat restoration and sustainable urban development that supports local ecosystems. The park is dedicated to former Calgary Alderman Dale Hodges in recognition of his 30 years of public service at The City of Calgary and dedication to the rehabilitation and preservation of this greenspace for future generations.

Dale Hodges Park is one of the largest public landscape artworks in North America developed by artists Sans façon in close collaboration with City of Calgary staff and contractors including water engineers and landscape architects. Park features make the storm water treatment process visible as it travels to the Bow River through stormwater ponds, marshes, a wet meadow, streams and riparian areas.

This park is intended to inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of how our natural and human-made systems interact. Thousands of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers were planted throughout the greenspace recreating the natural prairie and riparian forest environments once found in the area. These plants offer food and shelter for local wildlife, including bees and butterflies. The park includes specially designed pathways and greenspaces that act as wildlife corridors allowing animals to move safely throughout the park.

Dale Hodges Park has become a sanctuary for wildlife and a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. To learn more, visit calgary.ca and watch this video tour through the park led by those who designed the space.

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The Erlton Chinese Cemetery Revitalization Project, funded through the Parks and Playground Amenities Program, balanced historical preservation, cultural respect, and modern engineering solutions, while deepening the City’s relationship with Calgary’s Chinese community.

In June 2024, City leadership met with members of Calgary’s Chinese community to begin shaping the project’s scope and priorities. A site visit by a Feng Shui Master ensured that all restoration work respected cultural traditions. Community input played a central role throughout the project, guiding how fragile monuments were handled, restored, and repositioned to honour their cultural and historic meaning.

By 2024, many of the cemetery’s concrete monuments had deteriorated, with several broken into multiple pieces. To safeguard these fragile structures, Cemeteries staff:

• Carefully removed and epoxied monuments to stabilize cracks and breaks.
• Worked with community translators to identify inscriptions and ensure stones were returned to their correct locations.
• 343 monuments were included in the project, with 177 monuments restored and reset on ‘Monugrid Reinforced Soil Foundations’ which are a sustainable, low-carbon alternative to concrete.
   

“This project was deeply meaningful for our team,” said Jeff Sieben, Cemeteries Operations Foreman. “Seeing these fragile monuments carefully restored and re-set, while working alongside community volunteers who treated each stone with such respect, was a memorable experience I’m proud to have been a part of.”

Volunteers from Calgary’s Chinese community were instrumental in revitalizing the grounds. Using eco-friendly solutions, they gently cleaned monuments and restored turf through loaming, seeding, fertilizing, and watering.

“The revitalization of the Erlton Chinese Cemetery is an act of remembrance and respect. I was honoured to be part of this work with the community to ensure traditions were respected and voices heard. By honouring Calgary’s early Chinese pioneers, we recognize their struggles and contributions while preserving a vital piece of our heritage and strengthening bonds with the Chinese community for generations to come,” said Ward 7 Councillor Terry Wong.

All monument and turf restoration was completed by late August 2025. The project officially concluded with a Community Celebration on August 23, 2025, attended by City staff, provincial representatives, community leaders, volunteers, and families. The event recognized the hundreds of volunteer hours contributed, shared stories of cultural heritage, and highlighted the cemetery’s enduring importance as a place of remembrance.

By protecting 343 historic monuments—many at risk of being lost forever—through careful stabilization, accurate repositioning, and sustainable foundation technology, the project demonstrated how heritage preservation can be both respectful and innovative.

“This project truly demonstrates the power of collaboration, strengthening the bond between the City of Calgary and the Chinese community” said Gary Daudlin, Cemeteries Lead. “The success of this project ensures that this cemetery continues to stand as a meaningful cultural landmark for generations to come."

City of Calgary Recreation & Social Programs 

To give children and youth safe, engaging opportunities during this time, The City is expanding recreation programming and public swimming starting October 6. 

• Rec Adventures Day Camps (ages 5-12): Games, sports, crafts, outdoor fun, and possible swim time at Southland Leisure Centre and Village Square Leisure Centre. Register at calgary.ca/register
• Public Swim: Additional swim times posted at calgary.ca/pools.
• Existing Programs: All current bookings, including Calgary AfterSchool, continue as planned. 

YMCA Calgary 

• 3-Hour Registered Programs (ages 6-9): Morning and afternoon blocks with lunch supervision if attending both.
• Youth Drop-In Access (ages 10-17): Supervised access to youth rooms, pools, and fitness areas (10 a.m.-4 p.m.). 

School Service Disruption Support | YMCA Calgary 

Westside Recreation Centre 
Day camps and extra activities at Westside for those aged 4-12 years 
School Disruption Day Camps & Extra Activities - Westside Recreation Centre 

South Cardel Rec 
Day camps at South Cardel Rec for children of all ages and abilities 
Courses - Cardel Recreation 

MNP Community & Sport Centre 
Day camps from Oct 6-9 (ages 5-12) 
Sport Camps - MNP Community & Sport Centre 

Osten and Victor Alberta Tennis Centre 
Tennis and multi-sport camp Ages 8-14, October 6-10^th. Call 587-393-1600 to book. 

Heritage Park 
School Disruption Day Camps for Grades 1-6 mix hands-on learning with fun activities around the Park. 
School Disruption Day Camps | Heritage Park 

TELUS Spark Science Centre 
SparkED One Day Camps (Grades 1-6): Chemistry to coding, design challenges, live science shows, and more—led by Spark Educators. 
SparkED One Day Camps | TELUS Spark 

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland 
Day camps for Grades 1-6 with complimentary before and after care, outdoor play, and new activities each day. 
School Disruption Camp | The Confluence 

StoryBook Theatre 

• Play in a Day (ages 6-9): Kids create and perform a new mini play daily.
• Broadway Beginnings (ages 10-14): Musical theatre, choreography, and performance. 

School Strike Support Programs | StoryBook Theatre 

Calgary Public Library 
All 22 library locations offer spaces, resources, and books for school-aged learners, plus Early Learning Centres (ages 0-5) and Questionariums (ages 6-12). 
Visit calgarylibrary.ca 

Hangar Flight Museum 
Day Camps (ages 8-12): Explore the science of flight through crafts, experiments, and aviation-themed learning. 
Day Camps | Hangar Flight Museum 

Contemporary Calgary 
Expanded children’s art programs (ages 5-13) featuring exhibitions, outdoor activities, painting, and art projects to take home. 
Contemporary Calgary 

More local options 

Find even more day activities in Calgary’s Child Magazine: ATA Strike Programming and Childcare. 

Families can also connect with local community associations and sport organizations for drop-in programs and neighbourhood activities: 

• Federation of Calgary Communities: Find your community association.
• Sport Calgary: Discover local sport organizations, “try-it” programs, and community opportunities to keep kids active and learning. 

Please visit calgary.ca for more details on activities for children during the strike.  

From September 25–27, all adoptable cats will be available for $84.52 + GST. The following week, from October 2–4, it’s the dogs’ turn to shine — all adoptable dogs will be available for $100 + GST.

Every animal adopted from Animal Services Centre comes with more than just a wagging tail or a gentle purr. Each pet is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, health-checked and comes with a one-year license. This means families can feel confident knowing their new companion is not only affordable, but also healthy, safe and ready to settle into their forever home.

“These events are a wonderful opportunity for Calgarians to meet some of the incredible pets in our care and give them the loving homes they deserve,” says Kathleen Dickson, Coordinator, Animal Care and Clinic Services. “We’re proud to provide high-quality, cost-friendly adoptions that not only connect people with new companions but also support responsible pet ownership in our city.”

Adoptions will take place at the Animal Services Centre (2201 Portland St S.E.) during regular hours of operation. Stop by, meet some four-legged friends and see if one steals your heart.

For more information and to view adoptable animals, visit calgary.ca/pets/adoption

The Calgary Centre for Performing Arts (formerly Arts Commons and now Werklund Centre) opened its doors.

The young Saddledome, two years into its operation, hosted concerts by Tina Turner, Neil Diamond and Dire Straits, among others.

And in October 1985, the Municipal Building opened under the proud leadership of Mayor Ralph Klein.

Since then, the building’s public spaces have stood the test of time and remained largely original. These spaces, including Council Chamber and the Fair Entry, City Payments Services (formerly Corporate Cashiers) and Assessment & Tax (formerly Tax Advisory) service counters are key to how we serve Calgarians. They were due for updates, and this fall, we’re excited to share how we’ve revitalized them and incorporated contemporary design, building code and accessibility standards. 

Council Chamber gets a modern makeover to better serve everyone

Council Chamber has received a renovation and lifecycle upgrade—making it more welcoming, accessible and functional for everyone who uses the space. 

This August, we completed a two-phase modernization project that refreshed the Chamber from top to bottom, with improvements that support Council, City employees and the public in a more inclusive and inviting environment.

What’s new?

The first phase, completed in August 2024, focused on improving the workspace for Council and Administration. Updates included height-adjustable Council desks for improved ergonomics, and enhanced technology integration to better support connectivity in the Council area.

The second phase, finished this August, focused on the public gallery, where Calgarians and employees sit during Council and Committee meetings. Key improvements include:

• New gallery seating that meets today’s accessibility and ergonomic standards.
• Power access on select seating so guests can charge their devices.
• Dedicated seating for presenters waiting to address Council.
• New carpet, paint and acoustic wall panels to improve sound quality and rejuvenate the space.

These changes are designed to make it easier and more equitable for Calgarians to participate in local government.

The project budget for Council Chamber lifecycle upgrades for both phases was approximately $2 million, funded by a facility asset sustainment budget.

Third floor service counters become more user friendly for patrons and frontline staff

We have made some exciting changes to the Fair Entry, City Payments Services (formerly Corporate Cashiers) and Assessment & Tax (formerly Tax Advisory) service counters, a main stop for Calgarians accessing vital City services. Since the counters opened in 1985, Calgary has evolved tenfold and the demand for services provided at the counters has risen sharply.  

To better serve the diverse needs of our fellow Calgarians, we’ve added service points, modernized the layout, increased accessibility and given spaces a fresh, welcoming look. These upgrades will not only bring the space up to current design, building code and accessibility standards but also make it easier for everyone to access the essential services provided by Fair Entry, Assessment & Tax and City Payments Services.

Improvements include:

• More Fair Entry counters.
• Enclosed meeting rooms for patrons who prefer to speak with City staff in private.
• Height-adjustable service counters for better accessibility and ergonomics.
• Improved layout for easier movement and less congestion.
• A welcome desk to provide help and answer questions.

For many patrons, these service desks are a first step toward accessing vital City programs and services. These upgrades help ensure that their experience is respectful, efficient and welcoming.

The overall budget for the Fair Entry, City Payments Services and Assessment & Tax service counter renovations was approximately $5 million, funded by a facility asset sustainment budget.

Why it matters

“These projects are about more than just replacing old furniture and finishes,” says Susan Robinson, Facilities’ manager of Building Infrastructure. “We wanted these spaces to better reflect our values—welcoming, inclusive and accessible for everyone. These changes support Calgarians, Council and staff, and we believe they’ll make a positive difference in how City services are accessed and delivered."

And let’s be honest—1985 was a great year for shoulder pads and cassette tapes, but everything from hairstyles to ergonomics and accessible design has evolved since then. These lifecycle upgrades and modernization improvements bring the Municipal Building’s public spaces into the present, ready to serve the city for decades to come.

Council Chamber

_{The Council Chamber lifecycle upgrades included height-adjustable Council desks for improved ergonomics, and enhanced technology integration to better support connectivity in the Council area.}

_{The original 1985 seating in the Council Chamber’s public gallery has been replaced with new seating that meets today’s accessibility and ergonomic standards. Power access is available on select seats so guests can charge their devices.}

Third floor service counters

_{New Fair Entry service counters and two enclosed private customer meeting rooms, designed to promote superior customer service.}  

_{The Fair Entry waiting area features a kid-friendly interactive art installation called a sparkle wall, which lights up when touched and adds an element of fun to the space.}  

_{Coming soon: Assisted listening devices will be available at designated counters. This technology broadcasts a signal to hearing devices to amplify sound and reduce background noise, making it easier for people with hearing loss to communicate more effectively.}  

_{Coming soon: The Fair Entry waiting area will feature a bright mural to welcome patrons to the space.}  

_{Coming soon: The windows along The City Payments Services area will be updated with City images.}  

While not literal bathing, forest bathing is a chance to “bathe” and be immersed in the forest surroundings. The idea of forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980s when there was a rise in anxiety and stress-related illnesses as people in Japan were increasingly living and working in urban centers. To support the health and well-being of people living in Japan, research was conducted to determine whether spending time in forested environments was beneficial and “forest bathing” (or “shinrin-yoku” in Japanese), was created as a result.

