Today, we’re unveiling the design for the Thunder Slide’s replacement, giving Calgarians a first look at one of the facility's most anticipated new features.

The new slide will replace the Thunder Slide, which served Calgarians from 1994 to 2026, when it had reached the end of its service life. As part of the Village Square Leisure Centre repairs and upgrades project, the replacement slide has been designed to deliver a new generation of thrills while building on the experience Calgarians know and love.

Unlike the current open-air corkscrew design, the new slide will be fully enclosed, helping protect it from Calgary's weather and supporting more reliable operation throughout the year. The ride will feature a dynamic path, taking riders through a series of changing twists and turns before reaching the runout below. The design also incorporates translucent sections that create changing colours and light effects throughout the experience.

A vibrant gradient colour scheme featuring reds, pinks, purples, oranges and yellows will make the slide a striking new addition to the Village Square Leisure Centre pool area.

“We've heard from countless Calgarians about what the Thunder Slide has meant to them over the years," said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “The incredible turnout for the slide's final weekend showed just how much people care about places like this and that recreation facilities create memories that last a lifetime. Replacing the Thunder Slide means future generations will have the chance to create memories of their own and enjoy this beloved recreation experience for decades to come."

The replacement slide forms part of The City’s broader work to renew aging recreation infrastructure and respond to increasing demand for recreation opportunities across Calgary. Through GamePLAN, The City’s public recreation strategy, Calgary is taking a long-term approach to investing in existing community facilities where it makes sense and planning new recreation spaces for a growing city.

Work is underway on repairs and upgrades at Village Square Leisure Centre, with the facility and new slide expected to reopen near the end of 2027. Updates can be found at calgary.ca/VillageSquareRepairs

Quick facts

- The Thunder Slide opened in 1994 and has served generations of Calgarians.
- The existing slide and support structure were more than 30 years old and reached the point where replacement was a more practical long-term solution than continued repairs.
- The new slide will be fully enclosed to improve reliability and help protect it from Calgary's weather.
- Village Square Leisure Centre is expected to reopen by the end of 2027.

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The project is part of Jumpstart's commitment to build 25 community soccer pitches across Canada by 2029, supported by more than $2 million in federal funding through Sport Canada. The initiative aims to create more opportunities for children and youth to participate in sport and recreation in welcoming, accessible community spaces.

The City of Calgary will work with the Government of Canada, Jumpstart, community organizations and residents throughout planning and engagement to ensure the future pitch meets local community needs.

"Calgary continues to see strong demand for quality sport and recreation infrastructure. Through GamePLAN, The City's long-term vision for public recreation, we are working to make recreation more accessible and inclusive for all Calgarians. This partnership will help expand access to sport, support active lifestyles and create more opportunities for children and youth to play, learn and connect in their community," says Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor, DJ Kelly.

"Sport is the ultimate nation builder. This summer, from coast to coast to coast, the beautiful game brought Canadians together and inspired the next generation. We're building on that momentum. From neighbourhood matches to dreams of representing Canada on the world stage, this free-to-use soccer pitch in Calgary will give local kids the opportunity to get outside, participate in sport and build a lifelong connection to the game, from playground to podium," says the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, secretary of state (sport).

"As Jumpstart continues to build new community soccer pitches across the country, we're focused on creating more safe, welcoming places where kids can play, build confidence and feel connected to their community. We're grateful to Sport Canada and The City of Calgary for their shared commitment to expanding access to sport and play, and we're excited to work with the community in the months ahead to help bring this vision to life in Calgary," says President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Marco Di Buono.

Additional details, including the future site location and timeline for the new community soccer pitch, will be shared following community engagement and planning.

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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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Welcoming the team into the space increases the visibility of women’s professional sport, while reinforcing the role of public recreation facilities as places where positive sport experiences begin, grow and continue. This reflects The City’s commitment to supporting quality sport opportunities from first-time participation through to advanced development, while helping people stay active, connected and engaged in sport throughout their lives.

“Having Calgary Wild FC make the MaxWell Soccer Centre their homebase for training is incredibly exciting for us,” says Manager of Recreation Service Delivery, Jarret Hoebers. “We share a belief in high‑quality sport experiences, community impact and creating meaningful opportunities for women and girls in sport. That alignment makes this a special moment for everyone involved.”

The move also creates more opportunities for connection between the team and the community.

“Having a home for training at MaxWell Soccer Centre connects us directly to the community,” says President and CEO of Calgary Wild FC, Lara Murphy. “Young players can see what’s possible simply by being in the space. That visibility matters.” 

The City and Calgary Wild FC will work together throughout the year on community‑focused initiatives that open doors for girls in sport, helping them discover confidence, build skills and create positive experiences that can last a lifetime.  

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Sport Hub is designed to reduce common barriers to sport participation, including cost, equipment, transportation and limited opportunities to try different activities. Working alongside sport organizations, schools boards, community collaborators and funders such as United Way of Calgary and Area and Jumpstart, the program delivers high-quality sport lessons where kids and teens already learn and play - at school and in their neighbourhood. Recreation Fee Assistance for community lessons is available through The City’s Fair Entry program, helping to reduce cost as a barrier to participation. 

“Sport Hub reflects our commitment to inclusion, collaboration and community well-being,” said  Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “By working together, we’re creating meaningful opportunities for young Calgarians to stay active, build confidence and feel a sense of belonging in their communities.” 

What makes Sport Hub unique is its collaborative delivery model. The City works closely with sport organizations to provide lessons in the sports they specialize in. By bringing coaching expertise and sports equipment into community and school settings, the program helps kids and teens build skills, confidence and a lifelong connection to sport. 

“Sport Hub is a key part of how we’re delivering on GamePLAN, The City’s long‑term recreation strategy,” said Director of Recreation & Social Programs, Ian Fleming. “By collaborating with schools, sport organizations and community groups, we’re expanding access to quality sport experiences, reducing barriers and supporting the physical, social and emotional well‑being of young Calgarians.” 

Through United Way of Calgary and Area’s Planet Youth initiative, which focuses on prevention and youth well-being, teen sport lessons in select communities are offered at no cost, helping remove barriers and expand access during a critical stage of development. 

“When young people feel connected, supported and included, it can change the trajectory of their lives,” said Karen Young, President and CEO, United Way of Calgary and Area. “Through Planet Youth, we’re focused on prevention to remove barriers and support opportunities like Sport Hub so more youth can build confidence, find belonging and stay connected to their communities.” 

In 2026, Sport Hub aims to reach more than 45 Calgary communities and 90 schools, expanding opportunities for kids and teens to participate in structured, inclusive sport lessons that support physical literacy, teamwork and personal growth. 

For more information about Sport Hub or to register kids and teens for upcoming lessons, visit calgary.ca/SportHub. 

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While the signing marks an important milestone, signatories emphasized that relationships and action hold greater meaning than the document itself. The agreement reflects a deeper commitment rooted in relationships, humility and shared responsibility, guided by shared values, respect for Siksika protocols and a holistic vision of community wellbeing.

The partnership aims to demonstrate how sport and recreation can be powerful pathways for relationship-building, collaboration, healing and community resilience, both on and off the Nation, including for Siksika members living in Calgary.

“We at Siksika Health Services are really looking at what it takes to build holistic health programs and services that include mental, physical, spiritual health, grounded in Siksika culture. Sports and recreation are a huge part of this. We support individuals on the Nation, off the Nation, including our members in Calgary. That’ll be a driver of what we’re here to do today with signing this MOU.”

~ Councillor Ike Solway – Board Chair, Siksika Health Services

“From a cultural perspective, this means far more than putting pen to paper. History has shown us that signatures alone do not guarantee impact; many peoples and organizations have signed agreements before, and continue to struggle with honoring the commitments within them. So as we come together today, we do so with our whole hearts. This is not just a formality; it is a genuine, lasting commitment to this partnership.”

~ Angie Sarsons – Chief Executive Officer, Siksika Health Services

“The MOU, as it’s written, isn’t really about the things we’re going to do, but more about how we’re going to do it. It’s really exciting to be partnering with Siksika Health, an organization that shares the values of a holistic approach to individual and community wellbeing.”

~ Jarret Hoebers – Manager, Recreation Service Delivery, City of Calgary

“This agreement will have a meaningful impact on our employees by creating opportunities to share operational knowledge and experience that will support staff development on both sides. By leveraging each other’s strengths, we can enhance training in areas such as facility maintenance, and program and fitness delivery. This will help build a highly trained workforce and improve the overall services to our members.”

~ Richard Running Rabbit – Recreation Manager, Siksika Health Services

Following the signing, the agreement was honoured with a Blackfoot ceremony, reflecting the cultural foundations that guide Siksika engagements and partnerships.

“In our Blackfoot ways, we have much to offer to strengthen partnerships like this. That’s what we’re doing after the event here, with the ceremony we’re going to share. This will sanctify the agreement in our way.”

~ Siksika Knowledge Keeper, Kent Ayoungman

This partnership is intended to serve as a model for other Indigenous communities and public sport and recreation organizations, demonstrating how collaboration rooted in respect, culture and action can help build stronger, healthier and more resilient communities.

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This sponsorship will directly support the day-to-day operations and investments that will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the facility for years to come. The MaxWell Soccer Centre will remain a vibrant gathering place for programs, leagues and local events, encouraging healthy, active lifestyles close to home. 

“We’re proud to work with organizations who care about Calgary,” shares Jarret Hoebers, Manager of Recreation Service Delivery at The City of Calgary. “By working together, we’re investing not only in recreation infrastructure but in the spirit of community itself, ensuring this hub continues to strengthen social connections, support active living and add to the vibrancy of our city.” 

While the name is changing, the experience remains the same. The MaxWell Soccer Centre remains open and accessible to the public with no changes to programs and services, just renewed investment and energy to keep it thriving. 

“At MaxWell Realty, we understand that a home is more than four walls, its where people feel connected, supported and inspired. That same spirit lives at the MaxWell Soccer Centre, where thousands of families, friends and neighbours come together every year,” explains Bill Tarrabain, President of MaxWell Realty. “Working alongside The City of Calgary allows us to invest in a place that builds community in the same way we strive to build trust with our clients, through honesty, integrity and genuine care. Together, we are ensuring this vibrant hub continues to be a place where people belong and where community spirit thrives.” 

Through GamePLAN, The City’s 25-year strategic plan for recreation, we are investing in spaces that ensure every Calgarian has a place to play, practice and compete for generations to come. Every investment we make in recreation is an investment in our customers, our economy and our future.  

“Recreation is at the heart of strong communities,” highlights Hoebers. "The MaxWell Soccer Centre is more than a facility. It’s a gathering place where people of all ages and abilities come together to play, connect and grow.”   

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All Sport One Day, hosted by Sport Calgary in partnership with The City of Calgary, takes place on Saturday, June 21. This free event allows children aged six to 17 to try a variety of sports at 10 locations across Calgary. With support from local sport organizations, volunteers and City staff, it gives families a chance to learn about the sport programs and facilities available in their neighbourhoods.

“This is about removing barriers,” said Catriona Le May Doan, CEO of Sport Calgary. “Every child deserves the chance to play, to be active, and to find something that makes them feel confident and excited. All Sport One Day creates that space.”

The event offers over 240 sessions across more than 50 sports. Children can choose from options such as basketball, fencing, soccer, curling and martial arts. Sessions are led by trained instructors and are designed for all levels of experience. In addition, Sport Calgary provide adaptable sport options, helping for safe and inclusive environments for children to try something new. Many sites also offer drop-in activities.

“It’s incredible to see the pure joy on kids’ faces when they try something new and realize they’re good at it or that it just makes them happy,” Catriona added. “That spark, that moment of discovery, is what this event is all about.”

All Sport One Day is especially valuable for families who may not have had access to organized sport. The program provides a no-cost, low-pressure way to explore new sports without needing to purchase equipment or commit to a full season. For families new to Calgary or new to Canadian sport systems, it is also a chance to connect with instructors, facilities and community programs.

“This is community-building through sport,” said Catriona. “It’s about creating opportunities, yes, but also about belonging. When a child finds their place on a court, on a field, on a mat, that sense of inclusion carries far beyond a single day.”

The City of Calgary supports All Sport One Day through facility access, promotion and alignment with its Sport for Life Policy, which focuses on building inclusive, accessible and high-quality sport opportunities for all Calgarians. The June event also takes place on Neighbour Day, which celebrates community connections and local involvement across the city.

At locations such as Glenmore Athletic Park, Citadel Community Association, the Genesis Centre, Trico Centre and VIVO, families will be welcomed by staff and volunteers distributing t-shirts and helping children get to their sessions. Registration opens on Tuesday, June 10 at 6:00 p.m. on sportcalgary.ca.

