Start the New Year off right by participating in a community event that supports an important cause. Calgary is home to many charitable and philanthropic organizations that work hard to support residents in need. Instead of just giving a donation, consider taking part in one of the upcoming events and fundraisers happening in the city. Some of the events may require more of your time and funds, but you can be reassured that your participation and commitment are not only going towards your personal enjoyment but the health and wellbeing of your friends and neighbours. Here are just a few upcoming events in Calgary where you can have fun and give back to the local community:
When: Sunday, January 20, 2019, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Where: New Horizon Mall, 260300 Writing Creek Crescent, Balzac, AB T0M 0E0
This fundraiser for United Way requires minimal monetary and time commitment. For only $10 a ticket, participants can take part in a Zumba class at the New Horizon mall, where 100% of the proceeds raised will go directly to the causes United Way supports in Calgary. This event is a great way to get a head start on your fitness resolutions for 2019 and try out Zumba fitness if you have never had the opportunity before. Plus, you’ll be able to shop around the new mall before and after the event! Tickets can be purchased online here. Participants are encouraged to wear proper footwear and clothing and bring their own water.
When: Friday – Saturday, January 25 – 26, 2019
Where: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, 111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, AB
Winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes and support a good cause this winter by taking part in the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Ski for Heart fundraiser at Lake Louise. This weekend event starts with a welcome reception on Friday night followed by a day either downhill skiing, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at the popular Lake Louise ski resort. Another reception will be held in the evening after the day’s activities. This year, Olympic curler John Morris will take part in the event and join participants at a special curling activity on Saturday afternoon. To participate, individuals or teams will need to register with the Heart and Stroke Foundation here and raise a minimum of $500. Room rentals will be available for participants at a reduced rate.
When: Friday, January 25, 2019, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Where: St. Louis Hotel, 430 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
The Alex Community Health Centre, in collaboration with East Village, is hosting its third annual Robbie Burns Bash to support its programs for vulnerable Calgarians focused on food, housing and health. At this event, guests will be treated to a traditional Scottish meal from local restaurants on Robbie Burns day, which celebrates the life of the famous Scottish poet. Guests will also take part in special tastings of beer, wine and scotch. Tickets are $60 a person and can be purchased online here.
When: Friday, February 1, 2019, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Where: New Central Library, 800 3 Street SE, Calgary, AB
Locked rooms are a popular activity for families and friends, and now this activity is coming to the new Central Library. This event is being held in support of the Calgary Library Foundation and will provide teams with the opportunity to explore the new library. The goal of the night is to escape the library, and teams will have to complete a variety of activities and puzzles in order to make it out. Tickets are $42 per person, but individuals can choose to pay an additional donation for a total of $102 and get a tax receipt for $60. To purchase tickets and learn more, go here.
When: Sunday, February 17, 2019, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre Street South, Calgary, AB T2G 5P6
The Princess Ball returns this year to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Canada. This child-friendly event is put on by the Calgary & Southern Alberta Chapter of the foundation and welcomes individuals to dress up as their favourite princess and take part in a magical evening. This event will include dinner, entertainment, dancing, crafts, a raffle, and a silent auction. A photographer will also be at the event so guests can take home a picture at an extra cost. Those interested can purchase tickets here as an individual for $70, or buy a whole table if they are going as a group. People are encouraged to buy their ticket as soon as possible as this event sells out quickly.