Wordfest presents Bionic Women Online Writing Workshop with Casey Plett
2023-09-16 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Edmonton) | Online, 12 Constance Street, London, E16 2DQ
Wordfest presents Bionic Women
Online Writing Workshop with Casey Plett
Opening The Door Versus Keeping It Shut
A 90-minute online workshop, led by award-winning author Casey Plett
“Write with the door closed, re-write with the door open” is a famous quote from Stephen King’s On Writing who in turn got the lesson from an editor. King said you should begin your story with the intent of it being just for you, and then open it up for others to criticize. Was he right? When do you open the door? When do you keep it shut? For how long? How do you balance the humility of seeking criticism if it conflicts with what’s exciting you? We will discuss the freedom of privacy and the nourishment of community, and how these twin phenomena can balance, oppose, and synchronize.
The 90-minute online workshop, led by award-winning author Casey Plett, begins at 10 AM MT on ZOOM and you will be emailed everything you need to access after you sign up.
This rare opportunity to work with Plett is part of Wordfest’s Bionic Women Writers Experience, which encourages authors who identify anywhere on the gender spectrum to embrace feminist attributes to become better at their craft.
Thanks to the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, we are able to offer this experience to anyone in any geographic location who would like to participate. Closed-captioning is included and a recording of the session will also be made available to registrants. Please contact boxoffice@wordfest.com if you are experiencing obstacles to participation.
About Casey Plett
Casey Plett is the author of A Dream of a Woman, Little Fish, and A Safe Girl to Love; the co-editor of Meanwhile, Elsewhere: Science Fiction and Fantasy From Transgender Writers; and the Publisher at LittlePuss Press. She has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, The Globe and Mail, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, the Winnipeg Free Press, and other publications. A winner of the Amazon First Novel Award, the Firecracker Award for Fiction, and two-time winner of the Lambda Literary Award, her work has also been longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize. Plett is a former bookseller and book publicist and currently teaches creative writing. While she has lived many places throughout the United States and Canada, she will forever call the prairies home, specifically Winnipeg and Southern Manitoba, Treaty 1 Territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation. Find her on Instagram @plettsky.
About A Safe Girl to Love
A new edition of two-time Lambda Literary Award–winner Casey Plett’s acclaimed debut short story collection.
By the author of Little Fish and A Dream of a Woman, eleven unique short stories feature young trans women stumbling through loss, sex, harassment, and love, in settings ranging from a rural Mennonite town to a hipster gay bar in Brooklyn. These stories, shiny with whisky and prairie sunsets, rattling subways and neglected cats, show that growing up as a trans girl can be charming, funny, frustrating, or sad, but never predictable.
A Safe Girl to Love, winner of the Lambda Literary Award for transgender fiction, was first published in 2014. Now back in print after a long absence, this new edition includes an afterword by the author that reflects on trans writing and representation in our current political climate.
About Wordfest:
Wordfest is an entrepreneurial non-profit founded in 1996, located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies in Mohkinstsis, Calgary, Alberta, Treaty 7 territory. Celebrating its 28th year, Wordfest connects audiences with life-changing experiences and ideas at the Imaginairium Festival each fall, at in-person events throughout the year, and virtually via Imagine On Air. The Wordfest Youth program supports teen literacy, by giving students in Grades 7-12 unique interactive experiences with the world’s leading authors.

Canmore Pride Run & Brunch
2023-09-24 10:00 - 12:30 | 906 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, 4C 906 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB, T1W 1N6, Canada
Don’t fret – it’s not really all ‘Up Hill’
SkiUphill – RunUphill, a diverse and inclusive organization owned by a local same sex couple, will be hosting an epic morning of fun, fitness, and pride followed by brunch at Chez Francois Restaurant. Follow the group on a pre-planned running route starting at 10am followed by Brunch at Chez Francois at 11:30am. This was a successful event RUN last year (pun intended) with approximately 40 running participants and 60-70 attending brunch afterwards.
Lace up your running shoes and get ready to conquer the trails of Canmore with a scenic run alongside like-minded folks. Afterward, treat yourself with a delicious brunch at at Chez Francois Restaurant that will leave you satisfied because you deserve it! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to meet up with old and new friends, this in-person event is perfect for everyone. So grab your friends, family, or even your furry companions and let’s make memories together. Don’t miss out on this exciting adventure! Register now and get ready to run, eat, and have a blast!
Meet SkiUphill – RunUphill and the proud crew at the Pride Crosswalk near Rotary Friendship Park/Town Hall at 10:00am join in. Following the run, brunch will be served at Chez Francois (1716 Bow Valley Trail) at 11:30am.
If you can’t make the run, all are welcome to join for brunch!

