Calgary Opera aimed to make an existing event more engaging, collaborative, and accessible and to offer more artists the opportunity to connect with Calgarians. Thanks to the generous support of the Culture Days Microgrant, Calgary Opera hosted an open house and interactive opera adventure for all ages that did not require attendees to have any prior familiarity with opera or the arts. For most artists involved, this was the first time they had been part of this event series and for some the first time they’d performed with Calgary Opera. Additionally, several of these performers represented either other arts organizations or local cultural community groups, all working alongside Calgary Opera resident artists. As a result of Culture Days funding, this event provided Calgarians at no cost to the public a welcoming, fun, and unique opportunity to discover opera and the arts.

Stephania Romaniuk, Calgary Opera

Featuring performances, cultural dishes, visual arts, workshops and mentorship opportunities, the festival highlights underrepresented African, Caribbean and Francophone artists. With free, family-friendly access, it creates a platform for visibility, accessibility and collaboration. Beyond performances, the festival nurtures youth and newcomers through volunteer training and mentorship, equipping them with skills in event management and the arts. One participant, a fashion designer coordinator, shared how the experience helped her overcome shyness, gain confidence, manage social media and proudly meet the mayor — a testament to the festival’s power to inspire growth, build leadership and strengthen Calgary’s cultural landscape.

Frankline Agbor, African Society for Culture Economic Development and Arts

Black Pride YYC hosted a creative workshop, followed by a public exhibition and performance showcase held during Culture Days 2025 in Calgary’s downtown core. The event celebrated the creativity, resilience and talent of Black 2SLGBTQI+ artists, featuring a range of performance and visual art pieces. Over the course of the program, participants explored artistic expression as a form of resistance, healing and community building. The exhibition attracted a diverse audience from across the city, fostering dialogue, connection and cultural appreciation.

Daphne Dike-Hart, Black Pride YYC

The Culture Days microgrant made it possible for LOUD Art Society to present our very first group exhibition in 10 years of operations [Unity in Diversity: A Decade of Art and Healing] — something that could not have occurred at this scale without their support. This funding allowed us to reach a larger audience, celebrate community through art and healing, and foster new partnerships and collaborations that will carry forward beyond the event.

Tara Vahab, LOUD Art Society