39 things to do in Calgary this week: April 23 to 29

Starting off the week with blue skies is the best way to kickstart a busy week! With April coming to an end and May well on its way, there are just so many exciting spring festivities happening in and around Calgary that you’ll want to get in on.

Grab a brew on one of the many patios along 17th Avenue, learn some new skills to apply to your side hustle, experience some of Calgary’s very best talent, or treat yourself a delicious treat at one of the many foodie-fests happening throughout the city.

We have rounded up 39 things check out this week to help you out.

Have fun!

See also

• Ellen DeGeneres honours Humboldt Broncos during Canadian appearance (VIDEO)
• It's official, Canadians can't get enough of the great outdoors
• Board game tournaments, gaming celebrities, and Elija Wood coming to Calgary Expo

Monday, April 23

National Geographic Live: Standing at the Water’s Edge with marine biologist and photographer Cristina Mittermeier

• What: Photojournalist Cristina Mittermeier documented a society that relied on their local water way to survive during her time with the Kayapoo people in the Amazon. If anyone knows the the power of water, it’s her! Join her for an afternoon as she shares her unreal photography, tells some powerful stories, and explores the concept of “enoughness,” AKA taking only what you need.
• When: April 22 and 23
• Time:
  • Sunday: 2 pm
  • Monday: 7 pm
• Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall – 205 8th Avenue SE
• Tickets: Online, $32 to $83

Happy Mondays 

• What: We all know that the struggle is truly real on Mondays! Luckily, National wants to make them a bit better with 25 cent Happy Hour offered all day long. Yes, you read that correctly! Grab a drink and make Monday’s your new favourite day of the week.
• When: Mondays
• Time: 11 am to close
• Where: National on 17 – 550 17th Avenue SW

Ethical Fashion 101 

• What: Are you interested in learning where your clothing comes from? In lieu of Ethical Fashion Week, Emilie Main is putting on this hour-long workshop to educate you on ethical fashion and sustainability so that its importance can be better understood.
• When: Monday, April 23
• Time: 6:30 to 7:45 pm
• Where: Fieldstudy – 102, 1812 4th Street SW
• Tickets: FREE

YYC Poutine Week

• What: It’s baaaaack! Calgary Poutine week takes over the minds, hearts, and stomachs of YYC for seven days of the year every April. During this week you can indulge in your favourite all Canadian fry and gravy combination guilt free, as each poutine sold will provide a free meal to someone in need through Mealshare. In 2017, 8,000 poutines were consumed, which resulted in 8,000 youth that received a free meal. Doubling that shouldn’t be a problem, right Calgary?
• When: April 20 to 28
• Where: See participating restaurants here!

Tuesday, April 24

Macaron 101 

• What: Ever wondered how to make a French macaron? Look no further. Everyone’s favourite macaron shop, Ollia, hosts Macaron Baking Classes, offering exclusive lessons on how to properly engage in some macaronage, get the perfect shell, and create a variety of flavours. Bon appetite!
• When: Tuesday, April 24
• Time: 6 pm
• Where: Ollia Macaron and Tea – 810c 16th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Call to reserve your spot, $100

Taco Tuesday

• What: Let’s be honest, any date that involves tacos is a good date! It might be slightly cliche, but you won’t have to worry about making dinner AND you get to dive into some freshly made guac, with a margarita on the side – that’s a winning combo.
• When: Every Tuesday
• Where:
  • Native Tongues Taqueria – 235 12th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Salt & Pepper – 1413 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
  • National – all four locations
  • Los Chilitos Taco & Tequila House – 1309 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Julio’s Barrio – 1110 Memorial Drive NW, Calgary
  • Anejo – 2, 2116 4th Street SE, Calgary

YYC Girl Gang Presents:  The Importance of Legal 

• What: Does the legal side of your business provide you with a fair amount of anxiety? You’re not alone! Join Alexandra of Sarjesa to learn about some of the legal resources that you can access to prepare for any type of situation and help you navigate the legal system. You’ll be happy you did!
• When: Tuesday, April 24
• Time: 6:30 to 9 pm
• Where: Sonoma on 9 – 700 9th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Online, $27