Culturefest 2023
2023-10-01 12:00 - 18:00 | Genesis Centre Feature Gymnasium & Event Centre, 7555 Falconridge Boulevard NE, Calgary, Calgary, T3J 0C9
This event anticipates attracting a lot of participants and businesses, Organizations (profit and non-profit) out of 150,000 South Asians along with various Canadian Communities.
Your Business / Non-Profit will get good exposure at this Free Entry Event. We hope you will join us for an evening of great food and good fun. There will be a lot of give away prizes worth thousands of dollars.

Liminal Landing: A Gathering for 2STQBIPOC+
2023-10-29 14:00 - 17:00, 2023-11-26 14:00 - 17:00, 2023-12-31 14:00 - 17:00 | CommunityWise Resource Centre, 223 12th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB, T2R 0G9, Canada
What Is Liminal Landing?
First, Liminal Landing and The Place are located on Treaty 7 territory, home of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Tsuut’ina, Îyârhe Nakoda, and Métis Nation. What does that mean? It means we work towards the centre and honour the experience and knowledge of those who are Land Protectors and identify ways to uphold their position in so-called Canada.
When the opportunity at CommunityWise Resource Centre came up to activate the space for the 2STQBIPOC community, the notion of developing a series of gatherings came up. Liminal Landing is an opportunity for those who identify as part of the community to retreat together and build stronger relations that are focused on issues that centre our experience.
My [Tyson] queer identity can often feel uncertain, ambiguous a relentless place of transition(s). It has felt like a liminal space – unknown. Gratefully I’ve landed on optimism, hope and a sense of liberation in the community. Liminal Landing is a space on your journey, no matter where you’re whether it’s the in-between, at your destination or just beginning, the ‘landing’ is a moment to stop, reflect and build community.
With our time together, you can drop in be part of the conversation, create, play and learn.
What is ‘The Place’?
The Place is an accessible, free, and collaboratively shared space within CommunityWise. It is QTBIPOC-led. Liminal Landing is one of many opportunities to connect the community at the place. To activate your own idea or learn more here.
Facilitators
Priscilla Cherry (Elle/She/Her)
Trinidadian-Canadian, Priscilla Cherry, is a free-spirited storyteller as well as a peer support specialist with a passion for people and creative collaborations with equally uplifting energies. Recognizing a representation gap in media and the mental health sector, Priscilla applies her lived experience navigating mental health concerns and combines it with her love for play, creativity and emotional and spiritual healing. Priscilla is a programmer with CJSW 90.9 FM and CKUA 93.7 FM, the in-game host for Calgary Surge Basketball, and a lead organizer and board member at large with TEDxYYC. Most recently, Priscilla launched her childhood dream of having a live interactive talk show and in April 2023, The Oratory was born. Priscilla firmly believes in the art of hosting; the power of sharing our lived experiences and personal narratives; and that everyone has something to share that someone else could learn from, relate to or at the very least be curious about.
Tyson Bankert (He/Him)
Tyson is a community developer; his personal slogan is to edify others, befriend the lonely and promote justice! Tyson is grateful to have his vocation match his values and able to bring people together through the art of facilitation. Tyson has had the delight of being part of several community initiatives on Treaty 7. A self-proclaimed troublemaker, his intention is to build communities to share power and make change. embedding the tenants of communities of care with a bit of play as resistance. Tyson co-leads the network Community Development Learning Initiative and Founder of Recess Calgary.
Come Gather!
Note: This is a co-created space and below are general ideas for the upcoming gatherings. Everyone is welcome this includes chosen allies.
October 15th (2pm – 5pm) Topic: Belonging
Let’s create the space together! Why ‘The Place’, how has a sense of belonging impacted us and what’s possible!
October 29th (2pm – 5pm) Topic: Relationships
Details coming
November 26th (2pm – 5pm) Topic: Pleasure
Pleasure can be sex, play, creativity, or relaxation in all of its forms it can be difficult to identify, achieve and familiarise ourselves with the act of what brings us pleasure.
December 31st – (2pm – 5pm) Topic: Queer Futurism
Let’s ring in the New Year (georgiran calendar) and explore queer futurism and the excitement and solidarity required for the future.
Is Queerness the future? I think it’s worth exploring the possibilities! Whether it’s the current understanding of bodies, gender, ways of creating family, or technology! Let’s be curious! What Is Liminal Landing?

