Notable Now Calgary: July 20, 2012

An Evening of Vocal Jazz – July 21
For the love of Jazz, head down to The National Music Centre (132 11 Ave SE) to catch the one-night-only performance of ‘An Evening of Jazz’. Two-time “Jazz Vocalist of the Year Nominee” and “Prix de Jazz” Nominee Rita Di Ghent, and Calgary’s own Glennis Houston, will be performing a compilation of swinging jazz standards, blues, and original compositions. Doors open at 7:30pm. 

Fiestaval Latin Festival – July 21 + 22
This two-day multicultural festival highlights all that Latin American has to offer. Head down to Olympic Plaza (228 8 Ave SE), located in the heart of downtown Calgary, for an opportunity to experience Calgary’s Latin community. Catch live performance, peruse various vendors and enjoy Latin treats at this celebratory expression of the Latin-American culture. 

Kensington Sun and Salsafest – July 22
Like things a little spicy? Set fire to those taste buds during Kensington’s annual Sun and Salsa Festival (10 St & Kensington Road NW) happening between 11:00am and 5:00pm. Participate in the salsa tasting contest as Kensington businesses serve up over 500 gallons of 40 different salsas. You get to be the judge! While there, enjoy the music and entertainment on eight live entertainment stages located throughout the neighborhood. Don’t forget to check out Kensington retailers, restaurants, pubs and beer gardens, or peruse the multitude of vendors. 

Voices in the Village – July 22
Curious what opera sounds like outdoors? Emerging artists from the Calgary Opera will be performing the first installment of a three-part summer series in East Village (618 Confluence Way, SE) Sunday evening from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. Bring a lawn chair, grab a snack, and open your ears to this free public concert on RiverWalk by the Bow River. Be sure to get there early and snag a complimentary cream puff from House of Cruffs –they’ll be handed out to the first 200 people. 

Mud Hero – July 22
If you’re an adrenaline junkie who likes competition and adventure, then this race is for you! Taking place at Rafter Six Ranch Resort, Mud Hero is a rope-swinging, mud-crawling, ramp-running, wall-climbing, tunnel-diving, slide-slipping, net-crossing, tire-tripping obstacle run. With 15 natural and man-made obstacles, it’s the only race of its kind that’s 100% Canadian-owned. The race starts at 10:00am. 

NOW OPEN: Freak Lunchbox
The newest shop to pop up on 17 Avenue (614A 17th Ave SW), Freak Lunchbox brings Calgarians the weirdest, newest and hippest candy and pop culture items on the market, along with classic favourites. Inspired by circus sideshows, roadside attractions and of course candy, this family owned Canadian business has locations throughout Canada and has even garnered a celebrity clientele. Check them out and satisfy your sweet tooth.