10 must-see Calgary art events happening this July

Jun 22 2017, 11:45 am

Calgary is buzzing with inspiration this July as we proudly celebrate Canada’s 150th and kick off Stampede.

With plenty of thought provoking art exhibits, a contemporary dance performance, cultural celebrations, and the highly anticipated Folk Fest towards the end of the month, it is evident that July in Calgary hasn’t been taken over by cowboy hats and fried food.

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Here are 10 art events you have to check out this summer.

Put the “Her” in Heritage at Arts Commons

Displayed at the Window Galleries, three exhibits created by Calgary-based artists unveil women’s stories that have been silenced throughout Canada’s 150 years. These works evoke powerful emotion describing women’s tribulations as they faced adversity while celebrating their resiliency.

  • Where: Arts Commons, 205 8 Avenue SE
  • When: July 1 to August 30
  • Tickets: Free

Music in the Plaza at Heritage Park

Pack a picnic and head to Heritage Park to listen to two hours of free music. Playing every Wednesday of July and August, Music in the Plaza is highlighting local talent. The Stampede Talent Search has partnered with Heritage Park to select a featured opening performance.

  • Where: Heritage Town Square, 1900 Heritage Drive SW
  • When: Every Wednesday evening of July and August 6-8pm
  • Tickets: Free

Shakespeare by the Bow: As You Like it – Theatre Calgary

Featuring up-and-coming actors, this Theatre Calgary production is front and centre on the most beautiful stage of all—Prince’s Island Park. Pull out a picnic blanket and bring along some snacks and enjoy watching Shakespeare’s As You Like It against a summery backdrop.

  • Where: Prince’s Island Park, 698 Eau Claire Avenue SW
  • When: July 1 to August 27
  • Tickets: Pay-what-you-will

Canada Day at Studio Bell

To celebrate Canada Day, Studio Bell is opening its doors allowing visitors to explore the interactive exhibitions of all five floors of the National Music Centre for free. Enjoy soul, hip-hop, gypsy jazz, and blue grass live music all day long.

  • Where: 840 4 Street SE
  • When: July 1st 10am – 5pm
  • Tickets: Free

Live Art at the Rumble House

Wednesday Night at @rumblehouse

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Immerse yourself in Calgary’s art scene as you watch artists paint pieces on the spot at the Rumble House. Spend time connecting with painters, creatives, and art admirers and delving in insightful conversations. The art is auctioned off so you have a chance to expand your art collection as you place bids for your favourite pieces. Half of the profits made go towards the gallery.

  • Where: 1136 8 Avenue SW
  • When: July 5 from 7:30 – 10:30pm
  • Tickets: Free

Calgary Stampede Art and Lifestyle Show Stir’ Up

Step away from the bustling Stampede grounds to mingle with artists, get social with art lovers, and admire local work. You can also get a glimpse of the art pieces for auction on July 13th. Oh, and there’s snacks.

Bell Live Series at King Eddy

An all-Canadian line-up of country artists are bringing life back to the historic King Edward Hotel. Bring your cowboy hat and soak up country tunes while eating BBQ and sipping on a selection of craft beers.

  • Where: 438 9 Avenue SE
  • When: July 7 to 16 from 11:30am to 2am
  • Tickets: Studio Bell Box Office; 11:30am to 7pm, no cover. From 7pm to 2am tickets are $20

Metamorphosis – Dance Action Lab

With the theme of metamorphosis in their movements, watch eight dancers perform rich contemporary dance created by three creative choreographers.

  • Where: Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, 111 12 Avenue SE
  • When: June 20 to 22 at 8pm
  • Tickets: Brown Paper Tickets; Adults: $28 or $35 at the door, Students: $24 or $30 at the door

Calgary’s Folk Fest

Feelin’ those Friday vibes ✌🏼 . . . 📸: @dianeandmike_

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The park will be lively at the end of July for the 38th year in a row with eight stages booming with the sounds of Canadian voices like Tanya Tagaq, City and Colour, and bands like Barenaked Ladies, and Blue Rodeo along with international artists like UK’s Yola Carter plus many more. Shop at the artisan market, nibble on delicious food truck eats as you soak up the tunes sipping on a beer from the Big Rock Beer Garden.

  • Where: Prince’s Island Park, 698 Eau Claire Avenue SW
  • When: July 27 to 30
  • Tickets: Ticket Fly; Single day passes from $25 – $80, Full festival passes from $120 – $195

Calgary’s Arab Festival 

Explore the cultures of the Middle East through tasting authentic dishes, browsing (and buying!) fashion, watching dance, and enjoying art. With live dance and music performances along with a shisha café, you’ll escape the city without leaving it.

  • Where: Olympic Plaza, 228 8 Avenue SE
  • When: July 29 from 10am – 11pm, July 30 from 10am – 8pm
  • Tickets: Free
Milena PetrovicMilena Petrovic

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