by silvia pikal
Calgary is home to the Stampede . We greet our visitors at the airport while wearing white cowboy hats . We ’ re proud to be called “ Cowtown ” and we ’ re proud of our Alberta beef . We ’ ve developed a reputation as a city that parties for 10 days a year in jeans and cowboy boots , offers western hospitality all year and is unpretentious and friendly .
But Calgary life is more than cowboys . Because we ’ re welcoming and open to change , we ’ re a city of growth and innovation . We open new restaurants , lounges and speakeasies that go above and beyond in providing an exceptional dining experience . We curate and create bold and stunning new art exhibits that make us appreciate and question beauty . We work hard to improve and elevate all of the city ’ s offerings , from Champagne bars to spas .
We have a cutting-edge arts and culture scene , from contemporary art galleries like Esker Foundation to museums like Glenbow , which curate groundbreaking exhibitions that encourage critical thinking . Our private galleries connect collectors with both coveted
historical masterpieces and contemporary work by renowned Calgary artists , who are creating some of the best work in Canada . We have dozens of theatre companies , an orchestra , an opera and a ballet company that attract international attention with powerful and creative work .
Our dining scene is growing by leaps and bounds . Ambitious chefs and restaurateurs launch new projects and revamp eateries to give you extraordinary service and phenomenal food . They go the extra mile to ensure you have an unforgettable experience , from stocking rare Champagne in their cellars to having their own prized bull . Thanks to Alberta ’ s privatized liquor laws , we have a vibrant beverage scene , which means you ’ ll get the best variety in Canada when you order a drink or purchase a bottle .
We work hard and we like to reward ourselves with the finer things , from a perfect steak or spa treatment to serene places for relaxation and play .
Ask anyone in the city and they ’ ll tell you — it ’ s a beautiful life .
48 THE ESSENTIAL CALGARY 2018