“Research shows truly being in nature – taking time to slow down and really experience the natural world - can reduce stress, improve mood, boost creativity and immunity and even lower blood pressure,” said Carmen Hindson, Manager of Parks Downtown and Centre City Operations, Calgary Parks and Open Spaces. “The Forest Bathing Trail at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary helps teach us how to be present in nature, how to appreciate our natural surroundings, and how we react when we simply be with nature.”

The trail starts at a welcome sign offering trail info and proceeds to five stations along a 1-kilometer loop. Each station has a QR code linking to a recorded “invitation” created by Ken Ouendag, ANFT Certified Forest Therapy Guide and Trail Consultant based in Calgary. “Each invitation is unique, but all encourage people to be present and connect with the place through their senses,” said Ouendag. “You can follow the invitation or adapt it in whatever way feels right. We encourage you to listen to your body and give it what it needs during your time in nature on the trail.” 

Trail users can use their phones to scan the QR codes and listen to the invitations through headphones or earbuds. Printed invitations are available at the trail’s welcome sign for those who prefer not to use a phone while on the trail. There is also a bin located under the welcome sign that includes seat mats and tarps that visitors are welcome to borrow for use while on the trail (and return to the bin when finished). The invitation at station 1 is the longest at several minutes. Subsequent invitations average around 1 minute allowing visitors the space to experience their surroundings however benefits them best. Invitations will change seasonally so visitors can return multiple times and experience nature at the sanctuary throughout the year.

For more information, visit calgary.ca/forestbathing

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“My husband doesn’t remember that we golfed every Tuesday, but once he’s here, he loves it,” Joan shares. “Even four hours after we leave, he’s still talking about golf.” 

While Dave plays alongside a group of participants and City staff, Joan also golfs with a group of friends. Many of the women in her group also have partners navigating life with dementia. The program gives them time and space to connect with others who share similar experiences. 

That sense of connection is at the heart of the program. Whether it’s a participant teaching staff how to dance at the tee box or a wave of laughter rolling across the green, the program is as much about community and joy as it is about golf. 

Bev Hansen, another care partner, says the program helps her partner Craig feel more like himself again. “It’s night and day, his attitude,” Bev explains. “He’s like a whole new person when we get him out here.” 

When Craig recently hit the green on his first shot, City staff celebrate the moment by adding his photo to the “I’m Celebrating…” wall at McCall Lake Golf Course. It serves as a reminder of the milestones participants can achieve through the program. 

Led by staff like Jenna Jepson, a Health & Wellness Facilitator and expert in dementia-friendly recreation, the program builds a community where everyone can thrive. “I can confidently say this program is not just important, it is essential for people living with dementia and in particular men living with dementia,” Jenna highlights . “Traditional programs offered for men living with dementia often do not reflect their interests, identities or needs." She adds, “care partners have an option of golfing too, which creates new relationships and support networks for them.”  

To keep the program running year-round, The City partners with Screen Golf Inc., a local screen golf simulator business that provides participants with a warm, accessible space to continue through the fall and winter. That consistent connection has been a lifeline for many. “We need that consistency,” Bev says. “It makes a real difference.” 

Programs like this reflect the commitments outlined in GamePLAN: reducing barriers to recreation, expanding recreation opportunities and making smart investments to meeting growing demand. Through thoughtful public investment, strong community partnerships and prioritizing inclusion, we’re building a city that balances opportunity with quality of life — a place where everyone can feel at home. 

Recreation Program Specialist, Gennie Liu, says that there’s a growing need for more recreation opportunities for people living with dementia. “That’s why we’re excited to introduce new dementia-friendly programs this fall like pickleball, skating and yoga,” Gennie adds. “These activities are all about staying active, having fun and creating meaningful moments for both participants and their caregivers.” 

Together, we’re creating a city that’s dynamic, welcoming and ready for generations to come. To learn more about our programs for people living with dementia, visit calgary.ca/dementiaprograms. 

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Day one, Saturday, August 2, was held at Maple Ridge Golf Course, a mature, tree-lined 18-hole course known for its scenic fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging layout that rewards shot-making and course management. On Sunday, August 3, players moved to McCall Lake’s 18-hole course, a track that blends open fairways with water features and subtle elevation changes, offering both accessibility for newer players and shot challenges for seasoned golfers.

The tournament was open to adults 18 and over, attracting a diverse group of competitors—some entering their first tournament, others bringing caddies for added support. Despite a short spell of rain on Saturday, the skies quickly cleared, and players enjoyed sunny weather for most of the weekend.  It was evident when the weather cleared up that players were able to maximize their scoring opportunities.

Players praised the organization and set up of the tournament. “The Municipal Championship was a great introduction to competitive golf, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is wanting to get into the competitive scene,” said participant Josh.  “The organizers and staff worked above and beyond to put on a great event, and I will definitely be competing again next year.”

“The first City of Calgary Golf Championship was more than just a successful tournament—it was a true celebration of our city’s passion for the game. From the first tee-off to the final putt, the energy, sportsmanship, and community spirit on display were nothing short of inspiring,” said John Faber City of Calgary Golf Lead. “We saw seasoned players and rising talent come together on the fairways. It was a proud moment for Calgary, and a strong foundation for what I know will become one of the most anticipated events in our golf calendar each year.”

Participants received first tee kits at registration and were treated to both flight prizes and draw prizes throughout the event. The spirit of sportsmanship was on full display, and organizers noted the energy and excitement shared by competitors from all walks of life.

Looking ahead, the City of Calgary golf team hopes to make the Calgary Municipal Golf Championship an annual event, evolving its format and offerings over time. Early details for next year’s tournament are expected to be announced in 2026.

Stay tuned and thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s championship a hole-in-one experience.

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Darcy Whitaker, a team lead with Recreation & Social Programs explained the program’s approach. “This drop-in adaptive program reflects The City’s commitment to making recreation inclusive, accessible and equitable for all,” she said. “It’s one way we’re putting our equity goals into action, by designing programs where all participants, regardless of ability, can play together, learn from one another and experience the benefits of physical activity and social connection.”

Greg, a regular participant, said the program changed his life. “After every session, I left with a smile on my face, feeling like I had a great workout,” he shared. “That optimism carried into my week. I started exercising more, preparing for the next session. It motivated me in ways I didn’t expect.” Beyond fitness, Greg found community. A place where he felt seen, capable and connected.

For programs like this to succeed, they need broad participation. “I believe it’s worth mentioning that wheelchair basketball is available to able-bodied folks,” Greg said. That openness is a key part of removing social barriers, creating shared experiences that challenge assumptions and build understanding.

Theresa, one of the able-bodied players, said the program deepened her understanding of what inclusion looks like in practice. “It wasn’t just a chance to be active, it was a chance to participate in something that centered accessibility and dignity,” she said. “City staff were outstanding, particularly the instructor. Not just friendly, but intentional about making sure every person felt welcomed and valued.”

This intentionality directly supports the principles outlined in GamePLAN, which call for dismantling systemic barriers and creating spaces where everyone feels safe, respected and empowered to participate. It’s part of building a Calgary that supports connection, opportunity and well-being for residents.

Murdoch, a recreation programmer with Recreation & Social Programs sees that vision come to life every week. “It’s been so fun getting people of all different ages, abilities and backgrounds together for a fun yet semi-competitive game. It’s more than basketball, it’s connection.” And he’s excited to see what comes next.  “I’m thrilled to see what The City of Calgary can offer in the future for adaptive sports and fitness.”

Programs like wheelchair basketball reflect more than just recreation, they’re about creating a city that works for everyone.  When we design public spaces with inclusion in mind, we remove barriers, foster equity and build a sense of belonging. By intentionally welcoming people of all abilities, we are shaping a city where everyone can thrive, stay connected and feel at home. “Our community cares about showing up for one another. Wheelchair basketball is one of many ways we can build a city that reflects that spirit,” Darcy added.

Know someone who’d love this program? Share this story and help build a more connected Calgary. To learn more about our adaptive recreation programs, visit www.calgary.ca/adaptiveprograms.

In 2015, Roxy’s life took an unexpected and challenging turn. She was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare condition that left her facing the reality of relying on a walker or cane for mobility. In an instant, Roxy’s world shifted. One moment she was self-sufficient and moving freely. The next, she could no longer walk or stand independently. While the news was devastating, it sparked a determination in Roxy to fight for her future.  

With consistent effort and by participating in a variety of workouts, she slowly rebuilt both strength and hope. Kandi, a program specialist who led several of Roxy's classes, spoke highly of her dedication. “Roxy is a perfect example of what’s possible with commitment and the right support. She started in our gentle fitness classes, and over time, her balance and stability improved so much that she now takes part in many of our higher intensity fitness classes, as well as aqua fitness. It’s been amazing to witness her growth. She inspires us all”, said Kandi.  

“The classes, pool and gym have helped me a lot to build my muscles, to build trust in my legs and to build up my self-esteem.” Roxy explained. 

After a full year of commitment, Roxy accomplished what once felt impossible and achieved the remarkable feat of walking on her own. “My hard work has paid off and I’m happy,” Roxy declared proudly. “Renfrew has given me the hope that I can do it.”   

For Roxy, the impact goes far beyond building physical strength. The support and encouragement she received from instructors and fellow participants helped her find a sense of community and belonging. Her newfound friends at Renfrew continue to cheer her on today. “I consider everyone [at Renfrew] as family. I’ve built a good family here and nothing is going to separate me from this gym because it is making me what I am now and giving me that push.”  

Stories like Roxy’s are a reminder of what’s possible when people have access to inclusive spaces, welcoming programs and a supportive community. Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre has recently reopened after undergoing electrical repairs. To celebrate, we’re inviting the community back with free public swims and fitness classes on August 13, 2025 from 12 – 7 p.m. Register for classes at calgary.ca/RenfrewPool and click “View drop-in schedule”, then "Book now" on your selected class. 

Through GamePLAN, The City of Calgary is investing in programs, facilities and partnerships that help Calgarians of all ages and abilities stay active, connected and resilient. From renewing aging infrastructure to expanding affordable programming, we’re working together to create a city that’s livable, inclusive and ready for the future. Roxy’s journey is just one example of how these efforts make a difference and how, with the right support, Calgarians can find strength, connection and joy in every step forward. Roxy’s resilience, and the community that cheered her on, is what we’re building toward: a city that works for everyone. Her story is one of many that shows how investments in recreation make a real difference.   

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For two weeks, a fluffy German Shepherd–Australian Cattle Dog mix was spotted wandering through the neighbourhood, dodging cars, evading capture, and slowly stealing hearts. Community Safety Peace Officers responded multiple times to try and bring her to safety. Eventually, she was caught in a humane trap after suffering a broken leg—injured but still full of fight.

“She’d been on the loose for a while,” Kory recalls. “I decided that if no one stepped forward to take her, I would.”

The family contacted Calgary Animal Services and followed Maple’s recovery. “We weren’t even looking for another dog,” Kory said, “but something about her was special.” When they finally visited the shelter, they brought their resident dog along to meet her. It was a bit overwhelming at first—for everyone—but by the second visit the next day, the two dogs were getting along. On day three, Maple went home.

She didn’t respond to any name, except one: “Maple” was the first name she listened to. And it stuck.

Since then, Maple has quickly become a beloved member of her new family. “She loves people and wants to please. She’s got a bubbly personality, but she also likes to work. If you throw a ball, she’ll make it her mission to bring it back.”

She’s smart, routine-driven, and just a little anxious at bedtime. Although, her anxiety seemed to lighten up ever since she started to take her ball to bed. One thing the family needs to be cautious of: Maple can open doors, so they now have to keep doors locked so she can’t break through.

Maple’s new life is full of dog parks, playtime, and unconditional love. “We’re outside more, we walk more, we go to the park more. It’s changed us a lot.”

When asked what they’d say to someone considering adopting from the Animal Services Centre, her family doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely go for it. These dogs have so much to offer—they seem to be really appreciative. Maple’s a total velcro dog. She’s always close by.”

They also had high praise for the Animal Services staff. “They were really helpful and made sure Maple was the right fit. It didn’t feel rushed. They care about the dogs, and it shows.”

Maple may have started her story on the streets, but thanks to the dedication of Animal Services and one family’s open heart, she’s now right where she belongs—home.

