We’re cheap, and we’re easy! Don’t let inflation deflate your summer. We’ve got you covered with our Cheapskate’s Guide to Summer in the City. From steals and deals, to date night ideas and some of our favourite happy hours, read on for great ideas for cheap and free things to do all summer long that don’t require a ton of planning.
We acknowledge the traditional territories and the value of the traditional and current oral practices of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina, the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
4 ACT 1, SCENE 1
What to do and see this month.
8 ART SCENE
Ryan Danny Owen’s exhibit at TRUCK explores creation through erasure.
16 MUSIC SCENE
Stampede may be the greatest outdoor show on earth, but it is also the biggest unofficial music festival in the country with more than 12 stages and countless shows over 11 days.
Cover Illustration: Justin St. Cyr
Generative Artist from Treemansion.com
Publisher and Acting Editor Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca
Cam Hayden, Benjamin Heisler, Justin St. Cyr, Krista Sylvester, Mary-Lynn Wardle, Alana Willerton
Client Support Coordinator Alice Meilleur
Senior Account Executive Jocelyn Erhardt
Account Executives Nadine Benoit, Vicki Braaten
Administrative and HR Manager Tara Brand
CEO and co-owner Roger Jewett
President and co-owner Käthe Lemon
Design Director Steve Collins
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada
The Scene is a member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers’ Association and abides by its professional standards.
redpointmedia.ca
1721 29 Avenue SW, Suite 375, Calgary, AB, T2T 6T7
18 FESTIVAL SCENE: FOLK FEST
The Calgary Folk Music Festival celebrates its 45th year with a fantastic lineup including The Roots and KT Tunstall — check out our other recommendations and meet Deer Tick an eclectic band you won’t want to miss.
20 VENUE: RANCHMAN’S
The iconic Ranchman’s is now under new ownership, but has maintained its vibe as the city’s undisputed best honky tonk bar and the local hospitality home away from the ranch for the cowboys and cowgirls of the professional rodeo circuit.
22 Cam Hayden
PHOTO: JESSE TAMAYO
Esker Foundation
What to do in July
BY ALANA WILLERTON
A CLOSER WALK WITH PATSY CLINE
The last show of Stage West’s 2023/24 season casts a spotlight on a beloved music star: Patsy Cline. Running from July 2 to September 1, the show covers many of Cline’s most popular songs, including “Walkin’ After Midnight” and “Crazy,” as well as her career accomplishments. Visit stagewestcalgary.com for more information and tickets.
MEXIFEST
From July 4 to 7, head downtown with your family and friends for Mexifest, an annual celebration of Mexican culture showcasing delicious eats, music and dancing. There will also be a wrestling ring and an artisan market. Visit mexifest.ca for more information and tickets.
ALBERTA BOOT FLAPJACK 15
This month, Run Calgary hosts the Alberta Boot Flapjack 15, a virtual, western-themed run/ walk to support Youth Centres of Calgary. Run whenever you want between July 5 and 14
Participants get cool swag like western-themed race bibs and a finisher bolo tie. Visit runyyc.ca for more information and to register.
FIESTAVAL
Celebrate Latin culture at this annual three-day festival in Olympic Plaza. Expect over 30 food vendors, beer gardens, a market and tons of exciting performances by dance groups, DJs, bands and musicians from July 19 to 21. Admission is free. Visit fiestaval.ca for more information.
YYC ICE CREAM FEST
There’s no better time to go for ice cream than during YYC Ice Cream Fest, the food festival that invites anyone with a sweet tooth to try featured ice cream creations at participating eateries and ice cream shops. The summer counterpart to February’s Hot Chocolate Fest, each time one of the featured festival treats is sold, $1 to $3 goes towards supporting Calgary Meals on Wheels. You can also vote for your favourites online to help crown the winner in three award categories. This year’s festival runs from July 19 to August 5 Visit yycicecreamfest. com for more information and a list of participants.
NIKIHCI-ÂNISKOTÂPÂN BLOODLINE
The latest exhibition at Glenbow at The Edison, nikihci-âniskotâpân bloodline covers the impressive career of Canadian artist Meryl McMaster. The artist delves into her mixed nêhiyaw/Métis and Anglo/Dutch ancestry through a mix of large-scale photography and film work, which guests can view for free until September 1 Visit glenbow.org for more information and to book a viewing time.
CALGARY FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
From July 25 to 28, Prince’s Island Park will be lit up with music and community spirit during the Calgary Folk Music Festival. Celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, the line-up includes headliners like The Roots, Cowboy Junkies, KT Tunstall, James Vincent McMorrow and more. Single-day tickets and four-day passes are available. Visit calgaryfolkfest.com for more information and tickets and see more of our coverage on page 18.
AI: MORE THAN HUMAN
As the reach and impact of AI continues to grow
around the world, many people want to learn more about it. Telus Spark dives into the subject head on with its latest exhibition, which uses digital media and art to examine everything from the roots of AI to the relationship between machines and humans. The exhibit is on now until September 8 Visit sparkscience.ca for more information.
INGLEWOOD SUNFEST
For one day only, Inglewood’s main strip will be filled with 200+ local vendors, food trucks, performances and more when this annual festival returns on July 27. Head down between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. to explore the celebrations and local businesses in the area. Visit inglewoodsunfest.ca for more information.
CALGARY SIP & STROLL
There’s a new way to experience Calgary’s robust beer scene. The newly launched Calgary Sip & Stroll offers guided craft beer walking tours where you get to enjoy delicious beers and learn more about the breweries behind them. The company’s first tour option takes guests to three Inglewood breweries. Visit calgarysipandstroll. com for more information and tickets.
PHOTO: MIKE TAN
Meryl McMaster-Bloodline, at the Glenbow until September 1
Calgary Folk Music Festival, July 25 to 28.
PHOTO: CAITLIND BROWN
Onstage This Month
BY NATHAN ILES
SLANDER W/ CHASE AND STATUS & AHADADREAM
American DJ duo SLANDER will bring futuristic beats and dubstep bangers to this year’s Badlands Festival, supported by electronic artists Chase and Status and Ahadadream.
July 6, 6 p.m. at the Badlands Tent, 725 9 Ave. S.W., badlandsmusicfest.com
ANNA LEWIS
The Calgary Public Library dazzles with vibrant live music offerings all year. Catch Anna Lewis and her quirky twist on country songwriting this summer at the beautiful Central Library.
July 7, 1 p.m. at Calgary Public Library, 800 3 St. S.E., calgarylibrary.ca
THE ROUNDUP MUSICFEST
After a one-year hiatus, the Roundup Music Festival returns at a new venue with a fresh lineup. Goo Goo Dolls, The Gin Blossoms, and Crash Test Dummies will rock Prince’s Island Park.
July 10, 3 p.m. at Prince’s Island Park, 200 Barclay Parade S.W., roundupmusicfest.com
ORVILLE PECK
This year’s Coca-Cola Stage lineup is stacked, but if you can only catch one show, make it Orville Peck. His goth-y songwriting puts an atmos-
MUSIC FESTIVAL SEASON IS IN FULL SWING IN CALGARY! CATCH SOME BLUES ROCK, SYNTH WAVE, AND COUNTRY MUSIC.
pheric twist on Western ballads that will be a highlight of this year’s Stampede.
