Over the years, Calgary has slowly shaped itself to be a Canadian hub that has captured the attention of various organizations and, in turn, many new and exciting events are now held here. Last year, some of my favourite events included the Comic Expo, Beakerhead, and the Holt Renfrew: Lock into Paris Fashion Show. This coming year holds much promise for more great occasions that are sure to be memorable. Mark your calendars and get set for a great year of festivities.
Stephen Hough and Valentina Lisitsa and the CPO – January 23-24 and June 5-6, respectively
If you follow me on Twitter, my gushing about the CPO’s 2014-15 season may now be a bit redundant. However, it’s no denying that their repertoire selection has been top-notch, and the guest artists that they have invited to come in are also amazing. Both Hough and Lisitsa are accomplished pianists who have made names for themselves all around the world due to their musical capabilities and I’m so exciting to see them live. Hough will be playing Beethoven’s Piano Concert no. 1 in C-major, something that I am currently working on, and Lisitza will be playing Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto no. 2.
Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo – April 16-19
You can’t make a post like this without mentioning Comic Con at least once. Having met Matt Smith and Karen Gillan at last year’s event, which was my first, I absolutely cannot wait to see what this year has in store. The guest list for this year includes Lana Parrilla of Once Upon a Time, Norman Reedus of The Walking Dead, Tom Kenny of Spongebob and more. Plus, since it’s so early on into the year, you can bet on more great artists to sign on in the upcoming months. Tickets are already available on the Calgary Expo website.
Sun and Salsa Festival – July 19th, 2015
I’m pretty sure everyone has heard of Lilac Fest (May 31st, 2015), but this Kensington event will redefine your festival experience. With hundreds of vendors and shops within the area, guests are invited to purchase chips and try out the various salsa stations along the route, all made by local organizations and restaurants. Enjoy a day of Latin American culture, live entertainment, and delicious salsa. At the end of the event, vote for your favourite salsa on their website. Bring a few bucks to purchase chips, or buy your own beforehand.
More details on their website
Opera in the Village – Date TBA
I had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer at this event in August 2014 with Youth Central and we had tons of fun making and selling popcorn, as well as making run-for-its in the pouring rain (which I welcomed with open arms). It is definitely one of my favourite projects to volunteer at, and I don’t doubt that I would jump at the opportunity if it came again this year, coupled with actually seeing the show. This arts event takes place in the newly revamped East Village and features talented singers from Calgary Opera performing elaborate shows alongside a small orchestra. Dates and itineraries have yet to be announced, so keep your eyes peeled in the upcoming months!
More details on their website.
Beakerhead – September 16th-20th
Another terrific event I volunteered at last year, there were so many cool things I saw and experienced and I am eagerly awaiting what the new year will mean for Beakerhead. To read my post on my volunteer experience, click here.
Check out the YAA events calendar for more exciting and youth-friendly events!
