Global Major Cities Guide

Information about Calgary's diverse cultural communities, events, and organizations that promote multiculturalism.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Calgary’s Cultural Communities

Calgary, Alberta, is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural tapestry shaped by its Indigenous heritage, immigrant communities, and a thriving arts and social scene. The city is home to numerous cultural communities that reflect its multicultural population, offering residents and visitors opportunities to engage with various traditions, cuisines, languages, and celebrations. Below is a detailed guide to Calgary’s cultural communities, their significance, and how to engage with them.

1. Indigenous Communities

Significance

Calgary is located on Treaty 7 territory, home to the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations), the Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nations (Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley). Indigenous culture is deeply rooted in the city’s history and continues to thrive through art, storytelling, and community events.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- Fort Calgary: Learn about the city’s history and the role of Indigenous peoples in its development.
- Glenbow Museum: Features exhibits on Indigenous art and history.
- Iniskim Centre at Mount Royal University: A hub for Indigenous education and cultural events.
Attend Events:
- Calgary Stampede’s Indian Village: Experience traditional dances, crafts, and storytelling.
- Honouring Traditions Powwow: A celebration of Indigenous culture with drumming, dancing, and food.
Practical Steps:
- Join workshops or cultural tours offered by Indigenous organizations like the Calgary Aboriginal Friendship Centre.
- Support Indigenous-owned businesses and artists.

Costs

Museum entry fees: $10–$20.
Powwow events: Free or donation-based.
Workshops: $20–$50 depending on the activity.

2. Ethnic and Linguistic Communities

Calgary’s immigrant population has created a mosaic of ethnic and linguistic communities, each contributing to the city’s cultural richness. Below are some of the most prominent groups and how to engage with them.

A. South Asian Community

Significance

The South Asian community is one of Calgary’s largest immigrant groups, with vibrant cultural traditions, festivals, and cuisine.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- Dashmesh Culture Centre: A Sikh gurdwara open to visitors interested in learning about Sikhism.
- Little India: A shopping district with South Asian groceries, clothing, and restaurants.
Attend Events:
- Diwali Festival: Celebrated in October/November with lights, music, and food.
- Holi Festival: A spring festival of colors held in local parks.
Practical Steps:
- Volunteer with organizations like the India Canada Association of Calgary.
- Take part in yoga or Bollywood dance classes offered by local studios.

Costs

Event participation: Free to $30.
Dining: $10–$25 per meal at South Asian restaurants.

B. Chinese Community

Significance

Calgary’s Chinese community has a long history, dating back to the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Chinatown is a cultural hub for this community.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- Calgary Chinatown: Explore Chinese restaurants, bakeries, and shops.
- Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre: Offers exhibits, language classes, and cultural events.
Attend Events:
- Chinese New Year Festival: Features lion dances, traditional music, and food.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated with mooncakes and lantern displays.
Practical Steps:
- Join Mandarin or Cantonese language classes at the cultural centre.
- Participate in tai chi sessions in local parks.

Costs

Cultural centre events: Free to $20.
Dining: $10–$30 per meal.

C. Filipino Community

Significance

The Filipino community is one of Calgary’s fastest-growing immigrant groups, known for its hospitality, vibrant festivals, and strong community networks.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- St. Mary’s Cathedral: A hub for Filipino Catholics.
- Filipino markets and restaurants in the northeast quadrant of Calgary.
Attend Events:
- Philippine Festival: Held in June, featuring traditional dances, music, and food.
- Simbang Gabi: A Christmas tradition with evening masses and celebrations.
Practical Steps:
- Volunteer with the Filipino Canadian Society of Calgary.
- Take part in Filipino cooking classes or karaoke nights.

Costs

Festival entry: Free.
Dining: $10–$20 per meal.

D. African and Caribbean Communities

Significance

Calgary’s African and Caribbean communities bring a rich cultural heritage, expressed through music, dance, and cuisine.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- EthniCity Catering: Offers African and Caribbean cuisine.
- African markets in Forest Lawn and Marlborough.
Attend Events:
- Carifest: A Caribbean festival with a parade, music, and food.
- Afrikadey! Festival: Celebrates African culture through art, music, and workshops.
Practical Steps:
- Join dance classes for Afrobeat or reggae.
- Volunteer with organizations like the Calgary African Community Collective.

Costs

Festival tickets: $10–$50.
Dance classes: $15–$30 per session.

3. LGBTQ+ Community

Significance

Calgary’s LGBTQ+ community is active and inclusive, with numerous events and safe spaces for individuals to connect and celebrate diversity.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- Twisted Element: Calgary’s premier LGBTQ+ nightclub.
- Fairy Tales Presentation Society: Hosts LGBTQ+ film screenings and events.
Attend Events:
- Calgary Pride Festival: A week-long celebration in September with a parade, concerts, and workshops.
- Queer Arts Festival: Showcases LGBTQ+ artists and performers.
Practical Steps:
- Join support groups or social events through the Calgary Queer Arts Society.
- Volunteer for Pride or other LGBTQ+ initiatives.

Costs

Pride events: Free to $50.
Nightlife: $10–$20 cover charges.

4. Arts and Cultural Communities

Calgary’s arts scene is a melting pot of creativity, with communities dedicated to visual arts, music, theater, and literature.

How to Engage

Visit Local Sites:
- Arts Commons: A hub for theater, music, and art exhibitions.
- Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre: Celebrates Canada’s music history.
Attend Events:
- Calgary Folk Music Festival: Features local and international artists.
- Wordfest: A literary festival with author readings and workshops.
Practical Steps:
- Take art or music classes at local studios.
- Join book clubs or writing groups through the Calgary Public Library.

Costs

Event tickets: $20–$100.
Classes: $50–$200 depending on duration.

Practical Tips for Engaging with Calgary’s Cultural Communities

Research Online: Use platforms like Meetup, Eventbrite, or Facebook to find cultural events and groups.
Volunteer: Many cultural organizations welcome volunteers, offering a chance to connect with the community while giving back.
Learn the Language: Taking language classes can help you engage more deeply with specific communities.
Respect Traditions: Familiarize yourself with cultural norms and etiquette to ensure respectful interactions.
Budget Wisely: Many events are free or low-cost, but some workshops or festivals may require tickets or donations.

Calgary’s cultural communities offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and connection. Whether you’re interested in food, music, art, or history, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.