Whitespace 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 is what you’re interested in. Plus you might make a new creative friend or two, which is priceless!
• When: Every Tuesday
• Time: 9 am to 12 pm
• Where: Loft 112 – 535 8th Avenue SE
• Admission: $5

The Secret Garden

• What: See this beloved classic by Frances Hodgson Burnett come to life on stage in this beautifully composed Broadway musical! See how a young girl used a magical key and a secret garden to warm the hearts of her uncle, family, and the audience during the show.
• When: April 17 to May 19
• Where: Max Bell Theatre – 220 9th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Online, $35 to $103

Who Made Your Clothes? A look into Modern Day Slavery 

• What: It’s hard to believe, but fashion is actually one of the main culprits of today’s “modern day slavery.” Join Meaghan Fitzpatrick to learn more about the realities of the industry and get the facts on who makes your clothes. Make it your mission to wear a better story!
• When: Tuesday, April 24
• Time: 6:30 to 7:45 pm
• Where: Patagonia – 135 8th Avenue SW
• Admission: FREE

Wednesday, April 25

Macaron 101 

• What: Ever wondered how to make a French macaron? Look no further. Everyone’s favourite macaron shop, Ollia, hosts Macaron Baking Classes, offering exclusive lessons on how to properly engage in some macaronage, get the perfect shell, and create a variety of flavours. Bon appetite!
• When: Wednesday, April 25
• Time: 6 pm
• Where: Ollia Macaron and Tea – 810c 16th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Call to reserve your spot, $100

Mimic

• What: If DJD is known for anything, it’s their ability to come up with the unthinkable! For this year’s spring performance they have collaborated with Peter Balkwill of the Old Trout Puppet Workshop to bring you a performance that features both dancers and puppets, two highly physical, wordless art forms, in all their glory. It’s cheeky, it’s carnal, and it’s nothing you have ever seen before. Come see what happens when dancers and puppets share the stage!
• When: April 19 to May 5
• Time:
  • Evening performances: 8 pm
  • Matinee performances: 2 pm
• Where: The DJD Dance Centre – 111 12th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Online, $34 to $69

Ethical Fashion Accessibility, Affordability and Inclusivity

• What: It’s important to consider ethical clothing options when shopping, but sometimes there can be some major barriers that make it challenging. Price point, size options, and other problems lead us to question how we can shift the fashion industry to be more inclusive AND more ethical. Join in on the discussion and find out how you can do your part!
• When: Wednesday, April 25
• Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm
• When: Nova Coffee House – 3519 14th Street SW
• Admission: FREE

Wing Woman 

• What: When you’re in the midst of the hustle it’s always nice to look over and see a friendly face cheering you along! That’s what your ultimate wing woman is for. Design your own wolf pack of go-getters and ambitious women at this exciting event by the Ace Class. Taking a speed dating format, this event is meant to connect you with like-minded women so you can find the perfect boss babe to have your back when you need her most! #WomenSupportingWomen
• When: Wednesday, April 25
• Time: 6 to 8 pm
• Where: Bourbon Room – 341 10th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Online, $30

Thursday, April 26

Clay Walker

• What: Let’s throw it back to the best era in country, the ’90s, by welcoming one of the leading stars that paved the way for country today… Clay Walker!
• When: Thursday, April 26
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Grey Eagle Event Centre – 3777 Grey Eagle Drive
• Tickets: Ticketmaster, $49 to $59

Ms. Lisa Fischer and Grand Baton 

• What: In this beautiful performance, Ms. Lisa Fischer reimagines songs that she has  sung with the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Little Willy John, and more. Her fusion of jazz, progressive rock, and psychedelic soul, with African, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean rhythms will surely have the audience captivated in this one-of-a-kind performance.
• When: Thursday, April 26
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall – 205 8th Avenue SE
• Tickets: Online, $50 to $80