July 12, 9:30 p.m. at the Coca-Cola Stage, 1410 Stampede Trail S.E., calgarystampede.com
DA’AT W/ BRIDGELAND, PERRA, & PAINT DRYING
Local post-punk stalwarts Da’at headline a spooky rock ‘n roll night, including an album release celebration from local supergroup Bridgeland. July 12, 8 p.m. at The Palomino, 109 7 Ave. S.W., thepalomino.ca
SAINT ASTONIA W/ THE TRAILER PARK BOYS
Featuring members of Staind and Three Days Grace, Saint Astonia is a bonafide hard-rock supergroup, while the Trailer Park Boys are bonafide Canadian comedy royalty. July 13, 6 p.m. at the Back Alley Summer Events Tent, 4630 Macleod Trail, backalleycalgary.com
ARMED FOR APOCALYPSE W/ NOTT & GUESTS
Sludgy five-piece metal band Armed for Apoca-
lypse is ripping their way through North America, stopping at The Rec Room in Calgary to bring bone-crushing riffs and plenty of headbanging.
July 24, 7:30 p.m. at The Rec Room, 1180, 901 64 Ave. N.E., therecroom.com
TERMINUS FESTIVALSYNTHESIS
Every July, the southwestern edge of downtown Calgary comes alive for an entire weekend of synth-wave, industrial music, and gothic vibes. Terminus is one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets, held at Dickens Pub and featuring international acts like Mareux and Digital Poodle.
July 25 to 28 at Dickens Pub, 1000 9 Ave. S.W., dickensyyc.com
THE SECRET BEACH W/ SKINNY DYCK
Irreverent country twang and irresistible songwriting are on the menu when The Secret Beach and Skinny Dyck hit the stage. Grab a Brass Monkey from Ole’ Beautiful while you’re at it.
July 29, 7 p.m. at Ole’ Beautiful Brewing Co., 1103 12 St. S.E., olbeautiful.com
CALGARY INTERNATIONAL BLUES FESTIVAL
Bob Stroger, Kid Ramos, and MonkeyJunk are just a few of the acts to catch at this year’s Blues Festival. Held yearly at Shaw Millenium Park, this week-long party also offers workshops and nightly “Twilight Blues” dance parties. July 29 to August 4 at Shaw Millenium Park, 1220 9 Ave S.E., calgarybluesfest.com
LUDACRIS
Whether penning hits like “Stand Up” and “Get Back” or starring in blockbusters like the Fast and the Furious movies, Ludacris brings his undeniable hip-hop talent to Calgary this summer. July 31, 8 p.m. at Grey Eagle Event Centre, 3775 Grey Eagle Dr., greyeagleresortandcasino.ca
BILLY IDOL
You’ll cry “more, more, more” in the midnight hour when Billy Idol brings his classic ‘80s rock sound to the ‘Dome. August 2, 7 p.m. at Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E., scotiabanksaddledome.com
Bridgeland album release, July 12.
Calgary International Blues Festival, July 29 to August 4.
PHOTO: RON SPARROW
PHOTO: DEBBY SEREDA
CJSW July Chartlist
Direct from your radio pals at 90.9 FM, here is a snapshot of the current artists & albums topping the charts at CJSW. Tune in, turn it up and enjoy.
1. Sunglaciers** - Regular Nature (Mothland)
2. NECHT** - The Prophecy of Karnifor (Self-Released)
3. Eye of Newt** - Stay in Your Lane EP (Self-Released)
27. The Hi-Tops** - Lips, Hips, & Counterfeits (Fuzzy Dunlop)
28. Various Artists** - TRANS RIGHTS = HUMAN RIGHTS (Lavender Dream)
29. Alex Henry Foster* - Kimiyo (Hopeful Tragedy Records)
30. Annie-Claude Deschênes* - LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE (Bonsound / Italians Do It Better)
** Local * Canadian
th th
THE 25 THE 25 ANNUAL BETTY MITCHELL ANNUAL BETTY MITCHELL AWARD WINNERS AWARD WINNERS
We are honoured to celebrate the 25th Ann versary of the Betty Mitchell Awards For a quarter century, it has been our pr vilege to recognize and uplift the immense ta ents of Calgary’s local professional theatre community, and we look forward to continuing this cherished tradition for many years to come
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE BY AN ENSEMBLE “A Christmas Carol” - Theatre Calgary
OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A DRAMA
Natascha Girgis - “The Dark Lady” - Lunchbox Theatre and The Shakespeare Company
OUTSTANDING PROJECTION OR VIDEO DESIGN
Beth Kates - “Meteor Shower” - Theatre Calgary
OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN
John Webber - “The Strange Case of Dr Jekyl & Mr Hyde” - Vertigo Theatre
OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN
Scott Reid - “A Christmas Carol” - Theatre Calgary
OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN
Melissa - Mitchell Boychuk - Something Rotten! The Musical - The Shakespeare Company
OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A COMEDY
Farren T moteo - Made in Italy - Theatre Calgary in Assoc at on with Alberta Theatre Projects
OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A MUSICAL
(Tie between two performers/productions for this category award)
Jessica Vosk - “Beaches The Musical” - Theatre Calgary AND Kaylee Harwood - “The Beautiful Carole King Musical” - Stage West
OUTSTANDING NEW PLAY
(T e between two productions for this category award)
Maria Crooks & Carol ne Russell-King - “Se ma Burke” - Theatre Calgary in Association with Alberta Theatre Projects AND
Brianna Johnston - “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” - The Shakespeare Company and Hit & Myth
OUTSTANDING SOUND DESIGN OR COMPOSITION
Joe Slabe - Buy Me a Drink Joe - Forte Musical Theatre
OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A DRAMA
Heather Pattengale - Selma Burke - Theatre Calgary in Association w th Alberta Theatre Projects
OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A COMEDY
Sheldon Elter - “The Black Bonspiel of Wu lie MacCrimmon” - Alberta theatre Projects
OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A MUSICAL
A lison Lynch - “Buy Me a Drink Joe”- Forte Musical Theatre
OUTSTANDING MUSICAL DIRECTION
Joe Slabe - “Buy Me a Drink Joe” - Forte Musical Theatre
OUTSTANDING DIRECTION
Bronwyn Steinberg - “The Dark Lady” - Lunchbox Theatre and The Shakespeare Company
OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL
“Buy Me a Drink Joe” - Forte Musical Theatre
OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A PLAY
“The Dark Lady” - Lunchbox Theatre and The Shakespeare Company
ART SCENE
Blue Smoke Monsters
RYAN DANNY OWENS AT TRUCK CONTEMPORARY ART
BY BENJAMIN HEISLER
Ryan Danny Owens’ exhibit at TRUCK Contemporary Art features haunting near-life-size topographical erasures of collected archival queer male-oriented pornography, mostly North American from the 1970s and 1980s. Ryan Danny Owen is a non-binary visual artist, author, and queer historian based in Mohkinstsis Treaty 7 territory — Calgary.
The multi-room exhibit rediscovers and reintroduces histories of queer identity through real and metaphorical loss. “With my work, I am seeking to challenge the relationship to pornography, and the relationship to figures; we are looking at them in a way that is different to how we would look at them in pornography,” Danny Owen says.
So, what is a topographical erasure? Many of the artworks are printed to be almost person-size before Danny Owen sculpts the paper with a toolbox of erasers, sand erasers, sandpaper, and razors, literally removing parts of the image.
“There are tons of different ways of using erasers to do it. With this one, it’s small circular strokes; and that’s what gives it the hazier edg-
ing fade out. That one is much deeper, essentially looks like a smoke monster,” Danny Owen says. “… A lot of times I’m entering into this work thinking, ‘I don’t look like any of these people, how do I impose myself on to these pieces,’ and that’s what the rubbing is.”
