43 things to do in Calgary this week: February 19 to 25

Short week, short month – we’re more than okay with this combination!

Starting the week off with Family Day, there are a ton of exciting activities and winter family fun to be had around Calgary to fill up your extended weekend. See a Flames game, explore some of Alberta’s history at a national historic site, or get active with on of the many free swims or skates happening around the city.

Throughout the rest of the week, it’s back to business as usual, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a fun evening of wine, shopping or a laugher filled show. End the month off with a bang as we move into a (hopefully) warmer month.

We’ve rounded up 43 of the best things happening this week that you simply have to check out!

Monday, February 19

Family Quest

What: Bring the whole family down to Heritage Park for a fun-filled day of travel-themed adventures. Take in their Journey of a Lifetime exhibit, participate in interactive puzzles, drive an old Model T, learn how to change a tire, get your family portrait done the old school way, build your own train, and so much more!
When: February 15 to 19
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Drive SW
Admission: Regular admission to the park

Family Day Long Weekend Brunch

What: Bring a non-perishable food item to support Inn from the Cold and receive a 2 for 1 brunch voucher at Trolley 5 for their Family Day Brunch. Reservation are encouraged.
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Trolley 5 Brewpub – 728 17th Avenue SW

WinterFest 2018

What: Back for yet another year, join Fort Calgary as they explore stories told by a Blackfoot knowledge keeper in a tipi, cabana a sucre, games, crafts, an opportunity to try on a Mountie uniform and so much more family fun!
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Fort Calgary – 750 9th Avenue SE
Admission: regular admission to the museum

Watch the Calgary Flames Play the Boston Bruins

What: Cheer on the Flames in a sea of red with the whole family!
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 2 pm
- Saturday, February 24 at 2 pm vs Colorado Avalanche
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $39 to $237

4th Annual Family Fun Skate

What: Free hot chocolate, food trucks and the best tunes from the 70’s and 80’s – there is no better combination. Lace up your skates and head down to Olympic Plaza for their Family Day skate happening all afternoon long.
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 12 to 4 pm
Where: 228 8th Avenue SE
Admission: An optional donation will go towards the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology

Royal Tyrrell Museum / Facebook

What: Travel back in time by checking out Canada’s largest collection of dinosaur bones for free this Family Day!
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller

Family Day the the Military Museums

What: Spend the afternoon at The Military Museums checking out interactive presentations, behind the scenes tours and exciting activities related to Canada’s proud military heritage.
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW
Admission: Regular admission to the museum

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

What: Attend the “Full Moon of the Eagle” event from 10 am to 4 pm. You’ll get to see Alberta birds of prey, a simulated archaeological dig, guided building tours, artifact demonstrations, and storytelling. You can even participate in a hunt re-enactment.
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: 8 kilometres (15 minutes) north and west of Fort Macleod on secondary Highway #785

Family Day at Studio Bell

What: If you haven’t had the chance to check out Studio Bell yet, this is the perfect opportunity to bring the whole family and enjoy some musical events perfect for all ages. There will be all day musical video games, Sound Sandwich instrument building, musical show and tell, instrument demos, campfire singalong, a rocking performance by scratch DJ, Kid Koala and so much more!
When: Monday, February 19
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: National Music Centre – 850 4 Street SE
Tickets: Online, $11 to $18

Free Swimming

On February 19 there will be free public swimming at select City pools from 1 to 2:30 pm and 3 to 4:30 pm, though there may be no break if capacity permits.
- Acadia
- Bob Bahan
- Foothills
- Inglewood
- Killarney
- Shouldice
- Canyon Meadows

Tuesday, February 20

Celebrate Chinese New Year with Two Penny Chinese

(Image: Christophe Testi / Shutterstock)

What: Between February 16 and March 2 you will receive a little red envelope every time you dine at Two Penny. Every envelope will contain a a little treat, but every day there will be a larger prize to be won. A few prizes that up for grabs are gift certificates from Village Ice Cream, a mani + pedi from Beach Beauty, the 5-tree patch from TreeEra, a staycation at Hotel Arts, Flames Tickets, and more!
When: February 16 to March 2
Where: Two Penny Restaurant and Bar – 1213 1st Street SW

