MONDAY
On Monday, head over to cSpace to check out the opening of the Fairytale Fantoms exhibition. Artist Sonia Garyayev’s acrylic paintings take inspiration from folklore and storybooks to rethink children’s illustration. Rather than thinking of children as purely innocent, Garyayev’s practice considers them as full individuals, capable of curiosity, resilience and transformation. The exhibition is free to check out.
TUESDAY
It’s been 10 years since the Market on Stephen Ave first got its start. Celebrate the milestone on Tuesday by checking out the market, where you’ll get to shop local producers and vendors. Whether you’re looking for unique art prints, one-of-a-kind jewelry or are just hungry for some unexpected snacks, you’ll find it at the Stephen Ave street market.
WEDNESDAY
There’s no shortage of things to do on Canada Day, but if you’re having trouble picking, you can’t go wrong with the celebrations on Prince’s Island Park. Watch live musical performances, enjoy drinks in the family-friendly beer garden, and eat at the food vendors. If the day ever gets too hectic, the park also has a low-sensory rest area for some peace and quiet.
THURSDAY
The mother of all pancake breakfasts, the 4th Street Pancake Showdown takes place this Thursday. This year marks the 14th anniversary of the showdown, where a dozen 4th street businesses go head-to-head to make the best pancakes for the chance to win the Golden Spatula trophy. Come hungry, because all of these delicious and unique pancakes are completely free.
FRIDAY
If the usual Stampede barbecue fare isn’t really your thing, why not check out Vegan Street’s “All Hat, No Cattle” Stampede patio party this Friday? Enjoy ice-cold drinks and veganized midway eats all while enjoying incredible live performances from the best of the best in Calgary’s drag and burlesque scene, hosted by the iconic Karla Marx. Tickets are $20, available on Showpass.
SATURDAY
On Saturday, take a break from the usual Stampede activities and head over to Century Downs racetrack for the return of Corgi Races. Starting at 4 p.m. after the Standardbred horse racing, watch those little-legged pups sprint to the finish line. It’s an adorable way to spend the afternoon, and there’s plenty of pet-friendly vendors and freebies on site to bring home to your own furry friends.
SUNDAY
After 5 Seconds of Summer take to the Cowboys stage on Sunday, head over to Hudson’s for even more boyband fun with Up All Night: A One Direction Dance Party. It’s free admission if you’ve got a 5SOS ticket, and only $9 without. Hear all your favourite 1D tunes like What Makes You Beautiful and Night Changes, and some of the solo hits from Harry, Liam, Niall, Louis and Zayn. Wear your merch, reunite with your Directioner friends and scream your heart out to those throwback anthems.
For more events, guides, and things to do around the city, head over to thescenecalgary.com and check out the July issue of the print magazine, on stands this week.