Making and unmaking, finding hidden things and then expanding and erasing them is all part of Danny Owen’s process.
“Archival material is a huge part of what I do, and I like when it challenges the reality of: did I make this, did I find this, where did it come from?” notes Danny Owen. They have sourced material in a variety of considered ways.
“Asian men are extremely hard to find, in the same way that black men are extremely hard to find in a way that’s not disrespectful, especially in older material. It is really challenging work, and the rare time I’ll find a person of color in magazines that is being treated really beautifully, those ones are priceless to me.”
Another part of the exhibit is a fabricated motel room. “It’s going off this whole idea of a soundstage set for a fictional pornographic film. The room is going to be based on the blue tone that continually shows up in pornographic films and media, but also ‘blue’ as a concept… I’ve always thought that ‘blue’ has an undeniable
‟I’ve always thought that ‘blue’ has an undeniable queerness to it, that I have wanted to explore throughout my whole practice.ˮ
RYAN DANNY OWENS
queerness to it, that I have wanted to explore throughout my whole practice.”
One item in the room is an oversized blue rhinestone-bedazzled cowboy hat, handmade and hand-dyed by Danny Owen.
The term “blue movie” for a pornographic film dates to a time when a blue-toned film of low quality was used for explicit videos.
Queer and pop culture icon Andy Warhol, wrote, directed and produced Blue Movie; which was the first movie depicting explicit sex to receive wide-range theatrical release.
Danny Owen’s triptych called Blue is named for the blue satin sheets on which the subject is posed. “The thing with Blue, is that I’ve never seen him in any other photographs. A lot of times, figures will fade in and out throughout material, I will see them in different scenes and different places… this guy only took a handful of photographs and then he just disappeared. And there is a complexity with that where, in proximity to the AIDS crisis, a lot of these men
probably did not survive.”
“There is something really ghostly about this material… It’s an interesting thing to have work that touches so many different parts of time: it’s the figure, it’s the person that owned this before me, and then it’s me coming back so many years afterward to reintroduce and challenge what this material is as a queer person.”
Danny Owen is also co-creator with Kat Simmers of the ongoing graphic novel series Pass Me By, published by Renegade Arts Entertainment. Book two, Pass Me By: Electric Vice, was awarded Graphic Novel of the Year in 2022 by the Alberta Book Publishers Association. Another addition to the series is in production and will be released next year.
TRUCK Contemporary Art is a non-profit artist-run gallery and resource centre, recently renovated and revitalized; located in the west end of the Beltline at 2009 10 Ave. S.W. Open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 1 to 6 p.m. truckcontemporaryart.com
SUNDAY, AUG 11 | 10AM - 5PM 33 AVE SW
Enjoy the legendary Pet Pageant and Kids Quarter, dance to the best of live music, local shopping, food trucks, and more! @mardagras @mardagrascalgary
The Beatles in Canada
FROM ME TO YOU
Experience a new exhibition and nostalgic tribute to The Beatles’ transformative years upon arriving in Canada for the first time. Revisit the frenzied excitement that swept the nation. GET TICKETS AT STUDIOBELL.CA.
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS UNTIL AUGUST 25
FRIDAY, JUL 19, AUG 30 & SEP 27 5PM - 10PM 18 ST & 34 AVE SW
Unique vendors, food trucks, live music, kids area, beer patio and more! @mardaloopnightmarket
A new temporary exhibition honouring the “Godfather of Canadian
The wildly popular live musical tribute show is back with a fresh setlist. All your favourite Canadian hits that achieved international success, and more songs that made an unforgettable impact at home. Rock out to the soundtrack of a nation!
INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION. DETAILS AT STUDIOBELL.CA/WHATS-ON.
EXHIBITION ON NOW
Produced by:
BY NATHAN ILES AND KRISTA SYLVESTER
STAMPEDE ON A BUDGET
The Calgary Stampede is one of the funnest parties in Calgary, but it can also be one of the priciest. Thankfully, dear reader, there are many ways to save a few bucks while enjoying the greatest outdoor show on earth.
SAVE ON ADMISSION
There are various ways to get in the gates of the Stampede without needing to take out a loan.
Visit a Circle K store during the Stampede to grab two Coca-Colas and two gate admissions that can be used any time for around $30.
If you’re a super dedicated stampeder, the Superpass is your best friend. For only $49, you gain admission for all 10 days (plus the Sneak-A-Peek) of the Stampede! You can grab a
Superpass at participating Safeway, Sobey’s, IGA, FreshCo, and Chalo stores until July 4.
The Stampede also offers several discount and free days. On Sneak-A-Peek day, July 4, visit the Stampede grounds for half-price. If you head to the ground straight from the parade on July 5, admission is free. July 7 is Tim Horton’s Family Day with free admission until 11 a.m., July 9 offers free admission between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for TC Energy Community Day. And July 10 has free admission for anyone until 10 a.m. and free entry for kids all day!
SAVE MONEY ON THE GROUNDS
With some planning and forethought, you can
roam the Stampede grounds without breaking the bank.
If you have a Costco membership, you already know the value of a good deal. So hit your local store during the Stampede and grab a book of Stampede Bucks. You get $50 of coupons redeemable on the grounds for everything from rides to the grandstand, for only $39.99. That’s 20 per cent in savings!
Grab a Ride All Day card from Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, FreshCo, or FreshCo Chalo. Priced at $44.99, these cards grant unlimited access to all N.A.M.E midway attractions, games, and the WestJet Skyride. This is a great deal if your kids want to ride the log ride again and again.
If you’re hungry, cruise to Weadickville for
PHOTO: BILL MARSH.
BMO Kids Day free pancake breakfast at the Calgary Stampede
cheap eats and drinks. You can get hot dogs, Slurpees, and other treats here for much lower prices than the rest of the grounds. Or, if you want to truly earn your Cheapskate status, pack your own snacks.
FREE EVENTS AT THE STAMPEDE
Once you get past the gates, there are many free things to do, see, and hear at the Stampede. If music is your jam, keep an eye out for roving performances from both the Stampede Showband and the Band of Outriders. Each periodically marches through the park and performs at various locales, from the Saddledome’s steps to the Agricultural Center’s entrance. The Coke Stage is, of course, also an excellent option for tunes and fun.
The Nutrien West Event Centre is a great time for the kids and kids at heart, as they can walk through and interact with various animals. The BMO Centre Market is also fun to explore, with many vendors offering free samples and mini-shows. Visit the Western Oasis and enjoy beautiful art and music performances including duelling pianos throughout the Stampede. And this year the BMO Stage of Wonders will feature performances by Calgary’s own Cirque de la Nuit. These are also all great spots to escape blistering heat or sudden downpours!
Swing by the Elbow River Camp and take in traditional dances and music of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina First Nations people.
The Monster Energy Compound offers high-octane fun throughout Stampede, without the ticket fee of the rodeo. From stunt motorbike riders to bumping DJs, it’s like enjoying a motocross rally in the middle of the Stampede grounds. Reps sometimes give away free Monster energy drinks, so keep your eyes peeled.
The “exhibition” part of the Calgary Stampede and Exhibition means there’s always lots to look at on the grounds. If you hear some clanging metal while walking past Country Trail in the Agriculture Zone, you’re probably hearing the Blacksmithing Showcase. Other demonstrations and shows include rope making, milking, heavy horse pull and more.
