Calgary Weekender: Labour Day Weekend 2011

As young professionals, a long weekend is always something to look forward to (well, any weekend is, let’s be honest, but there’s a certain lustre that comes with an extra day off, no?) So, to make the most of your extra day off, we’ve got the goings-on and happenings you need to check out this Labour Day weekend…

Saturday morning why not head down to the Calgary Farmers’ Market, which boasts 80 vendors supplying customers with fresh local produce, art, meat, poultry, international food, organic goods, jewelry, and so much more. Its new location at 510 – 77th Avenue SE features a stunning glass atrium, a larger and more dynamic food court, and extensive free parking.

After stocking up on local produce and goods, head to the Calgary Highland Games at Springbank Park for All Seasons. The Games last throughout the day and feature all those fun competitions and events you would expect, including highland dancing, pipe band competitions, and the much-anticipated Masters World Championship which will bring in competitors from all over the world. If you are still feeling the Celtic vibe, head to Ceili’s Pub (7th St and 8th Ave location) for the after party.

Sunday brings even more festivals for you to enjoy. Looking for something fun and colourful? The Calgary Pride is here with a parade starting at 12pm at Olympic Plaza and ending at Shaw Millenium Park where there will be a full afternoon of fun at the Pride Street Festival. Peruse the various vendors and be sure to check out the two stages featuring DJs, performers, and colourful entertainment for all to enjoy.

Love meat? The 19th Annual BBQ on the Bow Head is taking place Sunday in Eau Claire. This mouth-watering event is free and fun, perfect for everyone…who enjoys a good grill, that is. Be sure to catch the BBQ Sauce Competition and the Celebrity Chef Challenge as celeb chefs demonstrate and grill up their favourite recipes. Indulge guilt-free ’cause you can dance off a little of that beef brisket to live musical entertainment throughout the day.

Monday is a no brainer in Calgary as it’s the Labour Day Classic. Pull on your jersey, grab some friends, and head to McMahon Stadium to cheer on the Calgary Stampeders as they battle it out against the Edmonton Eskimos. The tailgate party is legendary and the stands are sure to be full of YP Calgary fans. So enjoy the sun and a bevy as you partake in a hometwon Labour Day tradition.

After a day outside, the last thing you want to do is cook dinner. So why not finish off the weekend with a delicious meal at one of the 20 restaurants we’ll have listed tomorrow that are guaranteed to be open on Monday. Check back then…