As the designated cultural capital of Canada for 2012, Calgary has a bounty of stimulating and innovative arts events to inspire and engage. While the air cools and the autumn leaves provide a backdrop of marigold and crimson, opportunities abound to explore the best of the city’s visual, performing, and literary arts. The core comes alive with gallery walks, spoken word experiences, and a wealth of cultural stimuli to satisfy a range of tastes.

Here are ten must-experience creative events taking place each fall (and sometimes winter or year-round) in Calgary:

1: First Thursdays

The brain child of local arts champion Meg Van Rosendaal, this monthly event began with the artists and vendors at Art Central, a quirky and eclectic arts mall complete with reasonably priced studio space, galleries offering wide ranging price points, and lively cafes and restaurants. First Thursday has spread throughout the downtown core, with musical performances, literary readings, and gallery tours.

2: ArtWalk

For 20 years, the ArtWalk has brought together artists and enthusiasts in a variety of gallery and studio settings.  From perusing the white wall galleries of 11^th Ave Sw, to art demos at the historic Lougheed House, this yearly event always satisfies. Recommended for anyone with an interest in learning more about the creative process, ArtWalk is also free and typically spans two days the third week in September.

3: ArtCity

For ten days in September, downtown Calgary is the hub for ArtCity, a yearly festival featuring a dizzying array of visual arts, architecture and design.  From a vibrant temporary installation in the vacant parking lot outside the old King Eddy Hotel, to a fresh take on the iconic Family of Man sculptures, ArtCity promises to engage even the most jaded arts aficionados.

4: Wordfest

This yearly celebration of prose and poetry has established itself as the must attend event for writers and readers of all stripes. Events range from punk rock inspired readings at the Auburn saloon, to informative and eclectic writing workshops at the Banff Centre.  Critically acclaimed and award winning writers converge on the city, providing an atmosphere of electric possibility.

5: Fluid Festival

Contemporary dance provides expression and interpretation of the modern world during this diverse festival of movement. Events take place throughout the city and include Fluent – a Fluid Conversation, which brings together dancers, artists, and the public for meaningful discussions about the art of expression.  The festival also features Spark, performances by passionate emerging artists at the Epcor Centre for Performing Arts.

6: Calgary International Film Festival

Filmmakers and movie buffs merge during this high-energy festival. From quirky animated shorts, to full length feature films by such notable directors as Ang Lee and Pedro Almodovar, CIFF has positioned itself as a must attend event for anyone with an interest in film. In addition to screenings, the festival brings together writers, producers and directors for stimulating panel discussions on the art of filmmaking.

7: PechaKucha

Originally launched in Japan by Astrid Klein and Mark Dytham of Klein Dytham architecture, PechaKucha follows a simple format: 20 by 20. Twenty images are shown on a slide show, with 20 seconds to discuss each slide. The images forward automatically, and speakers discuss a variety of themes, from Love to Inspire to Verge.  The venues change with each event and past locales have included a senior’s dining hall, a local theatre, and an historic community church.

8: Symphony Sundays for Kids

The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra offers an educational and fun Sunday event for kids of all ages. The orchestra performs magical pieces to enthral and engage the wee ones. The events also feature a musical petting zoo, a chance to get up close and personal with the artists and their instruments.

9: Quickdraw Giraf

Established in 2005, this yearly animated festival offers a quirky cornucopia of colourful films. Past filmmakers have included Wendy Tilby and Amanda Forbis.  Contributors are invited to push the boundaries and create innovative and challenging works.  Giraf takes place in early November and is hosted by the iconic Plaza theatre in Kensington.

10: Glenbow: In Residence

This yearly event provides an opportunity for artists from a variety of disciplines to create work inspired by the hearty collection of art from the Glenbow’s well stocked archives. The 2011 artist in residence is spoken word icon Shane Koyczan and past artists have included local indie musician Kris Demeanor. The audience is encouraged to participate in the creative process and further enhance the expression of the artist.

Roberta McDonald, My Destination Alberta
November 2011

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