East Village is an urban community with a prime selection of shops, restaurants and recreation. You’ll find lots of choices for food, shopping and entertainment in East Village, which is compact and walkable. A great mix of diverse food, shopping and entertainment options are minutes away from the Hat! There’s no shortage of things to do in East Village – there are places to see, things to do and events to be at in the neighbourhood this summer…

Studio Bell

Explore the unique and interactive exhibits at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. This state-of-the-art facility is home to a collection of more than 1 million items, from guitars to sheet music to stage costumes. The centre features a rotating slate of exhibits highlighting artists and their contributions to Canadian music. You can also play some instruments yourself — ask for help. What’s more, Soak up the sun with a stroll through the National Music Centre’s new courtyard and elevated rooftop terrace. 

Simmons Building

Climb up to the tallest lookout point in East Village – Simmons Building. Home to a butcher, a baker, and a coffeemaker, the former Simmons mattress factory turned culinary hot spot is an East Village staple. Start your morning with a coffee from Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, Calgary’s first coffee roastery. Known to locals as Phil & Seb’s, they source beans in most coffee-growing regions worldwide and roast them to perfection in-house. With a cuppa, wander to Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, arguably the best bakery in town. Israelian-owned and operated, this bakery specializes in sourdough bread and Mediterranean-inspired sweet and savoury treats, think shakshuka, bourekas, bread pudding and cinnamon buns.

Dog Parks

Calgary is a city that loves its pets. Many dog parks are throughout the city, including an off-leash dog park beside our community garden at the Hat at East Village! If you’re looking for a place to enjoy your dog and get some exercise, there’s nothing better than a long walk with your furry friend. The Bow River Pathway offers an excellent opportunity for serene walks with your canine companion. Take your dog for a walk along the Bow River Pathway and stop by one of the dog parks on St Patrick’s Island or in East Village Park. 

Take a hike (literally!)

Explore Fort Calgary, Canada’s oldest police fort and the origin of modern-day Calgary. Built-in 1875 by North West Mounted Police officers, it was also used as a post office and jail before being abandoned in 1905 after Fort Victoria became operational. Today it’s a national historic site with interpretive exhibits that tell the story of its role in shaping Alberta’s history. Also included onsite is an outdoor museum featuring an impressive collection of military vehicles, including armoured personnel carriers, helicopters and more than 20 historic cannons! Stephen Avenue Walk is another great place to explore. This pedestrian mall is located in the heart of downtown and has been hosting festivals and events for more than 100 years. The Street is lined with unique shops, restaurants and pubs, making it a great place to meet up with friends before heading out for dinner or drinks!

Festivals and Food!

You’ll find culinary delights from around the world at the Calgary International Street Festival, Food Truck Frenzy and International Avenue Farmer’s Market.

The Calgary International Street Festival is a free festival that celebrates diversity, community and culture. Enjoy live music, dancing and entertainment as you sample international cuisine from around the world. Food vendors will also be on-site with delicious offerings.

Food Truck Frenzy is a great way to enjoy the summer weather while sampling some delicious local dishes. Food trucks will be parked along 9th Avenue S.W., between 3rd Street and 6th Street S.W., serving everything from classic comfort foods to unique fusion dishes that reflect our city’s multicultural heritage. There will also be live entertainment on site every Friday night from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.

The Switch outdoor Skate Park (Sep 10 – Oct 11)

Shake things up at The Switch, a pop-up skate park open to all skill levels! This temporary park is located in C-Square at the corner of 4 Street and 7 Avenue SE and features ramps, rails, and quarter-pipes. Academy Skateboard Collective instructors are on-site to help you learn how to skate or improve your skills. Helmets are mandatory, while other protective gear is recommended.

The Hat East Village is proud to be surrounded by the best this neighbourhood has to offer! Our residents enjoy a complete and colourful lifestyle—one that is made all the more enjoyable by our world-class amenities and features, floorplans designed to fit your lifestyle and needs, and offers you won’t find anywhere else. The Hat East Village is the perfect place to call home.