Supporting sustainability through sport

New to this year’s event is the Green Sports Equipment Drive, part of The City’s broader Green Sports Initiative. Families are encouraged to bring gently used sports equipment to two participating sites, VIVO and Seven Chiefs Sportsplex where there will be collection bins. Donated equipment will be redistributed at no cost to children and youth who may not otherwise have access.

“This initiative adds another layer of meaning,” Catriona explained. “We’re not only getting kids into sport, we’re making sport more sustainable. When families donate equipment, they’re helping other kids play and they’re helping reduce waste. It’s a win-win.”

The Green Sports Equipment Drive is led by the Partnerships business unit in collaboration with Community Strategies Community Clean-ups, Waste & Recycling Services, Recreation & Social Programs, and external partners including Sport Calgary and the KidSport Calgary Flames Sports Bank (who support thousands of kids annually). It supports both environmental goals and equitable access to sport. 

The City of Calgary will officially recognize Green Sports Day on October 6, 2025. This national initiative encourages sustainable practices in sport, such as reducing equipment waste, promoting reuse, and supporting education on climate-friendly operations within the sport sector.

Donations collected through the Green Sports Drive will be cleaned, sorted, and distributed by the Calgary Flames Sports Bank to help children and families across Calgary. Please visit their website for a list of equipment needed and safety guidelines for donations.

A second chance in August

Children who are unable to attend the June event will have another chance to participate when All Sport One Day returns on Saturday, August 16.

“All Sport One Day reminds us what’s possible when a community rallies behind its young people,” said Catriona. “We’re helping kids see that sport can be for them, no matter who they are or where they come from.”

To learn more or register your kids, please visit All Sport One Day.

“We are proud to have provided funding to support the completion of the Calgary Soccer Dome,” says Municipal Affairs Minister, Dan Williams. “This project will provide Calgarians with year-round opportunities to come together as a community and stay active.”

The upgrades represent a $28 million investment, providing a significant boost to Calgary’s indoor sports and activity offerings, helping to meet the needs of our growing population. $3.6M of this funding was provided by the Government of Alberta’s Municipal Sustainability Initiative.

“Our community is growing fast, and access to recreational facilities is a top priority for us,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “This new dome is not just an investment in sport — it’s an investment in health, connection, and quality of life for our residents.”

“As Calgary grows and reflects Canada’s pluralistic identity, it’s no surprise that soccer is thriving, and bringing together Calgarians from all backgrounds to play the world’s game,” adds Ward 9 Councillor Gian-Carlo Carra. “With massively increasing demand, this facility is a vital step forward, and I’m proud of it as part of our city’s commitment to active, healthy, and connected communities.”

The Soccer Centre Dome features a competition-sized artificial turf field and an amenity building with eight change rooms, one referee change room, a universal public washroom, and additional administration and storage space.

Parking lot upgrades in the northwest corner of the property were completed in the fall of 2024, reducing water pooling and improving the customer experience. Further upgrades to the parking lot are expected to be completed this summer, adding more than 100 parking spaces by construction’s end.

"We recognize the high demand for indoor field space and are thrilled to see the Soccer Centre Dome come to life to meet this need," said Heather Johnson, Director of Recreation & Social Programs at The City. "This dome is just the beginning. Through GamePLAN, we aim to establish a total of 13 indoor field facilities by 2050, ensuring ample recreational opportunities for all Calgarians as we continue to experience unprecedented population growth." 

The Council-adopted GamePLAN Making Waves service standard seeks to increase bookable hours at indoor fields and athletic parks by 2.5 times, and to meet a service standard of one indoor field facility (fieldhouse) per 150,000 residents.

“Completion of the Calgary Soccer Centre Dome comes at a crucial time, with facilities being a strategic priority for Alberta Soccer serving its members as the most widely played sport in Alberta,” says Junior Figueiredo, President of the Alberta Soccer Association. “The continuing joint efforts between the various soccer associations and government are playing a vital role in making the sport we love more accessible to everyone in this city and this province.”

Stacey Hatcher, Executive Director of the Calgary United Soccer Association, echoes this statement saying, “soccer serves a diverse community and provides an accessible, affordable pathway for the young and old alike to pursue sport. The accessibility and familiarity of soccer also benefits the many newcomers to our city who originate from countries where soccer is the primary sport. It is a global game that fosters inclusion, belonging, and economic opportunities through sports tourism and events.”

As we put the finishing touches on the facility through the summer, we’re reminding visitors of the Calgary Soccer Centre and Dome to please stay within designated areas and obey all construction signs.

To learn more about the Soccer Centre Dome project, and to book the facility, please visit calgary.ca/CSCDome.

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Located in the heart of Glenmore Athletic Park in southwest Calgary, the $85.6 million twin arena will provide modern amenities and two ice surfaces to replace the existing single-sheet at Stu Peppard Arena, which was originally built in 1962.

"Building a new, state-of-the-art facility like the Glenmore Twin Arena is a critical investment in Calgary’s future," says Mayor Jyoti Gondek. "As our city continues to grow, we must prioritize recreational infrastructure to meet the needs of all Calgarians. This new arena will provide the opportunities for all ages and abilities to stay active, connected, and engaged in the communities they call home."

The new two-rink facility will feature an enhanced spectator experience, with capacity for 1,000 seats at one rink and 300 seats at the other. A welcome lobby on the ground level will feature a seating area, accessible washrooms and access to the team and officials’ rooms.

The second floor – which will be accessible by elevator and stairs – will include a spectator concourse between the two rinks for easy access to seating areas, washrooms and snack bar. Additional support spaces on the second level include a classroom, conference room, multiuse room and warm-up area.

“Ward 11 is home to many families and recreation enthusiasts. Glenmore Twin Arena is a welcome addition to meet the growing need for ice rinks in Southwest Calgary,” says City Councillor Kourtney Penner.

Designed for operational efficiency, the new twin arena will also target a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold approach.

“The new Glenmore Twin Arena will provide the sport community with new, modern amenities and improved accessibility,” says Kerensa Swanson Fromherz, Director of Public Spaces Delivery with The City of Calgary. “With two rinks replacing the single sheet, there will be more space for teams and athletes to train, practice and compete.”

This project is being delivered as part of the Revised Capital Investment Strategy. Project funding includes a financial contribution from Hockey Calgary.

“Hockey Calgary is thrilled that construction of the new Glenmore Twin Arena is here,” says Kevin Kobelka, Executive Director of Hockey Calgary. “Growth of hockey in the Calgary area continues to be strong in both the male and female categories, and we’re confident the addition of this facility will help us grow the great game of hockey and other ice sports in Calgary.”

GamePLAN

Glenmore Twin Arena is in alignment with the recently adopted GamePLAN Making Waves service level, which aims to increase bookable hours at ice rinks by 25% with one sheet of ice for every 32,000 residents. By 2050, we hope to have a total inventory of 68 ice sheets, helping to meet the needs of an ever-growing population of Calgarians.

“Public recreational spaces serve as community hubs. They provide opportunities for people to come together, socialize and build strong relational bonds. They foster a sense of community pride and identity,” says Heather Johnson, Director of Recreation and Social Programs “As stewards of these vital spaces, we are deeply committed to creating a public recreation network that is equitable, inclusive and sustainable.”

For more information about the Glenmore Twin Arena and construction updates, please visit Calgary.ca/GlenmoreTwinArena.

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These new courts are a fantastic addition to Foothills Athletic Park, operated by our existing athletic park staff ensuring no additional operating costs. For now, Calgarians can drop by and play on a first-come, first-served basis. Starting in 2025, we’ll be integrating these courts into our Live and Play booking system, making it easier to secure a spot and enjoy a game.

Construction began in July and wrapped up last week, with the project costing approximately $400,000. While these courts are temporary until funding is secured for the Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse, they’re a great addition in the meantime. Once the Multisport Fieldhouse is funded and built, it will feature gymnasia courts that can be configured with up to 36 pickleball courts.

Public recreational spaces serve as community hubs. They provide opportunities for people to come together, socialize and build strong relational bonds. They foster a sense of community pride and identity. However, many of our public recreation and aquatic facilities have exceeded their expected lifespans, are outdated and no longer adequately meet the evolving needs of Calgarians. As stewards of these vital spaces, we are committed to creating a recreation network that is equitable, inclusive and sustainable.

Early next year, The City will present GamePLAN to City Council — the long-term vision for inclusive, accessible and sustainable recreation services. This comprehensive plan will emphasize the urgent need for significant capital investment in the repair, modernization and replacement of our public recreation infrastructure.

Pickleball is a sport emerging across the globe and Calgary is no exception. This sport blends ping pong, tennis and badminton and is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Adding these temporary courts at Foothills helps to meet the growing demand for pickleball while ensuring other court-based activities remain available.

Pickleball was invented in 1965 as a fun backyard activity for kids in the United States and has become a global sensation. It’s easy to learn, incredibly fun to play and suitable for everyone. The City of Calgary is proud to offer over 160 outdoor tennis courts, many of which are adapted for pickleball.

Find more info at calgary.ca/pickleball

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The game was not only a success on the field but also off it, with over 1,500 attendees enjoying food trucks and merchandise availability. Despite facing challenges such as gutted dressing rooms, damaged equipment and the loss of their practice field, the Colts managed to host their first game on schedule.

This was a stark contrast to the evening of June 5, when the Colts were enjoying a practice at Shouldice Athletic Park as water started rolling into the fields because of the critical water main break. Together with City staff, the Colts assisted in bringing items to higher ground, salvaging many pieces of equipment before vacating the area.

In the time since the initial flooding, City crews have worked tirelessly to remove water, repair turf and dressing rooms, replace damaged equipment and relocate practices for the Colts at other fields while repair was underway.

“This achievement is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the people of Calgary,” said Brent Allardyce, Chairman of the Calgary Colts. “Special thanks go to Corinna Pleysier, Team Lead with Recreation & Social Programs, the City staff at Shouldice Athletic Park and Recreation’s Customer Service Centre staff who worked tirelessly under difficult conditions.”

Despite the inevitable challenges as a result of the water damage, the successful home opener highlights the collaborative effort between the Colts and The City of Calgary. “Both the Colts and The City share in this success, and those in City of Calgary leadership should be aware of the outstanding job done by these individuals,” Brent added.

“I take immense pride on behalf of everyone involved in this achievement,” remarked Corinna. “Together, The City and the Calgary Colts demonstrated strength, resilience and spirit of community that sport and recreation brings out in all of us.”

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MAP is a free, outdoor drop-in program that provides inclusive and active recreation opportunities in communities across Calgary. The program facilitates social connection and uses loose parts and natural materials to inspire creative outdoor play.

 For Xavier, this was the ideal program for his children, offering them both valuable social interactions and the opportunity to enjoy a high-quality summer program.

“I want my kids to socialize because we are new to the city. I want them to be able to make new friends and learn English,” Xavier told us.

 During a recent visit, Xavier’s daughter was exploring a fort made from a parachute and playing golf using buckets. At the same time, his son was playing soccer with a group of children and one of the leaders, using soccer nets made from loose parts.

Grace, a Recreation Programmer with Recreation & Social Programs (R&SP), elaborated on how they allow children to explore their own ideas.

“Mobile Adventure Playground is specifically designed to be a program that’s not structured; it’s free play. It allows kids to use their imagination and creativity. The leaders are not here to tell them what to do, but rather, help them do what they want to do,” Grace explained.

MAP has had over 1,000 participants so far this summer, a testament to its success in providing free, valuable programming to Calgarians. Grace highlighted the program’s adaptability, noting that staff are always ready to adjust the program based on the personalities, interests and abilities of those who attend. 

“We have lots of variety in both our equipment and our leaders,” said Grace. “We rotate equipment weekly to adapt the program and create the best possible experience for kids like Xavier’s.”

MAP is a vital resource for many Calgarians like Xavier and his family, offering a welcoming space for children to play and socialize.

Check out all of our free summer activities for children, youth and families at calgary.ca/free.

Parents, caregivers and anyone looking to register for these additional summer swimming lessons can do so as of 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 6 at calgary.ca/register.

We continue our efforts to offer more programming and anticipate that the number of City-run swimming lessons will soon match the levels offered before 2020, with the expectation of fully reaching these service levels in 2025.

“We recognize the pandemic created a significant backlog of swimming lessons and we’ve seen unprecedented demand in the past couple years,” says Michelle Tait, Leader, Recreation & Social Programs. “We’re finally starting to catch up.”

