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- Things To Do in CALGARY THIS WEEK May 15 - 21
Things To Do in CALGARY THIS WEEK May 15 - 21
Good morning!
This weekend is Victoria Day long weekend, the unofficial kick-off of the great Canadian summer! As always, there are lots of fun things going on in Calgary, including Ota Fest, the Bohemian Rhapsody 50th Anniversary Tour, Banff Slush Cup, SIX The Musical from Broadway Across Canada, and more!
Enjoy!
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Things to Do This Week
Flavours & Finds Night Market - Marda Loop (May 15) Sip, snack, & shop at Dine Find's Flavours & Finds Night Market in Marda Loop. A vibrant evening of local magic featuring handmade artisan goods, locally crafted food & drink, and community connection.
From Cell to Civilization (May 15) This state-of-the-art multimedia experience will take us on the thrilling journey of humankind from the first spark of life 3.8 billion years ago, to the rise of early civilizations across the globe. It will explore the connectivity of all things and examine our past and our present through the lens of genetics and archaeology.
Bob Ross ® Forest Path Oil Painting with Tracey Leigh Crozier (May 15) Join Bob Ross Certified Instructor® Tracey Leigh Crozier in this fun evening workshop! All supplies are included in this wet-on-wet class, where you will be led from the beginning stages to a complete oil painting in just a few hours!
Julie Kim: Doing Too Much (May 15) Julie Kim is one of Canada’s top stand-up comedians. Julie recently toured across North America doing 40 theatre shows with Ronny Chieng (Crazy Rich Asians, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah). Julie's mission is to spread happiness, lighten hearts, and unite through laughter. And no amount of mom-shaming will stop her in this quest.
Film Screening: Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story (May 15) The iconic track “Bam Bam” has become a timeless reggae anthem and one of the most sampled songs in music history. But the powerful voice behind the hit — and the remarkable story of the woman who sang it — remains largely unknown. Uplifting and unforgettable, this documentary celebrates a trailblazing artist whose voice broke barriers and whose story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of music.
BINGO NIGHT at Whiskey Rose (May 15) BINGO returns to Whiskey Rose on May 15th! We are going to have 6 rounds of Bingo, fun prizes, and sweet deals, including buy-one-get-one-free pizzas and pitchers of lager for $20!
Pretty Gay, Really Nerdy -Drag & Burlesque (May 15) Tired of going to queer events and having peoples eyes glaze over when you're trying to talk about the latest DLC of your favourite video game, or how no one understands how much you want a season 3 of One Punch Man, Then this event is for you! Combining Nerdy interests with Drag and Burlesque, our cast is indulging in their fandoms to bring you a night of nerdy fun.
Top Drop Calgary 2025 Main Event (May 15) Our annual grand tasting featuring dozens of international, terroir-focused wines, wineries, and the people behind them!
Riedel Veloce Glassware Experience (May 15) Experience an unforgettable evening with Senior Product Consultant of Willow Park Wines & Spirits, Michael Bigattini. Through a guided tasting of two reds and two whites, taste the remarkable difference of how a wine glass can actually dramatically change the wine. We promise you will be entertained and blown away!
Risotto & Arancini Cooking Class (May 15) The beauty of Italian Cuisine is that it isn't as complicated as you might expect - it's all about technique and the quality of the ingredients! Join us for a hands-on, flavorful experience where you'll learn how to create the perfect risotto and master the art of making crispy, golden arancini—two iconic Italian dishes that are easier than you think once you know the tricks!
NEUTRAL GROUND CONCERT SERIES! (May 15) Join us for an evening of celebration, good vibes, and great company. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of something special! Artists, musicians, and music lovers, come see if Neutral Ground is a space you want to meet monthly, share your talent and hear new music performed the way it was created to be presented!
Ota Fest (May 16 - 18) Otafest is Calgary’s volunteer-run, non-profit, all-ages Japanese anime and pop culture festival featuring anime screenings, an exhibitor hall, community panels, cosplay contests, voice actors, concerts, and so much more!
Highfield Food & Beverage Market Fest (May 16 - 17) Discover the Brewery belt of Calgary, Alberta (Manchester/Highfield SE Calgary) with over 30 vendors, live entertainment and surprises!
How to Train Your Dragon in Concert (May 16 - 17) DreamWorks’ How To Train Your Dragon is a captivating and original story about a young Viking named Hiccup, who defies tradition when he befriends one of his deadliest foes — a ferocious dragon he calls Toothless. Together, these unlikely heroes must fight against all odds to save both their worlds. Featuring John Powell’s Oscar-nominated score performed live to picture, this concert is a thrilling experience for all ages!