And of course, you haven’t really stampeded if you haven’t eaten a free pancake breakfast or two or three. There are tons to find all over the city, but right on the grounds, you can score a complimentary breakfast at GMC Stadium Courtyard on July 7 and 10. — N.I.
FREE THINGS TO DO
You don’t have to spend a cent to enjoy summer in Calgary. These are just a few fun, free activities you can enjoy in the city this summer.
TAKE A FREE OUTDOOR TOUR
CALGARY WALKING TOUR is a guided tour through several central neighbourhoods. As an expert guide takes you through Calgary’s history, you’ll see the former homes of Titanic survivors, Ghostbusters filming locations, and more. Tours meet at the corner of 3 Street S.W. and Roxboro Road on Saturdays and typically last 90 minutes. Learn more and book a tour at calgarywalkingtour.com.
Wild
Rose Adventures Self-Guided Cycling
Adventures are a fun and unique way to take in Calgary’s scenic bike trails. Download the RideWithGps app, find BikeBikeYYC, browse the routes, download the rides, and follow along with GPS on your bike! With options that explore the Bow River, Fish Creek, and more, this is a great way to be a tourist in your city. Learn more at ridewithgps.com.
BUMP Festival offers guided tours of Calgary’s 20+ open-air street art galleries, offering insights into the artists and the stories behind each piece of art while enjoying the warm Calgary sun. Book a tour at yycbump.ca.
HANG OUT AT THE SLABS
Follow the Elbow River in Stanley Park, and you’ll eventually find The Slabs, an iconic Calgary hotspot for sunbathing, swimming and river hangs under the sun. Taking its name from the concrete slabs on the river’s shore, this popular spot is a must-visit whenever the heat waves hit. Grab a swimsuit, pack a picnic basket and meet at The Slabs!
EXPLORE AN ART GALLERY
This past spring, the Calgary Public Library and Contemporary Calgary partnered to create the Art Pass, an accessible way for Calgarians to
explore Contemporary Calgary. All you do is visit a library branch, borrow the pass the same way you would a book, and use it for free entry at Contemporary Calgary. You can also draw in the pass book and there are prompts to fill it out and have fun.
Head over to Inglewood, to explore the Esker Foundation galleries for free. The showroom is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and until 5 p.m. over the weekend. Go to eskerfoundation.com to find out what’s on currently.
The Glenbow also offers a free art gallery on the Edison building’s second floor (+15 level) across from the Fairmont Palliser Hotel. In just a few years, the JR Centre for Arts & Culture will also open its doors free of charge.
ENJOY A PUNK ROCK SING-A-LONG
Hosted by Rob Gruszecki and Eric Andrews of local folk-punk band Ghost Factory, the Ship and Anchor’s Punk Rock Sing-A-Long is a little-known Calgary tradition. Starting midJuly, the two musicians take over the Ship’s patio and lead attendees in high-spirited
acoustic renditions of punk songs with lots of high-fives and hugs. Grabbing a pint might cost you a bit, but screaming your lungs out to a Ramones song with friends is literally priceless.
GO BIRD-WATCHING
The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is open until sundown every day of the week, and admission is always free. Grab a set of binoculars and discover over 270 species of birds, 21 mammals, and 347 species of plants. Pro tip: bring a journal to keep track of your findings!
HAVE A PICNIC IN A PARK
Calgary has beautiful outdoor parks, walking trails, greenery, and many good times. Pack a picnic basket and head to Prince’s Island Park, St. Patrick’s Island, or Fish Creek Provincial Park for a guaranteed good time. And drinking alcohol is now permitted at some neighbourhood picnic tables, select large picnic sites, a few open areas within City of Calgary parks, and some fire pits. Just make sure not to litter: these spaces are for everyone! Check calgary.ca to book a picnic site and get your drink on.
PHOTO: STEVE COLLINS
Sunbathers at The Slabs
COVER
FREE THINGS TO DO
EXPERIENCE A FREE FESTIVAL
The Calgary Folk Music Festival is one of the highlights of Calgary’s summer festival season. And it is not free. But since 2019, the kind folkies have included a free stage just outside of the bike lockup area so that their cheapskate fans no longer need to skulk around the periphery of Prince’s Island to overhear the outdoor festival. Also, kids 12 and under get in to Folk Fest for free, and there are kids areas and activities galore. Read more about Folk Fest on page 18.
Alberta Open Farm Days is a chance to interact with Alberta farmers, learn more about agriculture, and see some barnyard animals. Who doesn’t love cows? Alberta Open Farm Days takes place on August 17 and 18. Learn more at albertaopenfarmdays.ca.
BUMP Festival is a chance to explore Calgary street art, attend local music events, and see live graffiti jams. The alley party features live DJs and street art workshops. Explore the BUMP Festival from August 3 to 18. Check out the calendar of events at yycbump.ca.
Calgary Pride celebrates the 2SLGBTQ+ community with vibrant events through August, culminating in a two-day extravaganza on August 31 and the much-anticipated annual parade on September 1st. Learn more about Pride’s programming at calgarypride.ca
Tour de Bowness is a fun way to celebrate one of Calgary’s oldest communities. Based around an annual bike race, this street festival ignites the main street of Bowness with food trucks, local restaurants, artisan vendors, local businesses, street performers, and live music. Learn more about Tour de Bowness, which takes place on August 5, at mainstreetbowness.com.
Summer doesn’t end in August. Beakerhead turns up in late September, transforming downtown Calgary into interactive and immersive exhibits centered on science, creativity, and fun. The dance party at Millenium Park is not to be missed! Beakerhead returns to Calgary from September 20 to 22. Explore beakerhead.com to learn more. —N.I.
SUMMER DEALS
Enjoy these barn-burning discounts for a low-cost summer in the Blue Sky City.
CALAWAY PARK ON A BUDGET
Just outside the city on the TransCanada highway lies Calaway Park, Calgary’s permanent amusement park. This getaway makes a great alternative to the Stampede, and what’s more, you can get tickets on the cheap! From June 1 to September 2, you can get one-day tickets to Calaway Park for $39 at any Calgary Co-Op location. Did we mention admission includes as many rides as you can handle? Admission is usually $52, so this is a huge deal.
TAKE THE FAMILY TO TELUS SPARK
As Bill Nye put it, “science rules!” The Telus Spark Science Centre is a monument to education and science with a familyfun spin, and it doesn’t have to break the bank to go. For only $90, you can get two
adults and four kids through the doors at Telus. Because an adult admission alone is usually $26, this is a wicked deal and a great way to enjoy an iconic Calgary attraction.
DISCOUNTED STAMPEDERS AND HERITAGE PARK TICKETS
Speaking of Calgary Co-Op, members can get 20 per cent off any Calgary Stampeders game. You can also purchase a Family & Friends Membership to Heritage Park for 15 per cent off, which makes it easy to enjoy this piece of Calgary history anytime. Joining Calgary Co-Op is only a dollar, so what do you have to lose?
CALGARY ATTRACTIONS PASS
The Calgary Attractions Pass is a unique way to save money and enjoy city landmarks. All you have to do is sign up for the pass at visitcalgary.com, redeem it on your phone, and present it at participat-
ing destinations like the Calgary Tower, Studio Bell, and Telus Spark. On top of accessing discounts, you can earn points to put towards prizes and even earn free Calgary-themed socks.
MOVIES ON THE CHEAP
Sometimes, a trip to the movies is the best way to escape the summer heat (or the summer rain). Luckily, you’ve got many options for watching movies on a budget. Both Cineplex and Landmark offer discounted movie tickets every Tuesday, with up to 40 per cent savings.