Helping was what he did, so he turned a discussion around the dinner table into a series of phone calls to people he knew and that was the start of Parks Foundation 40 years ago. Terry and Norm Harburn started the Parks Foundation by bringing likeminded people together to support the development of new parks that preserve Calgary’s natural beauty and encourage amateur sport. As a not-for-profit organization, Parks Foundation leverages donations from individuals and organizations and partners with The City of Calgary and other organizations to enhance existing park spaces and create new ones.

Terry passed away in 2021 and left behind a legacy that is enjoyed daily by people visiting park spaces throughout Calgary. His daughter Karen Hawitt often visits Terry Hawitt Vista, located along the Britannia off-leash area looking down on the Elbow River, to remember her dad and his passion for the outdoors.

“Dad would walk this path to the river every day for 10 to 15 years,” said Karen. “At 91, he still walked this path. Going for a walk with Dad anywhere would take hours. He would stop at every memorial bench and read everyone’s name and sometimes sit and tell stories about that individual.

“He was a very vibrant, enthusiastic human being. Dad always had dreams, and they always came to fruition, somehow.”

Today, Terry's vision continues through the generosity of countless donors who share his passion for creating accessible green spaces. From individuals to corporate partners, philanthropic support has been essential in making Parks Foundation's projects possible.

True to Terry’s belief that working together brings about beautiful results, The City of Calgary and Parks Foundation have partnered on hundreds of projects since 1985, creating more opportunities for Calgarians to enjoy nature, wildlife, and each other.

“Communities often require help turning their dreams into reality,” said Sheila Taylor, CEO, Parks Foundation. “Parks Foundation helps by connecting donors and partners with relevant and innovative park and sport projects.”

This partnership resulted in the creation of the bench and picnic table dedication program, amateur sport grants, numerous inclusive playgrounds, several bike pump tracks and unique projects like Alberta’s first mental health park and Canada’s first dementia-inclusive park (expected to open in 2026).

“Parks matter to Calgarians,” said Nico Bernard, Manager, Parks & Open Spaces, Public Spaces Delivery.  “They are cherished places where we play, connect with each other and immerse ourselves in nature. Together, The City of Calgary and Parks Foundation have created many more vibrant public spaces that have increased the quality of life for Calgarians.”

Parks Foundation will be honouring its 40^th anniversary in several ways throughout 2025. Visit Parks Foundation Calgary for more information.

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Registration for the trees took place in April with each quadrant of the city having a designated week to apply. This year, we allocated the same number of trees to each quadrant as in 2024; 1000 each to the northwest and southwest and 1500 each to the northeast and southeast. As the northeast and southeast include areas with the lowest tree canopy in the city, they are allocated more trees as we work toward a more equitable distribution of trees across Calgary.

Once registration opened for each quadrant, applications came in faster than any previous year in the Branching Out program’s history. The trees allocated for northwest Calgary went the quickest with all trees spoken for in an unbelievable six minutes. Northeast Calgary registration showed the biggest improvement since last year – in 2024, there were still trees left a week after registration opened. This year, all the trees were spoken for in under an hour.

Tree pickup events were held over two weekends in June, with City of Calgary Parks & Open Spaces staff onsite to help many hundreds of Calgarians find their new trees each day. Staff also handed out information on planting and watering new trees, and helped the new tree owners load up mulch, which was also provided onsite. At the end of each weekend, any leftover trees that hadn’t been picked up were given away on a first come, first served basis – this proved to be a popular option for folks who hadn’t been able to secure a tree during the very busy quadrant registrations. We’re pleased to report that everyone who lined up at each ‘first come, first served’ opportunity was able to take home a new tree.

Some happy new tree owners shared feedback with staff using an online survey shared via QR code at the pickup events, including:

• “The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable when we picked up the trees, this program was so amazing. Thank you to all the wonderful city workers who helped with this program.”
• “Thanks for having such a wonderful program for the citizens of Calgary. A great way to increase the urban canopy and such a varied selection.”
•  “This is a great project! The registration and the emails explaining the process were easy to understand and provided great information. The staff was helpful, and pickup was smooth”
• “Very well organized, efficient, and fast. I was expecting hours in a lineup but was in and out quickly”
   

The program was even more wildly popular this year than expected and we were blown away by the demand. “We love to see how dedicated Calgarians are to help grow our urban canopy,” said Alan Joiner, Urban Forestry Superintendent for Calgary Parks and Open Spaces. “We understand that registration for some quadrants went so quickly that there were people who hoped to secure a tree but unfortunately were unsuccessful. We want to try to ensure that everyone who wants a tree will receive one. So, we are happy to announce that in 2026 we will be providing even more trees for Calgarians. While the exact number isn’t confirmed, we are looking to supply a lot more trees to go to new homes.”

We’re excited for another successful Branching Out in 2026 and want to say a huge thank you to Calgarians for helping grow our urban canopy!

Information for Branching Out 2026 will be shared in late February/early March 2026 at calgary.ca/BranchingOut.

This year saw the launch of the Neighbour Day microgrant, which offered up to $2,500 per event. All $70,000 in available funding was distributed, helping support 43 community events that attracted more than 20,000 Calgarians. 

Despite the rain, Neighbour Day 2025 was a great success, with Calgarians coming together to celebrate community spirit across the city. 

Among the initiatives funded through the new microgrant were painting petite chairs in Chinatown, providing wellness services downtown and decorating birdhouses in the southeast. Each reflecting the diversity and heart of Calgary’s neighbourhoods. 

Painting community pride in Chinatown 

At the Chinese Cultural Centre, the Chinatown Business Improvement Area (BIA) welcomed attendees to a lively cultural event that included martial arts performances, lion dances, vendor booths and hands-on art activities. 

A key highlight was a chair painting station where families, children and seniors painted miniature Adirondack chairs to take home. These pieces of art served as symbols of expression and connection while honoring Chinatown’s rich cultural heritage. 

Event attendees at the Chinese Cultural Centre painting miniature Adirondack chairs. 

“Neighbour Day is all about bringing the community together, connecting with one another and simply enjoying the day,” said Judy Eng-Hum, event organizer with the Chinatown BIA. “It’s a chance to share stories, build relationships and celebrate what makes our community so unique.” 

Caring for community at Good Neighbour 

At the Central United Church, the local nonprofit Good Neighbour hosted the Be a Good Neighbour celebration. The organization operates out of the church basement year-round providing food clothing and trauma-informed support to low-income Calgarians including newcomers, seniors and unhoused residents. Dozens of partner agencies contributed their services, making it a true community-wide effort.   

Volunteers served BBQ meals while guests received free wellness services including massages, haircuts and access to health resources. Games, music and conversation brought a sense of joy and dignity to the day. 

With Good Neighbour being a volunteer operation, organizers welcome Neighbour Day with open arms to celebrate their community and give back to those in need.  

“The funding really helps grassroots nonprofits like ours afford more fun things,” said Alice Lam, co-founder of Be a Good Neighbour. “I also love that it's a citywide highlight on all the incredible neighborhoods and all the incredible volunteers that make the city run.”  

Birdhouses and belonging in Millican Ogden 

At the Millican Ogden Community Association (MOCA), the focus was on creativity and inclusion. Families gathered to paint wooden birdhouses with colorful designs and unique personal touches. The event also included music and games with a calm friendly atmosphere that encouraged meaningful connection. 

Zev Klymochko, vice president of MOCA, was appreciative with how Neighbour Day binds the community together with simple activities. 

“I think it helps people realize that we can promote neighbourhood pride,” said Klymochko. “When people attend events in their community, they don't have to go out of their neighbourhood. It strengthens that community.” 

Neighbour Day continues to grow 

Neighbour Day was first introduced in 2014 and continues to grow each year, with communities putting their own spin on what it means to connect. Whether through cultural celebration, public art or social support, the day is a reminder that great neighbourhoods are built on one conversation, one shared experience and one moment of kindness at a time. 

Checking out some, or all, of the following park activities is sure to ward off boredom and keep you — and the children in your life — busy with new adventures all summer.

You’re invited to the opening celebration at Eau Claire Plaza!

Join us on Wednesday, July 2 at 12 p.m. for a community celebration as we officially open the newly reimagined Eau Claire Plaza. 

This event is a chance for Calgarians to explore the revitalized Plaza. The celebration will begin with a 30-minute formal ceremony, followed by a lively community gathering that highlights the plaza’s versatile design and thoughtful integration of historic elements.

Come enjoy delicious bites from local food trucks, fun giveaways, remarks from City Council and live entertainment.

Everyone’s welcome and we can’t wait to see you! For more information, visit calgary.ca/eauclaire

Free youth basketball clinics with Calgary Surge at Century Gardens
This summer, The City’s Downtown Strategy team and the Calgary Surge are teaming up to bring FREE youth basketball clinics and a high-energy 3-on-3 tournament to the heart of our city. The community program kicks off at the end of June, offering youth ages nine-17 the chance to sharpen their basketball skills with professional-level coaching at the Century Gardens Basketball Courts (826 8 Avenue SW). The 3-on-3 basketball tournament is happening later this summer with details coming soon. To sign-up for the priority waitlist, visit calgarysurge.ca/downtown-summer-youth-basketball-clinics. 

Free recreation classes downtown at Lot 6 
This summer, The City’s Downtown Strategy team in partnership with Recreation are proud to offer free recreation classes at Lot 6. Get ready to stretch and flex those muscles! More information will be available shortly at calgary.ca/exploredowntown.  

Cool off with a trip to a spray park or wading pool that you haven’t visited before
Check out calgary.ca/sprayparks for a list of all City spray parks and wading pools. Did you know that select parks also have aquatic wheelchairs that you can borrow for free?  

Tour the City’s playgrounds using online map
Looking for a new playground to visit? Check out the playground finder map that has all City playgrounds, including inclusive playgrounds (square icons) with something for everyone. The map includes information about the play surface for each playground (e.g., gravel or inclusive playgrounds that have accessible rubber surfaces). These are just some Calgary playgrounds; the map only shows City of Calgary playgrounds and not community or school playgrounds. To learn more about inclusive playgrounds, visit Calgary.ca/inclusiveplay.

Golf, disc golf, bike pump tracks, tennis, beach volleyball and more
Get active this summer! Never tried golf or haven’t been golfing for years? We have a course and program for everyone. Check out Calgary.ca/golf for information about the seven City of Calgary courses, family golf nights and several youth programs and golf lessons. Our parks also have four permanent and some temporary disc golf courses for you to enjoy during a nice summer day. Take a break during your bike ride along the City’s regional pathway to try a bike pump track. The City also owns and operates over 60 outdoor tennis courts. Find out where you can play beach volleyball this summer and much more at Calgary.ca.  

Outdoor programs and fun for the whole family and it’s free
Looking for outdoor activities this summer? The City offers FREE, supervised fun for the whole family. Starting in July, free summer programs are back. Whether you’re a child, a youth, an adult or a family looking for quality time together, there’s something good for everyone.

These supervised outdoor programs are carefully crafted to foster new friendships and exciting learning opportunities. From dynamic drop-in programs like Stay n’ Play, to engaging registered youth leadership initiatives, there’s an activity fit for every interest and age group. Find some fun at  Calgary.ca/free.

Book a picnic site or greenspace, discounts in some downtown parks
Grab some friends and family and have a picnic in a park this summer. You can take a chance finding a spot or pay to reserve a picnic site for a small or large group or book an entire greenspace or park. Also, this summer your event could qualify for a discounted booking fee at select downtown park spaces including Harmony Park, Sien Lok Park and Thomson Family Park. This offer applies for all of 2025 but please note that 30 days' advance notice is required to process these requests. For more information about booking your summer activity in a park, please visit  Park bookings.

Public washrooms in parks
Parks’ seasonal public washrooms will remain open typically until Thanksgiving weekend in October. Find washroom locations and operating hours at Calgary.ca.

By removing cost barriers, The City ensures that everyone can participate in activities that enhance well-being and foster community connections. This approach supports the City's commitment to equity and the belief that all Calgarians deserve access to quality recreational experiences.

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“We would like to thank Calgarians for their cooperation while our crews worked to keep our streets safe and clean for everyone,” says Chris Hewitt, Manager of Maintenance. “This is an important program that requires cooperation between Calgarians and The City.”

June 18 marked the final day of community sweeping, and the entire project – 386 community sweeping days completed by our sweepers – was finished within the budget of approximately $7.5 million. Through the course of the program, the team picked up a whopping 19 million kilograms of gravel and other debris from Calgary’s streets – the equivalent weight of approximately 11,875 four-door sedans.

“The Spring Clean-up program plays an important role in keeping our waterways clear. Thanks to your help, we’ve significantly reduced the amount of debris from entering our waterways through our stormwater systems.”