DJD Spring Gala 

• What: Enjoy drinks, food, and the opportunity to mingle with the cast of DJD’s ‘Mimic’ show as you enjoy the performance from the best seats in the house!
• When: Thursday, April 26
• Time: 6:30 pm
• Where: Decidedly Jazz Dance Centre – 111 12th Avenue SW
• Tickets: Online, $125

Calgary Comic Expo 

• What: Calling all comic fanatics! This is a weekend you’ll want to make sure you’re free for. If Jeff Goldblum, Jason Momoa, and the Back to the Future crew don’t make you want to clear the weekend, then are you really a true comic fan? From celebrity sighting, pop culture, cosplay, and more, this weekend will be packed full of nerdy fun!
• When: April 26 to 29
• Time:
  • Thursday: 4 to 9 pm
  • Friday: Noon to 8 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
• Where:  The BMO Centre – 20 Roundup Way SW
• Tickets: Online, $25 to $110

Cochon555: 5 Chefs, 5 Pigs, 5 Winemakers 

• What: This is North America’s most talked about culinary events, and it’s headed to Banff this April. This event will literally change the way you look at food as you help choose the best bite from top local chefs. It’s a friendly competition for a good cause – it’s as simple as that!
• When: Thursday, April 28
• Where: Fairmont Banff Springs – 405 Spray Avenue, Banff
• Admission: Online, $129

Friday, April 27

Market Collective 

• What: Join the locals for Market Collective’s first market of 2018! Come ready to consume some delicious eats, drink all the yummy drinks, and shop a whole variety of products. Our city is filled with local talent, so come down and support all of these small businesses and take home some quality, handmade gems.
• When: April 27 to 29
• Time:
  • Friday: 4 pm to 9 pm
  • Saturday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
• Where: Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre – 197 1st Street SW
• Admission: $5 for the weekend, kids 12 and under are FREE

Turning Points Fundraising Gala 

• What: Join The Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter for the 24th annual Turning Points Gala. Celebrate the courage it takes to break the cycle of abuse and live without family violence as they raise awareness around this huge issue in our city. Help take a stand against family violence!
• When: Sunday, April 27
• Time: 6 pm
• Where: Telus Convention Centre – 120 9th Avenue SE
• Tickets: Online, $300

YYC Taco Fiesta

• What: Eating tacos for a good cause… now that’s a challenge we’re up for! Participating eateries (which are to be announced) will offer either individual tacos for $4 to $6, or a larger taco platter that will be anywhere from $12 to $18. What’s best is that 15% of every taco sold will be donated to the Calgary Homeless Foundation and Kids Up Front.
• When: April 27 to May 6
• Where: See participating resultants here!

Boozy Brunch at Buttermilk Fine Waffles

• What: Breakfast has just been taken to a whole new level! Enjoy a delicious waffle paired with Spiked Eggnog, a Mimosa (or two), and/or an Irish coffee.
• When: On now
• Where: Buttermilk Fine Waffles – 330 17th Avenue SW

Gerry Dee Live!

• What: Prepare to laugh until you cry as Gerry Dee takes the stage for a hilarious and unforgettable night.
• When: Friday, April 27
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – 1415 14th Avenue NW
• Tickets: Ticketmaster, $49 to $89

Saturday, April 28

Rockies Run Collective

• What: Join Lululemon every Saturday morning for a fun morning run through iconic mountain landscapes and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy town streets!
• When: Every Saturday morning
• Time: 9 am
• Where: Lululemon Banff – 121 Banff Avenue, Banff
• Admission: Free!

The Picket Fence Spring Market 

• What: With so many exciting events coming up there is no better place to get prepared than this local market. Find one-of-a-kind gems for any occasion while supporting some amazing artisans from all over central Alberta!
• When: Saturday, April 28
• Time: 10:30 am to 4 pm
• Where: Olds Collage Alumni Centre – 4500, 50 Street Olds
• Tickets: Online, $10 to $20

Sunday, April 29

Free fitness classes at the CORE: Yoga 

• What: For the month of March get re-balanced and start your Sunday off right with a free bootcamp class curtesy of Caron Anderson at the CORE. Time to get your summer bod started!
• When: Every Sunday in April
• Time: 11 am
• Where: Dome Tower – 333, 7th Avenue SW
• Admission: FREE