CJSW FRIENDS CARD
Support local radio and local businesses simultaneously with the CJSW Friends Card! You’ll receive this card when you donate at least $35 to the college radio station and the card grants access to discounts at over 100 Calgary businesses. From cheap growler fills at Annex to cheap sessions at Yoga Sarana, it’s the ultimate way to supplement a cheap, rowdy summer.
SWIM AT SIKOME LAKE
Sikome Lake Aquatic Facility in Fish Creek Park is one of the only public manmade lakes that brings Cali vibes to the prairies. A family pass is only $10, and the beach stays open through September 1. Surfs up!
HARNESS GROUPON
Yes, Groupon is still a thing. This free app lets you find mega discounts on events and experience Calgary and its surroundings on the fly. From gondola trips in Banff to boating and rafting excursions, there’s always something interesting to do at a decent price. Download the app today and explore yourself! —N.I.
Calaway Park
PHOTO: SOPHIE ZAP
Tour de Bowness Bike Races
HUNKY-DORY HAPPY HOURS
Enjoy cheap eats and great libations with some of Calgary’s best, most affordable happy hours.
BARBARELLA
WHEN: Daily, 2 to 5 p.m.
Step into the ambiance of the Amalfi Coast with Barbarella’s daily Aperitivo hour, where you can indulge in 50 per cent off all drinks and pizzas. Savour a curated selection of spritzes and timeless and expertly mixed cocktails that complement your preferred pizza. 240 8 Ave. S.W., 403-888-1658, barbarellabar.ca
BOTTLESCREW BILLS
WHEN: Monday to Friday, 3 to 6 p.m.
This traditional pub is the perfect downtown stop. Beer and hi-balls are at unbeatable prices: $3 at 3 p.m., $4 at 4 p.m., and $5 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can also enjoy $5 glasses of wine, Caesars, and shots of Jameson. 140 10 Ave. S.W., 403-264-6959, bottlescrewbill.com
CANNIBALE
WHEN: Daily, 3 to 5 p.m.
Cannibale is one of Calgary’s hippest cocktail bars, whether enjoying a prohibition-era drink or grabbing a haircut. Enjoy a selection of classic cocktails for just $10 during their happy hour, or inquire with the bartender about the special cocktail of the day. 831 1 Ave. N.E., 403-454-5808, cannibale.ca
EARLS
WHEN: Daily, 2 to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to closing. The Earls happy hour is the perfect way to end a later night. After 9 p.m., a variety of food and drink specials are available. There’s something for everyone, from cheap in-house beer to margarita pizza and chicken lettuce wraps. Various locations, earls.ca
EL FURNITURE WAREHOUSE
WHEN: Daily, 2 to 5 p.m.
“Power hour” at El Furniture Warehouse is a game-changer for the penny-pinching Calgarian. With food specials and drinks starting at under $5, this patio is a Stephen Avenue staple. Bring cash or a credit card; they don’t accept debit.
107 Stephen Ave. S.W., 403-764-5858, warehousegroup.ca
GORO + GUN
WHEN: Weekdays, 2 to 5 p.m.
This Japanese restaurant’s enticing happy hour offerings have made it a popular destination on weekday afternoons. The standout feature of the happy hour is an extensive selection of appetizers, including sushi rolls, sashimi, takoyaki, and even hearty bowls of ramen for only $10. Scotia Centre, 225 7 Ave. S.W., 403-237-5596, goroandgun.ca
HOME & AWAY
WHEN: Monday to Friday, 3 to 6 p.m. and all day Sunday
Enjoy $4 snacks such as tacos and sliders at Home & Away. Quench your thirst with house lager, wines, and highballs priced at just $4.25, and take advantage of even more happy hour specials on Fridays and Sundays. 207 1 St. S.W., 403-455-9789, homeandawayyyc.com
LAST BEST BREWING & DISTILLING
WHEN: Monday to Saturday, 3 to 6 p.m., and drink deals all day Sunday
At Last Best, you can savour house brews for just $6.50 during happy hour. These pair perfectly with snacks like root vegetable fries and beer nuts, priced at only $5. Snag a comfy seat at the bar and enjoy the vibes. 607 11 Ave. S.W., 587-353-7387, lastbestbrewing.com
NATIONAL ON 10TH
WHEN: Monday through Sunday, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. National on 10th has expanded its rooftop patio and introduced a games area, complete with summer classics such as cornhole and Jenga. Guests can enjoy a selection of cocktails and over 25 draught options. The venue’s refreshed food menu, daily happy hour, 50% off beverages, and special snack prices offer many options for all tastes. 341 10 Ave S.W., 403-650-1045, ntnl.ca
RODNEY’S OYSTER HOUSE
WHEN: Monday to Saturday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 10 pm to 12 a.m.
Good seafood in the prairies is hard to come by, but Rodney’s shines with fresh oysters and an expansive wine menu. Their happy hour special nets you half a dozen oysters and a beer for only $20, and various beer and wine specials. 355 10 Ave. S.W., 403-460-0026, rodneysoysterhouse.com
SHIP & ANCHOR
WHEN: Weekdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Ship & Anchor is a Calgary staple. Stop by at the right time and enjoy daily happy hour promotions like $1 off draft beers, highballs, and
special prices on daily shots. It’s the perfect spot to watch a soccer game, catch a punk band, or soak up the sun on the patio. 534 17 Ave. S.W., 403-245-3333, shipandanchor.com
SHO SUSHI
WHEN: Daily, 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
With a trendy mix of Japanese cooking and contemporary vibes, SHO is a great spot to hit during happy hour. You can buy two beers and get one more for free, enjoy cheap sushi rolls, and munch on chicken karaage skewers for only $6.50 each. 7212 Macleod Trail S.E., 403-252-5199, shosushi.ca —N.I.
PHOTO: CLAIRE FORSYTH
Barbarella Patio
CHEAP DATES
Cheap and easy! These five dates are easy on the wallet and don’t require too much planning
With the cost of living and prices for pretty much everything skyrocketing, it’s a lot harder than it used to be to enjoy a day or night out with friends, family or that special someone. But we’ve found some “think outside the wallet” affordable adventures for you to enjoy each day of the week.
BOARD GAME COMPETITION ADVENTURE
Start the week off right with some friendly competition. While there are several options in
the city to choose from, the best bang for your buck is D6 Tabletop Café. While many other board game cafes charge by the hour, D6 offers unlimited gaming for just $10 for the entire day. The selection of drinks, coffees, teas, milkshakes and more on the menu are affordably priced, too. With more than 500 games available, you won’t get bored anytime soon. d6tabletopcafe.com
GEO CACHING AROUND THE CITY ADVENTURE
People around the world play by using the Geocaching app or a GPS device to lead them to hidden containers called geocaches. With more than 3,100 geocaches around the city, there’s no
shortage of excursions to enjoy. Download the app to jumpstart your next journey around the city while searching for geocaches in local parks, natural areas and greenspaces. Learn more at calgary.ca/parks/activities/geocaching
WING-NIGHT
It’s a cliche because it’s true — Wednesdays are the perfect night to grab wings with many of our favourite spots offering can’t be beat deals. All of the following locations offer half price wings on Wednesdays: Cat ‘n’ Fiddle Pub, Comery Block Barbecue, The Dog and Duck, Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey, Hudson’s, Jamesons, Leopold’s Tavern, Trolley 5, South Block BBQ, St. James Corner. Put on your stretchy pants, but maybe say goodnight to romance!