Reuben and the Dark with The Bullhorn Singers (May 16) All These Roads Tour @ Bella Concert Hall.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street KICKS OFF (May 16) Come along on a sophisticated, macabre, and uncompromising tale as Benjamin Barker, a barber, becomes Sweeney Todd, the demon butcher, and his landlady, the local pie proprietress, goes from making The Worst Pies in London to creating a culinary crime described only as God that's Good. This barbarous ode to vengeance accomplishes the rare task of offering intense drama, darkly side-splitting humour and a ripping musical score.
I Hope You (Don’t) Remember - Book Launch & Cocktails (May 16) An evening with Josie Balka celebrating the release of her first poetry book I Hope You Remember! Featuring cocktails* curated by Nite Cap, Josie will be reading her favourite poems from the book! Bring your copy along to have it signed! Hosted by Danaye Maier, join us for a super fun night of celebration, tasty cocktails and mocktails and connection.
Dripping Creativity Live: Goth Night with The New Cinematic (May 16) Join host Chris Corvan for an unforgettable evening of shadow-drenched storytelling, raw conversation, and live performance as Dripping Creativity launches its GOTH NIGHT with Calgary’s own rising dark-pop visionaries, The New Cinematic.
Flamenco, Arabic & Fusion Night (May 16) In this intimate evening of music and dance, you will take on a journey recounting the relationship between these two world genres and their influences on each other through traditional and non-traditional music, song and dance.
TuneGo Music Bingo at Top's PizzamSouth (May 16) Get ready for the most fun Friday night in town! Grab a friend or a table full of friends and come join DJ Armin Hammer for an unforgettable night of music meets bingo...ish!
RCW Fire & Fury at Deerfoot Inn & Casino (May 16) Witness jaw-dropping matches and thrilling showdowns as our talented wrestlers as well as Calgary vs Edmonton Firefighters, bring the heat to the ring in what will be the next "Battle of Alberta!" Don't miss out on the excitement and drama that RCW events are known for.
Buddy Holly Tribute: Seton YMCA (May 16) The Buddy Holly Tribute is a dynamite two-act show featuring such hits as “That’ll Be the Day”, “Peggy Sue”, “Oh Boy and “Rave On”. Stevenson presents Buddy Holly so perfectly that we seem to be watching a genuine replica of the nerdy, and hip young Texan. He has the guitar licks down to a “t” and his superb vocals make him equally comfortable with the sweet ballads or on-the-edge rock-a-billy songs… including Holly’s trademark hiccup and energetic dance moves that often brings the audience to their feet.
Easy Days Market at East Village (May 16) The River is Medicine is a call to gather, connect, and celebrate through art, music, and the spirit of the river. Free to attend and open to all ages—everyone is welcome.
Seethala Hima Rate - Milton Unplugged Concert (May 17) It is time to bring back the memories of the 1970s’ best hits from the legendary artist Milton Mallawarachchi, as his grandson, Pawan Mallawarachchi, takes the stage for a spectacular tribute concert.
Cavalry Home Game (May 17) Cavalry FC vs. Pacific FC at Spruce Meadows.
ANDRES CEPEDA EN CALGARY At Palace Theatre (May 17) ¡Ven a disfrutar del concierto de Andrés Cepeda en Calgary, donde nos contará nuestra vida en canciones!
THE POLYJESTERS (May 17) At IRONWOOD STAGE & GRILL.
DANDY PINE CAR DERBY! (May 17) On Sunday, May 18th....the excitement of head-to-head racing is coming to Dandy, in the form of The Dandy Pine Car Derby! 32 cars will go head to head down the Dandy Track, through qualifying rounds and into the finals....racing for the ultimate prize....The Dandy Pine Car Cup, bragging rights, and some great Dandy prizes.
Dragons & Mythical Beasts (May 18) Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical show for all the family.
Queen: Bohemian Rhapsody 50th Anniversary Tour (May 18) Following the huge success of its 2024 Canadian national tour, Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic is RETURNING IN 2025 by popular demand! Featuring Dominic Warren reprising his role as ‘Freddie Mercury’ and performing vocals, piano and guitar all LIVE ON STAGE and in original key. Don’t miss the REAL ROCK EXPERIENCE, direct from Australia!
Hillhurst Flea & Antique Markets (May 18) The HSCA Flea Market has been a community program since 1985! It runs year-round and admission is FREE. Bring the family to browse, connect, or grab some lunch or breakfast at the concession (Queen Latina’s is serving up delicious food every Sunday). The Flea Market has over 100 vendors, featuring crafts, furniture, antiques, books, household items, and more!
Unique Soap Stone Carving at Burn Block Social Club (May 18) Our talented instructors will guide you through the process of turning a simple piece of soapstone into a beautiful work of art. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced carver, this event is perfect for anyone looking to learn a new skill or hone their existing talents. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly unique!