The success of the program is a collaboration between The City and Calgarians. Residents can recognize sweeping is coming through signs posted within their communities, but we also offer other ways to find your date, including an easy-to-use e-mail/text notification signup.

“Signing up for sweeping notices is an easy way to keep yourself informed every year,” Hewitt explains. “The nice thing about notifications is you can sign up anytime at Calgary.ca/sweep and your address is saved to your account. You’ll get the notifications every year without having to sign up again.”

Calgary Parking also plays a key role supporting Spring-Cleanup to ensure the program is a success. Parking officers validate community sweeping bans by verifying community signage is accurate and visible to residents ahead of time. Camera-equipped cars helped to enforce temporary sweeping bans on sweeping days.

“We’d like to thank Calgarians for helping us make a clean sweep,” says Todd Sullivan, Leader of Patrol and Investigations at Calgary Parking. “Our program runs more efficiently when cars are removed from the street, helping our sweepers complete their work. We thank Calgarians for their cooperation during the 2025 program.”

While the residential sweeping program comes to an end, some of our sweepers will next be seen as part of the Calgary Stampede parade, keeping the route clean of debris. 

Additional information:

• The budget for the Spring Clean-up Program is approximately $7.5 million.
• 31 sweepers work out of nine maintenance districts across Calgary. During the program we have about 200 staff working daily to clean our streets!
• We sweep more than 17,000 lane kilometres of roadway. Residential roads are swept Monday through Friday. Major roads are swept overnight.
• On average City Crews remove between 20 and 30,000 tonnes of winter sanding materials and debris remaining from the prior winter season.
• The street sweeping program is a collaboration between Calgarians, Mobility Maintenance and Calgary Parking.
• As of June 18, 2025, over 34,175 tags have been issued by Calgary Parking.

Jaya Dharan, CLIP Council‘s co-chair, underscores the significance of this initiative. "Immigration is vital for Calgary's economy. Immigrants bring diverse skills and perspectives that drive innovation and entrepreneurship, which are essential for our city's growth," says Dharan. 

The educational campaign will highlight how immigrants contribute to various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and education. "Immigrants complement the local workforce by filling critical gaps in jobs, which increases our productivity," Dharan adds. 

CLIP’s coordinator Arevik Tokmajyan emphasizes the importance of community engagement in the campaign. "We want to create a welcoming environment where newcomers feel valued and supported. This campaign is about celebrating the diverse talents and contributions of immigrants who call Calgary home," says Tokmajyan. 

The campaign also aims to address common misconceptions about immigration. Tokmajyan notes, "Immigrants help expand the economy by creating new businesses and job opportunities. About 250,000 immigrants in Canada are job creators and more than 60% are middle income or above, which contributing to our tax base." 

As Calgary continues to grow, the contributions of immigrants will be crucial in maintaining the city's vibrancy and competitiveness. "Immigration is not just about numbers; it's about the people who bring their dreams, skills, and cultures to enrich our community," says Tokmajyan. 

For more information about how immigration matters to YYC, visit Calgary Local Immigration Partnership. 

The City of Calgary and Calgarians need to work together to manage our stormwater. The City’s Stormwater Management Strategy reduces the impact of flooding, ensures public safety, reduces damage to property and helps keep our rivers healthy by way of storm drains, outfalls and storm ponds.

• Storm drains reduce stormwater off sidewalks, streets and roads, bringing it into an underground pipe system and carrying it all the way to the nearest outfall.
• Outfalls are the exit points by which stormwater leaves the pipe system and enters our rivers or creeks.
• Storm ponds naturally treat stormwater by slowing the flow, allowing sediment and pollution to settle before entering our rivers.
  
  

While storm ponds are found in newer communities, stormwater is not cleaned by a treatment plant, which is why keeping it free of pollution is critical. Clean stormwater ensures our rivers, creeks and surrounding lands, as well as local wildlife and fish, remain healthy for future generations.

You can help keep stormwater clean and our rivers healthy by doing these simple actions:

• Point downspouts toward lawns and gardens or use a rain barrel. 
• Limit the use of fertilizers and pesticides. 
• Sweep up debris from your garage and driveway instead of washing it away.
• Wash your vehicle at a car wash instead of your driveway.
• Never pour anything down the storm drain.
• Pick up pet waste and litter and put them in the proper waste containers. 

What ends up on our streets, ends up in our rivers. To learn more about keeping our rivers, creeks and wetlands healthy, visit calgary.ca/stormwater.

“Calgarian’s receive great value for their tax dollars,” says David Duckworth, Chief Administrative Officer. “Property tax supports service like 24/7 police, fire and emergency response, and 40,000 registered and drop-in recreation opportunities.”

Building a Great Place to Live  
From where you live to how you get around, your tax dollars are helping shape a more livable city. 

Since the start of 2025, close to 8,000 new homes have been added to Calgary’s housing supply, giving families, newcomers, and long-time residents more choice than ever before. This growth supports a city that’s evolving to meet the needs of a rising population and changing housing preferences. 

New additions to Calgary’s housing stock include: 

• 3,700 high-rise apartments 
• 760 rowhouses and townhomes 
• 480 semi-detached homes 
• 1,700 secondary suites 
• 1,300 single detached homes 

 These investments are part of The City’s broader efforts to expand housing options, increase supply, and improve affordability—creating vibrant, inclusive communities across Calgary. 

Wherever you're headed, we're making it easier to get there 
Whether you're heading to work, dropping your kids off at school, or meeting friends across the city, getting around Calgary should be safe and reliable. That’s why The City is continuing to invest in transportation infrastructure and programs that make every day travel easier for all Calgarians. 

“We know that the way people move around Calgary impacts their quality of life,” says CAO Duckworth. “These investments are about more than just infrastructure, they support public safety, housing, and transit, which has helped make Calgary one of the most livable cities in North America and the world.

This year’s key investments include: 

• $30 million to improve pavement quality across the city 
• $26 million for upgrades to existing roadways 
• $19 million to support the Calgary Transit Low Income  Monthly Pass program 

Together, these improvements are helping to maintain essential infrastructure, expand access to transit, and keep Calgary moving as our population grows. 

When it’s time to unwind—you’ve got options 

In addition to a vibrant local economy with restaurants, pubs, and entertainment options, Calgary offers access to more than 200 City-owned recreation facilities and over 50 operated sites, plus more than 9,000 hectares of parks and open spaces across the city. From splash parks and recreation centres to arenas and arts spaces, these are the places where Calgarians connect, stay active, and build community. And it’s all made possible through continued public investment. 

Investing in a Safer Calgary 

Whether you're walking through your neighbourhood, commuting downtown, or enjoying a local event, feeling safe is essential, and it's something Calgarians consistently say matters most. That’s why The City is continuing to invest in initiatives that strengthen public safety, enhance emergency response, and support community well-being. 

 Recent public safety investments include: 

• $31 million to increase Calgary Police Service 
• $6 million to improve downtown safety initiatives 
• $4 million to improve emergency response capacity 

 These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to build a resilient city where people feel secure in their homes, communities, and shared public spaces. 

We’re investing in what matters most, building a Calgary that works for everyone. To explore how your tax dollars are being invested this year, visit calgary.ca.

Parks & Open Spaces and the Public Art team are collaborating to beautify this section of Rotary Park while protecting the integrity of the Centre Street Bridge lion sculpture. After being subject to repeated vandalism in recent years, the sculpture has undergone careful conservation treatments. To protect the lion while maintaining public access, the Public Art team recently installed new lighting to deter vandalism and highlight the statue’s historical and artistic significance—especially at night. The native planting project supports the overall conservation goals by subtly guiding respectful engagement with the artwork and integrating the sculpture more harmoniously into its park setting.

Many benefits to adding native plants to your own yard and garden
“A native plant is a plant species that existed in a particular area prior to European settlement of that area, or without ever having been introduced by humans,” said Caylee. She says there are several benefits of adding native plants to your yard and garden. “Native plants are well adapted to Calgary’s climate and soil conditions and often require little maintenance, water and fertilizer once established,” said Caylee. “Plants suited to Calgary’s climate also provide homes, food and nesting materials for pollinators and other wildlife.” 

There are a few ways that these water wise, native plants differ from non-native plants. “Native plants are more in tune with our seasons here in Calgary,” said Caylee. “So that means that they can be a bit slower to germinate initially and they tend to wake up a little later in the season, compared to non-native plants – they know better! In many cases, native plants establish faster and more successfully than non-natives with less help from us. This is because they evolved alongside local climate, soil and other factors giving them a competitive advantage.”

Once native plants are established (meaning their roots are strong and the plant remains resilient no matter the weather) they only need rainfall or water after two to three weeks of consistent, hot weather with little rain, said Caylee. 

Below are some examples of native plants that grow successfully here in Calgary that we are also planting at Rotary Park.

Smooth Blue Aster
A drought tolerant plant that blooms in the fall, asters are known to attract bees and butterflies. They produce many flowers with bright yellow discs in the centre surrounded by striking purple petals. Smooth aster can reach up to four feet. 

 

Photo courtesy James L. Reveal, 
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Canada goldenrod
Low goldenrod will be planted at Rotary Park, which is very similar to Canada goldenrod. Canada goldenrod is a showy late-season bloomer that is an especially important source of pollen for native bees. Growing from three to six feet in height with large, pyramid-shaped clusters of yellow flowers, Canada goldenrod is a favourite of both gardeners and pollinators.

 

Yarrow 
With feathery foliage and tight clusters of white flowers, this easy-to-grow plant is a must have for any backyard garden. Growing up to three feet in height, yarrow tolerates dry conditions and is attractive to pollinators. Yarrow blooms throughout the summer.

Where to find native plants
There are an increasing number of garden centres selling local native plants. Call ahead to ask which native plants they offer. Centres will often label if a plant is native or not. The Alberta Native Plant Council has great resources to help you discover plants native to Alberta.

For more information on how to create a beautiful, water wise yard and garden by adding native plants, visit calgary.ca/yardsmart

“Growing up, it was the bird call that my grandparents would pick out when we were on the farm,” said Trina, Supervisor, Parks Programs. “It was the first bird call that I learned.”

We recognize incredible feathered travellers like the Western Meadowlark and their contribution to our ecosystem on the second Saturday in May during World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD).

This year, WMBD falls on Saturday, May 10 and will be celebrated at Calgary’s Inglewood Bird Sanctuary from 1 pm to 4 pm. This rain or shine, free, family-friendly event requires no registration. Come learn more about migratory birds and nature, view birds using spotting scopes, take a guided walking tour and enjoy a children-focused performance. Visit calgary.ca/wmbd for more information.

“Migratory birds are such an important part of our larger ecosystem,” said Trina. “They are pollinators, important in transporting seeds from one place to another and worthy of our recognition for how they help keep our natural spaces healthy.”

There are many green spaces in Calgary where you can often spot migratory birds visiting city parks between mid-April to mid-September, especially Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Ralph Klein Park. “Calgary is one of the few places that has a federal migratory bird sanctuary within city limits – and so close to downtown,” said Trina. “Most other sanctuaries are outside urban areas.”  

Bird enthusiasts can also expect to see different migratory birds at Ralph Klein Park than Ingelwood Bird Sanctuary. “At Inglewood, you tend to see more songbirds and waterfowl and more wading birds and raptors at Ralph Klein,” said Trina.

Gulls are the true indicator that the spring migratory season has started, said Trina. “A lot of people think when they see robins that this means our migratory birds are back but it’s actually the first time you see a gull that you know that the spring migration has started,” said Trina.

If you are on the hunt to see migratory birds this spring, Trina suggests you go for a quiet walk at dawn or dusk and bring binoculars with you. “It has usually been when I’m by myself that I see something really interesting or cool,” Trina said. “The quieter you are, the more you are likely to see. And binoculars are a good idea because you are likely to hear them before you see them since their calls carry a long distance.”

What can you do to help make our city more bird friendly?

Help make our city more bird friendly by:

• Planting native – Plants that are native to your community provide the food and shelter birds need. You can also remove invasive plants that can take over. 
   
• Making windows visible – Birds don’t recognize plane glass and may collide with windows. Placing decals on the outside of windows can reduce bird strikes that can stun or kill birds. If you find a stunned bird, place it in an open box outside (with a small amount of water) to protect it from predators while it recovers. If it hasn’t flown away after a day, it is worth reaching out to a local wildlife rehabilitation centre.
   
• Protecting insects – 95% of birds depend on insects at some time during their lifecycle. Ask your local garden centre how you can address pests in your yard in a bird-friendly way and avoid using pesticides and other chemicals in your yard where possible. 
   