MOVIE MARATHON ADVENTURE
Catch a flick or create your own movie marathon at one of the city’s most affordable movie theatres. At Canyon Meadows Cinemas, tickets are just $5 all the time. Plan a double feature and share some snacks to keep it affordable.
The theatre is licensed and sells beer, wine and coolers — the third Wednesday of every month they offer an “adult’s night” special with a ticket, popcorn and any drink coming in at just $15. The food selection is diverse (try the Korean-style corn-dogs) and you can even create your own classic-soda drink from a variety of flavours at the Dirty Soda Shoppe at the concession. The theatre has a diverse movie selection with 10 screens and a mix of new and old releases. Find out more at canyonmeadowscinemas.ca.
TAKE A FREE WALKING TOUR
Work off those Wednesday wings with a walking tour of the city! Heritage Calgary has created 14 downloadable PDF self-guided walking tours with historic information about the city’s inner-city neighbourhoods including Brideland, Chinatown, Mission-Cliff Bungalow and both a regular and haunted Inglewood tour. GPS My City also provides four expert-created self guided tours. Download their app to access the tours. GPS My City also has a program that will help you create your own tour. Learn more at heritagecalgary.ca and gpsmycity.com —K.S.
Half-price wing nights make a great cheap date
Deanna Bowen Black Drones in the Hive
MUSIC SCENE
Stealth Fest
STAMPEDE IS THE BIGGEST MUSIC FESTIVAL WE NEVER TALK ABOUT
BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE
The Calgary Stampede and Exhibition may be the greatest outdoor show on earth, but we would like to make the case that it is also the country’s biggest music festival. For 11 days, Calgary is ripe with music events that turn Stampede into a massive, city-wide music festival hiding in plain sight.
There’s a parade with marching bands and four venues to take in music on the grounds alone. Nearly every Stampede breakfast and corporate event across the city features a trio or two fiddlin’ with country music. And in recent years, music creep has caused live shows of many genres to break out all over the city — in fact, there are too many performances and artists to count.
Like any great music festival, the city-wide Stealth Stampede Music Festival has a multitude of stages and too much going on to see it all. We’ll give you an overview and bring it all together under one banner: Calgary’s Stealth Fest!
ON THE STAMPEDE GROUNDS
For just $49, until July 4, you can buy a Stampede SuperPass at participating grocery stores or through the Calgary Stampede website. We know you’ve been thinking of this as a cheap way to get onto the grounds, but instead, think of it as one of the summer’s most affordable music fest passes.
COCA-COLA STAGE
WHY GO: More than 30 concerts are on this stage across the 10 days. Access to Coke Stage, as it’s informally known, is included with your daily admission.
HIGHLIGHTS: Toronto’s Juno Award winners The Beaches bring their catchy, from-the-hip songs to the open-air stage July 9, while another band with TO beginnings, Metric, plays on July 10. The biggest buzz is for July 12 — Orville Peck, who just released the perfect album for the season, Stampede: Volume 1, where his musical street cred blossoms with appearances by Willie Nelson, Elton John and Noah Cyrus. Conveniently, Cyrus brings her beautiful, direct songs to the same stage just before Peck. (Note to Cyrus family super-fans: you can also catch Noah’s half-sister Brandi at the Burwood Music Festival, more on that next page.)
NASHVILLE NORTH
WHY GO: This indoor venue is one of the hottest spots in town during Stampede, and lineups start early and last most of the day. Regular entrance is included in your Stampede admission. But if you purchase a VIP pass for $125, you can skip the line and enjoy an exclusive viewing platform.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hometown sweetheart Lindsay Ell, who you might have caught recently hosting Canada’s Got Talent, closes the whole thing out on July 14. Catch Grammy-winner Ashley McBride July 8 and Georgia peach Megan Moroney July 9.
THE BIG FOUR ROADHOUSE
WHY GO: The Roadhouse is a semi-detached haven on the grounds, complete with BBQ choices and lots of room to dance, sit, or stand and watch. It’s also indoors, protected from the elements, and most shows are included with your Stampede admission.
HIGHLIGHTS: The lineup’s packed with great music and stars, including former Spice Girl Melanie C on July 5, Austin’s Shakey Graves on July 7 with Canada’s The Dead South opening (this is a separately ticketed event), indie rock stalwarts Dinosaur Jr. on July 12 and multi-platinum artist Jewel closing the show on July 14.
THE SADDLEDOME
WHY GO: Enjoy this iconic venue where legends like Jeff Beck, Aerosmith, Billy Idol and Bruce Springsteen have appeared over the decades. Catch it now because it won’t be around much longer. You need separate tickets to attend Saddledome concerts during Stampede.
HIGHLIGHTS: Motley Crue on July 11, Miranda Lambert on July 12
THE GRAND STAIRCASE (AKA SADDLEDOME STEPS)
WHY GO: Stampede is your chance to get your fill of marching bands — both our impressive array of local groups and many that visit from around the globe — and this is the spot where they congregate with several performances daily. Fun fact: Speaking of Stampede Grounds, Calgary Heritage Coffee Co. makes a rich, chocolatey medium roast with that name — perfect for getting you up each morning after taking in all these gigs.
PHOTO: CHRIS WEDMAN
Nashville North
BEYOND THE GROUNDS
WILDHORSE SALOON
500 6 Avenue S.W.
These festivals and tents run from July 4 to 14.
6, and L.A.’s Buckcherry performs July 7.
WHY GO: The vast Wildhorse Saloon Stampede tent appears just in time for Stampede fun. It’s also the official after-party site of events including The Roundup Festival and Oxford Stomp. It features a midway and food from Double Zero and Clive Burger.
HIGHLIGHTS: Nothing beats seeing Corb Lund play his authentically lived Western songs during Stampede week, and you’ll find him here on July 8. Five other concerts occur before the Wildhorse is put away for another year, including Sam Roberts Band on July 4.
BURWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL
Currie Barracks
WHY GO: This new festival presented by Calgary’s Burwood Distillery offers an alternative to stampeding in the core, with a huge new tent a mere six minutes by taxi from downtown. A dollar from every Burwood Distillery Pineapple Lemon Cooler will go to Paul Brandt’s Not In My City, a local non-profit organization helping fight human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
HIGHLIGHTS: Rascal Flats’ Gary LeVox plays on July 5, Beastie Boys’ DJ Hurricane appears July
BADLANDS MUSIC FESTIVAL
725 9 Avenue S.W.
WHY GO: Presented by Vancouver-based Blueprint, the same folks who operate Commonwealth, this DJ-oriented fest is an escape for people who get woozy when they think of line dancing and pedal steel.
HIGHLIGHTS: Britain’s Chris Lake (July 5) and Swedish House Mafia (July 7) kick country to the curb and do their own thing.
COWBOYS MUSIC FESTIVAL
421 12 Avenue S.E.
WHY GO: Situated on the steps of the grounds, the Cowboys tent is a time-honoured way to soak in all the vibes from the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, including fireworks, while skimming the grounds.
HIGHLIGHTS: On July 5, Calgary’s Tate McCrae kicks things off. McCrae soared to well-deserved fame after posting a song she wrote and recorded in 20 minutes on YouTube, earning 31 million views and ending up on Letterman and beyond. Her signature song Greedy has over a billion listens on Spotify. Alberta’s Brett Kissell, who’s had
OTHER VENUES AND EVENTS
As if the plethora of temporary stages were not enough, there is more music to be had.
As you consider your line-dancing, toe-tapping and whiskey shooting options, don’t overlook solid one-off gigs at the places that offer music year-round.