Swimming is not just a recreational activity — it is a critical life-saving skill. It empowers individuals with the confidence to safely engage in water activities and sports throughout their lives. While water-related fatalities occur year-round, the majority happen during the warmest months.

“Given that drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death, we anticipate that these supplementary lessons will significantly contribute to Calgarians acquiring this essential life-saving skill as summer approaches,” adds Michelle.

Beyond swimming lessons, The City of Calgary provides year-round recreation programs for all ages. We also offer certifications for Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard, Lifesaving/Swim for Life® Instructor and Intermediate First Aid.

Calgarians who are interested in working as a lifeguard or swim instructor with The City can apply at calgary.ca/careers/swim-instructors.  

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City-operated aquatic and fitness facilities were built from the late 1960s into the 1980s. These facilities have been well-loved and well-used, but many are now more than 50 years old and decades past their intended lifespan.

Inglewood Aquatic Centre, in particular, has exceeded its expected lifespan by more than 20 years. The electrical repairs would take approximately three months to complete with an estimated cost of $600,000.

“We’re grateful we’ve been able to provide services at this facility to Calgarians for over 60 years. From swimming lessons to birthday celebrations to various events, we take great pride in fostering memorable experiences and contributing positively to the well-being of our community. While we explored various possibilities to sustain the facility’s operations, advancing the closure of Inglewood Aquatic Centre prevents the need for a costly and time-consuming repair of the facility,” says Director of Recreation & Social Programs, Heather Johnson. “Moreover, there is a chance further repairs would be needed beyond the electrical issues because of the facility's age.”

The closure creates the opportunity for potential redevelopment including new housing, stimulating the local economy. There will be no job loss resulting from the closure. Staff who work there will be redeployed to other City-operated recreation facilities.

In 2021, Council approved the closure of Inglewood Aquatic Centre when MNP Community & Sport Centre’s Leisure Expansion Aquatics Project is completed. The expansion is expected to be complete in early 2027.

“The City’s $57.5 million investment into the Leisure Expansion Aquatics Project together with $7.5 million from the Lindsay Park Sports Society and $20 million from the Government of Alberta will provide a wider range of recreation programs and services that meet the needs of the greater downtown area, surrounding communities and all Calgarians,” says CEO of MNP Community & Sport Centre, Jeff Booke. “I’m looking forward to the exciting opportunities that the new amenities will bring.”

“While the project at MNP Community & Sport Centre is significant, further investment in other new, modernized recreation facilities is essential to serve Calgarians now and for generations to come,” says Heather.

Over the next three years, The City intends to conduct electrical work at three aquatic and fitness facilities annually until each have undergone the necessary repairs. This year, electrical repairs will be completed at Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre, Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre and Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre. Electrical repairs were completed at Foothills Aquatic Centre during a recent temporary closure. The completion of electrical repairs at the remaining facilities will be prioritized based on urgency, minimizing disruption to customers and swim clubs, and coordinating with other planned repairs.

“City-operated aquatic and fitness facilities continue to require significant capital investment in repairs and maintenance and only limited enhancements can be achieved,” says Heather. “We need to consider rebuilding or replacing these facilities to better serve the evolving recreational needs of Calgarians.”

GamePLAN, a long-term vision and strategy to shape The City’s approach to delivering inclusive, accessible and sustainable recreation services for the next 10 to 30 years, will guide future business planning, investment and policy. In 2025, GamePLAN findings and recommendations will be presented to Council, including a Facility Investment Plan. This will help raise awareness of the poor state of public recreation infrastructure, the resulting negative impacts, and the need for immediate and sustained investment.

The City recognizes the value Inglewood Aquatic Centre has provided as a community recreation amenity contributing to the health and wellbeing of Calgarians, and acknowledges the closure of the facility will impact user groups and customers. A public celebration event is being planned to recognize the significance of this facility and celebrate its legacy.

More information on the celebration event will be provided at calgary.ca/InglewoodPool.

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CALGARY – The City of Calgary’s Youth Employment Centre is back with its popular Youth Hiring Fair in 2023.

The free event, now in its 24^th year, will be held on April 6 from 1:30 to 6 p.m. at the Big Four Building on the Calgary Stampede grounds. The largest youth hiring event in Calgary, the Youth Hiring Fair has historically hosted over 5,000 young people between the ages of 15-24. This year’s fair will give young Calgarians the chance to meet with over 80 companies looking to fill vacancies immediately.

“The Youth Hiring Fair is a perfect opportunity for young people looking for work to connect with more than 80 potential employers all at once,” says Tara Huxley, Community Programs & Services Coordinator. “This year’s fair has attracted employers looking to hire full-time, parttime and seasonal employees in a variety of industries including recreation, customer service, warehousing/labour, hospitality and financial services.”

The event is free – all young people need to bring is a resume and a desire to find a job. But young people can improve their chances of being hired by connecting with the Youth Employment Centre ahead of time.

“The Youth Employment Centre has all sorts of free services and tools to help you prepare for the fair,” says Huxley. “Come in ahead of time to speak with an employment expert and get help polishing your resume, drafting a job search strategy, preparing for an interview and even doing career planning.”

The Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you can’t make it to the fair, the Centre offers young people ages 15-24 free career services and connections to employers all year round.

For more information, including a list of companies participating in the fair, please visit www.calgary.ca/yechiring.

Designed to be a welcoming, inclusive and barrier-free space, the state-of-the-art Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse will support a range of field sports, court sports and athletics. It will include a FIFA-sized soccer field, track and field centre, court spaces, fitness centre and multipurpose rooms.

“Calgary remains the only major Canadian city without a fieldhouse,” said Councillor Mian, Chair of the Multisport Fieldhouse Committee. “The Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse will address a long-standing need for year-round community practice and play space while enabling Calgary to host national and international competitions.”

The City has earmarked $109 million towards this priority capital project. This represents a significant opportunity for other levels of government, the private sector and public institutions to leverage available funding towards shared outcomes.

The Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse will enable Calgary to host national and international sport competitions, stimulating and diversifying the economy through increased sport tourism and job creation. It will contribute to a dynamic mix of athletics, education, business, research and entrepreneurship and catalyze future redevelopment of, and investment in, the Foothills Athletic Park and McMahon Stadium lands.

The City is currently engaging with a cross-section of future users, sport agencies and governing sport bodies to better understand needs, usership and event hosting requirements. This work is part of an Amenity Refinement Study to validate assumptions around use, operations and affordability.

“Since the original concept plan for the fieldhouse was developed in 2010, the sport and recreation landscape in Calgary has changed,” said Heather Johnson, Director of Recreation & Social Programs at The City of Calgary. “We want to ensure the amenity mix and layout for the fieldhouse serves as many sport and community groups as possible while minimizing required tax support.”

The timeline to complete the development of the Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse is estimated at five years from the time total funding is secured.

For more information, visit calgary.ca/fieldhouse.

Calgary Transit 

On Monday, Feb. 20 we will be operating buses, CTrains and On Demand on a Sunday level of service. Over the Family Day long weekend, we will be adjusting our service hours. Customers can visit calgarytransit.com for our holiday hours, and use our trip planner to see when their bus is running.

Parking

No payment is required for on-street parking on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 20. Holiday rates will be in effect at select Calgary Parking Authority parkades and surface lots. Regular rates will be in effect at Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park.

The Calgary Parking Authority Contact Centre and Municipal Impound Lot will also be closed on Feb. 20, visit calgaryparking.com for more information.

Road closures

Details on road construction, road closures, detours, accidents and incidents that may affect your commute can be found here.

Around the house

Landfill hours 

Landfill hours and locations are available on calgary.ca/landfill.

Hours for this weekend are as follows:

Facility hours and closures

All Calgary Recreation facilities will be closed on Monday, Feb. 20 except for:

• Southland Leisure Centre and Village Square Leisure which will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
• Free public skating, which will be held from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. at Ernie Starr Arena, Frank McCool Arena, Optimist/George Blundun Arenas and Shouldice Arena.

New Year’s Eve fireworks

Ring in the New Year with fireworks set from atop the iconic Calgary Tower. Watch the fireworks live at Olympic Plaza or via a livestream video by visiting Calgary.ca/NYE. Both experiences will feature a synchronized soundtrack to the fireworks curated by CJSW 90.9 FM. The program will begin at 11:55 p.m. with a blessing from Indigenous Elder Clarence Wolfleg, followed by a countdown to midnight with Mayor Jyoti Gondek and the spectacular eight-minute fireworks display.

What else can you do:

• The outdoor public skating rink at Olympic Plaza will be open at 10 a.m. and skating hours will be extended to midnight.
• Check out VisitCalgary.com to learn about local events and activities happening near you.

Getting around

Calgary Transit

We will have adjusted service for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. For more details including customer service, Calgary Transit Access and On Demand hours, visit https://www.calgarytransit.com/content/transit/en/home/news/holiday-service-2022.html.

Road closures

For pedestrian and traffic safety on New Year’s Eve, the following roads will be closed from 11:30 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022, to 12:15 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023:

• Centre Street S.E., from 6 Avenue S.E. to 9 Avenue S.E.
• 9 Avenue S.W., from 1 Street S.W. to 1 Street S.E.
• 9 Avenue S.W. sidewalk in front of the Calgary Tower

Parking

On Dec. 25, 26, 27 and Jan. 1, payment is not required for on-street ParkPlus zones and holiday rates will be in effect in select CPA surface lots and parkades. Regular rates will remain in effect at Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park. The Municipal Impound Lot will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Visit calgaryparking.com for more information.

Around the house

Blue, Black and Green Cart collection

There are no changes to cart collection services this year for single-family homes.

Landfill hours

Landfill hours and locations are available on calgary.ca/landfill. Hours for the holiday season are as follows:

Recreation Facilities

 The following are open over the holiday season:

• Free public skate Dec. 26 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. at the following arenas: Frank McCool Arena, George Blundun/Optimist Arena, Henry Viney/Stew Hendry Arena
• Free public skate Jan. 1 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. at the following arenas: Rose Kohn/Jimmie Condon Arena, Murray Copot Arena, Henry Viney/Stew Hendry Arena

The following are closed over the holiday season:

• Arenas: closed Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1 apart from free public skate times listed above
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres: closed until Jan. 2
• Aquatic and Fitness Centres: closed Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1
• Leisure Centres: closed Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1
• Soccer Centre: closed Dec. 24 to Jan. 1

See facility websites for operating hours outside of these dates.

Below is a list of some of the Remembrance Day ceremonies happening in Calgary:

• Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (1415 14 Ave. N.W.)
• King's Own Calgary Regiment (North Glenmore Park West Entrance, 7305 Crowchild Tr. S.W.) 
• Field of Crosses (Memorial Drive between 3 Street N.W. and Centre Street)
• The Hangar Flight Museum (4629 McCall Way N.E.)
• The Military Museums (4520 Crowchild Tr. S.W.)
• Canadian Pacific Memorial (CP Memorial Square, 7550 Ogden Dale Rd. S.E.)
• Fort Calgary (750 9 Ave. S.E.)

If you are planning to attend a Remembrance Day service or event, please check the event website or contact the organization to confirm the event details before attending. 

Getting around

Calgary Transit 

On Remembrance Day we’ll be operating buses, CTrains and On Demand on a Saturday level of service. Visit calgarytransit.com for more information on fares, schedules and service changes.

All veterans and accompanying family members will be able to ride transit for free on Remembrance Day. Veterans wearing uniforms or bearing veteran identification cards are eligible.

Hours of operation:

Road closures, detours and traffic

There will be a number of short-term road closures to accommodate Remembrance Day ceremonies on Friday, Nov. 11:

• Memorial Drive will be closed between 4 Street N.E. and 3 Street N.W. from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
• Calgary Highlanders Remembrance Day Parade at Central Memorial Park road closures from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • 12 Avenue S.W. will be closed between 2 Street S.W. and 5 Street S.W.
  • 13 Avenue S.W. will be closed between 2 Street S.W. and 5 Street S.W.
  • 4 Street S.W. will be closed between 11 Avenue S.W. and 13 Avenue S.W.

Parking

Payment is not required for on-street ParkPlus zones and holiday rates will be in effect in select CPA surface lots and parkades. Regular rates will be in effect at Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park. The Municipal Impound Lot will also be closed. Visit calgaryparking.com for more information.

Veterans’ Parking: Parking in CPA surface lots and parkades (except for Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park) is free for Veterans displaying a valid Alberta registered veterans’ license plate. For more information on the Veterans’ Parking Program visit the website or call 403-537-7000.