Spring Backyard Canada Market Fest
2024-03-15 17:00 - 2024-03-16 17:00 | Backyard Canada, 711 48 Ave SE, Unit 1, Calgary, AB, T2G 4X2
Join us for a Kick off to Spring at Backyard Canada’s location for a Backyard market festival!!
Fri, Mar 15th 5-9pm & Sat, Mar 16th 10-5pm. Can’t wait to see you there!

Highfield Food & Beverage Market Fest
2024-05-18 11:00 - 2024-05-19 16:00 | City & Country Winery, 540 38A Ave SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 1X4, Canada
Join us for our BIGGER & BETTER 2nd Annual Highfield Food & Beverage Market Fest!
Where you will find a variety of market vendors and local businesses that will offer you unique items to enjoy! Free admittance!
Sat, May 18th & Sun, May 19th – 11am-4pm. City & Country Winery – 540 38A Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1X4
To apply as a Vendor contact info@dmeinc.ca

Mary's Festival
2024-06-01 11:00 - 16:00 | St. Mary’s University, 14500 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB, T2X 1Z4, Canada
Mary’s Festival celebrates and advances the People First pillar of our university through meaningful community engagement that will increase the awareness and regard of the University as a destination within Catholic communities and our Indigenous partners.
Hosted on our campus grounds, we will showcase our people (faculty, staff and students) through interactive activities, carnival games, mermaid dunk tank, face painting, food truck, beer garden, and live entertainment designed to encourage participants and their families to move through the festival site and enjoy their day with us.

Market Collective Sweet 16 Spring Market at Contemporary Calgary
2024-06-14 17:00 - 2024-06-16 21:00 | Contemporary Calgary, 701 11th St SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 2C4, Canada
Market Collective, Calgary’s beloved platform for local artists and creatives, is celebrating sixteen years with a debut at its new partner venue, Contemporary Calgary. Featuring over 90 artisans, including 30 percent new and budding artists, the event will span two weekends, June 7-9 and June 14-16, with the second week aligning with Neighbour Day.
What: Market Collective Sweet Sixteen
When: June 14 to 16. Fridays 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: Contemporary Calgary at 711 11 Street SW
Admission: $7 per weekend, with free entry for kids 12 and under
Parking: On-site visitor parking is available at Calgary Parking Authority Lot 61 (Zone 9061). Bike racks are located at the front entrance of the building. The building is located next to The West Kerby Station (C-Train).
Founded in 2008 by Angel Guerra and Angela Dione, Market Collective was created as a space for local artists to exhibit and sell their work. In 2022, the market was passed to Stephanie Hanna and Everett Tetz, who have remained dedicated to nurturing local talent while promoting the arts, culture and commerce in Calgary.
Attendees can look forward to discovering new artists debuting their work, The Cosmodemonic Telegraph Company, Objects and Feelings, Touching String, raad collective, Wren Wild Candle Co. Caribbean Taste, Sanguine Studio. Returning fan favorites include Fingernails Are Pretty, Rachael Meckling, Hamburger Hands, Sewa Skincare, Meghan MacWhirter, North Grove Creative, She’s So, Reem’s Kitchen.
With Contemporary Calgary as the venue, Calgarians can embrace the onset of summer with the garage door open. Attendees can enjoy engaging activations at the nearby MC Mini Ramp, hosted by Academy Skateboard Collective and Friends, along with complimentary mini Subconscious Imprinting Technique (S.I.T.) sessions by SomaSkye Wellness, and the CRATE Art Therapy Pep-Talk Generator, an interactive activity promoting positive self-talk.
This family-friendly event will feature an audio-visual installation experience by Bramble Lee Pryde. Guests can unwind at the Annex Ales Bar and Tiny Truck, offering a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Additionally, an outdoor lounge, Food Trucks, DJs, performers, games, and more will ensure an unforgettable experience, making it a must-attend for those interested in Calgary’s vibrant cultural scene.

