A Vibrant Weekend in Calgary: Photographers Capture Diverse Local Events
Postmedia Calgary photographers documented a bustling weekend across the city from April 18 to 19, 2026, showcasing a rich tapestry of community activities and seasonal transitions. The images highlight everything from animal exhibitions and skilled craftsmanship to automotive nostalgia and outdoor recreation, offering a glimpse into Calgary's dynamic cultural landscape.
Saturday's Animal-Focused Events
The weekend kicked off with two major animal-centric gatherings that drew crowds of enthusiasts and families.
Calgary Cat Show
At the Southland Leisure Centre on Saturday, the Calgary Cat Show featured felines of various breeds competing for top honors. A cat watched intently as a ribbon was placed on its kennel, while judges like Rob Seliskas evaluated the contestants. Notable moments included a Sphinx cat observing the proceedings and Sharon Wong proudly holding her Bengal kitten, Nico, who won best in show in the kitten classification. The event highlighted the dedication of cat owners and the beauty of these domesticated animals.
Western Canadian Reptile Expo
Simultaneously, the Acadia Recreation Centre hosted the Western Canadian Reptile Expo, where exotic animals took center stage. Lincoln Pinel of Inclusive Inverts held a tarantula, and Ashley Orsted from Cobb’s Exotic Animal Rescue introduced a two-toed sloth to the Hiscock family. Visitors enjoyed up-close encounters with creatures like a small boa peeking over Anna Schellenberg's shoulder and a baby kangaroo from the rescue. The expo emphasized education and conservation, with interactive displays fostering appreciation for reptiles and other exotic species.
Calgary High School Welding Rodeo
Also on Saturday, the 11th annual Calgary High School Welding Rodeo, hosted by the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Lodge 146, showcased the talents of students from seven school districts. This year's theme, "Welder of OZ," drew inspiration from the Wizard of Oz and Wicked movies. Participants, including teams from Notre Dame and Foothills Composite, fabricated a Dorothy’s House from drawings and created Wizard of Oz-themed sculptures from scrap metal. The event buzzed with activity as welding booths operated at full capacity, promoting hands-on skills and creativity in metalworking.
Sunday's Highlights: Cars and Skiing
The weekend continued with more events that celebrated community heritage and seasonal changes.
Around Chinatown
On Sunday, photographers captured the vibrant atmosphere of Calgary's Chinatown, including an alley wall mural that added artistic flair to the neighborhood. The images reflected the area's cultural significance and urban charm.
Nifty Fifty’s Ford Club’s Spring Thaw Car Show
At Heritage Park, car enthusiasts flocked to the Nifty Fifty’s Ford Club of Calgary’s annual Spring Thaw Car Show, where hundreds of stunning vehicles were on display. Highlights included Sharon Volpato's 1962 Ford Econoline van, which she converted into a camper, and Kieran Comeau's 1955 Ford Crown Victoria, inherited from his grandfather Larry Duncan. Comeau shared how he grew up riding in the car and now honors his grandfather's memory by showcasing it at events. The show celebrated automotive history and personal stories tied to classic Fords.
Closing Day at Nakiska Ski Resort
West of Calgary, Nakiska Ski Resort marked the end of the 2025-26 ski season with fantastic spring-like conditions. Skiers enjoyed the slopes on closing day, captured in photos that highlighted the resort's scenic beauty and the joy of outdoor recreation. The event symbolized the transition from winter sports to warmer weather activities.
Conclusion
This weekend in Calgary was a testament to the city's diverse interests and community spirit. From animal lovers and skilled welders to car aficionados and outdoor enthusiasts, the events brought people together, creating memorable moments that photographers skillfully preserved for all to see.
