The National Trust for Canada is celebrating Heritage Week this February 17 – 23, 2020 with theme of “2020 Vision: Bringing the Past into the Future.” Calgary is home to many historical landmarks, museums and attractions where residents and visitors can learn more about this history of the city and the country. In an effort to bring the past into our world today, these attractions have a variety of events and activities that will get people engaged and interested in our shared history. During Heritage Week, take time to visit some of these historic places below!

 

Heritage Park
Although the Historical Village does not open until Saturday, May 16, guests are welcome to stop by the Gasoline Alley Museum throughout the winter and early spring to view the exhibit and take part in activities that highlight Calgary’s unique history. During this week in February, two particular activities are taking place that residents can join in. The Speaking of the Past speaker series focuses on the history of Western Canada each month until April. This particular session, presented by storyteller Karen Gummo, is on “Walking with Ancestors; Following Footsteps.” Guests can also take part in Stitch in Time and pick-up a new hobby that people have been practicing for hundreds of years. This drop-in activity provides an opportunity for people tp learn how to do their own needlework, like knitting and embroidery.

Speaking of the Past
When: Thursday, February 20, 2:00 p.m.
Where: Gasoline Alley Museum (1900 Heritage Dr SW)
Admission: Regular museum admission $11 (free for annual pass holders)

Stitch in Time
When: Saturday, February 22, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Where: Gasoline Alley Museum (1900 Heritage Dr SW)
Admission: This is a drop-in activity, no pre-registration is required

 

Glenbow Museum
At the Glenbow Museum, visitors can explore art and history exhibits year-round. On February 22, a new exhibit will be opening that highlights some of the museum’s recent acquisitions from the previous year. These acquisitions range from artwork by Canadian artists to a collection of vintage women’s hats and will be available for the public to see and explore on their own.

Recent Acquisitions 2019
When: Saturday, February 22
Where: Glenbow Museum (130 9 Ave SE)
Admission: $18 (discounts available for students, families and seniors)

 

Fort Calgary
Visit and explore Calgary’s beginnings at Fort Calgary. At the Interpretive Centre, visitors can learn about the North-West Mounted Police and the role they played in shaping the city. The centre also features exhibits that highlight stories from other important figures in Calgary’s past. For those interested in a more in-depth exploration of Fort Calgary and its history, private tours are also available for booking.

Fort Calgary Interpretive Centre
When: Daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Fort Calgary (750 9 Ave SE)
Admission: $12 (discounts available for students, seniors and children)

 

Lougheed House
Lougheed House, a beautifully-designed historic house in downtown Calgary, is hosting an exhibit that imagines what it would have been like if 12 famous Canadian artists had gathered at a dinner party in 1923 – an activity that is similar to events the original owners of Lougheed House would have hosted in the past. The exhibit, “Storied City: Early Calgary through the Eyes of Writers,” will feature a collection of audio excerpts, written works, photographs, videos, and more cultural artifacts.

Storied City: Early Calgary through the Eyes of Writers
When: Wednesday – Friday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Saturday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Lougheed House (707 – 13 Ave SW)
Admission: $8.50 (discounts available for students, seniors and children)