Around the house

Landfill hours

Landfill hours and locations are available on calgary.ca/landfill. Hours for this weekend are as follows:

Facility hours and closures

The following are open on Nov. 11:

• Rose Kohn Arena, Murray Copot Arena, Jimmie Condon Arena: free public skates from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
• Southland and Village Square Leisure Centres: arenas open for public skating from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Pool areas open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The following are closed on Nov. 11:

• All other arenas 
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres
• All other Aquatic and Fitness Centres
• Athletic Parks
• Calgary Soccer Centre

See facility websites for operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.

“The Calgary Fire Department is extremely grateful to receive this generous donation as we see first-hand every day how valuable smoke alarms are. These 1000 smoke alarms mean hundreds of families will have the ability to get out of their homes safely in the event of a fire.” said Deputy Chief Steenaerts. “We want to thank Kidde for their ongoing support and donation to this very important program.”

Since 1996, Calgary firefighters have been visiting homes across the city as part of the Home Safety Program, to share important home safety information, inspect smoke alarms and, when needed, replace batteries and install smoke alarms.

The Home Safety Program installs smoke alarms in the homes of Calgarians that may not have the ability to purchase or install them, including low-income residents, seniors and new Canadians.

“We're thrilled to have this opportunity to recognize the bravery of our first responders and support their continued commitment to keeping our communities safe,” said Stephanie Berzinski, Fire Safety Educator with Kidde. “Everyone deserves to feel safe and protected in their homes, and firefighters are the ones who rush into danger and save lives. Our hope is that this donation from our “Operation Save-a-Life” program helps the Calgary Fire Department keep spreading the message of fire safety and getting more smoke alarms into the homes of those who need them.”

Over 470,000 homes have been visited since the Home Safety Program began, with over 31,000 smoke alarms installed and almost 20,000 batteries replaced. This donation helps the Calgary Fire Department inch closer to having visited a half million homes in Calgary.

To learn more about smoke alarms and how to test and install them, please visit our website.

The new amenity to support indoor sports is an air-supported structure that has no interior columns or beams and is formed by maintaining internal air pressure. The dome will be inflated annually from approximately November to May and will allow sports like flag football, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey and more to use the artificial turf field all year. The seasonality of the dome allows flexibility for all-season use while also taking advantage of the preferred outdoor atmosphere when seasons allow. 

 "It's well known that recreation centres capture the heart of a community and help build belonging and cohesiveness. It's also well known that snow can have a significant impact on Calgary's team sports, often causing a late start or early finish to the season,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “A weather-proof facility like Shouldice Seasonal Dome is a much-needed space that will provide Calgarians a chance to connect and play, no matter the weather." 

Funding for the $8.5 million project came from the Government of Alberta’s Municipal Stimulus Program, the Dome Facilities Association (DFA) and The City of Calgary. The dome increases the number of ways Calgarians can stay active during the cold, winter months at a fraction of the cost required to build a permanent structure. 

 “This project and the partnership that made it possible are examples of the spirit and vitality of Calgary’s sport culture,” said Heather Johnson, Director of Recreation & Social Programs at The City of Calgary. "The investment also provides great value by converting an existing athletic park into a year-round sport venue.” 

 This project was developed in partnership with the DFA and spearheaded by the sport community, including the Greater Calgary Amateur Football Association, Calgary Minor Soccer Association and the Calgary Blizzard Soccer Club. 

 “We’re proud to be part of this exciting project that will allow us to offer more sport opportunities for Calgarians,” said Greg Peterson, President of the Greater Calgary Amateur Football Association and the DFA. “Encana Field has been a great space for us, and this dome takes it to the next level.”  

 Sport groups started using the dome on October 15. It can now be booked for individual or group use by visiting calgary.ca/recreation. More information on the project is available at calgary.ca/recreationprojects 

Brody Quinn, age 11, was named Junior Fire Chief in a ceremony today at Varsity Fire Station 17. Chief Dongworth made the announcement and presented Brody with a fire helmet and special certificate honouring his appointment.

Each year during Fire Prevention Week, the Calgary Fire Department appoints a Junior Fire Chief to act as Calgary’s fire safety ambassador. This program has been running since 2016 in partnership with the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Brody’s duties will include promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.”, which shares the importance of planning and practicing how to escape your home in the event of a fire. As part of Quinn’s first day, he went for a ride in a fire engine and had lunch with the crew at Varsity Fire Station 17.

“Brody will be a great ambassador for the Calgary Fire Department. He’s already active in his community and has expressed an interest in becoming a firefighter. We can’t wait to attend community events with him and support him as our Junior Fire Chief.” said Chief Dongworth. “Our partnership with Alberta Children’s Hospital has made this program such a big success. We thank them for their continued participation and for introducing us to Brody.”

“We are happy to be resuming the partnership between the hospital and Calgary Fire Department to select a child for the Junior Fire Chief program.” said Sandy Baggott, Child Life Lead for the Alberta Children’s Hospital. “The program helps to promote important initiatives around both safety and leadership.”

During Fire Prevention Week, running from October 9 - 15, 2022, the Calgary Fire Department advises Calgarians that having working smoke alarms and a well-practiced escape plan are critical for getting out of your home safely. They advise:

1. Fire moves fast. You have less than 2 minutes to get out if there is a fire in your home.
2. Draw, plan and practice your home escape plan at least twice a year with everyone that lives in the home, including small children. Your plan should include two ways to get out of every room as well as a designated meeting place outside, far from your home. Practice crawling to the exit points as if there is smoke and share your plan with any overnight guests.
3. Make sure everyone in your home recognizes the sights and sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and knows how to get out.
4. Once outside, go to your designated meeting place and call 9-1-1. Never go back inside. A firefighter will retrieve pets or special items.

Fire Prevention Week is held annually by fire departments across North America. This year marks the 100^th Anniversary of Fire Prevention Week. Fire Prevention Day was proclaimed in Canada in 1919 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, as well as a major fire that destroyed the Centre Block of the Parliament buildings in Ottawa on February 3, 1916. Fire Prevention Day was extended to Fire Prevention Week in 1922.

To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit calgary.ca/firepreventionweek.

Calgary Transit 

Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on October 10. For more information on fares, schedules and service changes this long weekend, please visit calgarytransit.com.

There will also be two CTrain service disruptions over the long weekend:

• October 7 (all day): the Red Line will be closed between City Hall and 39 Avenue stations for necessary work on the line and preparation for the installation of a temporary platform at Victoria Park/Stampede station. Shuttle buses will replace CTrain service between City Hall and 39 Avenue stations, running every 5 minutes.
•  October 8 – 10: the Blue Line will be closed between Downtown West/Kerby and Bridgeland/Memorial stations, and the Red Line will be closed between Sunnyside and 39 Avenue stations. 7 Avenue will be closed to both CTrain and bus traffic during this time to allow for required maintenance and utility work. Shuttle buses will replace CTrain service through the downtown area with shuttle stops on 6 Avenue and 9 Avenue. 

Maps and full route information for this weekend’s bus and CTrain detours can be found at calgarytransit.com/CTrain-Service.

Parking

Payment is not required for on-street ParkPlus zones and holiday rates will be in effect in select CPA surface lots and parkades. Regular rates will be in effect at Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park. The Municipal Impound Lot will also be closed. Visit calgaryparking.com for more information.

Around the house

Landfill hours

Landfill hours and locations are available on calgary.ca/landfill. Hours for this weekend are as follows:

Facility hours and closures

Calgary Recreation will have modified hours of operation, visit calgary.ca/recreation for more information.

The following are open on October 10:

• Glenmore Reservoir kayak and canoe rentals: open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. October 8-10. Boat Patrol not in service on October 10. See website for Glenmore Reservoir boat launch status.
• Stew Hendry Arena, Rose Kohn Arena, Murray Copot Arena, Ernie Starr Arena, Shouldice Arena, Jimmie Condon Arena, Stu Peppard Arena, Frank McCool Arena and Optimist Arena are open from 1:00-2:15 p.m. See website for schedules. 

The following are closed on October 10:

• Village Square and Southland Leisure Centres: see facility website for operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres: closed October 8-10.
• Calgary Soccer Centre: regular operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.
• Aquatic and fitness centres: see facility website for operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.
• Athletic parks: see facility website for operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.

Driving ranges and golf courses are open; book your tee time at calgary.ca/golf

Calgary Transit 

Calgary Transit will be operating buses, CTrains and On Demand on a Saturday level of service. Customer service centres will remain open. For more information on fares, schedules and service changes, please visit calgarytransit.com.

Parking

Payment is not required for on-street ParkPlus zones and holiday rates will be in effect in select CPA surface lots and parkades. Regular rates will be in effect at Calgary Zoo, TELUS Spark and Heritage Park. The Municipal Impound Lot will also be closed.

Things to do

Citizens are invited to join Indigenous Elders, community leaders and all Calgarians committed to the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children at Fort Calgary, 750 9 Ave. S.E., at 10 a.m., or online at calgary.ca/live.

Everyone is strongly encouraged to wear orange, preferably from a local Indigenous vendor, to show your allyship and solidarity.

The Orange Shirt Day ceremony is one of the ways The City of Calgary is recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. For more information on Orange Shirt Day and other ways to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation visit calgary.ca/orangeshirtday.

Around the house

Landfill hours 

Landfill hours and locations are available at calgary.ca/landfill. Hours for this day are as follows:

Facility hours and closures

Calgary Recreation will have modified hours of operation, visit calgary.ca/recreation for more information.

The following are open on Sept. 30:

• Village Square and Southland Leisure Centres are open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Glenmore Reservoir kayak and canoe rentals: open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. See website for Glenmore Reservoir boat launch status.
• Bookings at arenas, athletic parks and the Calgary Soccer Centre.

The following are closed on Sept. 30:

• Arenas, athletic parks and flatwater pools. See website for operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.
• Calgary Soccer Centre. Regular operating hours on Saturday and Sunday.
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres.

Driving ranges and golf courses are open; book your tee time at calgary.ca/golf

After assessing community social recreational needs through public engagement in 2020, the facility was used to pilot community-based services and programs over the past year. While pilot programs were well-received by the Beltline community, their success is not tied to the building, which is costly to maintain, not fit-for-purpose and in need of significant improvements for accessibility.

“We know social recreational programming is valuable to the community and are working to continue it in other locations,” explains Heather Johnson, Director of The City’s Recreation & Social Programs business unit. “Unfortunately, the building isn’t fit for long-term service delivery.”

In addition to services and programs piloted in the facility, City staff worked with a consultant to assess converting the building to better suit new programming. The results of a feasibility study found that such a conversion would require a capital investment of between $15 and $40 million while programming and operating costs would be approximately $1 million per year, eliminating the cost advantage of a partner-operated model at this location.

Following closure, the facility and lands will remain in The City’s building inventory while work to determine the future best value use is completed.

Renovations to the nearby MNP Community and Sport Centre only one kilometer away will transform the facility into a community hub, offering family-friendly recreation amenities similar to what exists in Calgary’s suburban communities.

“The MNP Community & Sport Centre will expand programs, services and amenities to meet the recreation and wellness needs of those living in downtown Calgary and surrounding communities,” says Jeff Booke, CEO. “With The City of Calgary’s investment, the Centre will add leisure aquatic amenities, universal change rooms, programming, social spaces and build a stronger connection to neighbouring communities. Ultimately, the investment is about creating a central community hub for everyone to enjoy.”

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Max Bell Arena #2 (1221 Barlow Tr. S.E.) will be named the Perry Cavanagh Arena while Village Square Leisure Centre Arena #2 (2623 56th St. N.E.) will be known as the Wally Kozak Arena.

“Calgary has a rich sporting history and Perry Cavanagh and Wally Kozak’s contributions are unquestionably a part of that fabric,” said Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot. “Their success and excellence as sport and community leaders merits this recognition.”

“Hockey Calgary has brought forward two very deserving names for this distinction,” said Ward 9 Councillor Gian-Carlo Carra. “Perry Cavanagh and Wally Kozak are recognized throughout the hockey community for their contributions to advancing the sport in Calgary. This is a well-deserved honour.” 

Perry Cavanagh
Mr. Cavanagh was the driving force in implementing the Respect in Sport program throughout the Hockey Calgary system. This program is designed to support and reinforce positive sport behaviours among parents’/guardians’ and participants to improve the overall playing environment.  A devoted volunteer, he previously served as the President of the Minor Hockey Association of Calgary, sat on the Board of Directors for Hockey Calgary and Hockey Alberta, and was Chairman of Sport Calgary.  A complete biography is attached.

