This weekend is plentiful with things to do for any and all young professionals. Thursday evening brings several different block parties to partake in. Pivot Glenbow will be hosting its Ignite Summer Block Party on Stephen Avenue in front of the Glenbow Museum in celebration of the summer solstice. Happening between 7 and 11pm, it will feature live art, sound by BassBus, signature cocktails and fabulous food to kick-start the season.
The East Village will also be featuring its own Block Party at River Walk Plaza hosted by Sled Island and the Hifi Club. The party features eight acts and festivities run from 4 to10pm. In addition to live on-stage performances, there will be a street-style skateboard competition hosted by Vans Shoe Company and The Source, delicious YYC food trucks to keep energy levels high, and the city’s favourite community market, Market Collective, will host a special edition so you can scope out a selection of the latest artisan couture.
Sled Island has also kicked off, so we know the city is going to be abuzz all weekend with great music courtesy of this music and arts festival, which features over 200 bands in 30 venues throughout Calgary. Friday evening, head down to Olympic Plaza to catch a performance by Grammy-nominated and Juno award-winning Feist, who is headlining the festival. But be sure to check out their website for a complete list of bands and their calendar of events.
After taking in the show, why not walk down Stephen Avenue and pop into any number of restaurants for a bite to eat or a libation with friends? We suggest checking out Catch for oysters or the newly opened Wine-Ohs for a bottle of wine.
Saturday brings several options on top of all that is already happening. For the city’s fashion addicts, Calgary’s fashion community continues to impress with the Runway Monthly June Event. Taking place at The Bank (125 8th Ave SW), get inspiration with four runway shows by Apiana Que, Chantel Traub featuring Nuage 9 Accessories, Cherry Chic, and Malika Rajani. While there, take advantage of great clothes and prices at the trunk sale featuring local designers and fashion boutiques.
Interested in different cultures? Why not check out The Greek Festival Saturday afternoon (it will be taking place Sunday as well). Grab some friends and head to the Hellenic Community Centre (1 Tamarac Cr. S.W) to learn more about the Hellenic culture while you enjoy the music, dance, wine and food that the Greek are known for. And if they happen to beat the Germans at the Euro Championship Friday, you know the party will be extra lively.
For cycling enthusiasts, Cyclepalooza kicks off this weekend. A community-driven, do-it-yourself bicycle festival, it will be taking place over 10 days (June 23 – July 2) at various locations throughout Calgary. Grab your bike and helmet and take part in a variety of bike-related events that bring together people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels who have a passion for cycling. Be sure to check out their website for a full calendar of events.
Sunday, we think you should head to Victoria Park and chill over a fine espresso drink at the newly opened Caffee Rosso – Victoria Park (11th Ave and Olympic Way SE). The third location for this local coffee shop, they offer a selection of the world’s best coffee and a variety of baked goods and lunch choices. We suggest trying one of their made-to-order paninis with your beverage. Have a little work you need to get done? They also offer free Wi-Fi to all customers.
Photo courtesy Wine-Ohs