An Insider’s Guide to Arts & Culture in Calgary
Calgary, Alberta is a city full of culture and entertainment. From galleries to live music venues, there is something for everyone in Calgary. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking to explore the city’s vibrant scene, this guide will provide you with an inside look into Calgary’s Arts & Culture offerings.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to experience the city’s culture and its many attractions.
So grab your bucket list and get ready for an amazing cultural experience in Calgary.
Museums:
Calgary’s rich history can be experienced at a variety of museums around the city. The Military Museums feature artifacts from Canada’s military past, while the Glenbow Museum has an extensive collection of art and cultural exhibits. Other popular museums in Calgary are Heritage Park Historical Village, which provides insight into life in early Alberta, and Fort Calgary Historic Park which gives visitors a glimpse into Calgary’s past.
From its world-class museums to its unique attractions like the Telus Spark Science Centre and The Hangar Flight Museum, Calgary offers plenty of educational opportunities for those interested in learning about science, history and culture. Take a trip back in time at the Glenbow Museum as it takes visitors through thousands of years of human history or explore the interactive exhibits at the Military Museum.
Theater:
No arts and culture tour would be complete without experiencing some of Calgary’s incredible theatrical performances. Theatre Calgary has been producing excellent plays since 1968. Also worth checking out are Vertigo Theatre (for mystery/thrillers), Lunchbox Theatre (for comedies and musicals), One Yellow Rabbit Performance Theatre (for experimental theatre) and Ghost River Theatre (for immersive performances).
For those looking for a night of drama and entertainment, Calgary is home to many acclaimed theaters, including Theatre Calgary, Alberta Theatre Projects and Lunchbox Theatre. These venues present a variety of plays from classic works to contemporary masterpieces. Additionally, some of Canada’s best actors can be seen performing on stage here as well.
Music Venues:
Calgary is known for its vibrant music scene with plenty of places to enjoy a live show. Whether it’s folk or hip-hop, there are several popular venues hosting local and international acts throughout the year. If you’re looking for something more intimate, check out Broken City or The Palomino for some of Calgary’s best underground shows.
Galleries:
Calgary is home to a number of art galleries, such as the Glenbow Museum and the Alberta College of Art + Design. The city also has a thriving independent arts scene with many galleries in Kensington, Inglewood, Bridgeland and other neighbourhoods. You can find works from local artists as well as international exhibits at these locations.
The city is full of art galleries showcasing a variety of works from celebrated local and international artists. The New Gallery offers exhibitions that explore contemporary art and culture, while the Glenbow Museum features an extensive selection of visual arts ranging from modern to traditional. For those looking for something different, check out the Esker Foundation or the Nickle Arts Museum for everything from ceramics to photography.
Festivals & Celebrations:
There’s something special about experiencing Calgary’s culture through its festivals and celebrations. Every summer, Calgary hosts Folk Fest, an event that celebrates world cultures with music, dancing, food trucks and more. The Calgary International Film Festival celebrates independent films from across the globe, while the One World Festival is a celebration of multiculturalism. Other festivals to check out include Afrikadey!, Sled Island and BEATS Street Festival.
Music Scene:
No visit to Calgary would be complete without experiencing the city’s vibrant music scene. Calgary is home to a number of venues that offer live music performances, including MacEwan Hall and Studio Bell. The city also hosts a variety of jazz, blues and folk festivals throughout the year – be sure to check out the Calgary Folk Music Festival for an amazing musical experience!
Conclusion:
Calgary’s arts and culture scene is alive and well with something for everyone. From theatre to galleries, museums to music – there’s plenty to do in this beautiful city. So grab your calendar and start planning your cultural adventure in Calgary today!