“I have been an avid supporter of minor hockey in Calgary for over 30 years,” said Mr. Cavanagh. “Youth sports are essential to fostering healthy, vibrant, and connected communities, and I am honoured to be recognized as being a part of this legacy.”

Wally Kozak
A physical education teacher in northeast Calgary, Mr. Kozak has been instrumental in fostering the growth of women and girls hockey and served as the technical advisor to Girls Hockey Calgary. He is known internationally as one of the best technical coaches and was integral in establishing the development of the Women’s National Team program. A complete biography is attached.

"I am humbled and honoured to have one of the Village Square arenas named after me,” said Mr. Kozak. “That facility provided an opportunity to learn how to teach and coach and continually serve the ‘good of the game’."

Hockey Calgary formally submitted the honourary naming nominations for Mr. Cavanagh and Mr. Kozak in 2021. The nominations received support from other arena users, including synchro skating, ringette and indoor lacrosse groups.

“We’re proud to add Perry Cavanagh and Wally Kozak to a list of significant sport and community leaders whose names adorn our arenas,” said Calgary Recreation Director Heather Johnson. “Arenas are important community assets and we remain committed to ensuring Calgarians have access to quality recreation amenities.”

The honourary naming requests coincided with a recently completed $14 million upgrade at Max Bell Centre that brings improved accessibility, energy efficiency and event-hosting ability.

The City operates 19 arenas (ice surfaces) at 13 properties throughout Calgary.

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With funding from the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Calgary Recreation has been hosting junior adaptive golf lessons at the Shaganappi Point Golf Course and the McCall Lake Golf Course. Starting in July as a pilot project, these lessons have been free of charge for children with various disabilities and participation is organized through foundations such as Cerebral Palsy Kids and Families, Alberta Sports and Recreation for the Blind, Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary and Ups & Downs.

Classes are taught by pros from the National Golf Academy and feature five lessons on the driving range and putting green with the opportunity to play on the McCall Lake Par 3 course. The instructors adapt both equipment and techniques to suit any abilities. The classes are on greens that can accommodate wheelchairs and offer longer class times and brightly-coloured golf balls that are easily visible, ensuring participation for children of all physical and developmental abilities.

“We are constantly learning and adapting every golfer’s needs when working with people of all ages, levels and abilities,” says Gennie Liu, Recreation Program Specialist with Calgary Recreation, “We have worked with each disability group to understand participant abilities, possible adaptations and tips to make it inclusive and accessible for all.”

The junior adapted golf programs have been very successful and are expected to be held again in Summer 2022.

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“We are happy to be able to resume operations and provide Calgarians with the activities they love,” says Jarret Hoebers, Regional Manager with Calgary Recreation. “The health and safety of our customers and staff is our top priority, and we are making sure we reopen in a measured, safe way in alignment with all Provincial health orders and municipal bylaws.”

Face coverings must be worn while inside facilities except while doing athletic and fitness activities, and those showing symptoms or feeling unwell are asked to stay home. Physical distancing rules and enhanced cleaning protocols remain in place at City of Calgary recreation facilities.

To book a workout or swim time, visit www.calgary.ca/liveandplay starting June 10 at noon.

On June 14, the following facilities will re-open:

• Aquatic and fitness facilities:
  • Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
  • Glenmore Aquatic Centre
  • Inglewood Aquatic Centre
  • Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre
  • Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre
  • Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Two additional aquatic and fitness facilities will follow on June 21:

• Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
• Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre
   
• Arenas:
  • Father David Bauer and Norma Bush arenas (two ice sheets)
  • Optimist & George Blundun arenas (two dry pads)
  • Shouldice (one dry pad)
  • Stew Hendry & Henry Viney arenas (two ice sheets)
  • Southland Leisure Centre (two ice sheets)
• Athletic Parks:
  • Tom Brook Athletic Park
  • Renfrew Athletic Park
  • Foothills Athletic Park (Open as of June 1)
  • Glenmore Athletic Park (Open as of June 1)
  • New Brighton Athletic Park (Open as of June 1)
  • Optimist Athletic Park (Open as of June 1)
  • Shouldice Athletic Park (Open as of June 1)
• Calgary Soccer Centre (eight indoor and three outdoor artificial turf fields)
• Glenmore Sailing School (for sailboat, canoes & kayak rentals)

On June 19 (weather dependent) The City will also re-open seven outdoor spray parks and wading pools with limited capacity in alignment with stage 2 of the Province’s “Open for Summer” plan:

• Five Spray Parks:
  • West Confederation Park 
  • Prairie Winds Park 
  • Rotary Park 
  • South Glenmore Park (Variety Park)
  • Valleyview Park 
• Two Wading Pools:
  • Bowness Park
  • Prairie Winds Park 

Additional facilities will re-open in a phased approach, based on a number of factors including hiring and certifying staff and customer use.

Registered Programs, lessons and day camps are now available for sessions starting as soon as July 3. You can see available programs – many of which are child-friendly and outdoor – at www.calgary.ca/register.

Information about City facilities reopening can be found on calgary.ca/covid.

For more information on provincial restrictions, please visit www.alberta.ca/covid.

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In November 2019, Council directed Administration to determine the long-term future of the Beltline and Inglewood Recreation facilities, with a goal of maximizing community and social benefits for those communities.

After a year-long Discover Phase to understand the social & recreational needs of Calgarians who live, work and play in the Beltline and Inglewood/Ramsay communities, The City is responding to the evolving needs of downtown communities with a suite of actions that promote community, activity and social cohesion throughout the downtown core.

Over the next few years, residents can expect to see:

New, modern amenities at the Repsol Sport Centre

Our research identified a clear gap in specialized aquatic amenities (like waterslides, lazy rivers and wave pools) in the downtown area. These amenities exist in facilities serving Calgary’s suburbs, but there are none in close proximity to the core communities.

The Repsol Sport Centre (Repsol Centre) is a public access service provider serving both the Beltline and Inglewood/Ramsay communities, as well as the entire downtown core. It has the space for expansion and is accessible through multiple modes of transportation. The City will invest $45 million to help the Repsol Centre develop community aquatic amenities for downtown residents.

When complete, The City of Calgary will have a new, modern aquatic space with community amenities contributing to the revitalization of Calgary’s downtown, increasing reasons to live, work and play in the city.

A Beltline Recreation facility refocused on community programming

Research indicated that the pool at the 67-year old Beltline facility is little-used, smaller than appropriate for modern standards, and expensive to operate. The building and land parcel are too small to accommodate the modern amenities residents desire in an aquatic facility. New amenities at the Repsol Centre less than 1km away will provide better aquatic opportunities for Beltline residents.

The Beltline facility, however, is far from closing. It has value for downtown residents as a safe, local space for community-based social and recreational activity outside the home. The facility will reopen so community members can get back to the gymnasium and multi-purpose spaces, and The City is working with a consultant on a feasibility study to repurpose the facility to deliver integrated social and recreational programming for the community.

More community access at the Inglewood pool while Repsol Centre amenities are under construction

While residents enjoy the availability of a community pool and support neighbors who use it, use of the facility has been declining for several years. There are restrictions on the title to the pool land that do not allow adding modern amenities like a gym, fitness studio, or athletic space, and the parcel of land is too small to add specialized leisure aquatic amenities. When the Repsol Centre construction is completed, Inglewood and Ramsay residents will have new, modern aquatic amenities available to them just a short walk away.

The Inglewood pool will remain open during the development of new amenities, contingent on community use, allowing the community and user groups to continue enjoying their local pool until a newer one is available to them. During this time, more community access time will be put on the schedule to allow residents to enjoy this community asset.

Investing in programming in and around the Beltline and Inglewood/Ramsay communities

Through our engagement and research, we learned that people in the Beltline and Inglewood/Ramsay communities value connecting with each other outside their homes, in parks and on pathways. They look for spaces and places to get active outside with unique social and recreational opportunities.

The City is working to create those opportunities with a range of programming and new amenity development, including:

• Continuing the “Bend in the Bow” project connecting the Inglewood Wildlands, the Bird Sanctuary and Pearce Estates Park, to provide a user-friendly park of broad appeal to Calgarians.
• Building a bicycle pump track in Inglewood where youth can learn skills and have fun with their bikes on rollers, banked turns and other features.
• Creating a “Beltline Open Space Playbook” in collaboration with the Beltline Neighbourhood Association to identify best practices for improving existing park spaces and building new ones
• Making free and low-cost outdoor programming a priority in the Beltline: We heard that Beltline residents need spaces outside their homes to get active, so we are making sure they have access to activities like after school programming, art and music performances in park spaces, nature walks for seniors, self-guided walking tours, pop-up fitness activities, and wellness workshops, as well as a new garden bed next to Central Memorial Library, a “library” of recreation equipment for community use, and a continuation of temporary fire pits.

Through the new amenities, programs and projects identified through the Beltline & Inglewood Pool Program, The City is investing in the needs of our downtown residents. We’re also creating a vibrant, active downtown with reasons for people to visit from near and far and helping make Calgary a great place to live.

“During the pandemic, we have become more aware of the positive affect that physical wellness has on the mental health of Calgarians,” said Councillor George Chahal, Ward 5. “I am thrilled that those in northeast Calgary will finally have a high-quality multipurpose field in their community. New athletic facilities like this one are an important part of making Calgary an equitable city for all.”

The artificial turf field includes upgraded lighting and will be in use from approximately April to November each year, weather permitting. As a community field, it will be bookable by anyone and stay open for the public when not in use.

A number of other improvements are expected to be incorporated in this project and are in the process of being finalized. This includes a community gathering space for a broad range of ages, from youth to seniors. Public engagement on this space occurred online in the summer of 2020. Calgarians submitted input which was incorporated into the design of the fields and community gathering space. Design of these additional improvements will be available in the coming months on calgary.ca.

“Community is essential to the well-being of Calgarians and the Genesis Centre is an important community-building hub for residents in the northeast,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “This project adds amenities that will better serve the area and helps ensure that the Genesis Centre will continue to be an accessible gathering space for years to come.”

Leela Sharon Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, agrees. “Recreation, active living and sport are essential to the health, well-being and social needs of Albertans. “We are thrilled to work with our partners to upgrade the Genesis Centre’s field. This taxpayer investment will be a big win for the community and the growing number of Calgarians enjoying soccer and other leisure activities.”

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The fields will be ready for community use in the summer of 2022.

“We are so excited to see shovels in the ground as the rehabilitation project of the Genesis Centre outdoor fields moves into the next phase,” said Sherry King, Executive Director with the Genesis Centre. “Having these fields here will mean that northeast Calgarians will have the same access to good quality sports fields that the rest of the city has been accustomed to for many years. We look forward to 2022 when these fields will be fully operational for the new outdoor season.”

The budget for the project is $6 million, funded in equal parts by The City of Calgary, the Government of Alberta and the Genesis Centre.

The community artificial turf pilot projects strategically located at the Genesis Centre is in alignment with The City of Calgary’s objective of providing high quality, accessible and affordable recreational opportunities for all Calgarians.

More information can be found at calgary.ca/RecreationProjects

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• The 18 hole and par three courses at McCall Lake golf course opened this week.
• The Shaganappi Point 18-hole golf course opens today.
• The Maple Ridge 18-hole and Shaganappi Valley 9-hole courses will open on Monday April 12. Tee times can be booked as of today.

The City’s other courses will reopen based on weather, course conditions, and in alignment with public health orders.

Safety has been a key focus of the reopening. The seasonal reopening is in alignment with Provincial direction, and measures have been put in place to help increase safety for players as they golf. These include allowing only pre-booked play, no club rentals, limits on gatherings and amenities use like power carts and ball washing stands. Driving ranges are not open at this time.

“The City is very excited to reopen our golf courses for the year,” says Greg Steinraths, Regional Operations Manager with Calgary Recreation. “We know how anxious many Calgarians have been to get back out on the links this year, and we’re pleased we can provide another safe and healthy way to be active through the warmer months.”

For up-to-date information on City of Calgary golf courses and to book tee times, visit calgary.ca/golf.

• Glenmore Aquatic Centre – 5330 19 St. S.W.
• Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 810 13 Ave. N.E.

With the addition of these facilities, there are now seven City-operated aquatic and fitness centres and 10 City-operated ice sheets open for appointment-based bookings. Indoor fields at the Calgary Soccer Centre are also open for booking.

Following Provincial guidance, low-intensity individual and group exercise opportunities are available by appointment, as well as one-on-one training (with a certified or paid trainer) and group training for minor sports. Individual low-intensity fitness opportunities include aquatic lane walking, shallow and deep-water exercise and weight room access.

