Colors of Calgary - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Calgary has always been associated with Indians and cowboys. Indeed, the atmosphere of the city reminds of well-known films about the Wild West. This peculiarity has made the second name of the city - Texas in Canada – very widespread and popular. Calgary is the home city of the annual world-famous festival and rodeo called Calgary Stampede. During this event the city is literally transformed. The festival was held in 1912 for the first time, and since then it has become a good tradition to organize cowboy competitions. The festival has become an integral part of the cultural life of the city.

During the holiday the citizens traditionally wear cowboy outfits. Seeing a local in normal clothes without stylish accessories is almost impossible. Beautiful hats with wide brims, leather jackets and pants with fringe, bright plaid shirts and indigo jeans – these are the main attributes of festive attire. It should be noted that the fair sex also actively participates in all the festivities. Both male and female outfits are sold in many shops and stalls.

According to an old tradition the festival is opened by a beautiful parade. The best riders of the city participate in the parade. Many people come to see this solemn march. The key part of the event is the so-called "shepherd competition" – racing on domestic horses and bulls. However, there are more original competitions too. Brave cowboys are offered to show their talent of throwing a lasso, compete in milking wild cows and other exciting events. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Grandstand Show is the culmination of the event. This is the racing of carts. In addition to visiting various events guests of the festival are offered to visit an Indian village. This is the place where local artisans will offer visitors to buy original charms and amulets. Dreamcatchers are particularly popular with visitors. During the festival beautiful cafes, stylized as traditional saloons, start working in the main streets of the city. Here vacationers can try authentic cowboy food and drinks, and listen to country music. The beautiful holiday has brought worldwide fame to Calgary. The largest number of travelers visits the city during the days of the festival.

Lilac Festival is a no less popular event that tourists enjoy visiting. It is a true feast of life and new summer. The festival is impossible to imagine without outdoor celebrations. No one can remain sad during this time of the year. To the service of visitors, there are artisan workshops, musical performances, and interesting exhibitions. Lilac Festival is held at the beginning of summer on the central streets of the city. Another popular event is dedicated to dancing. Called Sun and Salsa Festival, this is an annual event that is held at the street in front of Kensington BRZ. The end of July is the usual time for the festival. The schedule includes many interesting activities, such as dancing contests. The three winners of these contests have such honorable titles as “Miss of Salsa and Sun”, “Miss of Sun”, and “Princess of Salsa”. The trio represents Calgary on international events outside Canada and in the city over the next year.

Calgary Folk Music Festival never ceases to attract new guests. The interesting event is usually held at the end of July. Calgary Folk Music Festival has won the love and dedication of numerous fans in different countries of the world. It is also recognized as one of the most notable events of this kind. Lucky visitors of this festival can attend music concerts, best song author contests, exciting seminars, and master classes. In recent years, the festival’s venue has been unchanged - Prince's Island Park. This park has many advantages. It is an amazing opportunity to listen to music in an open-air venue and enjoy camping, admiring the picturesque views of surrounding nature.

In August, the city hosts two interesting music-related events: Calgary International Blues Festival, which starts at the beginning of the month, and International Reggae Festival, which is held in the middle of the third summer month. The festivals are open-air ones and have the same location - Shaw Millenium Park. For tourists, it is a wonderful opportunity to listen to quality music, live in a camp, and enjoy an unforgettable weekend away from urban stress. Calgary hosts many other no less interesting events that also deserve a visit. For example, Morningside Music Bridge International Music Festival is a charming event that is held in July. The main aim of this festival is to unleash the talent of young musicians and help them make their first steps in show business. Among participants, there are piano players, violinists, cellists, and violists.

In the middle of August, Calgary hosts Taste of Calgary, a famous gastronomic event. This is one more excellent opportunity for tourists to try different cuisines of the world. As a rule, the festival takes place in Eau Claire Festival Plaza, which is located not far from Prince's Island Park. At the end of July, the city hosts an event that appeals to all fans of quality theatrical events, namely, Summerstock Festival. Summerstock is the only musical theater in Calgary. During two weeks, it pleases all fans of quality theatrical performances that never cease to amaze visitors. As performances change every year, it is always very interesting to attend this festival. Olympic Plaza is the place where locals and guests of the city come to enjoy these unforgettable shows.