RED FETE - 14th Anniversary Party (May 18) Welcome to RED FETE - 14th Anniversary Party! Get ready to celebrate 14 years of energy and vibe with us at The Back Alley.
Banff Slush Cup (May 19) Held each year on the last day of the season, Slush Cup is a competition where participants ski or snowboard down a run into an icy pool of water. The aim is to skim across the pool until you've reached the end.
Trivia Night At The Unicorn on 4th (May 19) There are prizes to be won, and fun to be had!
Calgary Prairie Dog Brewing Monday Night Trivia! (May 19) Gather your friends and join us at Prairie Dog Brewing! With free games, great food and drink specials, and a lively atmosphere, it's the perfect way to start your week and have some fun. Don't miss out on the chance to win prizes, show off your knowledge, and have an amazing time at one of the best local breweries Calgary has to offer!
Monday Night Trivia At Canadian Brewhouse University (May 19) Enjoy our fast-paced and entertaining trivia show, featuring a visual round, two Name That Tune Rounds, and three fun general knowledge rounds. Players work as a team to answer the questions, which appear on the screens. Our charismatic live hosts keep things moving and will even do a mini-game for individual prizes!
Queer Arts & Crafts At Bells Cafe (May 19) Welcome to Queer Arts & Crafts! Where we help foster a fun evening of arts and crafts for folks of all ages and is the perfect way to meet new friends and build lasting connections within the Queer Calgary community! This event is perfect for newcomers looking to connect with the community over your favourite crafts! Bring your preferred hobby and socialize in a relaxed and inclusive setting.
SIX The Musical - Broadway Across Canada (May 20 - 25) The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic's Pick) and The Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!" The SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 million streams in its first month.
Legally Blonde: Theatre Calgary KICKS OFF (May 20 - June 15) A feel-good musical based on the novel and hit film. Legally Blonde is the story of Elle Woods, whose perfect life is turned upside down when her boyfriend dumps her to attend Harvard Law. Determined to win him back, Elle joins him at the prestigious school, defying stereotypes and proving herself in the process, with a little help from her Delta Nu Sorority friends and her dog Bruiser.
Vine & Dine (May 20) We're coming back to Avitus in May for two more French Flair evenings!
Taco & Trivia Tuesdays at The Winkin Owl Pub (May 20) Every Tuesday at 7pm, we host a Trivia, Tacos, and Tequila night that is sure to satisfy your cravings for both brain teasers and delicious food and drinks.
Tuesday Night Trivia at the Pig & Whistle (May 20) Join us in January and February for Trivia every Tuesday and GROW YOUR SCORE! In addition to weekly prizes, the top team in those 2 months will receive a $200 Night Out Gift Card! Trivia is Free to play with purchase - bring your team down for league trivia!
Gnocchi Masterclass at Lina's (May 20) Learn the secrets of making light and fluffy Ricotta Gnocchi in this interactive class. This event is perfect for individuals seeking to learn new skills, couples looking for a fun date night and groups looking for an alternative fun night!
Derek Seguin at Laugh Shop (May 21 - 24) Montreal-based Derek Seguin is one of the most sought-after stand-up comedians on the international circuit. He has performed at the prestigious invitation-only Just For Laughs festival an impressive 11 times as well as appearing numerous times at every other major festival in the country, making several television appearances along the way.
Patsy Cline Show – Starring Amberley Beatty (May 21) When Amberley Beatty steps on to the stage, the spirit, and the very soul of one of the greatest singers in the history of pop and country music comes to life. From the classic western style, to the stunning evening gown, complete with the bright red lipstick, she embodies the sultry sound of the legendary Patsy Cline.
STAR WARS - The Empire Strikes Back - 45th Anniversary Screening (May 21) Join us on May 21, 2025, as we celebrate the 45th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back with an unforgettable screening at The GRAND! Relive the epic adventure in our historic theatre and immerse yourself in the galaxy far, far away.
Live Music at Banquet Bar (May 21) Tyson Borsboom Presented by Blue Willow Entertainment.
Canadian Wine & Cheese (May 21) Embark on a journey through Canada’s wine country with this specially curated wine and cheese event, featuring Adrian Watters of Springbank Cheese Co. Delight in the distinct flavours of Canadian wines, expertly paired with artisanal cheeses to enhance each sip. Explore the terroir that sets Canada apart, while learning about the regions and history behind some of your favourite bottles, or perhaps even discovering new ones.
Pizza Class 101 at Lina's (May 21) Discover the art of pizza-making from scratch with Pizza Class 101, led by our talented team and featuring Scott, our master pizza baker. Known for his unmatched pizza expertise, Scott will guide you through every step, sharing all the details, tips, and tricks to ensure your at-home pizza experience is nothing short of extraordinary.