Additionally, registration for swim lessons is available at the two reopened facilities, joining the other five reopened facilities in offering relaunched swim programs, as well as skating lessons at all opened arenas. Visit www.calgary.ca/liveandplay for program information and registration. The City will continue growing its list of available programs in line with the Province’s reopening strategy.

“We’ve been monitoring user visits and facility bookings, and reopening facilities to safely accommodate the growing number of people looking to visit,” says Jarret Hoebers, Regional Manager with Calgary Recreation. “We’re happy to be able to serve Calgarians while following provincial public health guidance.”

Face coverings remain a provincial requirement inside City-operated recreation facilities, including when using fitness equipment and engaging in low-intensity activities. Current provincial heath orders require a minimum physical distance of three metres (3m) be maintained by all users while engaging in physical activity.

At this time, public health orders prohibit public skating, lane swimming and high-intensity individual and group fitness activities.

For more information on provincial restrictions, please visit www.alberta.ca/covid.

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These new lessons are being offered in alignment with the Province’s “Path Forward,” and will look a little different from usual: there is a maximum number of 10 participants in each class including the instructor, and all participants will maintain a minimum 3-metre distance between each other. For beginner swimmers (Swimmer 2 and below), parents are required to accompany their child in the pool. There will also be fewer classes in the pool at once to maintain appropriate physical distancing, and additional time between classes to allow for safe exit and entrance from the pool. We continue cleaning and disinfecting high touch areas like doors, counters, and railings

Swimming certification classes like Bronze Cross are included in the April programming, as well as Junior Lifesaving Club.

Swim lessons join a growing number of programs offered by The City aligned with Provincial restrictions, including Learn to Skate and outdoor programs. Be sure to check www.calgary.ca/liveandplay frequently for new programs and appointment-based activities as they are posted.

Recreation has opened five aquatic facilities and ten ice sheets to date, where swim and skate programs will be offered (programming may vary at each facility):

• Aquatic & Fitness Centres:
  • Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 4812 14 Ave. S.E.
  • Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 89 Canova Rd. S.W.
  • Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1919 29 St. S.W.
  • Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1520 Northmount Dr. N. W.
  • Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 6715 Centre St. N.W.
• Arenas:
  • Optimist & George Blundun arenas (two ice sheets) - 5020 26 Avenue S.W.
  • Stew Hendry & Henry Viney arenas (two ice sheets) - 814 13 Avenue N.E.
  • Max Bell Centre (Ken Bracko and Arena #2) - 1001 Barlow Trail S.E.
  • Father David Bauer and Norma Bush arenas - 2424 University Drive N.W.
  • Southland Leisure Centre (Ed Whalen and Joe Kryzcka arenas) - 2000 Southland Drive S.W.

 “We know how important physical activity is for individual well-being, and how learning to swim in particular is a critical life skill,” says Jarret Hoebers, Regional Manager with Calgary Recreation. “We’re happy to be able to offer these popular and essential lessons while following the guidance of the provincial reopening plan.”

To register for classes or for more information on what’s available, visit www.calgary.ca/liveandplay.

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Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 4812 14 Ave. S.E.
Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 89 Canova Rd. S.W.
Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1919 29 St. S.W.
Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1520 Northmount Dr. N.W.
Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre - 6715 Centre St. N.W. (Reopening March 8)

The City is reopening a fifth facility (Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre) on March 8 to accommodate anticipated demand.

Individual low-intensity fitness appointments can be booked starting March 5 and begin March 9, 2021. Opportunities include weight room access, aquatic lane walking, and shallow and deep-water exercise.

Appointment-based low-intensity group fitness classes can be booked starting March 9 and begin the week of March 15, 2021. Appointments and information for individual or group fitness activities can be found at www.calgary.ca/liveandplay.

Face coverings are required inside City-operated recreation facilities and when using fitness equipment or engaging in low-intensity activities. Face coverings are not required while in the pool. The provincial health order requires a minimum physical distance of three metres (3m) be maintained by all users while engaging in physical activity.

“We’re happy to expand our fitness offerings in line with what is permitted under current provincial health orders,” said Jarret Hoebers, Regional Manager with Calgary Recreation. “Enhanced cleaning and safety protocols remain in place and we’ve re-opened Thornhill to add more opportunities to welcome Calgarians back to our facilities.”

In compliance with current health orders, select City-operated recreation facilities continue to be available for one-on-one sport training and low and high intensity aquatic bookings but not for games or league play. Training, practice and conditioning activities continue for youth (under 18 years) sport in groups up to a maximum of 10 individuals, including participants, coaches and trainers.

Public skating, lane swimming and high-intensity individual and group fitness activities are not permitted by public health orders at this time.

For more information on provincial restrictions, please visit www.alberta.ca/covid.

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We have chinooks, toboggan hills, outdoor fire pits, more than 1000 kms of pathways, more than two kilometres of ice trails, hundreds of kilometres of groomed and ungroomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails and we are celebrating the first year of Chinook Blast. There is so much to do in Calgary during the winter. And when the pandemic eases, we will be able to gather for events again, and we’ll love winter even more.

“Creating a Winter City Strategy is about declaring to the world as well as our own citizens that Calgary is ‘the place to be’ in the winter. It is about promoting and celebrating all that Calgary offers during the winter – from experiencing arts and culture to supporting local business and the tourism and hospitality sectors,” says Jennifer Davis, Business Strategist with Calgary Recreation and project lead of the Winter City Strategy.

“This year, without tourism, we are focused on promoting outdoor winter activities to Calgarians, reminding them that winter doesn’t need to be a time to stay indoors, waiting for the snow to melt, but to feel lucky to live in a city that offers outdoor winter activities that can’t be found in many other cities of the world.”

Just as Calgary fills with tourists and visitors for festivals and events at other times of the year (when there is no global pandemic), the goal is to create more economic, social and cultural opportunities during Calgary’s winter months.

Calgary City Council directed administration to build a winter strategy in 2019 to celebrate our unique winter opportunities, extend Calgary’s festival and event season, find ways to improve safety and accessibility and improve the economy, especially in our downtown core – during the winter. Work began just as the COVID-19 pandemic set in last year.

“As we follow all public health orders and do what we can to limit the spread of the pandemic, we launched Love Winter this month, encouraging citizens to enjoy outdoor winter activities and support Chinook Blast,” says Jennifer. “In future years, we will add more elements such as opportunities to support the economy through festivals and events, cultural and recreational activities and initiatives, improving city spaces to ensure safety and removing barriers to participation.”

The City of Calgary is one of ten partners in Chinook Blast, a walk-through experience, concentrated downtown with art, light, and cultural displays, providing a taste of what Calgarians and visitors can expect in years to come. The displays will brighten up this winter from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the weekends from February 13 – 28, 2021. For information visit ChinookBlast.ca

In November 2020 we kickstarted winter with a new fire pit program. Starting with 33 community and five regional park fire pits available for free drop-in or bookable use, we issued more than 600 fire pit permits/bookings in just two months. As a result, we’ve added more fire pits, and now there are more than 70 for citizens to use for free (drop-in or book). This year, we’ve issued more than 900 fire pit permits/bookings and continue to encourage citizens to use their own propane fire pits in Calgary parks or greenspaces.

Adding to the winter fire pits program, Love Winter promotions bring together all our outdoor winter activities for citizens to learn about, and hopefully take part in.

As we deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and the many changes to our daily life, this winter is the perfect time to check out winter fire pits, or snow shoeing, ice trails, outdoor skating rinks, or tobogganing and sledding on more than 20 City-maintained hills. Citizens are invited to share their winter adventures with us using #LoveWinterYYC.

We look forward to future Calgary winters when we can achieve more goals of the Winter City Strategy. To find out about Calgary winter activities and learn more about our Winter City Strategy, head to calgary.ca/lovewinter.

Chinook Blast
Local artists are illuminating our winter weekend nights from February 13 – 28 in the Chinook Blast Hub, an outdoor art park, as well as a number of partner art sites around downtown Calgary.

Capture moments among outdoor art and light installations, warm up fireside with your small cohort, take a recharging walking tour and plenty more! Check out our Programming page here.

YYC Hot Chocolate Fest
Warm up and get cozy with hot chocolate from a local business. Local cafes, restaurants and chocolatiers across the city are participating in YYC Hot Chocolate Fest with creative drinks throughout February.

Valentine’s Day & Kensington Love
Our partners at Tourism Calgary have a collection of fun things to see and do with your special someone on Cupid’s Day and throughout the month of February. Visit their website for more information.

Outdoor skating
Check out this handy Outdoor rinks map for the status of the outdoor skating rinks in your community.

Fitness videos
There are many different ways to stay active and healthy without leaving the house. Whether you’re into strength and conditioning, cardio and endurance or just need some new ideas for gentle movement to promote stress reduction and relaxation, our online fitness videos can be done anywhere at any time.

Activities for kids
Winters are long in Calgary and it’s easy to feel cooped up especially when the temperatures drop. Our Facebook page has all kinds of cool activities that require the kids to bundle up and head outside. Most of these ideas use common household items like soap and water for blowing ice bubbles, or repurposed empty milk cartons and yogurt containers to make sparkling ice castles.

Remember to dress for the weather. When it’s this cold, frostbite can set in quickly. Here’s a handy guide to help keep you and your family safe.

Getting Around:

Calgary Transit Family Day weekend service
On Family Day, Monday, February 15, we will provide a Sunday level of service. Customers can check our schedules page to find out when their bus is running.

Calgary Parking Authority
On Monday, Feb. 15, on-street parking is free and holiday rates will be charged in select CPA parkades and surface lots. Regular rates will be in effect at the Calgary Zoo. The Impound Lot will also be closed.

Visit calgaryparking.com for more information. 

City landfills
East Calgary, Shepard and Spyhill landfills are open on Family Day (Monday, Feb. 15). Updated landfill hours and locations are available on Calgary.ca/landfill. 

Facility closures
The following facilities will be closed on Monday, Feb.15, 2021:

• All City of Calgary Administrative buildings including City Hall
• Animal Services Centre
• All indoor City-operated recreation amenities, including pools, arenas, leisure centres, weight rooms and athletic fields are closed for the holiday

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Six sheets of ice at three arenas will reopen Thursday, February 11:

• Max Bell Centre (Ken Bracko and Arena #2) - 1001 Barlow Trail S.E.
• Father David Bauer and Norma Bush arenas - 2424 University Drive N.W.
• Southland Leisure Centre (Ed Whalen and Joe Kryzcka arenas) - 2000 Southland Drive S.W.

Four pools will reopen Monday, February 22:

• Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 4812 14 Ave. S.E.
• Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre – 89 Canova Rd. S.W.
• Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1919 29 St. S.W.
• Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre – 1520 Northmount Dr. N. W.

Facilities can be booked for one-on-one training but not for games, league play or group exercise. Lessons, practices and conditioning activities for minor (under 18 years) sports and activities can be held for up to a maximum of 10 individuals including participants, coaches and trainers. For more information on provincial restrictions, please visit www.alberta.ca/covid.

“Calgary Recreation has been in touch with Hockey Calgary as well as many other sport organizations since the announcement this past weekend,” says Jarret Hoebers, Regional Manager with Calgary Recreation. “We’re excited to get the sport community back into our facilities.”

Public skating, swimming, and group fitness activities are part of later phases of the provincial phased plan and are not permitted by the Public Health orders at this time.

The reopening of any City-operated indoor recreation facilities is based on a number of factors, including adherence to provincial restrictions, recent and anticipated customer demand, and staff availability (recall and hire). Calgary Recreation is currently operating with 10 per cent of its usual frontline staff complement as a result of facility restrictions. Re-staffing the four aquatic facilities will take time before they can be reopened.

All other indoor City-operated recreation amenities, including leisure centres, weight rooms and athletic fields remain closed at this time.

The City is currently accepting bookings for arenas at calgary.ca/arenas. Initial inquiries for pool access can be directed to facilitybooking@calgary.ca.

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“It was very important to us that that the new owners were willing and able to use the equipment for wheeled sport opportunities”, said Stephanie Won, Calgary Recreation Business and Policy Planner at The City of Calgary. “We’re looking forward to these five non-profit organizations providing affordable and accessible skateboarding, cycling, inline skating and scootering opportunities within their communities.”

A Notice of Offer for Sale for five community mobile skateparks was previously issued on October 28, 2020 and closed on November 30, 2020.

Organizations eligible to participate were registered non-profit organizations and government agencies. Responses were evaluated through an impartial process based on a number of criteria, including social benefit, availability to a variety of users, operational and maintenance plans, programming plans, accessibility, and safety. Preference was given to organizations that would provide programs with social and accessibility benefits in Calgary or within a 20-minute drive from city limits.