The Prom
2024-06-14 19:30 - 2024-06-29 23:00 | The Pumphouse Theatre, 2140 Pumphouse Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3C 3P5, Canada
Untold Stories Theatre invites you to The Prom, June 14 – 29 at the Pumphouse Theatre!
The Prom follows the story of a young girl, Emma, who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom, but when a hateful PTA parent turns the town against her and cancels the prom, a group of out of luck Broadway stars decides to step in and (attempt to) save the day. ‌
Winner of the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical, The Prom expertly captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever. You won’t want to miss our talented cast bringing this story to life!
Wednesday to Saturday 7:30 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25 + a processing fee
THE PROM CONTAINS CONTENT THAT MAY NOT BE APPROPRIATE FOR YOUNGER AUDIENCES. PARENTAL DISCRETION IS ADVISED.
We hope to see you there!

Village Pride Party
2024-06-21 17:00 - 23:00 | Village Brewery, 5000 12a St SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 5K9, Canada
Join us on June 21st, 2024, for the Village Pride Party hosted by Village Brewery in collaboration with Calgary Pride !
Embrace the celebration rooted in community support, savor delicious Village brews (alcoholic or non) and groove to music and live performances. We’ll be launching our 2024 Pride x Village Brewery collab brew and custom can. Be the first to give it a try.
Mark your calendars and get ready to raise a glass to pride.

Fairy Tales Queer Art & Film Festival
2024-06-27 17:00 - 2024-06-30 20:00 | The Grand, 608 1St SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 1M7, Canada
The longest-running Queer art and film festival in the Canadian prairies is back for its 26th year at the storied GRAND YYC!
Presented by The Calgary Queer Arts Society, Fairy Tales 2024 will showcase 33 short films, 15 artists, 10 makers, 7 feature films and 2 DJs – spanning all genres, media and runtimes. Come together and celebrate 2SLGBTQIA+ lived experiences and narratives YOUR WAY!
For the first time, discover a makers’ market and arts exhibition, hosted in the lobby of Calgary’s storied GRAND Theatre. Featuring over a dozen of Calgary and area’s finest creative talents, explore works of art from all disciplines and mediums. Who knows, you might stumble across your next obsession!
A huge thank you to our sponsors, partners and friends:
Brookfield Properties, CKUA, Eighty-Eight Brewing Co, the GRAND, Pembina, Calgary Arts Development, Canada Council for the Arts, Heritage Canada, the Government of Alberta, FOREIGNERZ and BSTS.

Paris is Burning: Film Screening
2024-06-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall, Central Library 800 3 Street SE, 800 3 Street SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 0E7, Canada
Friends! We are thrilled to announce our first Movie With a View of 2024! As a celebration of Pride Month, a nod to Queer culture, and a little teaser of what’s coming this summer at BUMP, we are screening Paris is Burning (1990) at Central Public Library on June 27th.
One night and one night only! We’re teaming up with the fine folks at Calgary Cinematheque, Calgary Public Library, and Calgary Pride to bring you this incredible film.
This event is FREE!
Thanks to Calgary Public Library, there will be free popcorn (while supplies last!).
Film: Paris is Burning (1990)
Date: Thursday, June 27
Location: Central Public Library
Address: 800 3 St. SE
Time: 6 PM – 8 PM

Queer Prom at The Confluence
2024-06-28 19:00 - 2024-06-29 01:00 | The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 5E1, Canada
Did you miss out on a much-deserved, authentic queer prom experience? Or maybe you’re looking for the perfect event to celebrate pride and community in a 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly environment this June? Join us for the first ever QUEER PROM at The Confluence on Friday, June 28!
Queer Prom at The Confluence is a celebration of resilience, diversity, and community. Come and be a part of something special as we dance, laugh, and celebrate together. Let’s make memories that will last a lifetime!
There’ll be glitter, glam, music, and food as we recreate all the magic of a perfect Prom night for 16+ members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies.
Ticket Prices
This event has a pay-what-you-can ticketing structure. By offering pay what you can pricing and subsidized tickets, we aim to make Queer Prom at The Confluence accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from VIP ticket sales will go towards funding the Free Ticket Program, ensuring that as many people as possible can participate in this celebration of diversity and inclusion.
VIP Ticket – $100
You get:

Priority entrance
Exclusive access to the VIP reception area
Complimentary food and drinks at the VIP reception
Swag bag with event memorabilia

General Access (Pay what you can) – $10, $25 or $50
You get:

Access to the main event area
Red carpet arrival
Dance floor and DJ
Photo opportunities
Late-night snacks

Free Ticket Program
A limited number of free tickets will be available for individuals facing financial hardship. These tickets prioritize those in need.  If you would like to inquire about a free ticket, please email programs@theconfluence.ca with the subject line ‘Queer Prom Free Ticket Program’.