• Restraining your pets – Follow the Responsible Pet Bylaw which includes keeping dogs on leash except within the 160 designated off-leash areas in Calgary. It is especially important to keep dogs on leash while visiting natural areas to protect birds and their nesting habitats. For example, dogs aren’t allowed (except assistance dogs) at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary to protect the birds that visit the park. 
   
• Taking your trash with you – When you are in a park space, either put your trash in a garbage can or take it with you when you leave.

For more information about migratory birds, visit calgary.ca

The community of Whitehorn witnessed the cost of groceries soaring and the need for assistance grew – that is when volunteers of the Whitehorn Community Association seized an opportunity to provide free bread to seniors struggling to make ends meet. What began as a modest offering—one item, one need—has since blossomed into a community lifeline, helping over 200 families on a weekly basis. Jenn Curley, a Neighbourhood Partnership Coordinator with The City of Calgary, supports the Whitehorn Community Association, providing support and connection to resources within The City. Jenn directly supports the community association in strengthening our neighbourhoods, making them amazing places to live, work and play.

"The food security program at Whitehorn is amazing. The volunteers have tirelessly worked to ensure everyone has access to this essential need. While they make it look effortless, I know it requires immense effort and dedication,” shares Jenn. “These volunteers donate countless hours each week, driving to pick up donations, organizing the food, preparing hampers, facilitating pick-up days, and even delivering to those who need support but cannot come to the hall. The Whitehorn food security program exemplifies how community association volunteers are making Calgary a better place to live.”

This initiative, now known as the Whitehorn Community Association Pop-up Pantry, owes much of its success to the incredible support from partners like Second Harvest and Guru Nanak Free Kitchen. But at its core, this program is powered by a dedicated group of volunteers, each bringing their unique skills and heart to the operation. Some gather donations, others sort and pack food, and many contribute their time to serve the families who rely on this resource.

"The greatest wealth is the ability to share with those in need and in a world where food is wasted, no one should go hungry,” says one Whitehorn Community Association pantry volunteer. “The pantry does this amazingly well, impacting every facet of our lives with smiles and comfort of a better community."

The pantry offers more than just food. In a time when hope and connection were in short supply, it has become a symbol of community and resilience. The success of the pantry was no accident—it is the result of the unwavering commitment and selflessness of the volunteers.

"The work to help people with food insecurity that is done at Whitehorn community truly brings hope back into the world. The countless hours that volunteers spend is truly inspirational. To see people have a bit of relieve from the concern of how they are going to feed their families is awe inspiring." -Pantry Volunteer

People of all ages have worked tirelessly, ensuring that there is always something available for those in need. Through their collective efforts, the pantry has transformed from a simple food distribution point into a symbol of solidarity, compassion, and shared strength. As the months and years have passed, the pantry’s impact has only deepened. Families who once struggled with hunger now sit at their tables with dignity, enjoying the meals they receive. The pantry has given them more than just nourishment—it has given them a sense of belonging, a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. A family, who has directly benefited from the pantry, shares the difference it has made to them and gives thanks to all the volunteers who made this a possibility.

"You guys are the best. Everyone is nice and more patience than I would have imagined. You have helped my family so much. I'm a one income house with a lot of bills and just getting that bag or two of food every week helps so much. Thanks again for everything you guys do."

It has shown them that when a community comes together, no challenge is too great to overcome. Today, as the Whitehorn pop-up pantry continues to thrive, the simple vision that started it all has become an essential lifeline for many. It serves as a powerful reminder that, in the face of hardship, compassion, resilience, and unity can transform lives.

While Calgary has over 1,000 City of Calgary playgrounds – not including community and school playgrounds – there are many places throughout the world that have very few playgrounds. For this reason, when City of Calgary playground equipment no longer meets Canadian standards, we donate the pieces that would otherwise end up in a landfill to charitable organizations that repurpose the equipment.

“While the equipment may no longer meet City of Calgary standards and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) guidelines, it can still be of great value and provide safe play opportunities for children in other countries after being refurbished and professionally and properly installed,” said Artur Kochanczyk, Infrastructure Lead, Parks & Open Spaces, City of Calgary.

The City’s Parks Infrastructure Team has repurposed playground equipment for years, donating it to various charitable organizations. In 2024, The City donated over 40 pieces of equipment to Alberta-based not-for-profit organization, Hope Mission. They collect, refurbish, transport and professionally install playgrounds in countries where children have less access to free play amenities.  

“(By partnering with The City), we have been able to give the gift of ‘play’ to orphanages, schools and communities that would otherwise never have access to developmental play,” said Deryk Kirchner, International Director for Hope Mission. “Each playground has had volunteer teams from the sponsoring groups go with a professional certified builder from Alberta to install the equipment together with local community members and hosts. Many of our builders have come from Calgary and they ensure the playgrounds are installed properly and safely.” 

One such playground was built at an orphanage and school in Belize where the power of having more opportunities to play was very evident shortly after the equipment was installed. “When the children come into the classroom they are chatting and already socially engaged and the teachers felt they had gained one to two hours of effective education because of the playground,” said Kirchner.

In addition to providing opportunities for play, donating this equipment reduces waste by repurposing equipment that would otherwise end up in a landfill.

“Our Parks & Open Spaces staff are always looking for ways to reduce waste and find a new use for materials, where possible,” said Kochanczyk. “This program to donate playground equipment that we can no longer use here in Calgary is a great example of this.” 

_{Photos courtesy of Hope Mission: Children enjoying refurbished playground equipment at an orphanage and school in Haiti.} 

<sub>Photo courtesy of Hope Mission: A playground in Mozambique built using donated playground equipment.


Photo courtesy of Hope Mission: A child enjoying a new playground built in Bullet Tree Falls, Belize.</sub> 

_{Examples of the types of playground equipment donated by The City of Calgary to Hope Mission in 2024 to be refurbished and professionally installed in communities outside Canada.} 

In the fall, Terry and his family were ready to expand their hearts and home by adopting a dog. They were looking for a calm companion, and when they saw Charlie’s picture on the shelter’s website, something clicked. They decided to meet him.

"When we saw Charlie, we knew we had to meet him. He just looked like the dog we were looking for," said Eileen, Terry's wife. "But when we met him in person and gently put his head on our laps, that was it. He chose us."

At first, Charlie was shy, unsure, and hesitant to come inside the house. He wouldn’t even go through the front door. But as he settled in, his loving nature began to shine through. The family quickly discovered that, despite his initial shyness, he was a bundle of energy with a heart full of love.

"He’s a real runner," Eileen said with a smile. "He loves going to obedience school and the dog park. He adores running around at the park—he’s so fast, it’s amazing to watch."

Winter brings joy to Charlie, as he loves the snow and can often be found running around the yard or curling up in his favourite cool spots in the house. He’s quite the gardener, digging in the backyard and hiding his bones in the ground.

"We were surprised at how feisty he was at first," Eileen recalled. "But we love that about him. He’s got so much energy and personality. He’s always finding new ways to make us laugh."

Charlie enjoys his own space in the living room, watching the world through the window. He’s a social dog, never growling or barking, always eager to meet people and other dogs. His temperament is lovely, and he has become a great addition to the family.

"He’s so gentle," said Terry. "He loves meeting new people and other dogs. He’s always calm and friendly, which is exactly what we were hoping for."

While he can be a bit of a toy destroyer, they’ve found durable toys that can stand up to his playful energy, including his beloved Kongs.

"Charlie can rip through a toy in about 15 minutes," Eileen laughed. "But we’ve learned to keep plenty of durable toys on hand."

Charlie’s journey wasn’t always easy. He’s still a little hesitant about certain things, like the garage and the Swiffer. But each day, he grows more confident, even venturing upstairs and enjoying the comforts of the family’s home.

"He was so hesitant when we first brought him home," Eileen explained. "He wouldn’t even go inside the front door, and he avoided the garage like the plague. But little by little, he’s come out of his shell.”

Charlie’s new family feels lucky to have him. "We always wonder what his life was like before we adopted him," Eileen shared. "But he’s so happy now, it doesn’t really matter where he came from.”

"As much as we were looking for a dog, we had no idea just how much happiness Charlie would bring into our lives," Eileen reflected. “He’s brought so much joy and laughter, and we’re so glad he’s with us.”

As spring and summer approach, they can’t wait for more outdoor adventures with their energetic, happy boy. Charlie has found his place, and his family feels complete with him by their side.

Charlie’s story is a testament to the power of adoption and the unconditional love a rescue dog can bring to a family. Thanks to the Calgary Animal Services Centre, he found his forever home, and his family couldn’t be happier.

To view adoptable animals at the Animal Services Centre, visit our website: calgary.ca/pets/adoption.html.

We are inviting you to take the plunge this Family Day with free public swimming at select City of Calgary operated pools. Every splash is supported by a dedicated team working hard behind the scenes to ensure our pools are safe, clean and ready for you to enjoy. 

That’s exactly what Madison, a Calgary student, discovered when she embarked on a mission to uncover the science of pool water safety for her grade 7 science fair. Fascinated by how bacteria thrive in different conditions, she wanted to understand how pool water is treated to prevent bacteria growth.

Her journey led her to Village Square Leisure Centre, uncovering the science and the incredible efforts that keep our pools pristine. Every time you plunge into a pool, a complex dance of science and dedication is at play to ensure every swim is as safe as it is refreshing.

“Our team is committed, highly invested and take great pride in the daily maintenance of our facilities,” says Bruce Ottway, recreation team lead. “With countless swimmers diving in and out every day, keeping them safe is a full-time job and one that we take very seriously. Pools must meet Alberta regulations, standards and requirements for safe operation at all times, no matter how busy we are. And with a capacity of 650 guests, we can get really busy.”

 “I reached out to The City because I knew they had the resources to help me with my project,” says Madison. “I was very happy when I was greeted by kind people and provided the information I needed for my project.”

Bruce invited to take Madison behind the scenes to show her how we ensure pool water remains safe despite the constant activity.  “When I first saw that Madison had submitted a request to discuss her science fair project, I jumped at the opportunity to showcase Village Square Leisure Centre.”

Up first was a tour of the basement that houses the high-efficiency boiler system, designed to maximize energy efficiency by capturing and reusing heat and maintain the water temperature around 29-30 degrees. Although this range is ideal for swimmer comfort, preventing bacteria growth in pool water relies on more than just temperature control alone.

A liquid chlorine system is used to disinfect the water park that spans approximately 225,000 square feet. This system uses sodium hypochlorite to sanitize the water by killing bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Additionally, a sophisticated filtration system that removes physical debris and microorganisms from the water is designed to clean the entire volume of water nine times every eight hours, handling around eight million litres in 24 hours. To put this into perspective, it’s like emptying and refilling about 50,480 bathtubs daily.

Next, Bruce introduced Madison to the team who continuously test and monitor the water quality parameters that help maintain a safe environment every four hours. Maintaining pH levels is essential to balance chlorine effectiveness and swimmer comfort.

“Bruce answered all of my questions about the filtration system and how it works,” Madison shares. “I feel very comfortable in City pools. The staff clearly care about the quality of water as it is tested multiple times a day and corrected at even the slightest change in cleanliness.”

“Our standards for each City of Calgary swimming pool surpass even the highest monitoring requirements, ensuring unparalleled safety and cleanliness. We are dedicated to providing an environment where our guests can confidently enjoy our facilities every day, knowing their well-being is our top priority,” says Bruce.  

This Family Day, make a splash - on us!

We’re offering free public swimming on Feb. 17 from 1-2:30 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m. at these locations:

·       Acadia Aquatic & Fitness Centre (9009 Fairmount Dr. S.E.)

·       Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre (4812 14 Ave. S.E.)

·       Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre (6715 Centre St. N.W.)

Good times with friends and family are good for everyone.

"I’ve always loved big dogs," Geoffrey shared. "Our last dog was a black Cane Corso. He was with us for eight wonderful years until we lost him. My son, who was the same age as that dog when we first brought him home, is now 16—and it was him who wanted another dog this time."

Initially, the family looked through private sellers, but his wife suggested they check out the City of Calgary Animal Services instead. That suggestion led to their first appointment, where they met Titus.

Titus had been waiting at the shelter for several months to find a family, so the staff were thrilled when Geoffrey showed up to meet him. “We fell in love with him right away,” he said. "The staff at the Animal Services Centre told us that Titus could be nervous around men, but we were surprised because he warmed up to us immediately.”