“We’re so excited about the potential and future of this ’skatepark-on-wheels’ and what it will mean in reaching new youth and kids in our surrounding communities; youth who have never had access to a skatepark facility before. It’s seriously a dream come true! Thank you to The City of Calgary for an amazing opportunity,” said Zach Creighton, Program Director of The Inside, a program of United Youth Outreach, working in partnership with Cousins Skateboard Community.

The sales were awarded to the highest-evaluated respondents, in accordance with criteria set forth within the Notice of Offer for Sale as publicly posted on the Alberta Purchasing Connection and Calgary.MERX.com, the public electronic tendering service used by The City.

 "We really appreciate The City of Calgary putting these skateparks up for tender so that communities like ours are able to continue to provide opportunities for skateboarding, play and being active outdoors. Not only for our community, but for the SE quadrant of Calgary,” said Sally Lockhart, General Manager of the Mahogany Homeowners Association. “We look forward to providing skate opportunities for beginners through to advanced users as we continue to build up the skateboarding community.”

Upon completion of the sale, each organization will own one mobile skatepark and will be responsible for operating and maintaining them.

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We’re excited to announce that the Wildflower and North Mount Pleasant Arts Centres will reopen for registered programming on September 28—registration is now open. Go to Calgary.ca/artscentres for information and to register.

Things will look a lot different this fall as our class sizes are smaller to allow for physical distancing and we’ve put thorough health and safety protocols in place that follow the provincial guidance on recreation programs.

Cori Stent, the Supervisor of Wildflower Arts Centre, says that the professional, practising art instructors are excited to be welcoming people back to the arts centres. “We’re really looking forward to being able to give adults, families and children this opportunity to be creative, because self-expression is a wonderful way to support mental and emotional wellbeing within our communities.”

We’ve reimagined our courses for adults by focusing on flexibility and small classes for painting, drawing and ceramics. Instead of registering for a full course of up to 9 classes, you can register for as many or as few as you like to meet your budget and schedule. We’re also excited to bring you new Introductory Classes this year so you can try your hand at a new art form.

Programming for children and families, offered at North Mount Pleasant Arts Centre, has been shortened to series of three classes. Now you can register your child or the whole family for fun arts learning with less commitment.

“Having single classes on a flexible schedule is a great opportunity for people who have been wanting to try an art class or a different art form but didn’t want to commit to a full series of classes,” says Stent. She also says this also allows people to fit classes around their busy schedules.

The price for single classes reflects the smaller class size, flexibility to choose class times and some additional costs for creating a safe classroom experience. Just like our previous courses, material costs are extra, and you van purchase them from the Arts Centre or bring your own. Prices for introductory classes include materials, though you won’t be able to take your art home afterward.

Interested in enhancing your talent with a professional, practicing artist? Want to try something new? We have something for all ages.

Calgary Recreation Arts Centres have been providing fine arts and performing arts experiences for all ages, abilities, and aspirations for more than 40 years. We focus on self-expression and technique in a safe, creative, and non-competitive environment with professional, practising artists.

There are many things The City considers when deciding to reopen a facility, says Michelle Tait, superintendent of operations with Calgary Recreation. This includes safety, demand from customers and user groups, and the social, health and wellness needs of community members.

“Our staff are looking forward to welcoming back returning and new customers. While many fitness providers are membership based, City aquatic and recreation facilities are open to anyone who wants to take part in the activities available at our facilities,” says Tait, who adds that customers who are regular users continue to opt for a Recreation Pass or punch card as an alternative to paying the drop-in rate.

With this latest reopening, The City now offers aquatic and weight/cardio amenities at six locations: Thornhill, Canyon Meadows, Forest Lawn (Bob Bahan), Glenmore, Killarney and Brentwood (Sir Winston Churchill).

You’ll need to book a time for an activity before you arrive to take advantage of the scheduled activities. The easiest way to book a drop-in time is by using the Live and Play system, but customers can also book by phone at 403-268-3800 (option 1).

In addition to the swim and cardio/weight activities offered, appointments have also been added to give people 50 years of age and over dedicated lane swimming and shallow and deep water exercise times.

The operating hours for Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre are:

• Monday – 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday & Sunday – 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Visit The City’s web site for more on City-operated recreation opportunities and the latest information on how we are keeping you safe.

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The facility will be open from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekends. Beginning today, customers can book an appointment time online at calgary.ca/dropin. As with all City-operated fitness and recreation facilities, putting health and safety measures in place before opening to the public and staff is a top priority.

Similar to the reopening of previous City-operated indoor recreation facilities, we are asking customers to observe recent health and safety measures aligned to the Government of Alberta Stage 2 relaunch guidelines for recreation and fitness facilities. Managing capacity is an important part of these measures to ensure that physical distancing and other safety requirements are followed. Current health and safety information is posted online at calgary.ca/pools and calgary.ca/arenas.

In accordance with The City’s new temporary bylaw mandating face coverings in public indoor spaces, beginning August 1, 2020, customers will be required to wear face coverings inside recreation facilities when not engaging in an athletic or fitness activity.

Reopening the Sir Winston Churchill facility helps The City support the demand for pools and fitness facilities in north Calgary communities. The pool at Sir Winston Churchill will be available for lane swimming, self-led deep-water exercises, lane walking and family swim times. There will be a limited number of swimmers allowed in the pool at one time. Weight and cardio equipment users will notice additional distance between equipment and separated stretching areas.

This is the fifth City-operated aquatic and fitness facility to reopen. The facility previously closed on November 30, 2019 for a planned renovation project to update the facility and complete lifecycle replacement work. This included upgrades to the lighting, heating and water systems, a new universal change room, modernized washrooms, weight room and studio, enhanced safety and security features including exterior lighting and pool gates, improved accessibility, including an accessible pool pod and a second-floor elevator to fitness amenities and the installation of a water slide.

The lifecycle renovations are part of The City’s continuing investment in indoor and outdoor recreation facilities that address the evolving needs of Calgarians.

Sue Goulden, superintendent of operations with Calgary Recreation, says the staff at the Sir Winston Churchill facility are looking forward to the reopening of the renovated pool and fitness facility because it offers an enhanced user experience that will contribute to active lifestyles and the well-being of citizens.

“We’re really excited to welcome back more customers,” said Goulden. “Anyone who has used this facility in the past will notice a lot of upgrades throughout the building. The facility has a new look and atmosphere that will enhance the overall customer experience.”

The City is also opening six additional ice sheets on Tuesday, August 4: Jimmie Condon Arena, Rose Kohn Arena, Max Bell Centre - Ken Bracko Arena and Arena #2 and Southland Leisure - Ed Whalen Arena and Joseph Kryczka Arena.

This will increase The City’s total number of available ice sheets to 10 at five locations. All 10 ice sheets are available for user group bookings. More information on public skating will be available in the fall.

Calgary Recreation continues to make additional sport and playfields available for user group bookings across City facilities.

Future facility openings will be based on demand and the completion of capital projects currently under way.

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Safety measures consistent with current provincial public health guidelines are in place at each of the four City-operated recreation facilities. Customers must observe enhanced safety measures, including maintaining appropriate physical distancing. Those registering to use weight and cardio equipment will notice additional distance between equipment and separated stretching areas.

The pools are available for lane swimming, family swimming, self-led deep-water exercises and lane walking with fewer swimmers allowed in the pool at one time. Swimmers will also be required to bring their own swim aids and equipment such as flutter boards, life jackets and flippers. Life jackets will be provided for family swim participants if required and will be sanitized after each use. Snorkels are not permitted at this time.

A complete list of all updated in-facility health and safety measures can be found at calgary.ca/pools.

Access is by appointment only and must be made in advance. Prior to visiting a facility, all customers are required to make an appointment online at calgary.ca/dropin. Online appointments can be made seven days in advance and are based on availability. Appointments are limited to a maximum of 60 minutes. This measure helps maintain reduced user numbers and provides a system for contract tracing.

Michelle Tait, superintendent of operations with Calgary Recreation, says staff are eager to welcome customers back to the facilities.

“Our commitment to helping Calgarians stay active and safe is as strong as ever,” says Tait. “Customers will notice some changes, but it’s all designed to put the safety of users and staff first while creating a positive experience for everyone. We encourage everyone to read through the safety guidelines online and make an appointment through our website before coming to visit us.”

All four aquatic and recreation facilities will be open from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekends.

Registered programs will not be offered as part of this initial reopening and will resume in subsequent phases.

The City’s timeline for reopening additional aquatic and fitness facilities is anticipated for mid-August with an aquatic facility in the northwest being a priority. The remaining facilities are planned to reopen in the fall. Timelines are dependent on evolving circumstances related to COVID-19.

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By July 20, The City will reopen Bob Bahan, Canyon Meadows, Glenmore and Killarney aquatic and fitness centres. All facilities will have COVID-19 health and safety protocols for staff along with user terms and conditions in place.

As of June 26, all City-operated golf courses will have reopened along with driving ranges and putting greens. The Glenmore Reservoir reopened for public recreational use on June 15. The Glenmore Sailing School remains closed and boat rentals are not available this summer. Tennis courts, running tracks, playfields and 21 sports fields and the cycling velodrome are currently open.

Four locations for spray parks and wading pools will open in early July. Visit calgary.ca/sprayparks for the latest information.

In establishing procedures for reopening facilities, public and staff safety is a top priority, says Michelle Tait, Superintendent, Calgary Recreation.

“The public can expect a different experience when they return to City-operated recreation facilities. We are helping to ensure the safety of staff and customers by introducing COVID-19 user terms and conditions in alignment with provincial public health guidelines. These include access by appointment, physical distancing, gathering restrictions, hand hygiene and staying home if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.”

Many factors were considered in choosing dates and locations for opening facilities including available staffing resources and facility readiness. Calgary Recreation laid off 75 per cent of its operational workforce in the spring and is now working to increase capacity to bring more amenities online. To leverage downtime during the mandated closures and stimulate the local economy, planned capital and lifecycle work was expedited at select sites, impacting facility readiness in some cases. Public demand and the geographic distribution of services were also considered.

This summer, The City is offering outdoor day camps for children ages six to 12 along with free family programming. Registration for outdoor summer day camps begins today with programming starting July 6. For more information, visit calgary.ca/daycamps. The City’s selection of free summer programs will take place in different locations across Calgary. These programs are for families and children to play in parks and learn about nature, all while being physically distant. For more information, visit calgary.ca/free.

For further details on the reopening of additional City-operated recreation facilities, visit calgary.ca/recreation. For information about City-owned, partner-operated facilities, including outdoor pools, please visit the facility operators’ websites.

Aquatic and fitness centres:

• Bob Bahan (S.E.) – opening by July 20
• Canyon Meadows (S.W.) – opening by July 20
• Glenmore (S.W.) – opening by July 20
• Killarney (S.W.) – opening by July 20

Arenas:

• George Blunden (S.W.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Henry Viney (N.E.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Norma Bush (N.W.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Optimist (S.W.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Shouldice (N.W.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Stew Hendry (N.E.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Stu Peppard (S.W.) – opening by June 29 (booking now open)
• Ed Whalen (S.W.) – opening by August 4
• Jimmy Condon (S.W.) – opening by August 4
• Joseph Kryczka (S.W.) – opening by August 4
• Max Bell 1 and 2 (S.E.) – opening by August 4
• Rose Kohn (S.E.) – opening by August 4
• Note: Remaining arenas to open in September

Spray parks and wading pools:

• Bowness Park Wading Pool (N.W.) – opening early July
• Prairie Winds Park Spray Park and Wading Pool (N.E.) – opening early July
• Rotary Park Spray Park (N.E.) – opening early July
• South Glenmore Park Spray Park (Variety Park) (S.W.) – opening early July

Athletic park sports fields:

• 25 fields in seven athletic parks – opened June 1 - 24
• Glenmore (S.W.), Shouldice (N.E.), Optimist (S.W.), Ernest Manning (S.W.), Calgary Soccer Centre (S.E.), Foothills (N.W.) and Woodbine (S.W.)
• Remaining athletic parks to open by July/August (check calgary.ca/recreation for fields available for booking)

Outdoor summer day camps – registration begins June 25:

• Outdoor Summer Art Studio 2020 (ages 6-12) – enjoy a variety of drawing, painting and mixed media in our outdoor greenspace
• Outdoor Active 2020 (ages 6-12) – enjoy active games, sports, crafts and outdoor adventures

Free summer programs:

• Nice 2 Metre You – Family Fun
• Community Nature Adventure Playground
• Unplug n’ Play 6 feet away
• Explore Parks Together
• LEAD and Nature LEAD

The City of Calgary is working closely with Alberta Health Services. At this stage, The Province is not recommending their closure, but has imposed a limit to social gatherings of more than 250 people, which will limit the number of visitors to some facilities.

