We know that when the temperature rises, it gets harder and harder to sit in the office and work. Day dreaming of the weekend? Well this weekend is jammed full of great activities, events and festivals that will keep you busy right through until Sunday evening.
The fun gets started Thursday evening with a multitude of events for young professionals. First we have the Calgary Timeraiser. Being held at Flames Central (219 8 Ave SW), this unique event is focused on engaging YPs to volunteer in the community. Check out the various non-profits participating and bid against others on artwork by local and emerging artists. Just remember: the catch is that you are bidding with volunteer hours rather than money.
Thursday evening, Sit Interiors (820 11 Ave SW) will be hosting an event from 8 to 10pm with designer Catilin Power showcasing her collection, which for the first time ever includes menswear. This much anticipated and exclusive fashion show will be scored by Kenna Burima and Foon Yap of Woodpigeon.
Throughout the weekend Suncor Energy Stage One Festival of New Work will be featuring original one-act plays by emerging and established playwrights which have been developed with professional directors, actors and dramaturges. Head to Lunchbox Theatre (160 – 115 9 Ave SE), to not only catch a sneak peek into these future productions, but also give feedback and play a part in the development of new Canadian plays.
Friday evening we also suggest grabbing some friends and heading down to 17 Avenue to check out newly opened National Beer Hall (550 17 Ave SW). As a contemporary North American beer, hall they are focused on craft beers and micro-brews and offer 72 beers on tap. The room is bright, open and, in typical beer hall fashion, has long communal tables, which are jammed with the city’s YPs. It is inevitable that you will make friends with your neighbours while sipping pints, so who knows where the night will take you.
Saturday you are off to Heritage Park Historical Village
(1900 Heritage Dr. SW) for Beef the Festival, a celebration of all things beef. Hit the outdoor festival where you can enjoy culinary delights presented by a variety of local restaurant cantinas. Or attend the various educational – and fun – sessions where celebrity chef Mark McEwan and local culinary experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to perfectly prepare every cut of beef. If this has your mouth watering, why not attend the gala, which will feature a five-course dinner experience created by Chef McEwan.
For the fashion forward YPs, PARK Designer Sample Sale will be taking place Saturday afternoon. Head to the Gerry Thomas Gallery (602 11 Ave SW) for the second annual event by PARK, where you can check out the latest pieces and lines by designers, including Paul Hardy, Caitlin Power, Lara Presber, and Anne B Accessories. There will also be wine and refreshments for you to enjoy as you shop.
If you are more of an outdoor enthusiast, then MEC Bikefest may be more up your alley. Happening at Eau Claire Festival Plaza (200 Barclay Parade SW) from 10am to 4pm, this is an opportunity for cyclists and cycling enthusiasts to unite. Check out a variety of workshops and clinics to learn everything from how to change a tire to how to cycle safely in traffic. Or browse and buy from local bike vendors in the Bikefest Marketplace. Some of the city’s favourite food trucks will also be on site to stave of hunger from all the riding at the best bicycle bash in Calgary.
Saturday is also the day for Motorcycle Ride for Dad. The Calgary event of this national campaign will occur over several hours Saturday afternoon. Keep your eyes peeled for the parade of motorcycles that will be riding through Calgary to raise money and spread the word about prostate cancer. If you are interested in participating, pre-registration is June 15 at the Max Bell Theatre from 5-8pm. Whether you plan to ride or simply cheer everybody on, this is a great way to join in the fight against prostate cancer.
Sunday is Father’s Day, and there are a variety of things to do with dad in the city. Why not lace up your sneakers and participate in the Safeway Father’s Day Walk/Run, which will be happening at Eau Claire. Registration is at 8am and the race starts at 10.
We’re sure you’ll be hungry after so head to Craft Beer Market for their special Father’s Day brunch. It will include the expected treats as well as crab legs and prime rib. Of course you may want to indulge in a pint as Craft offers one of the largest selections of draft beer in the city.
Photo courtesy Craft Beer Market