AfroCare Support Network Launch Event
2024-07-26 16:00 - 18:00 | 915 33 St NE, 915 33 St NE, Calgary, Alberta, T2A 6T2, Canada
The AfroCare Support Network is excited to announce its official launch on July 26, 2024, at Action Dignity in NE Calgary from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This special event, themed “Summer of Strength: Empowering HIV Resilience,” marks the beginning of a new initiative dedicated to supporting the Afro-Canadian community through various programs and resources aimed at promoting well-being and social integration. Guests are encouraged to RSVP for the soft launch, where they will have the opportunity to enjoy an evening filled with fun, food, and cultural performances while learning more about AfroCare’s mission. Meet the team behind the network and explore the range of services offered as we celebrate this important milestone and embark on a journey to empower and uplift the Afro-Canadian community.

Calgary Dragon Boat Festival
2024-08-09 10:00 - 2024-08-11 17:00 | N Glenmore Park Rd, Calgary, AB T3E, Canada, N Glenmore Park Rd, Calgary, AB T3E, Canada, Calgary, AB, T2G 2W1, Canada
The Calgary Dragon Boat Race & Festival is an exciting mix of dragon boat racing cultural celebrations featuring a main stage of entertainment beer garden, retail merchants, and food trucks. The Race & Festival strives to create an unforgettable experience while promoting teamwork and inspiration while respecting the land & water we play on.
The Race & Festival is one of Calgary’s premiere sporting events and family-friendly festivals. Taking place at North Glenmore Park the event will draw over 1250 competitors and 3000 spectators.
To support small local businesses which have been hit hard in the last couple of years the Calgary Dragon Boat Society has organized 50 vendors and 15 food trucks to participate in the festival.
For more information:
Charlene Delisle at marketplace@calgarydragonboatsociety.com

Apollo Outdoor Pursuits Pride Hike And Mountain Potluck Picnic
2024-09-02 08:00 - 15:30 | Kananaskis Country
This is a relatively “EASY” short uphill hike to a mountain meadow where we will have a good ole fashioned PRIDE POTLUCK PICNIC lunch in one of the most scenic locations in Kananaskis country! Please bring one item in your backpack to share with the group, it can be anything (ex fruit, chocolate, meat and cheese, candy, jerky, snacks, homemade baking, veggies, beverages, salad, etc). Make sure that everything you bring for the picnic (plate, napkin, blanket or towel or jacket or similar to sit on, food, drink, etc) can fit into your backpack (do not plan on carrying additional handbags, etc). Although it’s a short hike it’s still a good 45-60 min walk in and it is uphill.

Anytime of year just driving to the trailhead is marvellously scenic. Because it begins so high this trail rockets you into the alpine much faster than most. After a very brief ascent through the forest, the trail enters a cirque and contours meadow slopes below the soaring peaks. The meadow is a wildflower haven that contrasts sharply with the surrounding austere scree and talus. If we are lucky we may see marmots, pikas, and the elusive white-tailed ptarmigan, after which this trail is named.

RSVP REQUIRED! EMAIL ApolloOutdoorPursuits@gmail.com

Wear and show your pride colours!!

Decompress & Destress Mindful Meditation with Jennifer
2024-09-02 12:00 - 16:00 | Prince’s Island Park, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Kick off your day on September 2nd with a soothing and energizing experience before the rest of the post-Pride activities unfold! Join Jennifer at 12:30 PM in Prince’s Island Park for a one-hour Decompress & Destress Mindful Meditation session. In this peaceful setting, Jennifer will guide you through a sequence of mindful practices, including cleansing breathwork, positive visualization, and gentle seated yoga movements.
This session is designed to help you slow down, release tension, and embrace the present moment, giving you the tools to transform your day with greater focus, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this session offers a gentle introduction to mindfulness practices that can help you navigate the fast-paced demands of life.
Schedule:

12:30 PM: Meet by the public washrooms in Prince’s Island Park.
12:30-1:30 PM: Jennifer will lead participants to a quiet grassy spot in the park for the Decompress & Destress Mindfulness Meditation session.
1:30-2:00 PM: Jennifer will walk participants back to the public washrooms. Break time.
2:00-4:00 PM: Ken Ouendag will guide participants through a Forest Therapy session.

