Calgary's culture is a unique blend of Western Canadian heritage, cowboy spirit, and modern urban influences, shaped by its diverse population and stunning natural surroundings.
Cultural Identity
Calgary's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its Western Canadian heritage, with a strong emphasis on community, hospitality, and outdoor activities. The city's history as a major ranching and farming center has contributed to its cowboy culture, evident in the annual Calgary Stampede, a world-famous rodeo and western festival. Calgary is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues. The city's population is diverse, with a mix of Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and immigrants from around the world, making it a vibrant and inclusive community.
The city's cultural landscape is further influenced by its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and the abundant natural beauty of the surrounding area. Calgarians are known for their love of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and camping, and the city has numerous parks and green spaces that reflect this passion for nature. The city's economy is also driven by the energy industry, with many major oil and gas companies having operations in Calgary, which has contributed to its growth and development as a major urban center.
Calgary's cultural identity is also reflected in its linguistic makeup, with English being the primary language spoken, followed by French, and a significant number of other languages spoken by the city's diverse immigrant communities. The city's cultural diversity is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the music, food, and traditions of its many ethnic communities.
Food & Cuisine
| Dish | Type | Description | Must-Try? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef on a Bun | Sandwich | A classic Calgary dish featuring slow-cooked beef in a bun | Yes |
| Bannock | Bread | A traditional Indigenous bread often served with soups or stews | Yes |
| Alberta Beef Jerky | Snack | Tender and flavorful beef jerky made from locally raised cattle | Yes |
| Poutine | Side Dish | French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a popular Canadian comfort food | Yes |
| Calgary-Style Ginger Beef | Stir-Fry | A sweet and savory stir-fry made with beef, ginger, and vegetables | Yes |
| Perogies | Dumplings | Traditional Ukrainian dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, often served with sour cream | Yes |
| Saskatoon Berry Pie | Dessert | A sweet and tangy pie made with saskatoon berries, a type of blueberry native to the region | Yes |
| Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich | Sandwich | A classic Canadian sandwich featuring smoked meat, mustard, and pickles | Yes |
| Calgary's food culture is shaped by its Western Canadian heritage and its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The city is known for its high-quality beef, and many restaurants serve up delicious steaks and roasts. Calgary is also home to a thriving food truck scene, with many vendors serving up everything from traditional Canadian comfort food to international cuisine. When dining in Calgary, it's customary to tip your server 15% to 20% of the total bill, and it's also considered polite to wait for the host to indicate where to sit. |
Traditions & Festivals
| Festival/Tradition | When | What It Is |
|---|---|---|
| Calgary Stampede | July | A world-famous rodeo and western festival featuring cowboy competitions, live music, and entertainment |
| Calgary Folk Music Festival | July | A four-day music festival featuring folk, rock, and world music performances |
| Calgary International Film Festival | September | A showcase of Canadian and international films, featuring screenings, workshops, and industry events |
| Calgary Festival of the Arts | June | A celebration of visual and performing arts, featuring exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities |
| Canada Day Celebrations | July 1 | A patriotic celebration of Canada's birthday, featuring parades, live music, and fireworks |
| Heritage Day | First Monday in August | A celebration of Calgary's cultural diversity, featuring music, dance, and food from around the world |
Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts
Do:
- Be respectful of Calgary's cowboy culture and traditions
- Try some of the city's famous beef dishes and local cuisine
- Explore the city's many parks and green spaces
- Attend a Calgary Flames hockey game or a Calgary Stampeders football game
- Learn some basic French phrases to interact with the city's Francophone community
- Be prepared for variable weather, with warm clothing for winter and sunscreen for summer
Don't:
- Don't assume that all Calgarians are cowboys or ranchers
- Don't be afraid to ask for directions or help from locals
- Don't litter or disrupt the city's natural environment
- Don't ignore the city's rich cultural diversity and history
- Don't forget to tip your server at restaurants and bars
- Don't be surprised by the city's vibrant and eclectic arts scene
Arts & Music
- The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra is a world-renowned symphony orchestra that performs at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
- The National Music Centre is a museum and performance venue that showcases Canadian music history and features interactive exhibits
- The Calgary Folk Music Festival features a diverse lineup of folk, rock, and world music performances
- The city is home to numerous art galleries, including the Glenbow Museum and the Nickle Galleries
- The Calgary International Film Festival showcases Canadian and international films, featuring screenings, workshops, and industry events
Useful Phrases
| English | Local Language | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Bonjour | Bone-JOOR |
| Thank you | Merci | Mur-SEE |
| Please | S'il vous plaît | See-voo-PLAY |
| Yes / No | Oui / Non | Wee / Noh |
| How much? | Combien ça coûte? | Kohm-bye-nah koo-TAY |
| Goodbye | Au revoir | Oh-reh-VWAHR |
| Excuse me | Excusez-moi | Ex-KOO-zay MWAH |
| Where is...? | Où est...? | OO-eh |
| I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | Zhuh-nay kohm-PRAHN-pah |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | Par-lay-VOO Ahn-gleh |