Calgary Weekender: June 27 through 29, 2014

Friday

Bike Prom
Good Life Bikes and Cyclepalooza present Bike Prom 2014 as the kick-off party to the Cyclepalooza Bike Festival. This is going to be an impressive promenade of old vintage cruisers, road bikes and everything in between as fans of two wheels hit the streets with panache. If you’re looking to relive prom, then show up to Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association on June 27th at 7:30pm in your flashiest dress or suit. Following a bike ride around town, the party will commence back at the Community Association where you can enjoy some dancing and live music for $10.  

Friday/Saturday/Sunday

Time Around The Camp Fire…Or Not
Most of the campsites around Canmore and Banff are now open, so if the outdoors are calling your name you can reserve a campsite or inquire about your hiking, biking and day tripping options by contacting Alberta Parks. However, if glamping is more your thing, look into renting a cabin at Emerald Lake Lodge instead. Only 20 minutes past Lake Louise in Yoho National Park, this pretty little resort still offers all the glorious views of the mountains and lakes – but you get to sleep in a king size bed.

Hotel Arts
If you can’t leave town this weekend, plan to have a staycation. Sleep in, go for a float on the river, or hang poolside at Hotel Arts. Outdoor swimming pools are a hot commodity in Calgary and Hotel Arts’ South Beach-inspired hangout is a great option even if you’re not staying at the hotel. Catch up with friends, work on your suntan, and enjoy Duncan Ly’s fabulous food menu. The pool is first come first serve, so be prepared to wait a little while if the sun is out. 

What To Wear To Packwood Grand
If you’re not camping on July 1, then you’re probably heading to the Packwood Grand at the Millarville Racetrack. This Kentucky Derby-inspired affair is going to be the talk of the town, and who doesn’t want to spend a regal day with fabulous hats and carefully crafted cocktails? If you’re still looking for the perfect outfit this weekend, consider stopping by Holt Renfrew to find a little inspiration. For ladies, consider floral prints and wedge sandals. For guys, chinos and boat shoes are suggested. Beyond the six thrilling horse races, there will be chance to be named ‘best dressed’. 

Celebrate Canada Day in Banff
If you’re trying to plan a one-day road trip and see a bit of live music during the long weekend, then point your compass towards Banff. The Banff Centre is celebrating July 1 with a line up of great Canadian artists. Shad, Holy F*** and A Tribe Called Red are going to be taking the stage at the Shaw Amphitheatre. Tickets are $30 and the music will start at 5pm. This is going to be an evening of Juno-worthy rap, Polaris list electronica, and some badass hip-hop. Doesn’t this event sound better than going to your typical Canada Day parade?

Sunday

Free Corkage
Here’s one more great idea that doesn’t involve too much planning if you’re stuck in town this weekend: Sundays at River Cafe have free corkage. Bring your favourite person, a special bottle of wine, and cozy up by the fireplace or grab a seat on the patio that overlooks Prince’s Island Park. You might not have made it out of the city limits, but after a few hours at the River Cafe you’ll definitely feel like you’re on vacation.

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Top photo courtesy Hotel Arts Facebook Page