Settling into Family Life

Titus has brought a lot of joy to his new home, even as the family works on some challenges. "He still acts like a puppy sometimes," the father explained. "We’re working on his leash walking because he’s scared of cars, which can be tricky. But he’s settling in. We’ve even created a way to ease his anxiety around cars—we leave treats on our car's bumper so he can enjoy them when we get back from walks, and that’s helped."

The family – familiar with big breeds, knew that Titus would require lots of exercise, but that wasn’t a problem. “We’re very active. We take Titus on three walks a day, and he loves every minute of it.”

At home, Titus has become an emotional anchor as well, especially for the mother, who works from home most days. "He can sense when she’s stressed and will comfort her—he’s so in tune with us."

Even the youngest son, who wasn’t initially an animal lover, has fallen for Titus. "It’s amazing to see how much Titus has brought us all together."

A New Start for a Stray

As a former stray, Titus’ story is one of transformation. Now, he has a family who adores him and a home filled with love and activity. For the family, adopting Titus was the "greatest Christmas gift" they could imagine.

“Titus has completed our family,” the father said with a smile. "He’s a big dog with an even bigger heart. We can’t imagine life without him."

This story is a testament to the life-changing impact of adoption—and a reminder that sometimes, the perfect addition to your family is waiting for you at a shelter.

To view adoptable animals at the Animal Services Centre, visit our website: calgary.ca/pets/adoption.html.

This year’s program, operated by Hiregood, launched at the end of 2024 as a key initiative through the Downtown Safety Leadership Table and positions trained attendants at select high-traffic washrooms in parks that provide a welcoming and reassuring presence for users.

Supporting clean and safe public spaces

Public washrooms in parks provide a vital amenity for those working and shopping nearby, allowing those spending time or attending an event in a park space to do so comfortably.

"The washroom attendant program shows our ongoing commitment to creating a downtown that is accessible, safe, and clean for everyone," said Joy Norstrom with Parks & Open Spaces.

Hiregood’s expertise in providing an attendant program follows successes in Edmonton where emergency calls were reduced by over 90 per cent at key locations leading to expansion of the program to additional locations.

Calgary is addressing downtown challenges with focused solutions. The Downtown Washroom Attendant Program is one of 28 recommendations from the Downtown Safety Leadership Table to improve safety and support those experiencing vulnerabilities. Other strategies include increasing police and security presence, expanding festivals and events as well as connecting people with essential services and supporting the housing sector by delivering additional non-market housing.

Learn more about the downtown washroom attendant program at Calgary.ca/washroomattendants.

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This year’s festival promises to dazzle with a lineup of events that highlight the best of Calgary’s creativity and community spirit. Featuring a dynamic mix of live music, outdoor sports, captivating art installations, and unique cultural experiences, Chinook Blast 2025 offers something for everyone.

“Winter is a season that begs participation and we answer the call with gusto. Now in its fifth year, Chinook Blast is gaining national and international recognition as a must-attend winter festival. Starting January 31st, bundle up and take part in this year's incredible lineup of outdoor sports, performances, and art installations.“

- Mayor Jyoti Gondek

“Chinook Blast has become a cornerstone of Calgary's winter identity, celebrating the vibrant talent and creativity that define our city. As we mark the festival’s fifth year, we’re excited to share an incredible lineup that highlights the power of community collaboration. We invite Calgarians and visitors to embrace the magic of winter and create lifelong memories together!”

– Patti Pon, Chair of Chinook Blast, and President and CEO of Calgary Arts Development

Chinook Blast Core Programming in 2025: 

• Discover Chinook Blast’s New Festival Footprint – Stephen Avenue
  • With feedback from past years’ attendees expressing a desire for a more concentrated and cohesive experience and Olympic Plaza being under construction, we’ve reimagined the Chinook Blast footprint for 2025. In partnership with Calgary Downtown Association, Chinook Blast will transform four blocks of the iconic Stephen Avenue into a vibrant and immersive winter wonderland (1st Street SE to 3rd Street SW). This partnership adds another layer of excitement for families and anyone looking to embrace the winter magic of vivid lights, mesmerizing art, live performance, and family friendly excitement on the weekends. 
  • Three Weekends of Markets – This year, Chinook Blast welcomes two new market partners: Art Spot Inc. with their Under $200 Art Show and Authentically Indigenous. Alongside the Asian Heritage Foundation, these markets will offer festival-goers an extraordinary blend of shopping, culture, and community spirit. Held at a new location, The Pioneer, these markets promise a truly unique and unforgettable experience for all. 
  • Seven New Art Installations! – Stephen Avenue will be transformed into an art lover’s paradise with seven never-before-seen installations debuting exclusively at Chinook Blast. From Brian Faubert’s shadow mural artwork to Tonya Hart’s piece INFRA, composed of adult-sized wolf sculptures, these works highlight the incredible talent of our local artists. Each piece will have you snapping photos and striking poses for unmissable Instagram moments.
  • Live experiences and performances on Stephen Avenue – The footprint may look a little different, but the diverse lineup of artists and performances continues! Along the street, take in live music and roving performers. You might even come face-to-face with a life-size puppet! These vibrant showcases will ignite excitement and are sure to create a warm, electric atmosphere, promising an unforgettable experience for everyone!
• All-New Winter Sport Hub – The Confluence will be the new hub for daytime and sports programs. Whether it’s skating, cross-country skiing, outdoor activities, or sports programs, this is the ultimate destination for thrills, joy, and memorable family moments.
  • The Confluence celebrates the wonder of winter with ice skating and cross-country skiing on the site, complete with food and beverage options! Once you’ve had your fill outside, come inside to warm up with winter-themed movies, craft sessions, a poetry reading or a haiku writing workshop.
  • Sport Calgary is bringing back their Sport Calgary Day at The Confluence. For this 4th iteration, visitors will get to learn, watch and dive into the excitement of unique winter activities on and off ice with try-out opportunities for free!
  • Drag on Ice 3! – The Cabaret Company is back, back, back again for 2025! Hosted by Karla Marx and starring Kaos (Canada's Drag Race Season 4), Addi Pose, Dogii Chow and more, Drag on Ice will feature stunning drag performances at The Confluence. 
• Stay, Dine, and Celebrate! – Turn your festival adventure into a full weekend escape! Calgary’s hotels and restaurants are rolling out exclusive deals and packages to keep the fun going. Whether you're visiting from out of town or planning a staycation, the winter vibe doesn’t stop at the festival.

Chinook Blast Festival Partners Return!

• High Performance Rodeo kicks off the new year with an extraordinary showcase of theatre, music, dance, and multidisciplinary art. Experience three exhilarating weeks featuring over 190 talented artists and a spectacular lineup with 28 productions and 10 free events, from heart-wrenching marionette masterclasses to riotous clowning and unconventional book club meetings. January 14–February 2
• Block Heater, powered by ATB. Calgary’s dynamic winter music festival is back, celebrating a decade of ice-melting programming, with an eclectic mix of independent artists from the local scene, Canada and the globe. Experience magical performances at downtown venues, with a spectacular lineup featuring Kathleen Edwards, Basia Bulat, Black Mountain, TEKE::TEKE and more! February 14–15
• Ethnik Festival returns to celebrate the rich traditions of Calgary's Afro-Canadian and Caribbean communities. This vibrant cultural gathering will showcase an impressive array of talent from Calgary, across Canada, and around the world, spotlighting creativity and connection. February 21 - Calgary Food War @ Carya Village Commons East Village. February 22 -  Main Festival Celebration @ The Genesis Centre Northeast Calgary.

Additional Must Visit Events 

• This winter, East Village invites you to embrace the season with unforgettable experiences that celebrate the beauty, coziness, and adventure of the colder months. Every day after sunset until February 17, delight in a wintertime short story exhibit that moves you through four locations in the heart of East Village with Journey Through the Stars. After which, strap on your cross-country skis and hit the East Village Nordic Loop, and then warm your toes by the fire pit at the Hygge Hut.
• National Music Centre On February 8, in celebration of Black History Month, the National Music Centre will present a special event spotlighting the evolution of Black Canadian music, stay tuned for lineup. Visit Studio Bell on Family Day, February 17, for a jam-packed day of musical fun for all ages! Admission is free. Explore five floors of interactive activities, National Music Centre’s latest exhibitions, and enjoy live performances, including a headlining set from a local favourite – soon to be revealed!
• Murmuration at WinSport Event Centre is an adrenaline rush for the whole family! Fascinating in their precision, enthusiasm and virtuosity, the artists of Le Patin Libre are faster on their skates than ever! Their new work – inspired by the mysterious phenomenon of flocking birds – is choreographed from simple algorithms that are made more and more complex: gliding, darting, and moving in unison, Murmuration is a high-speed performance on ice! Friends and Family discount - 15% off for groups of four or more! Discount applied automatically at checkout. Presented by Arts Commons Presents. February 12
• Exposure Photography Festival The annual Exposure Photography Festival celebrates the art of photography by featuring exhibitions from internationally acclaimed artists as well as emerging and established talent from Alberta. This vibrant event serves as a dynamic hub for photographers, art enthusiasts, curators, and photography professionals worldwide to connect and engage.

Sport Fans: Your Favourites Return

• ISU Speed Skating World Cup  
  • Top skaters return to the fastest ice in the world! Long track speed skaters from over 3 countries return to Calgary’s Olympic Oval for the third ISU World Cup Speed Skating event of the season. Tickets are on sale now, don’t miss your chance to experience the mind-blowing speed in person! January 24 – 26
• Snow Rodeo FIS Freeski Halfpipe World Cup
  • Experience the thrill as WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park hosts the world’s top freestyle skiers. This family-friendly event promises jaw-dropping action in the legendary halfpipe, where elite athletes will showcase their gravity-defying tricks and precision stunts. Whether you’re a dedicated freeski fan or just looking for an unforgettable winter outing, Snow Rodeo is the place to be. February 12–16
• Snow Rodeo FIS Snowboard Slopestyle & Halfpipe World Cups 
  • The Snow Rodeo is back; bringing the double header action to Winsport Calgary Olympic Park with a FIS Halfpipe World Cup on Friday, February 21st and the FIS Slopestyle World Cup on Saturday, February 22nd! Don't forget your cowboy hat and saddle up for the big show as the world's best throwdown at the fifth edition of the Snow Rodeo. February 21 – 22

The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre will once again be offering restroom facilities for festival-goers. Our official hotel partner, Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel, will be offering exceptional hospitality and serving as a hosting venue for the festival.

Chinook Blast’s Impact:
Chinook Blast is a vibrant community-driven initiative powered by key partners The City of Calgary, Calgary Arts Development, Calgary Economic Development, and Tourism Calgary. The festival offers an exciting blend of free and ticketed arts and culture events, sports activities, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

The 2024 festival welcomed more than 433,000 attendees and generated an impressive $15.7 million in economic impact. It also saw participation from over 1,700 creative makers, businesses and partners, with 200+ of those businesses supporting programming and logistics, and 20 non-profits in the festivities.

With a focus on collaboration and inclusivity, Chinook Blast continues to bring together local organizations, artists, and businesses to celebrate winter like never before. The full programming for Chinook Blast will be released in mid-January 2024. In the meantime, please visit chinookblast.ca for more information.

Chinook Blast Assets here.

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About Chinook Blast
Chinook Blast is Calgary's signature winter celebration that unites partners from arts, nonprofit, neighbourhood, tourism, and sports communities to showcase the best of the city during the winter season. Our vision is to create a uniquely Calgary winter experience that attracts visitors globally. Learn more at www.chinookblast.ca.

About The City of Calgary 
The City of Calgary’s approach to Winter in Calgary celebrates all the city has to offer during the winter months. From winterizing public spaces to enhancing economic, social and cultural opportunities, Winter in Calgary aims to make the most of the season for residents, visitors and businesses alike. Learn more about how to embrace winter in Calgary at Calgary.ca/LoveWinter. For media inquiries, contact media.relations@calgary.ca or 403-828-2954.

About Calgary Arts Development
As the city’s designated arts development authority, Calgary Arts Development supports and strengthens the arts to benefit all Calgarians. They invest and allocate municipal funding for the arts provided by the City of Calgary and leverage these funds to provide additional resources to the arts sector. Their programs support hundreds of arts organizations, individual artists, artist collectives, and ad hoc groups in Calgary. For more information, visit: calgaryartsdevelopment.com.

About Calgary Economic Development
Calgary Economic Development is an opportunity-maker, helping to spark and fuel Calgary’s growth. Our job is to connect people with resources that can help them grow their careers or businesses, thrive in new locations or markets, and feel at home in our community. We offer a wealth of information to help everyone succeed and we tirelessly promote Calgary, in Canada and around the world. We’re exhilarated about our role in shaping and sharing Calgary’s story and we’re proud to be part of the energy. For more information, please visit our website at www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.

