There’s no shortage of summer things to do in YYC!
Although we’ve had a rocky summer so far, this week is a hot one. Temperatures will be at a high of 31 degrees Celsius. And with new Covid measures in effect, things are looking up for summer 2021. Here is a list of our suggestions of things to do in August:
1. Catch this immersive science exhibit
Telus Spark Science Center has finally opened its 6000 square-foot digital immersion gallery. Spark is presenting a show titled Every Second until January 30 2022. This show takes the viewer on a journey through the moments and seconds that matter in life. It is narrated by Isabella Rossellini, an Italian-American actress and model best known for her role as Lisle Von Rhuman in Death Becomes Her. And the show was written and directed by Les 7 Doigts, an iconic creative troupe based in Montreal. The show presented changes every 6 months.
You can find more information and book a visit on their website here.
2. Hit up a fireworks festival
GlobalFest is hosting an International Fireworks Festival in Calgary August 19-28. The festival will show presentations produced by “world-class pyro musical artists” from China, India, Japan and the Philippines. It is a melting pot of cultural diversity and a showcase of global and Albertan talent. The event takes place at Ellinston Park.
Check out the event details here!
3. Watch live theatre!
This summer, Shakespeare by the Bow is taking their show on the road with Shakespeare on the Go. They partnered up with The Shakespeare Company and Hit and Myth Productions to put on 45-minute performances at many locations in and around Calgary. The performances will run from July 31 to August 29. And they’re all free!
Check out their website here\ for more details on the show and the performance schedule.
4. Enjoy a sunset with a view
Banff Gondola is holding a Sunset Festival at Peak Patio, at the summit of Sulphur Mountain. You can watch the sunset with live music, Canadian-inspired BBQ light bites and local craft beverages. Banff Gondola will be holding this festival from July 9 to September 6, every day from 5:30pm to 9:30pm. And you can enjoy a panoramic view from their sunset viewing deck!
You can find more information on their website here!
[Photo credit: Anna Sellers @anna4036 captured Phillip Nugent @phillnugentmusic performing on the patio]
5. Catch an immersive Van Gogh exhibit
Calgary is hosting Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park this summer. The exhibit will go on from July 30 to August 29. This immersive experience brings Van Gogh’s works to life and uses his words and projection technology to create a narrative showcasing his masterpieces.
You can find information about tickets, health measures and more on their website here!
6. Enjoy some dinner theatre
Jubilations Dinner Theatre is hosting a show called Rockin’ the Jukebox. The story about a group of teens whose summer of boredom is saved when they discover an old jukebox at a boarded-up diner. The experience includes the original show, directed by Bob Cunningham, as well as a whole menu of delicious food and drinks. The show is running until August 14th and tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now!
You can find more info about the show, the programme and Jubilations Dinner Theatre at their website here.
7. Get a bite at the Dark Arts lounge
The self-proclaimed “interim art gallery set in a resto-lounge atmosphere” has become a Calgary staple. In addition to their original menu and great atmosphere, this spot boasts a collection of unique art pieces and events. They host Live Art nights where an artist creates an art piece live at the lounge. You can enjoy dinner and drinks as well as appreciate the showcase of art all around you.
Check out their artists, their menu and make a reservation at their website here!
8. Visit Studio Bell
Studio Bell is hosting many musical events and exhibitions. They hold a series of free musical performances titled “Sundays in C-Square” with new performers every week. They perform in East Village’s open-air urban square. You can also enjoy one of their permanent exhibitions, which include the legendary Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio – you can even book a studio session and record in it too!
Check out their events and exhibitions here.
9. Hit up your favourite ice cream shop
This summer’s weather has been all over the place, but the heat waves never fail to give us a craving for some cool refreshing ice cream. You can grab some cones to go and chill at your favourite outdoor spots, or you can walk around and bask in the sunshine with a cold dessert in hand. Here is a sneak peek of our favourite ice cream shops in YYC:
- Made by Marcus
- Uzu Taiyaki
- Righteous Gelato
10. Have a picnic
We all know this summer heat and sunshine are going to be gone all too soon. That’s exactly why we should bask in this weather as long as we can, with casual outdoor activities and hanging out in parks with friends. There are plenty of places in YYC that offer ready-made picnic baskets for all your picnic grazing needs. Here is a sneak peek at some of our favourites:
- River Café
- Bow Valley Ranch Restaurant
- Brie & Banquet
[Featured Image Source: Telus Sparks Website]