After the meditation, you’ll have time to unwind further before heading into the Forest Therapy walk. Just bring a yoga mat, a willingness to relax, and let’s breathe together as we appreciate the beauty in ourselves and the world around us.

Unwind in Nature: A Forest Therapy Walk with Ken Ouendag
2024-09-02 14:00 - 16:00 | River Cafe, 25 Prince's Island Park, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 0R1, Canada
After the vibrant celebrations of Calgary Pride, join us for a peaceful escape into nature on September 2nd. Led by certified Forest Therapy Guide Ken Ouendag, this event offers a soothing way to decompress, reconnect with the natural world, and share a tranquil experience with your community.
Forest therapy, inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku or “Forest Bathing,” invites you to slow down and tune into your senses. During this guided walk, Ken will lead you through a series of gentle invitations designed to help you relax, refresh your mind, and deepen your connection with the surrounding environment.
This isn’t just about the benefits nature provides—such as reduced stress, improved mood, and a greater sense of belonging—it’s also a chance to share stories, enjoy a cup of forest tea, and simply have fun in a supportive community setting.
Spaces are limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. We’ll gather at 2:00 PM near the public washrooms (under the River Café) and wrap up by 4:00 PM. Please remember to complete a waiver as part of the registration process.
To register, contact Ken Ouendag @nature.connected.

Becoming an Ally: Being an Engaged Bystander
2024-09-04 15:00 - 16:30 | AB
Through interactive activities and discussions, this workshop explores the roots of harassment experienced by those with intersectional identities, particularly the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and provides strategies to address discrimination, prevent harassment, and highlight the role of bystanders. This is achieved through an overview of power and privilege, interactive opportunities to reflect on attitudes and beliefs around gender and sexual diversity, and practical tools for being an engaged bystander. Participants will leave this training prepared to address harassment and discrimination in a way that empowers the person experiencing harm, while calling people who perpetual harm into productive discussions.
In partnership with The Centre for Sexuality.

PRIDE at Shelf Life Books
2024-09-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Shelf Life Books, 1302 – 4th Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Celebrate Pride 2024 at Shelf Life Books with a fun-filled extravaganza of local talent including drag performances by Dogiichow & Osmo Cis, literary readings by Skylar Kay and Bret Crowle, hosted by Kevin Allen.
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS
Osmo Cis is an androgynous, time travelling drag king who landed in the scene in 2022. He is as offbeat as he is handsome, using humor in his performances to entertain audiences while making them wonder, “what does cis mean again?” You can find Osmo at his new drag-improv show ‘Whose Drag is it Anyway?’ on October 18 at Congress Coffee, every other month at the Ship and Anchor, or co-hosting the ‘HoliGAY Weekends’ show every long weekend Saturday at The Attic. He’s even on Instagram! @cosmonautbinary
Dogiichow is the Campy and equally Trampy sensation, they have been gracing stages and entertaining audiences across Alberta and beyond. Best known for their custom if slightly questionable fashion sense. When they are not being a drag jester for crowds of barking fans they can be found accepting challenges of hot dog eating contests, watching cheesy cult classic b-movies and judging arm wrestling contests. Their drag is a celebration of their two spirit indigiqueer identity and a love of entertaining. Where will their journey take them next? Space! Probably not but you’ll just have to stay tuned.
Skylar Kay is an emerging writer from Calgary, AB. She has an interest in Japanese literature, specifically haiku, and has been pursuing this interest in her poetry since 2016. In addition to being a haiku enthusiast in creative writing, Skylar also participates in the academic side of Japanese literature, seeing publication in both academic and literary journals.
Bret Crowle is a multi-genre creator who has spent the last year singing, dancing, playing pretend, and editing her forthcoming debut poetry collection for Frontenac House. The collection, Jesus is a Voyeur, will be making its way to you this October. When not creating, she can be found looking for faces in the clouds, listening to the same albums over and over again, and participating in the deeply healing art of noisemaking.
Kevin Allen is a fourth-generation Calgarian who has been documenting and profiling queer people and events for 30+ years. Kevin started the Calgary Gay History Project in 2012 to uncover and preserve stories from Calgary’s 2SLGBTQ+ past (www.calgarygayhistory.ca). The Project has achieved national recognition and led to the award-winning documentary film: Gross Indecency: The Everett Klippert Story; and the best-selling book Our Past Matters: Stories of Gay Calgary. Additionally, Kevin works as a senior election administrator for both Elections Canada and Elections Alberta.