The Ship & Anchor’s classic Hank and Patsy Night happens July 10 when groups like Red Hot Hayseeds, Carter Felker, Rifle County Players and others cover the classic tunes of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. This is a cover gig without a cover charge, topped off with a free midnight pancake breakfast.
For two decades, Tom Phillips has played the Ironwood Stage and Grill on parade day, strumming nearly every country song he knows, which means his July 5 gig with his band The DTs might go until the 7th.
10 gold singles since releasing his first tracks a dozen years ago, appears July 4.
BACK ALLEY SUMMER EVENTS TENT
4630 MacLeod Trail
WHY GO: An early bird pass is $199 with a payment plan available, and food trucks are on site. Easy access to the C-Train means no paying surge pricing to Uber.
HIGHLIGHTS: At least Loverboy is one band touring with most of their original members. Catch them July 4. I Mother Earth plays July 8.
NATIONAL SALOON FESTIVAL TENT
330 11 Avenue S.W.
WHY GO: This new tent is located behind National on 10th in the Beltline. As another Concorde venue, you can be sure that things will go smoothly and a good time will be had by all. Tickets are reasonably priced at $20 to $40 for most days.
HIGHLIGHTS: Round out your trip down musical memory lane with 54-40 on July 5 or The Watchmen on July 9. Better yet, step into the present with The Sheepdogs on July 11.
Over at the King Eddy, The Dungarees present Five Days in July, a tribute to Canada’s longest-standing country rockers, Blue Rodeo, the same evening.
No Stampede is complete without a visit to Ranchman’s, where it doesn’t matter what time or day you arrive, you’ll feel like you’re living in a Western movie for a few hours. (For more information on Ranchmans, visit our Venue profile on page 20.)
Folks who want to skip the whiskey can support Last Door Recovery Centre’s Sober Stampede, a free event on July 6 at 11 Avenue and Macleod Trail S.E. starting at noon. Fred Penner takes to the kids’ stage, and Trooper headlines the main stage (albeit without a single original band member). There will also be a bouncy castle and horse rides available. In contrast, The Bootleggin’ Breakfast, on July
9 at the Westin and on July 11 at the Fairmont Palliser, features platinum-selling artist Tim Hicks, Aaron Pritchett and Cory Marks, among others, with proceeds going to support Zero Hungry Kids, who provide meals to Calgary children through schools.
Having moved around to a couple of different venues since leaving its long-time home at Fort Calgary (now The Confluence), the storied Oxford Stomp takes place on Prince’s Island on July 12 this year, featuring George Thorogood & The Destroyers, Tom Cochrane, and Serena Ryder with proceeds supporting the Calgary Food Bank.
And after a hiatus last year, The Roundup MusicFest will also be at Prince’s Island for the first time on July 10. The Goo-Goo Dolls headline, supported by The Gin Blossoms and Crash Test Dummies at this cashless event.
PHOTO: BOOTLEGGIN’ BREAKFAST
PHOTO: WILDHORSE SALOON
Aaron Pritchett at the Bootleggin’ Breafkfast, July 9 & 11
Wildhorse Saloon
MUSIC SCENE
Folk Fest: Best of the Fest
THERE ARE NO WRONG CHOICES, BUT THESE ARE OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE 45TH ANNUAL CALGARY
FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE
With the 45th annual Calgary Folk Music Festival set to hit Prince’s Island Park July 25 to 28, The Scene offers a starting point to help you navigate your way around the island as you take in some of the 70 artists and more than 80 shows that comprise this year’s fest. And if you’re on your way to one show and get snagged hearing music at a different stage on your way by, no matter. That’s the essence of folk fest — wandering and wondering as you fall in love with bands and artists you’ve never heard of.
THURSDAY, JULY 25
THE MARIACHI GHOST
9:25 to 10:30 p.m., National Stage 4
This Winnipeg outfit takes their musical musings beyond songs, as they dress in mariachi-inspired clothing, Mexican Day of the Dead calaka-inspired makeup, and feature other-worldly dancing.
FRIDAY, JULY 26
GHOSTWOMAN
5:00 to 5:50 p.m., Community Natural Foods Stage 6
Something about this Alberta-rooted duo’s psychedelic musings, updated for this era, makes you want to park in their garage for a while with the tunes cranked all the way up.
COWBOY JUNKIES
8:50 to 10:05 p.m., ATB Mainstage
In 2021, when Folk Fest held a COVID-modified version of the festival called Summer Serenades, Cowboy Junkies were the sweethearts of the event for good reason, just as they were sweethearts of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. Their simple, stripped-down songs have staying power because they speak to the ages. We’re thrilled to see them back for the full meal deal festival.
BLACK JOE LEWIS & THE HONEYBEARS
10 to 11 p.m., National Stage 4
When these Austin musicians create a beautiful musical car crash at the intersection of soul, garage rock and funk, they pick up whatever pieces they want from the wreckage and keep strutting.
SATURDAY JULY 27
MOVE ON UP
Black Joe Lewis, Robert Finley, Charlie Parr
12:55 to 2:05 p.m., Field Law Stage 3
This trio of wise souls in variegated bodies offers a liberal dose of food for thought along with their melodies.
SUNNY WAR
3:20 to 4:05, Community Natural Food Stage 6
Nashville-born, street-worn singer Sunny War has much to say about beauty and injustice, and she’s equally adept at saying it with her voice and her guitar-callused fingers.
DEER TICK
10 to 11 p.m., National Stage 4
These Providence boys take a staggering, tilt-awhirl swirl with their naked folk roots showing beneath their crown of punk. With eight studio albums ripe with gems to pick from and a penchant for playing Nirvana and Hank Williams covers, they can’t miss — and you shouldn’t miss them!
SUNDAY, JULY 28
DIVINE INTERSECTION
Julianna Riolino, Deer Tick, Kue Varo, MOONRIIVR
10:30 to 11:40 a.m., Field Law Stage 3
Wobbly pop between grungy cranks of guitar and revelations clear and true as the stars, these artists will indeed turn any place they meet up
into something divine. Extra points for seeing Calgary’s simultaneous fire god and goddess, Kue Varo. You’ll be hooked.
PIPE UP!
Kue Varo, NYSSA, Sunny War, Allegra Kreiger
4:20 to 5:30 p.m., Community Natural Foods Stage 6
With Varo’s let-it-fly musical diamonds, NYSSA nuzzling Patti Smith for inspiration, the sky falling into War’s fingers and coming out though her guitar, and Krieger exposing life’s startling little truths with detached aplomb, this is the place to get your ya-ya’s out, ‘cause winter’s always coming.
FANTASTIC NEGRITO
7:35 to 8:40 pm, ATB Mainstage
This California any-which-way groover stole the show at last year’s fest. People came to the island without knowing his music and left with his name on their lips and his songs in their hips.
BOOKER T PRESENTS: A STAX REVUE 8:55 to 10:15 p.m., ATB Mainstage
From his Green Onion origins far in the misty past to his current 10-piece, horn-laced band who turn up the Stax flame, classic is as classic does, and classic rules when it’s Booker T.
Visit calgaryfolkfest.com for more information and tickets.
Moon River
Get ticked off in a most melodic way
DEER TICK AT THE CALGARY FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE
The first thing to know about Providence, Rhode Island’s Deer Tick, who are playing the Calgary Folk Music Festival July 25 to 28, is they have fond memories of their last time through Calgary and were “psyched” when they signed the contract to appear.