About Tourism Calgary 
Tourism Calgary is the destination management organization that for over 60 years, has enthusiastically told the story of the warm hospitality and adventurous spirit our city is known for.  From conventions to leisure travel, major sports events to music and arts, Tourism Calgary promotes our unique experiences to the over 8 million people who visit Calgary every year. We market Calgary in new and exciting ways, driving over $3B in visitor spend for the local economy and advocating for Calgary’s growing tourism industry to host visitors, offer shareable experiences, and activate experiences in ways that attract, connect, and inspire. For more information, visit: visitcalgary.com.

When it was warmer, bees forged up to five kilometres from their hives to collect nectar. Once a honey frame is full of nectar, bees cap the frame with wax to store the honey. Before harvest time in the fall, hives can weigh up to 60 pounds with each frame holding about six pounds of honey! Beekeepers remove surplus honey, leaving the bees with enough to support the colony throughout the winter. The bees are also fed a sugar syrup with an additive of vitamins and minerals that will keep the colonies strong throughout the cooler weather.

The bees are moved into one box with honey-filled frames placed along the exterior of the hive, which is wrapped in insulation and covered with a foam lid, to keep the heat in. There is a small opening in the wrapping for air flow and for the bees to leave the hive when needed. While bees don’t hibernate, they do slow down their vibrations over the winter. These small movements help the bees keep the temperature inside the hive at a consistent 30 C which is important to protect the baby bee nest.

Enter the draw to win a spot in the Hive to Jar December workshop
Intrigued and want to learn more? We have an opportunity for you (and a guest)! Keep an eye on our City of Calgary Golf Facebook and Instagram pages for details about how to enter the draw to win a spot in our upcoming Hive to Jar workshop. Workshop participants will learn all there is to know about urban honeybees from a beekeeper, will get hands-on experience extracting honey from a frame and go home with their own little jar of honey. The workshop will take place December 14 from noon to 1:30 pm at Maple Ridge Golf Course.

Did you know?

-Pollinators are responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food.
- In 2019, Calgary was designated Canada’s 36^th Bee City. This highlights The City of Calgary’s commitment to protecting pollinators and their habitat. Planting native trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers in our parks and green spaces helps provide homes, food and resources for pollinators. Pollinators include a variety of species such as bees, moths, butterflies, hummingbirds, bats and even flies.
- Bees create their own air conditioning. They want to keep the hive at a consistent 30 degrees so if it gets too hot, the bees will fan hot, humid air out of the hive with their wings and others will bring in cool, fresh air to collectively cool the hive.

You can help urban bees and other pollinators in your community by adding native plant species to your yard, providing shelter and nesting sites and by leaving leaf litter and plant debris in place until the late spring. To learn more visit Calgary.ca/pollinators

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The following should be on your list of top 10 activities this winter.

1. Check out Plaza Palooza starting November 29
Calgarians are invited to come down to Olympic Plaza for free festival fun starting Friday, November 29. The event series will include music, games, entertainment, roving buskers, ice sculpture carving, light art displays, photo opportunities, warming fire pits, a busker competition and more. Plaza Palooza will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4 pm to 9 pm for four weekends from November 29 ending on December 22. More information is available on calgary.ca/plazapalooza.

2. Skate like no one is watching 
There are so many options for getting your skate on in Calgary. We have nine outdoor, natural ice skating rinks,  over 60 volunteer-run Adopt-a-Rinks and indoor skating at 12 arenas with 19 rinks. Keep in mind that the building of outdoor natural ice rinks can only start once temperatures are consistently between -7 and -12. As a result, our outdoor rinks are typically available around mid-to-late December.

Unfortunately, Olympic Plaza will look a bit different this winter with no skating or Christmas tree due to the upcoming closure of the plaza at the beginning of January 2025 as part of the Arts Commons Transformation (ACT) project. Instead, skaters can enjoy other downtown skating options including Barb Scott Park, Prince’s Island Park lagoon—and a new Pop-Up Rink located at Lot 6. Visit Calgary.ca/rinks to check the status of rinks near you throughout the season. If you are looking for holiday cheer near downtown this year, you’ll find it at Barb Scott Park where a large Christmas tree will be sparkling brightly this winter.

3. Plan a cozy downtown adventure 
Chill downtown this winter and create your own adventure! From November to March, enjoy new Downtown Itineraries that will help you embrace the winter months in the heart of our city. As the cold settles in, enjoy a day chock full of cozy activities that will leave you feeling warm and toasty on the inside. Your itinerary could include a warm cup of coffee, a peaceful bookstore, a hearty meal, a thought-provoking film or a magical cocktail. Build your own day out by visiting Choose Your Own Downtown Adventure: Cozy Itinerary. 

4. These boots are made for…playing Crokicurl
Try out this fun winter activity suitable for all ages — no prior experience required! All you need to do is travel to either Bowness Park or North Glenmore Park, bring your mitts, boots and a friend or two and you are set. Crokicurl is a large-scale version of the Crokinole board game combined with curling. The only equipment needed is the curling stones which are provided at the site during the rink’s opening hours. Bowness Park has four full-sized Crokicurl rinks — three with a firepit in the middle — and a junior Crokicurl rink. North Glenmore’s two full-sized Crokicurl rinks are located near the scenic ice trails.  

5. Experience the beauty of illuminated enchanting ice trails
Calgary’s answer to the Rideau Canal is our ice trails. Take a trip out to North Glenmore and Bowness parks this winter to enjoy a skate along an illuminated natural ice pathway. At Bowness Park you skate past trees wrapped with hundreds of lights and North Glenmore Park’s trails are lit by draped strings of lights. The opening of these trails is eagerly awaited by Calgarians who have experienced them before.

No skates, no problem! Just grab a warm drink and go for an evening walk through these parks to enjoy the lights on foot.  

6. Try a bicycle built for…skating?! 
Does the thought of gliding across ice on two thin blades make you queasy? Try an ice bike instead. Ice bikes can be rented at Bowness Park and offer a safe, stable alternative for all ages and skill levels. If you are not a strong skater, you can still join in and have fun on the ice. The front wheel of an ice bike has been replaced by skates and the back wheel moves on the ice and is surrounded by skates. It has a wide base, so you don’t even have to balance, you just pedal and steer as if you’re riding a normal bike. 

7.  Glide or hike through the snow on cross-country skies or snowshoes
Plan an afternoon at your local community park snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. For easier skiing, visit a park or golf course that has groomed cross-country tracks. Tracks are set once there is sufficient snow. Find out which trails are closest to you and their status throughout the season at calgary.ca/crosscountryskiing.

8. Watch for warm day opportunities to get out and golf this winter
Back by popular demand this year is winter golf! When warm temperatures and lack of snow allow, a few select courses will open some tee times. If you want to keep your skills up over the colder months you’ll want to watch the City of Calgary’s golf social channels and Calgary.ca for updates. 

9. Book a winter fire pit in a park space
Did you know that there are bookable winter fire pits located in park spaces throughout Calgary? Pack your own firewood, warm drinks and marshmallows and you have yourself a wonderfully cozy afternoon enjoying one of Calgary’s many park spaces. Winter bookings are available between November to the last Sunday in March. You can also use available fire pits on a first-come, first-served basis. 

10.  Participate in Chinook Blast, Calgary’s Winter Festival starting January 31
Now in it’s fifth year, Chinook Blast 2025 is shaping up to be the most expansive and diverse edition yet. The exciting lineup and increased programming will offer even more opportunities than before for cultural engagement and activities. More details available soon at chinookblast.ca.

Looking for more ideas on how to fall in love with winter? Visit Calgary.ca/LoveWinter

"I would encourage us to imagine the depth of today’s affordable housing crisis if we hadn’t moved forward with secondary suites back in 2015," says Meaghon Reid, Executive Director of Vibrant Communities Calgary.  “Each of these 16,000 suites represents a home for individuals and families who can now live safely and affordably, addressing immediate housing needs and securing long-term community stability. This program exemplifies systems change policy at its best, with lasting benefits for generations to come."

In the first year of the program, 131 suites joined the Registry. Through an ‘education-first’ model and further supported by Council through an Amnesty Program, and most recently an Incentive Program, we have seen a steady climb in the number of secondary suites added each year. We’ve seen more than 3,000 secondary suites added to the Registry in 2024. This increase has been supported by the Secondary Suites Incentive Program that launched earlier this year. This program offers qualifying homeowners up to $10,000 to build and register a safe secondary suite. If you’re considering a Secondary Suite for your home, visit Calgary.ca/suite-incentive for more information.  

“Providing Calgarians with safe housing options is a priority for The City, which is shown through a variety of programs and changes that make it easier for homeowners to build and register safe secondary suites,” says Joshua Howes, Secondary Suite Program Manager with The City of Calgary. “Getting to 16,000 registered suites is also a great reflection on the efforts of homeowners who want to provide a safe place for their tenants to live.”

Before being added to the Registry, secondary suites are inspected by The City. Inspectors check to make sure the units meet the minimum safety requirements according to the National Building Code and The City’s Land Use Bylaw.

“All Calgarians are entitled to a safe place to live,” says Darren Lockhart, Manager of Building & Development Inspections. “One of the requirements for secondary suites on the Registry is to have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that connect both dwellings in a home, and safe exits for the secondary suite. This ensures that people who live in a secondary suite can safely exit in an emergency.”

The Secondary Suites Registry is a benefit for homeowners and a helpful online tool for renters. Anyone can easily use the Registry to look up a secondary suite address and confirm if it is safe and legal.

Renters can confirm that they are renting a safe space by visiting https://secondarysuites.calgary.ca/ or looking for the ‘Registered Secondary Suite’ sticker. The stickers include a registration number and can be found either on the door to the suite or one of the windows.

TIMELINE FOR SECONDARY SUITES PROGRAM:

• Council approved the Secondary Suite Registry in 2015.
• Council approved changes to the Land Use Bylaw in 2018 making secondary suites discretionary uses for properties zoned R-1, R-C1 and R-C1L. This meant that homeowners no longer needed to go to Council for approval of their suite.  
• The Secondary Suite Amnesty Program was approved in 2018. Through this program, the fees for secondary suite development permits and the Secondary Suite Registry have been waived. Council extended this program until the end of December 2026.  
• In 2024, Council approved the Secondary Suite Incentive Program, which assists homeowners with the costs of safety elements required to register a secondary suite. The program is funded through the Municipal budget and the Federal Housing Accelerator Fund.  

For more information about renting a safe secondary suite, visit https://www.calgary.ca/property-renters/secondary-suites.html. If you want more information about how to build a safe secondary suite, visit Calgary.ca/suites.  

Gus was found roaming as a stray, struggling with a severe breathing issue due to extremely narrow nostrils. Likely abandoned by a previous owner because of this medical condition, Gus sounded congested and had to rely on open-mouth breathing to survive. His condition would have continued to deteriorate without intervention.

Gus, before his surgery:

Dr Jagjit Cheema, a Veterinarian employed with Calgary Animal Services, performed a rhinoplasty to correct Gus' breathing. The surgery enlarged his nostrils, alleviating his respiratory problems and improving his quality of life. Gus’ recovery went smoothly, and he was soon able to breathe and play normally.

Gus, after his surgery:

A Happy Ending for Gus

Shortly after his recovery, Gus found a new home with his adopter, who first spotted him on the shelter’s impound list. “I wasn’t aware that the Calgary Animal Services Centre offered adoption services until I saw an ad on social media. When I saw Gus’ sad little eyes, I knew I had to meet him,” Jonie Doris, his adopter, shared. “He was sweet and calm, and the staff were so excited when I came to visit him.  He wanted belly scratches from day one.”

Jonie’s first visit with Gus at the Animal Services Centre:

Gus, also affectionately known as Augustus, has fully adjusted to his new life. "He’s doing great now! He loves to look out the window, suntan, and sleep on his bed. He’s very playful, loves his bouncy balls and springs, and enjoys being around people. He breathes perfectly fine, and you can see how much better he feels."

Jonie added, “Gus just fits right into the family. It feels like he’s always been a part of the household.”

Gus settling in at his new home:

 

A Commitment to Stray Animals

Calgary Animal Services remains dedicated to helping stray animals receive the care they need, from medical treatments to surgeries like Gus’ rhinoplasty. These efforts not only improve the well-being of the animals but also increase their chances of being adopted into loving homes.

“We are proud of the work we do to help animals like Gus,” said Kathleen Dickson, Coordinator, Animal Care & Clinic Services at Calgary Animal Services. “Our goal is to give these animals a second chance at life and connect them with families who will love and care for them.”