Dover and Pacifica Quartets

• What: After sweeping the 2014 Banff International String Quartet Competition, these guys have absolutely blown up! The New Yorker has even announced that they are “the young American string quartet of the moment!”
• When: April 29 to 30
• Time:
  • Tuesday: 7 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 pm
• Where: Macewan Hall – 402 Collegiate Boulevard NW
• Tickets: Online, $35 to $45

Any Day of the Week

Hit the slopes for spring skiing

• What: Our mountainous backyard is just waiting for us with a fluffy layer of the white stuff, perfect for winter sports and activities. Take advantage and get some spring shredding in, or take your snowshoes for an adventure around one of the many picturesque lakes that the Rockies have to offer.
• Check the websites for Sunshine, Mount Norquay and Lake Louise to find the hours of operation and trail conditions

Dust off your road bike

• It looks like Calgary has seen the last of the snow, for the next five months at least – fingers crossed! So it’s the perfect time to get out your road bike and head down to the river for some beautiful views and a great afternoon of adventures, exploring Calgary’s bike paths.

Head to the new Kananaskis Nordic Spa

• What: Looking for a quick escape from the every day grind? This brand new spa combines the tranquil rejuvenation of a traditional Nordic Spa and the Alpine stillness of the Canadian Rockies. This spa is meant to provide relaxation and give you the opportunity to discover clarity in the midst of the mountains.
• Where: 1 Centennial Drive, Kananaskis

Check out a Board Game Cafe 

• What: Board game cafe’s make a great first date, as there are lots of icebreaker opportunities to make it very obvious if there will be a second date in the cards. Alternatively, it’s a a fun way to hang out with friends and spice up a usual catch-up coffee affair. Plus, there is nothing wrong with some healthy competition!
• Where:
  • Hexagon Board Game Cafe – #200 1140 Kensington Road NW, Calgary
  • Boxcar Board Game Cafe – 1215 1st Street SW, Calgary

Whales Tohora

• What: Coming 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

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

Check out Calgary’s Newest Ice Creamery

• What: XO is located in the heart of one of Calgary’s newest communities, Auburn Bay. Paying tribute to the old fashioned ice cream parlours and mom-and-pop shops, they have aimed to create an ice cream experience with flavours that are both nostalgic and creative, sparking memories across generations – past, present, and future!
• Where: 808, 100 Auburn Meadows Drive SE

Cocktail Happy Hour

• What: The only thing better than sitting down to a delicious cocktail after work is not having to pay full price for it! $16 drinks can sometimes put a damper the evening, depending on your budget. However, $5 to $9 cocktails are a serious game changer. Psst! Don’t forget to check out reverse happy hours as well and drink for cheap well into the night!
• Where:
  • The Wednesday Room – 100 – 118 8th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Cleaver – 102 – 524 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Gringo Street – 102, 524 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Craft Beer Market – 345 10th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Last Best Brewing & Distilling – 607 11th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Two Penny Chinese – 1213 1st Street SW, Calgary
  • Calcutta Cricket Club – 340 – 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
  • Goro + Gun – #245 – 225 7th Avenue SW, Calgary

Experience the new and improved Brewster Banff Gondola

• What: Head to the summit for a beautiful snowy view above the treetops and a birds-eye view of six different mountain ranges, while sipping on coffee or a refreshing glass of wine.
• Where: 100 Mountain Avenue, Banff
• Tickets: Adult $62, child $31

Take a road trip through the Icefields Parkway

• What: Did someone say road trip? Grab some pals and your camera and go cruising on this stretch of highway between Jasper and Lake Louise. The views are tremendous, just make sure you don’t limit you to one single destination. It’s all about the drive and what you’ll discover!
• Where: Highway between Jasper and Lake Louise

See also

• Ellen DeGeneres honours Humboldt Broncos during Canadian appearance (VIDEO)
• It's official, Canadians can't get enough of the great outdoors
• Board game tournaments, gaming celebrities, and Elija Wood coming to Calgary Expo