According to the research brought forward by Dr. Deena Hinshaw and the team at AHS, the COVID-19 virus is not transferred through pool water.

For other recreational uses, it’s important to maintain good physical distancing to those also using the facilities. Calgary Recreation facilities and those operated by our partners have instituted a number of measures to increase the physical distance between patrons and increase levels of cleanliness.

As always, individuals must also be responsible. Practice good hand hygiene and clean your equipment thoroughly after use.

It’s important that we each manage our physical and mental health. Exercise, social contact, and maintaining our connection to our neighbours is also important.

We will continue to follow the recommendations of AHS, and will update our actions and policies as required.

As always do not come if you’re sick. Even a little. No sniffles, no mild colds, no GI issues — nothing that could cause others’ immunity to be compromised.

Skating
Strap on skates and enjoy an indoor free skate from 1 - 2:15 p.m. on Boxing Day, Dec. 26 at:

• Ernie Starr Arena (4808 14th Ave. S.E.)
• Frank McCool Arena (1900 Lake Bonavista Dr. S.E.)
• Murray Copot Arena (6727 Centre St. N.W.)
• Optimist and George Blundun Arenas (5020 26 Ave. S.W.)
• Rose Kohn and Jimmie Condon Arenas (502 Heritage Dr.S.W.)
• Shouldice Arena (1515 Home Road N.W.)
• Stu Hendry Stew Hendry / Henry Viney Arena (814 13th Ave. N.E.)
• Stu Peppard Arena (5300 19th St. S.W.)

Throughout the holiday season stop by Southland Leisure Centre (2000 Southland Dr SW) or Village Square Leisure Centre (2623-56 Street NE) for public skating, Sticks, Pucks & Rings, shinny and figure skating (regular admission applies). Or you can enjoy free skating at any of our outdoor rinks from 5a.m.-11p.m. daily.

Tobogganing and sledding 
Tobogganing and sledding on the hills of Calgary is a thrilling way to enjoy the winter and take advantage of the snow. Several City-maintained hills in our parks and greenspaces offer safe and exciting adventure.

Cross country skiing
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in (and around) Calgary is an exhilarating way to get active and enjoy the beauty of our snow-covered landscapes. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing can be done in any park, plus there are several dedicated cross-country skiing tracks available in and around Calgary.

New Year’s Eve 2020

City New Year's events 

The City of Calgary will host a fireworks display at midnight from the Calgary Tower to ring in 2020. If you plan to stay indoors at midnight, check out the livestream. Thanks to Tim Hortons, The City will be extending skating hours at Olympic Plaza on New Year’s Eve until midnight. Bring your own skates or pay to rent. For more outdoor activities head to Bowness Park for firepits and extended hours until 1 a.m. or drive by or walk through the Lions Festival of Lights at Confederation Park. Make sure to dress for the weather.

For free indoor activities downtown, check out the Central Library’s family party from 12-4 p.m. or Studio Bell’s New Year’s Eve Family Bash from 5-9 p.m. with free activities on the first floor. There are many other events happening downtown and throughout the city. To find out more visit Calgary.ca/NYE, CalgaryDowntown.com and VisitCalgary.com.

If you plan to be warm and indoors at midnight, you can watch a livestream of the fireworks at Calgary.ca/live.

Leisure centre pool partyPlay, swim, jump, splash, slide and skate into 2020 at Village Square Leisure Centre or Southland Leisure Centre.

• Village Square Leisure Centre pool party (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.)
• Southland Leisure Centre New Year's Eve (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.)

Getting around

Calgary Transit
Calgary Transit will take you to and from your celebrations safely this holiday season. Extended service will be available on the CTrain, MAX routes and some bus routes on New Years Eve. For information on fares, schedules and service changes, please visit calgarytransit.com or follow @calgarytransit on Twitter.

New Year's Eve fireworks display

Road/sidewalk closures - Dec. 31, 2019 at 11:50 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Jan. 1, 2020

• Centre Street S.E., from 8 Avenue S.E. to 9 Avenue S.E., will be closed.
• 9 Avenue S.W., from 1 Street S.W. to 1 Avenue S.E., will be closed.
• 9 Avenue S.W. south sidewalk, in front of the Calgary Tower, will be closed.

Please visit our special event page for more information or calgary.ca/traffic for real time traffic reports.

Calgary Parking Authority
On-street parking is free Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1. Holiday rates will be in effect at select Calgary Parking Authority surface lots and parkades. Please visit www.calgaryparking.com for more information.

Around the house

Cart collection
There is no pick up on Christmas Day or New Year's Day for households with residential cart service. If your blue, green or black cart collection normally falls on Wednesday, your collection day be two days earlier on these weeks:

• Christmas Day (Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019) pick up will move to Monday, December 23, 2019.
• New Year's Day (Wednesday, January 1, 2020) pick up will move to Monday, December 30, 2019.
  

Landfill hours
If you’re heading to the landfill, be sure to check out the updated landfill hours and locations on calgary.ca/landfill. 

Facility closures

The following facilities will be closed over the holiday season:

• Administrative Offices: Administrative offices, including City Hall, will close at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 24. The offices are also closed Dec. 25, 26 and Wednesday, Jan. 1.
• Aquatics and Fitness Centres: All aquatic and fitness centres are closed on Dec. 25, Dec. 26 and Jan. 1. Hours of operation on Dec. 24 and 31 will vary by facility.
• Arenas: All arenas are closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Regular hours apply on other days.
• Leisure Centres: Both Southland and Village Square Leisure Centres are closed Dec. 25 and 26. Southland is open on Jan. 1 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Village Square is closed. Hours of operation between Dec. 24 and Jan. 2 vary.
• Art Centres: Wildflower Arts Centre closes at noon on Dec. 20 and reopens Jan. 5. North Mount Pleasant Art Centre will be closed Dec. 19 – Jan. 1 and reopens Jan. 2 at 8:30 a.m.
• Soccer Centre: Closed Dec. 24 to 26 and Dec. 31. Jan 1. Open regular hours Dec. 27 and Dec. 28. Open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Jan. 1.
• The Animal Services Centre: The Animal Services Centre is closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Monday, Jan. 1.

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The City of Calgary and the Lions Festival of Lights Society reached an agreement that will allow the Society early access to the course this year to inspect and install the 500,000-light display. The display will be open November 30 to January 8.

The City and the Society will continue to work on longer term plans and agreement that will allow the light display to continue for years to come.

“We are very happy we will be able to install the Festival of Lights display this year,” said Society Chair, Otto Silzer, who has volunteered with the Festival of Lights since its inception. “Thousands of families and children come out each year to see the display and walk around. It’s a family tradition.”

Katie Black, Acting General Manager of Community Services at The City, is pleased the parties have agreed to work together to ensure the seasonal light display is installed, maintained and dismantled while addressing the safety and enjoyment of all.

“The City and Calgarians appreciate the work of the Lions Festival of Lights Society over the years to bring a fantastic seasonal display to life,” said Black. “We are grateful both parties are committed to finding solutions that would result in the continuation of this family-friendly, accessible seasonal light display.”

The early closure of the Confederation Park Golf Course this year for construction and maintenance work means the Society and its hundreds of volunteers can access the course by October 15 to inspect, test and install the display. The course is usually open for golfers through October.

The parties will work on a new formal agreement for future years that addresses access and other requirements to the mutual benefit of everyone.

The holiday light display has been set up each year since 1986 along the fairways of holes 3, 4, 5 and 6 at Confederation Park Golf Course.

The Society estimates it takes hundreds of volunteers approximately 1,000 hours each year to inspect, assess and assemble the display. Silzer said the display wouldn’t be possible without the support of local organizations, businesses and City operations.

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The City of Calgary oversaw the planning, design and construction of the $193 million, 330,000 square foot facility at 4995 Market Street S.E. – a vibrant and rapidly-growing urban centre. Construction of the facility began in the spring of 2016. The new facility is operated by YMCA Calgary, avoiding a need for ongoing taxpayer-funded operational support.

“I’m very excited about the opening of this outstanding hub for the community,” says Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “We knew that there was a gap in service delivery in areas like Seton where the population is growing rapidly, and this is a tremendous response to that need. The Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton will be providing excellent leisure, recreational and community amenities for generations of Calgarians to come.”

“We are tremendously happy to partner with The City of Calgary to bring this centre of community to life in service of Calgarians, particularly in the southeast,” says Shannon Doram, President and CEO of YMCA Calgary. “Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers are excited to welcome their neighbours to belong, grow, thrive and lead in this amazing new facility.”

“The Library is thrilled to be opening its 21^st location in Seton,” said Bill Ptacek, CEO of the Calgary Public Library. “The features and programs at this library directly reflect this growing and vibrant community. From program spaces, to meeting rooms, to fresh collections, and a wonderful new children’s area – the Seton Library is a space for connection, collaboration and discovery.”

The facility features:

• 50m, 10 lane competition & water polo pool designed to Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) certification standards
• Competition diving springboards and platforms, as well as a spectator viewing area
• Water park including a children’s pool, play structure, lazy river and two waterslides
• Calgary’s first FlowRider surf simulator
• Hot tubs and steam room
• 2 multi-purpose ice rinks
• 3 gymnasia with multi-purpose flooring
• Fitness centre with cardio and strength training equipment
• Fitness/aerobics studios
• 200m running/walking track
• Large and small rooms for use as studios, classrooms and meeting spaces
• 25,000 sq. ft. full service library
• Youth centre with dedicated space for youth activities and programs
• Art making, studio and gallery space
• 250-seat theatre
• Childcare/child minding
• Food services
• Physiotherapy/medical clinic

Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton is the last of four new recreation facilities to open in once underserved areas of the city, totaling a $480 million investment by The City of Calgary. The Remington YMCA in Quarry Park and the Great Plains Recreation Facility opened to the public in the fall of 2016, and the Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge opened February 2018. Together, these four facilities provide convenient access to recreation opportunities and support the important role recreation plays in building complete communities.

The Seton facility includes a public artwork titled The Nest by Donald Lipski. Inspired by the site as a place of nurture, growth, meeting and discovery, the art features a bird’s nest, with different flocks of birds flying toward it. Calgarians chose the Great Blue Heron, Swainson’s Hawk and Great Horned Owl as the subjects of the artwork, which are familiar to and loved by the Seton community. The artist worked as a part of the facility’s design team, ensuring the artwork was integrated into the building’s design and construction.

For more information on Calgary’s recreation projects, visit calgary.ca/recreationprojects.

As soon as The City became aware of the problem, the registration system was shut down to prevent further emails being sent out.

Our preliminary investigation indicates that two customers’ names, addresses and phone numbers were released to other Recreation customers. No financial information was released. We are contacting the two customers to inform them and to apologize for the inconvenience that this has created for them.

The system update issue also resulted in some Recreation customers receiving an e-mail indicating that their Recreation passwords should be updated. There is no need to reset passwords as a result of this e-mail.

The City of Calgary takes the protection of information very seriously and apologizes for any inconvenience this has caused. We have reported this incident to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner and will cooperate fully in any review they conduct.

Citizens can contact 3-1-1 with questions or concerns.

The playground is designed to promote independence, confidence and creativity through unstructured play – meaning there are no rules! A much larger version of The City’s Mobile Adventure Playground, children are encouraged to use their imaginations with a variety of materials and loose parts such as boards, tires, tape, cardboard, tarps, hammers, nails, and hand saws. Children are free to build, demolish, assemble and change their environments as they desire.

“We know that the average child in this country and in Calgary are not getting enough of the health benefits that come with leading an active lifestyle. Playing is a great way for kids to get active,” says Heather Cowie, Manager East Region, Calgary Recreation. “The City values play as an essential part of every child’s life, vital to their development. Through play, children learn about themselves and the world around them. We are very excited to see what Calgary’s little people will create at this event.”

The City is providing opportunities for play by designing playgrounds that are more conducive to natural outdoor play in our parks, providing free Mobile Adventure Playgrounds throughout the summer at outdoor sites across the city, leading the development of a Play Charter with over 25 Calgary and area organizations, and training summer camp and program leaders in creating environments that support child-led play.

The Monstrous Adventure Playground event is held in partnership with IPA Canada, Early Childhood Coalitions of Calgary, IdeaLab Calgary, Parks Foundation Calgary, SensaKids, Telus Spark, and VIVO for Healthier Generations.

For more information, visit Calgary.ca/playday.