Notable Now Calgary: May 25, 2012

TEDxYYC + Official TEDxYYC After Party (May 24)
Curious where people go for inspiration? Friday the independently organized TEDxYYC event will be taking over Telus SPARK – The New Science Centre (220 St. George’s Drive NE) with a full day of talks about innovation and the future of our city through the lens of Technology, Entertainment and Design. Keep the conversation going at the TEDxYYC after party inside the historic Simmons Building (Simmons Bldg 618 Confluence Way SE). From 7pm to 11pm, enjoy local musical acts, libations, and the YYC food trucks. Space is limited, be sure to get there early. 

National Jazz Summit (May 23 – 26)
For music lovers, The National Music Centre and The Banff Centre are launching the first annual National Jazz Summit. In celebration of Calgary’s designation as the 2012 Cultural Capital of Canada, the inaugural event brings together jazz musicians, educators and fans for a series of concerts and workshops being held at Theatre Junction Grand (608 1 St SW) and The National Music Centre (134, 11 Ave SE). 

Scotiabank Calgary Marathon (May 26)
Get ready to lace up your shoes for the Calgary Marathon. Starting and finishing at Stampede Park (20 Roundup Way SE), it has been voted Alberta’s best road race and is a Boston Marathon qualifier. Best part? The race has been designed for all fitness levels with multiple distances including marathon, half marathon, 10 km and a 5 km walk/run. Whether participating, or simply cheering on the racers, this will definitely be notable.

Lilac Festival (May 27)
Sunday brings the 23rd annual 4th Street Lilac Festival. As one of the city’s largest street festivals, it will take over 13 blocks along 4th Street in the heart of the Mission district. Shop at over 500 craft, food and artisan vendors, or enjoy the food and beverages as you take in the acts featured on stage and entertainment zones throughout the Festival.

Just Opened: Sit Interiors
Sit has popped up on 11th Ave between 7th and 8th street SW. A ‘Pop-Up Space’, they’ll be there for six months, where you can purchase accessible, design-driven furniture and accessories. In addition, they will also be bringing in collaborative work presented by artists and community builders from Calgary and beyond. Sit will be a hub of activity for lovers of all things design, community, creativity, and collaboration.

Just Opened: Smashburger
Love a good burger? Well the first Canadian location of Smashburger has opened its doors in Calgary (4 – 2770 32 Ave NE
). Their technique for their delicious burgers is all about smashing the meat on the grill rather than squishing it, which caramelizes the beef to lock in the flavour and the juices. Hungry? Choose from one of their signature creations or create your own using the freshest toppings and a butter-toasted artisan bun.