Summer Startup: Victoria Day weekend fun in Calgary

The unofficial start of summer, the Victoria Day long weekend (May 21 to 23, 2016) features a raft of events and seasonal attraction openings. For those who’ve failed to book a campsite at an Alberta park, there’s plenty of fun to be had right here in the city, both in and out of the sun.

By Ian Doig

Heritage Park Historical Village

1

1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3

• Phone Number
  • 403-268-8500Primary
• Directions

The antique lanes, shops and attractions of this family-friendly pioneer village come to life on the May long weekend. Made for ongoing exploration, one visit to Heritage Park inevitably leads to another. Costumed interpreters play out interactive dramas throughout the day and vintage midway rides are a thrill. Also hop aboard the S.S. Moyie paddlewheeler for a cruise round scenic Glenmore Reservoir or circle the park in its steam train. Hours: 10 am to 5 pm.

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Calaway Park Ltd

2

245033 Range Road 33, Calgary, AB T3Z 2E9

• Phone Number
  • 403-240-3822Primary
• Directions

The thrill rides, midway games and kids’ stage performances reopen for the summer season with laughter and shrieks of delight. On Calaway Park’s opening weekend season kickoff, the whole family can climb aboard more that 30 amusement rides including The Vortex rollercoaster and the thrilling and splashy Timber Falls. And while the big kids enjoy the airborne insanity of The Adrenaline Test Zone the wee folk can indulge in gentler giggles on the The Berry Go Round, The Tot Yachts and the Theodore Tugboat play apparatus. Hours: 10 am to 7 pm.

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Fort Calgary

3

750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 5E1

• Phone Number
  • 403-290-1875Primary
• Directions

The site of Calgary’s first North West Mounted Police facility is open the entire long weekend. A stroll through this interpretive centre at the pretty confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers east of downtown takes visitors on an informative tour of the city's pioneer-era growth. Drop in on Sunday and to add the fort's weekly brunch to your historical adventure. Hours: 9 am to 5 pm.

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Calgary Zoological Society

4

1300 Zoo Rd Ne, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6

• Phone Number
  • 403-232-9300Primary
• Directions

As the spring weather warms and the animals become more active, May long weekend is a great time to take part in the Calgary Zoo’s Behind the Scenes program. Animal facility tours include a close-up look at Sabari the rhino Saturday and Monday, the zoo's much-loved penguins Sunday and Monday as well as its giraffes all weekend long. Ticket prices vary and include general zoo admission. Call or book online. Spaces are limited, so book early! Hours: 9 am to 5 pm.

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Stage West Theatre Restaurant

5

727 42 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1Y8

• Phone Number
  • 403-243-6642Primary
• Directions
• Menu

It's alive! With the sound of music, that is. Stage West presents the musical based on the cult Mel Brooks monster-movie spoof. Young Frankestein tickets are available for showings on Saturday at 6 pm as well as Sunday at 10:30 am and 5 pm.

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More from Ian Doig

Ian Doig’s week may include dim sum lunch with friends, rummaging through indie bookstore shelves as well as scribbling in his notepad at Calgary shops and farmers’ markets. It most often concludes with a relaxing Friday evening pint of locally brewed craft beer.

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