The second is despite Deer Tick being known for unpredictable live shows that go wherever the heck the band wants (same with their albums come to think of it), they are folk fest friendly. After all, they’ve played the fabled Newport fest several times.
The third thing to know is that after 20 years of albums and live shows, this band that wobbles from sparse, hit-home folk to fangs-bared punk and beyond delivers the goods and is sure to collect a swack of new fans while making a pair of appearances at Prince’s Island.
“Say it’s a Sunday and [the audience] wants to hear a chill Deer Tick record; that exists,” says guitarist Ian O’Neil from his home in Cranston just outside Providence. O’Neil joined Deer Tick in 2009 for the band’s third album, The Black Dirt Sessions. “If it’s a Friday night, there’s a record for that, too. There’s a record for being in your mid-thirties; we just put it out. I feel like we can cover all the bases if you let us and we like to do that.”
Starting back with their 2011 album Divine Providence, Deer Tick wandered beyond the folk label earned with their first three albums into beloved punk territory. This earned them rebukes that echoed Bob Dyan’s “sellout” when he chose to play rock in 1965, albeit on a smaller scale. Since then they’ve done whatever they wanted, each album more slippery to label than the last.
“Everyone in the band grew up on noise music and punk music and a pretty strong sense of the underground punk scene here in Providence and where I grew up in western Massachusetts,” says O’Neil. “So, it wasn’t too far-fetched for us to do something, especially in your early twenties, that’s sort of contrarian, that wasn’t what’s sort of expected of you by the
recent press about you.”
In fact, O’Neil and lead singer and key songwriter John McCauley were living together in Providence and listening to a lot of Replacements while recording the folky Black Dirt Sessions. “You kind of exist in a vacuum and your own bubble when you’re in a band, and you don’t know it’s weird until your label or the press says it’s weird. You think it’s just still songwriting.”
The band is riding high on their eighth studio album, 2023’s Emotional Contracts, which received enthusiastic critical reaction. It features songs from McCauley but also spotlights three songs written or co-written by O’Neil, including the beautiful, universal A Light Can Go Out in the Heart.
The band’s upcoming EP, Contractual Obligations, features tracks from the same sessions.
“The EP we’re about to put out is probably a lot louder than the last record. It might have been
“You kind of exist in a vacuum and your own bubble when you’re in a band, and you don’t know it’s weird until your label or the press says it’s weird. ”
IAN O'NEILL, GUITARIST FOR DEER TICK
some of the heavier songs that were left off Emotional Contract.”
While McCauley makes the set lists with the band leaning mentally over his shoulder, the tendency is to put their best foot forward when playing for large festivals or opening for someone like Jason Isbell. “We take at least one song from every record we put out. … it’s not a greatest hits, that would be the wrong way to put it, but we find the best corner of every record… Our instinct is to not play our folk songs if that makes sense. Just to be ourselves and give people a full platter of what Deer Tick is….As long as we’re upfront and honest about how eclectic our catalogue is we get the right fans who have an appetite for that kind of band.”
Deer Tick perform on both Saturday and Sunday at the Calgary Folk Music Festival, which runs July 25 to 28 at Prince’s Island Park. For information, visit calgaryfolkfest.com.
Deer Tick
PHOTO: CJ HARVEY
Ranchman’s
BY MARY-LYNN WARDLE
When it comes to clubs and venues in Calgary, Ranchman’s at 9615 Macleod Trail South is the granddaddy of them all. The iconic building, part bunkhouse, part corral, part barn at heart, opened near what was then the edge of the city in 1971.
Not to be confused with that other iconic space, The Ranchmen’s Club, Ranchman’s describes itself as Calgary’s greatest honky tonk bar and is undeniably the host to the real cowboys and cowgirls of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association.
During its first decade in business, the place got two enormous boosts. First, radio and television star Ian Tyson bought land south of the city and thus began playing regular gigs at Ranchman’s. Second, Urban Cowboy hit movie screens in 1980, and suddenly country bars were hot and mechanical bulls were in.
Having worked at Ranchman’s for 38 years before it closed in 2020 as a result of the pandemic, and returning for the re-opening under new ownership in 2022, marketing director Wendy Daniel has seen it all.
“In the early days, Ranchman’s truly was home to the professional rodeo cowboys and cowgirls,” Daniel says. “It was a small, tight-knit community.”
“We have had such outstanding artists … over the years. Keith Urban, Eric Church, Jason Aldean all performed on our stage. I toured Toby Keith in Alberta to A-circuit nightclubs in 1989 prior to his recording success of Should’ve Been a Cowboy. Shania Twain had her The Woman in Me release party at Ranchman’s.”
Since the re-opening, Nate Smith, Drake Milligan, and Zach Top have all played there.
“The new ownership kept the soul of Ranchman’s,” Danieal says. “For example, pre-existing rodeo photographs on the walls — but added modern twists such as a video wall behind the stage, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, all-new
TVs, new tables and chairs, [and a] new dance floor on the top part of the room, which we call the Saloon.”
Monthly concerts and dinner shows have continued to be popular. Free dance lessons Wednesday through Saturday are taught by world champion dance instructors. And if you really want a night to remember, book a complimentary limo for your group of six to 23 and skip the cover charge while moving directly to the VIP lineup upon arrival through the bar’s Arrive in Style program (click on the “Free Limo” tab on the website to sign up).
When the bar shut down in 2020, 140 trophy saddles were on display at the venue. “I personally worked for two weeks out of my own time to get the trophy saddles and memorabilia back to the cowboys and cowgirls who owned them,”
“IT’S RANCHMAN’S! IT IS A CALGARY LANDMARK — AN INSTITUTION!”
MARKETING DIRECTOR WENDY DANIEL
Daniel says. “Proudly, we have received quite a number of trophy saddles back for display.”
Menu staples like burgers, smoked ribs, quesadilla and smoked “Berta beef” (fear not –the Caesar salad offers fresh greens) are also back. It’s the kind of hearty fare needed to fuel the crowd that comes for a night of drinking and dancing. The venue has a capacity of 800 people inside, 400 on the patios, and 600 people in the Stampede event tent, and its popularity seems to have been undiminished for successive generations of urban cowboys.
Music, dancing, food, drink and memories have all returned pretty much unchanged from Ranchman’s former days. “It’s Ranchman’s! It is a Calgary landmark — an institution!”
For information on Ranchman’s and to book limo service, visit ranchmans.ca
STAMPEDE HIGHLIGHTS
Ranchman’s is one of the top off-grounds destinations to get yourself in the Stampede state of mind.
This year’s Stampede highlights include Fort Worth’s Drake Milligan July 7, an all-ages show featuring a Taylor Swift tribute band July 9, Washington State’s Zach Top July 11 and smooth-voiced Alberta up-and-comer Travis Dolter in the Stampede event tent July 6. And between the highlights, there are country musicians playing most days starting around 4 pm.
Dancer Appreciation night on July 3 could see you winning some great prizes — and if you’re not yet a great dancer, you can take advantage of the free lessons to get your boot scootin’ up to the snuff. On July 8, from noon to 8 pm, you can take part in the Line Dance Bust Out with a full workday’s worth of line dance workshops from local and international choreographers.
Lest you think there’s nothing new under the big barn roof, check out Ride the Ranch “Spin-pede” pass, co-hosted with YYCCycle, which gets you a pass to a Ride the Ranch fundraiser spin event at Ranchman’s July 4 and a 10-day Ranchman’s tent pass.
Check out the full lineup of events and grab tickets at ranchmans.ca
Marcel Dzama. To live on the moon (for Lorca), 2023.
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