Wool & Warmth
2024-10-16 18:30 - 20:30 | The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 5E1, Canada
Calling all knitters, crocheters and crafters, Wool & Warmth is back! Bring your current crafting project and cozy up with us at The Confluence for an evening of handicrafts and conversation as the weather cools down and autumn settles in. Connect with your community over a glass of wine and some laughs and take a stroll around the cultural centre with included after-hours admission!
Tickets include complimentary light refreshments and cultural centre admisison. Additional beverages, snacks and alcohol available for purchase.

Co-Working with Disruptors+ Chaos with Kaela
2024-10-22 14:00 - 15:00 | Online, 12 Constance Street, London, E16 2DQ
Join us for your body doubling needs and get those projects done that you have started. We encourage conversation during this session and want this to be easy, breezy and a go with the flow vibe.

The COMING OUT MONOLOGUES
2024-10-25 18:30 - 22:00 | The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 5E1, Canada
The Coming Out Monologues will showcase 18 storytellers and three musical guests over three performances. Each night audience members will be taken on a journey of discovery and revelation shared by seven storytellers, followed by one musical headliner who will close out our evening.
October 25:
Emcee: Kylee Roman
Storytellers: Riley, Rufi, Alex, Ruby, Odeh, Avery
Musical Feature: Robert Adam
October 26:
Emcee: Adora Nwofor
Storytellers: Kait, Dustin, Daphne, Jaime, Beck
Musical Feature: Zenon
﻿October 27:
Emcee: Marshall Vielle
Storytellers: Ivan, Maggi, Andrea, Morgan, Charlotte, Nakota
Musical Feature: KP Smith
Hear powerful personal stories, (re-)connect with community, enjoy a night of incredible talent – the Coming Out Monologues promises something for everyone. Whether you’ve been part of the journey for years or are just beginning to explore your own story, the Coming Out Monologues invites you to experience the power of Queer voices in a space filled with kindness, laughter, music, and connection. Bring friends and family, and join us in a celebration of stories that will move, inspire, and stay with you long after the night is over.
If you’d like to attend the Coming Out Monologues and take advantage of our barrier-free and accessible tickets, please email us at administration@calgaryqueerartssociety.com.

Youth Singers of Calgary - Santa’s Holiday Sleigh list
2024-12-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1M4, Canada
Ready for the Ultimate Holiday Treat?
Hey Calgary, need the perfect way to dive into the holidays? Look no more! Come to “Santa’s Holiday Sleigh List”, the talk of the town! It’s a must-see at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium on December 8th!
Our Youth Singers of Calgary will wow you, no doubt about it. With world-class instructors at the helm, the show’s gonna be a smash hit! Want a night of safe, empowering, top-tier performances? You got it! So what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets on Ticketmaster today!

We Sing! Yule Sing!
2024-12-15 14:30 - 16:00 | Scarboro United Church, 134 Scarboro Avenue SW, Calgary, AB, T3C 2H1, Canada
Join Calgary Men’s Chorus for We Sing! Yule Sing!
A festive celebration filled with holiday cheer, this lively winter concert features a mix of sing-along favourites and fresh, fun takes on some classics. From timeless carols to playful new arrangements, it’s the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season with friends and family! Wall of Wine Raffle and Refreshments after the show!
Tickets are only $5 plus a pay-what-you-can donation (suggested donation of $10/ticket).

Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History: How the Whisky Trade Came and Went at Mohkinstsis
2025-01-23 18:30 - 20:30 | The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 5E1, Canada
Debunk and debate local histories at Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History! Every month, a historian or specialized expert will share their research and offer new perspectives on the history we think we know.
Every Hot Dogs & Hot Takes event kicks off with a short presentation on a historical topic by the guest speaker, followed by an interview facilitated by The Confluence President Jennifer Thompson, and an open discussion where you can offer your knowledge and questions about the evening’s topic.
What’s a hot take without a hot snack to go with it? Fuel the evening with hot dogs and a gourmet hot dog topping bar. Hot dogs are $8 each—sea salt chips included!
