Upcoming Events
Experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Calgary's historic Chinatown with our captivating walking tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and fascinating heritage of this iconic neighbourhoood as you explore its hidden gems.We will take you into spaces you've never seen before!
We will share captivating stories about the 100+ years of history and insights about Calgary's Chinatown. Marvel at the stunning architectural landmarks that reflect the important contributions of Chinese pioneers i the community, such as the historic Canton Block as well as the ornate Chinese Cultural Centre.
Explore the neighborhood's intriguing history, from its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to its growth as a vibrant cultural hub. We will share how this neighbourhood survived despite racist policies like the Chinese Head Tax and The Chinese Exclusion Act.
“You might think you know Calgary’s Chinatown, but you will learn so much at Friends of Chinatown’s walking tour fo the area.
As a life-long Calgarian, I loved hearing about the history seeing new places and meeting the community members that all call Chinatown home. Fun experience for all!”
Friends of Chinatown is a group of dedicated volunteers who passion is sharing the history, growth, and culture of Chinatown in Calgary. We’ve been volunteering since 2016 but just started our instagram this year where we share history and yummy places to eat in chinatown.
We host historic chinatown tours, badminton meet ups, outdoor hotpot nights, outdoor movie clubs and fundraisers!
We love showing people the different secret places that chinatown residents like seniors and families utilize on a daily basis. We also love sharing the stories behind many chinatown businesses that provide important amenities to our residential neighbourhood.
Chinatown is over 100 years old and fought hard to have a place to call their own after being kicked out of two other neighbourhoods in Calgary.
We are keeping the tradition of mutual aid and volunteerism alive and hope to inspire more people to visit and fall In love with the uniqueness of Chinatown.
About Us
Stay Tuned for Next Year
January 31, 2025 for
Year of the Snake!
Let’s Eat!
Have you always wanted to experience the fun and delicious feast that happens at Chinese banquets?
Join us in Chinatown at our fundraiser for the arts! Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture and we are wanting to share the tradition and festivities with you!
Your ticket price includes a 10 course chinese meal, followed by Chinese entertainment with the proceeds raised from this event going to the Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre and Sculpture park only 20 minutes from downtown Calgary.
Note that seating is done in traditional Chinese banquet style in round tables of 10. Dishes are served family style. The menu contains meat, dairy and gluten.
Menu
Peking Duck
Stir fried Beef with Taro and Cashew Nut
Pan Fried 3 Types of Seafood
Shredded Duck and Enoki Mushroom Soup
Pineapple Sweet and Sour Pork Cantonese Style
Deep Fried Crispy Chicken with Fried Garlic (Bone -in)
Vegetable Medley with mushrooms
Salt and Pepper Fish Fillet
Pineapple and Duck Fried Rice
Mango Tapioca Dessert
Please note we are able to make a vegetarian plate as an option for folks who don’t eat meat but are unable to accomodate any other dietary restrictions.
6:45-7:30pm
Chinese music ensemble
Gailan
Ensemble
Jing Wo
Lion Dance
Performance
8:30 - 8:45pm
Proceeds from this year’s Big Fun Chinese New Year
event will be donated to the Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre.
The 20 Acre sculpture park and arts centre invites Calgarians to visit year-round to explore the pathways surrounding some incredible contemproary sculptures that have been donated to ellow Calgarians have an opportunity to enjoy art in nature.
Founded by Harry Kiyooka and Katie Ohe, KOAC is a volunteer run organization that hosts programming including Artist Residencies, Sculpture Park Tours, and workshops .
We chose KOAC as the charity to support this year due to our love of the arts and also wanting to contribute to the mission of KOAC to preserve the natural Alberta landscape and providing a space for Artists and art lovers to visit and leave inspired to create.
Giving Back