Calgary Weekender: October 12 through 14, 2012

Passionate about indulging in the finer flavours of life? Friday evening, why not head to The Rocky Mountain Wine Festival? Grab some friends, colleagues or clients and take the opportunity to sample offerings from over 200 vendors. Peruse the wide array of world-class wine, premium spirits, import and micro-brewed beers, or taste an assortment of culinary creations from Calgary’s top restaurants. With an unparalleled lineup and unpretentious atmosphere, this high-energy event has become a favourite amongst Calgary YPs.

For those who love movement arts, why not check out any number of events that are part of the Fluid Festival? This festival engages audiences, artists and merges genres. Overflowing with dazzling performances by provocative movement artists from local, national and international artists, it presents outstanding physical performance to Calgary audiences.

Looking for somewhere Notable to dine? Why not check out Cucina? Half Italian bistro, Half fresh market Cafe this is the latest project from the Teatro group. Located downtown in Eighth Avenue Place, they feature locally sourced food, and locally roasted coffee by courtesy of Phil and Sebestian. Pop in for a quick coffee and sandwich to go, or take a seat and enjoy a selection of cured meats, in-house rotisserie and a fantastic wine list.

Saturday we think you should head to the BMO Centre (1410 Olympic Way SE) for The Alberta Bound Tattoo and Arts Festival. This fascinating festival invites those who are inked, and those who may just be interested in the art, to come and peruse the vendors and check out some of the most talented artists from around North America. This year will feature Megan Massacre from NY Ink, Dan Smith from LA Ink, Pin Up model Masuimi Max, Joe Capobianco, Jime Litwalk, David Corden, Liz Cook, Tautu and many more!

Curious about what makes a city? Then head to the John Dutton Theatre, Central Library (616 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary), for the ‘TEDxCity 2.0’. One of over 40 TEDxCity 2.0 events taking place around the globe, it will focus on the themes that underpin the City 2.0 concept of Art, Education, Food, Health, Housing, Play, Public Space, and Safety, and explores how innovations in these elements can impact the future of our cities. The program will feature a mix of live speakers and videos that highlight several of the City 2.0 themes. 

Saturday evening, why not explore childhood memories, but with a new perspective, at the Glenbow Museum’s “Fairy Tales, Monsters and the Genetic Imagination” exhibit Launch Party. Inspired by the fantastic stories and characters of myths, fairy tales and science fiction, the exhibit explores what’s possible when the boundaries between humans and animals become blurred. Starting at 7pm, this event will feature music by Born Gold and Kenna Burima, and DJ nRd vs GK; collaborative monster building; and the artistic talents of local artist Mandy Stobo. Make sure to RSVP in advance.

More into dance? The Alberta Ballet brings you a production of Othello. Taking the stage at the Jubilee Auditorium (1415 14 Ave NW), this epic production choreographed by Kirk Peterson builds on its namesake Shakespearean tragedy of love, jealousy, deceit, revenge and murder. With lavish sets and exotic costumes inspired by the vibrant colours of Africa, Othello pairs Peterson’s highly theatrical and athletic choreography with the music of five-time Academy Award-winning composer Jerry Goldsmith to create rich layers of intent and desire for an unforgettable evening.

Photo courtesy Rocky Mountain Wine Festival