On Friday, pop into Trépanier Baer Gallery for the current exhibit “Douglas Coupland: Twenty-first Century,” which runs from Dec. 8 to Jan. 7. You may know of Coupland because of his literary success, but he was actually a visual artist initially and graduated from Emily Carr College of Art and Design, where he focused on sculpture.
For dinner, we think you should head to Anju Restaurant. They are one of our favourite tapas-style restaurants, not only because of the amazing staff, but because they have taken tapas-style plating and Korean cuisine and melded them perfectly, providing patrons with an innovative menu that is sure to delight. Order the crispy tofu with sautéed kimchi and citrus aioli, or the pork belly lettuce wraps for the table.
The evening is full of enchantment, as you take in a showing of Beauty and the Beast’s Broadway musical. The tour is only in Calgary for six days, and features the animated film’s Academy Award-winning score with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by the late Howard Ashman, and additional lyrics by Tim Rice. No matter what your age, this performance is going to leave you spellbound.
In preparations for the New Year’s Eve festivities, we suggest you take the afternoon to relax and enjoy some live music by heading to Mikey’s Juke Joint for the ‘Saturday Afternoon Jam’, which is hosted by the talented Mike Clark Band. Mike is one of Canada’s premiere blues and roots artists, so you know it’s going to be a good show.
We know that many of you have plans already for Saturday, it being New Year’s Eve and all. Still looking for a venue to ring in 2012? We have a list of the top parties in the city.
On top of all the traditional NYE celebration, Calgary is also playing host to the World Junior Hockey Championships. Games have been taking place throughout the holiday, but Saturday evening is the much-anticipated Canada vs. USA game. For those lucky enough to have tickets, the Saddledome will be packed full of YPs cheering on the home team. Head to Duttons or the Whiskey between periods for a cocktail and visit with friends. It is inevitable you will run into at least a few people you know.
For those without tickets, we suggest you head to one of the places showing the game. Two of our favourites are Flames Central and Melrose Cafe and Bar.
Flames Central is known as the official “home away from the dome” and will be showing the game on one of the largest screens in the city. Cheer on Canada with friends as you enjoy a round of wings and pints. Interested in spending the rest of the evening there? Flames Central will host the ICE NYE event following the game. If you plan on staying, we recommend you purchase tickets beforehand.
Melrose has established itself as the heart of the Red Mile and is the Official Molson Hockey House for the World Junior Championships. They will be showing the 6pm game and will get the party started after with DJs playing to two rooms at the same time all night long. Mini-champagne bottles will be on sale, with party favors & confetti toss at midnight. Admission cost? Nothing.
Sunday is the first day of 2012 and we suggest you take full advantage of this (aka relaxing). We have a list of places to check out that will be open on New Year’s Day, whether it is a tried and true diner breakfast or one of our favourite pubs in the city serving up premium grub.
Photo courtesy Trépanier Baer Gallery