Motown Musical

What: Live the American Dream as you follow along Berry Gordy’s musical journey from a featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music pro who played a hand in launching the careers of some of the greats, including Micheal Jackson, Diana Ross, and more!
When: February 20 to 25
Time: 8 pm or 2 pm (Varies on the date)
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – 1415 14th Avenue NW
Tickets: Online, $35 to $130

White Space Writers Weekly Write-In

What: Looking for some inspiration, a place to write that isn’t your kitchen table, or simply some guidance on a writing project? For only $5 you can join White Space Writers every Tuesday morning and receive a work space, unlimited coffee, accessibility to writing resources (aka they will look over a piece you’re working on) and a writing prompt – if that’s what you’re interested in. Plus, you might even make a new creative friend or three, which is priceless!
When: Tuesday, January 16 to March 20
Time: 9 am to 12 pm
Where: Loft 112 – 535 8th Avenue SE
Admission: $5

Disney Trivia: Heros and Villans Edition

What: Think think think! Dig into your think tank and remember all your favourite Disney Princesses, characters, evil step mothers and sorcerers, and compete to win hundreds of dollars worth of Disney prizes. Team sizes range from one to six people.
When: Tuesday, February 20
Time: 7 to 10 pm
Where: Hudsons Crowfoot: 838 Crowfoot Crescent NW
Tickets: Online, $10

Wednesday, February 21

The Sheepdogs

When: Wednesday, February 21
Time: 7 pm
Where: The Palace Theatre – 219 8th Avenue SW
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $33

Twelfth Night

What: Join Theatre Calgary for this romantic, hilarious misadventure of two twins as they are forced to find their way through a foreign land after a tragic shipwreck.
When: January 30 to February 24
Time: 2 pm or 7:30 pm
Where: Theatre Calgary – 220 90th Avenue SE
Tickets: Online, $35 to $124

Watch the Calgary Hitmen Play the Red Deer Rebels

What: Come show the Hitmen some love as they make their way to the Memorial Cup.
When: Wednesday, February 21
Time: 7 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $13 to $26

Thursday, February 22

Josh Ritter

When: Thursday, February 22
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Banff Centre, Eric Harvie Theatre – 107 Tunnel Mountain Drive, Banff
Tickets: Online, $35

Speaking of the Past

What: Join Heritage Park in their new speaker series that brings to life the colourful people, places, and events that helped shape western Canada. This month, hear from David Peyto as he recounts the adventures of his Grandfather, Walter H. Peyto, who was one of the earliest fire and game wardens in Rocky Mountains Park.
When: Thursday, February 22
Time: 2 pm
Where: Heritage Park, Gasoline Alley – 1900 Heritage Drive SW
Admission: included in paid admission to Gasoline Alley

Hudson’s Bay Olympic Pop Up Store

What: Grab all of the official Team Canada gear and look the part when you’re cheering for our ladies and gents over in PyeongChang. There will also be a lounge for you to take a break from shopping and enjoy some live coverage of the games. $3.90 from the sale of every pair of Team Canada mittens goes to support our athletes through the Canadian Olympic Foundation.
When: Weekdays until February 23
Time: 9:30 am to 4 pm
Where: Bankers Hall Hudson’s Bay – 315 8th Avenue SW

Shop Western Canada’s First ever Saks Fifth Avenue Store

What: If you’re in the mood to shop, you’ve come to the right place! As of February 22, the first Saks in Western Canada will be opening in Chinook Centre just in time for the new spring arrivals. Happy Shopping!
When: February 22
Where: Chinook Centre – 6455 Macleod Trail SW

Friday, February 23

Winefest Calgary

Africa Studio / Shutterstock

What: Sniff, swirl and sip at Calgary’s favourite wine event of the year. Each ticket includes wine samples from the world’s most celebrated wine regions, delicious hor d’oeuvres, and a keepsake wine glass. Cheers!
When: February 23 to 24
Time:
- Friday, February 23, 7 to 10pm
- Saturday, February 24, 2 to 5pm
- Saturday, February 24, 7 to 10pm
Where: BMO Centre – 20 Roundup Way SW
Tickets: Online, $84 to $89

What the Calgary Hitmen Play the Edmonton Oil Kings

What: Come show the Hitmen some love as they make their way to the Memorial Cup.
When: Friday, February 23 at 7 pm vs Edmonton Oil Kings
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $13 to $26

