Calgary Weekender: April 26 through 28, 2013

Friday
“Have you been to the new National yet?” will be uttered by gads of people this Friday, so get there early to score your spot for après-work drinks. National on 10th opened last week, and with two huge sides to the main room, there’s sure to be a ton of people kicking off their weekend with some pints. Play a game of foosball or some pong and start your weekend off right. 341 10th Ave SW

Thinking about hosting a Cinco de Mayo party next week? Salsita, the Mexican food store, is hosting a mole-making cooking class. Nothing says Mexico like mole! Apparently an easier version than the original is on the agenda and you’ll also make turkey enchiladas enmoladas – YUM. Call 403.289.2202 for details. 777 Northmount Dr NW

Vancouver garage soul band The Ballantynes are playing at Broken City Friday night with Needles//Pins, Teledrome and This Hisses. Back after last year’s Sled Island performance, they say there’s no dance party like a Ballantynes party and you’re going to wish that this one never comes to an end. The show kicks off at 9pm. 613 – 11th Ave. SW

The first-ever Spanish Festival is happening from April 24 to 28, a celebration of Spanish culture, food, music and dance taking place all around the city. Tickets to some events are still available, so check out their site to take part.

Saturday
Head down to Zyn in Inglewood Saturday afternoon between 11:30am and 3pm because the Red Wagon Diner Food Truck will be there with Calgary’s first authentic Montreal smoked meat sandwiches while the “boys of beer” offer up samples of some of their favourite brews. 1543 – 17 Avenue SE

Why not fancy it up a little and get yourself down to the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra’s Sweet Sounds of the 70s at Jack Singer Concert Hall? Saturday’s show starts at 8pm and is an ode to the classsics by Paul Simon, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder performed by Grammy Award-winning vocal group New York Voices. Tickets start at $34. 205 8 Ave SE 

Sunday
If you were lucky enough to get a ticket, or your awesome friend got extras, the Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo is happening all weekend at the BMO Centre. With appearances by your favourite sci-fi, fantasy and horror stars, as well as Ewok mask making, you’re sure to find something unexpected. BMO Center, 20 Roundup Way SE

If you’re down by the Stampede Grounds, make your way over to Village Ice Cream. Even if you’re not in the area, it’s worth the trip. With 10 favourite flavours to choose from, it might be a difficult decision between those and their current seasonal specials. You can always get the lime & toasted coconut to eat in the moment and take a tub of Phil & Sebastian Coffee home for later. Village Ice Cream, 431 10 Ave SE

Top photo: National on 10th