For more information on how you can adopt or support Calgary Animal Services, visit Calgary.ca/pets.

As Jared Tailfeathers looks at the flowing waters near the Louise Bridge at 10^th Street S.W., he knows this area holds thousands of years of history and stories of the Blackfoot people.

“These places where there are bridges and crossings, there would be lots of meetings happening for trading, ceremonies and things like that,” explains Tailfeathers. “There are a whole bunch of important sites in and around here, even a couple of buffalo jumps down the river.”

Now the next chapter of the Bow’s story is set to begin with the new RiverWalk West redevelopment project, with Tailfeathers playing an important role as historian and Indigenous Placemaking consultant.

He’s part of a dedicated team of designers, landscape architects and planners behind the award-winning plan for the area: Exchange – Realizing RiverWalk West.

^{Meet the dedicated team of designers, planners and architects behind the RiverWalk West design. From left to right: Michael Zabinski, principal and cofounder of HEREBY Architecture, Joyce Tang, leader of greater downtown public space delivery, City of Calgary, Greg Stewart, partner with local architecture and planning firm, Ground Cubed, Jared Tailfeathers, Indigenous placemaking consultant, and Tamara Marajh project manager with urban community systems.}

With goals to enhance vibrancy and accessibility, the design aims to improve the pathway system along the Bow River’s southwest bank by seamlessly connecting the East Village to the west end of downtown past 14^th Street S.W. It will also create new areas for people to gather and experience the river in unique ways while harmonizing flood mitigation.

As part of the Greater Downtown Plan, this project helps achieve the strategic moves needed to better serve Calgarians while protecting the natural edge of the Bow River. Honouring and integrating the ecosystem and history of the area is at the heart of the concept.

“It’s a nice marriage of traditional and contemporary,” Tailfeathers explains. “There will be some revitalized nature walk sites and river art with natural elements. So that calls back to some traditional methods of making. There's going to be lots of markers of points where it was really important, and there will be some public art to go along with that.”

The design is the winner of Calgary’s first public realm design competition. Typically, the process entails a Request For Proposal (RFP) but instead there was an international call for ideas. A group of five finalists were shortlisted and given a grant to come up with a unique approach to revitalize the area.

“The result was a really exciting and innovative plan, it opened possibilities for looking deeper into the site than the restrictions of an RFP,” explains Tamara Marajh, project manager with urban community systems. “The site is really complicated. This team was able to explore that site and figure out how to make it work and get the results from the greater downtown plan that we really wanted to see in such a restricted and confined space.”

In a unanimous decision by a jury of diverse and expert professionals, Exchange – Realizing RiverWalk West, was selected.

“The design is compelling, founded in the cultural and historical influence on the site. It tells a story of recognizing everyone's voice, both past and present,” the jury said in a statement. “We were impressed with the level of consultation and the inclusive nature of the Indigenous and colonial histories that were well represented to move us in the right direction.”

Joyce Tang was a member of the jury and works for The City of Calgary as the leader of greater downtown in public space delivery. She says the design gives this popular area some much needed improvement to create more inviting public spaces for Calgarians.

“If you were to walk down this area ­as a pathway user or a cyclist or a family who's trying to picnic in the area, you may feel that you're invading a roadway environment. It's very auto centric, it doesn't feel very safe,” explains Tang. “There's a lot of overgrown vegetation and just not an opportunity for people to want to stay. It really is a chance to provide more equitable spaces for everyone, whether you're living or visiting or working in the downtown,” she adds.

The project even gained national recognition with a 2024 National Urban Design award from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada for Urban Design Plans.

Greg Stewart is part of the project’s design team and a partner with local architecture and planning firm, Ground Cubed, and says the award is a huge honour.

“It was incredible,” says Stewart. “It goes back to being an unapologetically local team. First of all, being recognized locally for that design strength, and then when it went to a National Urban Design Award, it really did a wonderful thing. Just such a proud moment for Calgary's design community.”

From extended boardwalks to intimate trails, the new concept features unique ways to interact with the river.

“The design really is a curated experience as you move from east to west or west to east,” explains Stewart. “It allows people to experience the river in different ways. In some cases, we're taking you right down to the water, experiencing it. You're in it. In others, it's a very light and sensitive approach to the ecosystem, where you're up on an elevated boardwalk with the ability to bird watch and be immersed in nature.”

“We're also looking for amenities that used to exist in and around our site. Calgary's first municipal pool was in where Contemporary Calgary sits now. So, we wanted to bring back a municipal pool in a way that you could experience water in the river throughout the year, day and night. There’s also places for ceremony to happen, where you could have an outdoor concert, an outdoor event and have the river as your backdrop,” Stewart adds.

Michael Zabinski is also part of the design team and the principal and co-founder of HEREBY architecture. With more office towers being converted to residential homes, he agrees reclaiming park space will have a big impact.

“Right now, there are a number of triangle pieces of land – City owned – that are severed from the river. By taking that lane of traffic away at fourth avenue, we increase the real estate of RiverWalk to create a full park as opposed to a single line of pathway,” says Zabinski. “I think it’s really important for this neighbourhood -- the downtown west and the future west village -- to have the social infrastructure necessary. We’re seeing a lot of conversions of office buildings into residential buildings, but it’s never going to be a neighbourhood unless people have a place to come, gather and enjoy each other. That’s what this project’s going to do,” he adds.

The RiverWalk West project team is now working to refine the schematic design before construction can begin. An updated concept is expected to be shared with Calgarians in early 2025.

As the project gains momentum, Jared Tailfeathers looks forward to more opportunities to engage with the community to honour the deep-rooted history of the Bow River.  

“After the project really gets going, there will be a lot more community engagement, which will involve elders and knowledge keepers and ceremonialists, just to make sure that we're doing it correctly,” says Tailfeathers. “Our histories are as important as the contemporary worldview.”

What appears to be a beautifully painted shed along 221 12th Ave. S.W. actually plays an important role for those facing food insecurity.

Beyond a set of flowered turquoise doors, you’ll find a fully functional fridge nestled next to a pantry where donated food is available for anyone – 24/7 with no questions asked.

The Beltline Fridge and Pantry is a labour of love running on generous donations and the hard work of volunteers. The idea was sparked by community members who recognized a growing need for more food resources in the area. With no monitoring or registration, people are welcome to come by at any time to take what they need, no matter their situation.

“They come from all walks of life. We see a lot of elderly people come in, which is a lot of people in the community. We see people who are unhoused, but we also see your everyday people,” says Jessica Watson, planning committee member for the project. “I’d say overall the impact has been pretty amazing. We strive to have food security available for anyone who needs it, but we’re also trying to reduce food waste and build the sense of solidarity and community."

The pantry didn’t simply pop up overnight. In fact, it took over a year of planning and collaboration before it was able to officially launch in October 2023.

“A lot of that time was getting the committee together – planning how we wanted to build the structure, working with different community associations on the location and with The City of Calgary to actually get the space available for us,” explains Watson. “We also worked with other groups to make sure we had something that was going to stay in place, stay strong and have a good user and volunteer base.”

Collaboration was key when bringing this project to life. Several members of The City and community worked together to secure the permits and funding to make it happen.

“This was really the optimal location for the group to locate the fridge, central to the community of Beltline, and it happens to be City property. I helped to navigate all those internal processes to be able to get the approvals,” says Sarah Papineau, neighbourhood partnership coordinator. “To hear some of the stories of the impact it’s made on people having a meal – just the simple thing of having a meal – the rewards are well worth the investment on this project.”

Community Social Worker Silvia Ross worked with residents and partners in the Beltline to address needs in the area, and creating a pantry was a clear way to support those in need of food.

“What this project has revealed is that there is food insecurity in our neighbourhood. It’s not just food insecurity alone, like the lack of food, it’s a bigger issue,” explains Ross. “However, this project, what it comes down to is the power of community. It’s about how we’ve come together to address some of the immediate needs and mobilizing to get neighbours to help neighbours.”

The pantry would not be possible without the help of volunteers like Harp Kaddoura, who is proud to play a role in keeping the area clean. He comes by every week to ensure the area is free of garbage and spills so visitors can have a positive experience.

“I come, I clean up, and I do my part because I was there at one moment, and I needed help myself. So, it’s time to give back to the community,” explains Kaddoura. “This is the best thing that the Beltline needed, it helps lots of people down here, it’s just amazing.”

The group is now asking for the support of Calgarians and local businesses to keep the shelves stocked. You can drop off items including fresh food, canned and dry goods, bread, toiletries and pet food. For health and safety reasons, they can’t accept raw meat or seafood, home-cooked meals, open or expired items, alcohol or food without labels.

Jessica Watson says making someone’s day can be as simple as grabbing a few extra items while you’re at the grocery store.

“One of the fun stories I had recently is I had gone and done some shopping for the fridge, and I just happened to pick up plain yogurt, cucumbers and some lemons. I came down and there was a lady here who was like, ‘I just really want to make tzatziki, that’s really what I’m hoping to make.’ And I was like, I have everything you need. I’ve never seen a bigger smile than I saw that day.”

Learn more about the continuous improvements we’re making to City services like the Beltline Fridge and Pantry by visiting https://www.calgary.ca/service-lines/2023-2026-city-services.html 

In 1983, the Government of Alberta passed legislation which allowed municipalities to establish Business Revitalization Zones, now referred to as Business Improvement Areas. The next year, the 17th Avenue Association, an association of local business owners, signed a petition requesting The City create the 17th Avenue  BIA (now referred to as the 17th Avenue Retail & Entertainment District BIA), and on September 18, it became Calgary’s first. Not long after, on December 18, The South Calgary BIA (now called Marda Loop) became Calgary’s second BIA, and over the years, 13 more BIAs have been established.

Councillor Richard Pootmans was a founding member of the 17^th Avenue BIA and at the time, owned a business in the area. He said there were two reasons why the businesses felt the need to create a BIA. “The first, was to better promote the area to counter the competition for shopping from Chinook Mall and the plans for the Eau Claire Market. The second reason was the need to advocate for improvements and more investment in the deterioratingstreetscape on 17^th Avenue,” says Councillor Pootmans.

Samantha Stebbe is a third-generation owner of Walls Alive, a legacy business on 17 Avenue. Her grandfather started the upscale paint and wallpaper store in 1970, and her father remains a board member of the BIA. Stebbe has fond memories of visiting the store as a child and teenager and hearing the history of the area from her father and grandfather.

“This area used to be known as paint alley,” says Stebbe. “Every major paint brand had a shop along 17 Ave, and this location was once the Pratt and Lambert store until my grandfather bought it and named it Walls Alive. Now we are the only paint and wall décor store left on paint alley.”

“The 17 Avenue BIA has been essential in the area’s development,” says Stebbe. “Businesses owners by themselves can find it hard to have their voices heard, but if there’s a collective of businesses negotiating and advocating with The City of Calgary for the betterment of the whole area, together we have a really strong voice.”

Businesses located in a BIA pay a small tax which goes directly to the BIA. The BIA invests the money in their businesses’ success through promotions, activations, events, placemaking, public realm improvements, local economic development initiatives and advocating for their member businesses. They improve and maintain property and public parking and promote the area to bring more Calgarians to their local businesses.

This hard work over the last 40 years is in large part what has transformed 17^th Avenue and Marda Loop into what they are today – two of Calgary’s most loved neighbourhood destinations.

“Walkable, neighborhood shopping areas and main streets are important to the success local businesses, and BIAs play a large role in ensuring those areas are great places to have a business, great places to shop and visit, and great places to live,” says Bob van Wegen, executive director of Marda Loop BIA.

Looking back on the area’s history, Wegen says the name Marda Loop came from a contest that was held by the BIA (then BRZ) 40 years ago. “The name draws upon two things; the historic Marda Theater that used to be here and the trolley loop that was well known in the area for many decades. These two things aren't here anymore but that name and that history exists and is a big part of our brand.”

Many changes have come to Marda Loop over the last 40 years. The area is sought after by home buyers and has a strong and vibrant business community which now boasts more than 190 shops, restaurants and services.

Calgarians can join in the 40^th anniversary celebration of BIAs by supporting one of 6500 businesses represented by 15 BIAs in operation today throughout the city. There are many ways to do that including leaving positive online reviews, subscribing to business mailing lists, following their social media, sharing favorite businesses with others, and shopping at stores in-person and online. By supporting local you contribute directly to Calgary’s economic resilience and enhance local livelihoods. 

Learn more about BIAs and their enduring impact at Calgary.ca/BIA.