Grab some ice cream

What: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to dabble in some frozen deliciousness. There are various great local ice creameries situated throughout Calgary’s most popular neighbourhoods, which makes it the perfect excuse to do a bit of exploring. Pssst… we hear monogram has recently launched hot chocolate ice cream – no, we’re not kidding!
Where:
- Monogram – View all locations
- Lukes Drugmart – 112 4th Street NE, Calgary
- Village Ice Cream – View all locations
- Made by Marcus – 1017 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
- UTCA Chimney Cakes – 207 13th Avenue SW, Calgary

Saturday, February 24

Coldest Night of the Year

What: Homelessness and being hungry are two things that plague way too many Canadians, especially during this time of year. For this annual fundraiser, walk with hundreds of others in Canada’s ‘Unofficial” Walk for Homelessness, and raise money for select charities to help out those in need in our communities.
Where: Eau Claire Market – 200 Barclay Parade SW
When: Wednesday, February 24
Cost: Online, $25 or raise a minimum of $150 (Adults 18+), $25 or raise a minimum of $75 (youth 13-17)

The Engaged Wedding Show

What: Recently engaged or just looking for a little inspiration to kick-start your wedding planning? Book venue tours, talk to the professionals, meet local photographers, book a complimentary suit or dress consultation, get a mini make up trial, and so much more, all while sipping on a delicious mimosa. After the show, get dressed up and head to the Engaged reception gala event where you will enjoy a six-course dinner paired with wine, take home a stunning floral arrangement, enjoy a mock first dance with instructor Christine Mooney, and find yourself falling in love as you see your wedding day come to life.
When: Saturday, February 24
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: The Hyatt Downtown Calgary
Tickets: Online, Trade Show $50, Gala Dinner $195

Watch the Calgary Flames Play Colorado Avalanche

Image: Calgary Flames / Twitter

What: Cheer on the Flames in a sea of red all the way to the Red Mile!
When: Saturday, February 24
Time: 2 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $26 to $174

Bourgeau Bonfire Bash

What: Warm up from a day shredding on the slopes with an outdoor bonfire at the base of the mountain and delicious BBQ – did someone say comfort food?
When: Weekends in February (See exact dates here)
Time: 2:30 to 5 pm
Where: Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort
Admission: Use your lift ticket to enter

Sunday, February 25

Brunch at Calcutta Cricket Club

What: As if we needed yet another reason to visit this beautiful space! The turquoise castle that adorns 17th Avenue is now serving brunch, and of course they have killed it yet again with their take on traditional Indian infused dishes. From chips and curry to Chai Pancakes and Parsi Akuri, your taste buds be doing a happy dance as you try each uniquely flavoured dish – paired with a pineapple mimosa, of course!
When: Weekends
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Calcutta Cricket Club – 340 17th Avenue SW

What the Calgary Hitmen Play the Brandon Wheat Kings

What: Come show the Hitmen some love as they make their way to the Memorial Cup.
When: Sunday, February 25
Time: 4 pm vs Brandon Wheat Kings
- Tuesday, February 27 at 11 am vs Swift Current Broncos
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $8 to $24

Sunday Supper at Royale

What: End the weekend off with a delicious and classic French meal rooted in tradition, with a contemporary twist!
When: Sunday, February 4
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: Royale Brasserie – 730 17th Avenue SW

Any Day of the Week

YYC Hot Chocolate Fest

What: For the entire month of February, various cafes, restaurants and chocolatiers are featuring their very own creative twists on a traditional hot chocolate. Spend an afternoon touring the city, trying out the various concoctions, and voting for your favourite – just be prepared for a serious sugar coma afterwards. Proceeds from each drink will go towards Calgary Meals on Wheels.
When: February 1 to 28, 2018
Where: Various locations around the city

All Day Happy Hour on Daily Featured Breweries

What: February has been declared as “FeBREWary.” Essentially, it’s a month long celebration of craft brewers, craft beer lovers, the craft beer community, and, really, just about everything to do with craft beer! Each day in February will have an all-day happy hour at each corresponding brewery – see full calendar here.
When: February 1 to 28
Where: All national locations

Whales Tohora

Killer Whales/Vancouver Fraser Port Authority

What: Travelling all the way from the National Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, this exciting exhibition has been travelling North America for the last 10 years and Calgary marks it’s final destination. Excite your senses with this unique cultural experience that will show you everything you need to know about the king of the ocean; the whale. The exhibit shows everything from life-size whale skeletons to the evolution of these creatures and understanding how they communicate. There is so much to know about these beautiful beings.
When: January 20 to June 20
Where: Telus Spark – 220 St. George’s Drive NE
Tickets: Online, $26

Exposure

What: This is Alberta’s only photography festival and it’s coming to Calgary for the month of February. Check out over 40 photography exhibitions at galleries around the city, get your portfolio reviewed by professionals, and participate in exciting workshops as you let your inner photographer become instantly inspired!
When: February 1 to 28
Where: Various locations around the city
Tickets: Varies per event, many are free

Uncommon Blends

What: Are you a coffee or a tea person? Regardless of your personal preference, these warm and cozy beverages play an important role in both our social and individual lives. This art exhibit will examine these various routines, rituals, and relationships centred around coffee and tea, while showcasing beautiful ceramics made by five Alberta-based artists.
When: January 20 to March 17
Time:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
- Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
Where: cSPACE King Edward – 1721 29th Avenue SW

Pink Shirt Day

What: Pink Shirt day aims to bring awareness to bullying. Join National on 17 Avenue for pink beers (all month long) and $1 from each drink purchase will go towards the initiative. Remember, on Wednesdays (and February 28) we wear pink!
When: February 1 to 28 (day of the celebrations)
Where: All national locations

Frida Kahlo: Her Photos

What: Get inspired as you stroll through beautiful photographs taken by the famous and fascinating Frida Kahlo. There are more than 240 pieces that were kept in her home, ‘The Blue House,” for over 50 years under her estate. Visitors will have the opportunity to better understand the woman behind the artist; her origins, her roots, her friendships and romantic relationships, her fragile health, her political tendencies, and her special relationship with photography. This is the first time this exhibition has ever been presented in Canada!
When: February 3 to May 21, 2018
Where: The Glenbow Museum – 130 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
Admission: Regular admission

Experience a Dog Sledding Expedition

What: Cuddle up under a blanket and enjoy the scenery as you glide through the trail or head up your own team of home-bred Canadian huskies – you choose!
Where: Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours – 109, 829 Street Canmore or Mad Dogs & Englishmen Expeditions in Canmore

Go Tubing at Canada Olympic Park

Snow tubing (Parilov / Shutterstock)

What: Calgary’s only tube park is the largest of its kind in Western Canada and now boasts 12 lanes, a four person tube option, and a dedicated magic carpet. A village including a food trailer, a deck with heaters, a fire pit, and washrooms have also been added for the 2017-18 season.
When: During the winter season
Where: WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park, The Acura Tube Park – 88 Canada Olympic Road SW
Admission: Tickets cost $28 for an adult to slide for two hours, and senior, youth, and family discounts are available.

Go skating on Lake Louise

What: Lake Louise was rated by CNN and HuffPost as the world’s most beautiful skating rink in 2014, and trust us – it definitely lives up to the reputation. Glide hand-in-hand with your special someone as you enjoy the tranquil views and fresh mountain air. The lake is even lit during the evening so you can skate under the stars and then warm up by a cozy campfire. Skate rentals are available.
Where: 111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise
Admission: Email or call the Concierge Team for prices and ice conditions before heading up.

Stroll through a frozen waterfall

What: Johnston Canyon is one of Banff’s most famous areas for a reason! Walk hand-in-hand through a winter wonderland with your love and bask in the surreal frozen views. It’s a moment that will feel frozen in time!
Where: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB

Head out on an Urban Snowshoeing Adventure

What: Grab your partner and a pair of snowshoes and head out into the crisp winter air. Take in the picturesque views as you march your way through the many trails in and around the Calgary area, while getting a great cardio workout in at the same time. Couples who workout together stay together, right?
Where:
- If your are an inner city roamer, check out Fish Creek Park or Nose Hill for some fantastic trails close to home.
- If you’re interested in taking a drive out to the Rockies, Canmore, Bragg Creek and Banff all boast unreal trail paths that lead to some magical destinations.
Be sure to check trail reports before heading out and dress for the weather.

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