| DOUBLE THE KITSCH, DOUBLE THE FUN
If you’re going to indulge in kitschy activities like bowling, why stop there? Beginning February 18, when Frank Sisson’s Silver Dollar introduces its Tuesday karaoke night, you’ll be able to destroy, er, sing all your favourite hits after an evening knocking down pins on the lanes.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
The literary scene in Calgary is thriving, with author readings and special events taking place regularly at independent bookstores such as Pages on Kensington, McNally Robinson, Socrate’s Corner, Annie’s Book Company and others. Drop by your favourite bookstore to browse the shelves and chat with staff about new and exciting finds, learn more about local authors, or meet with one of the many authors passing through.
VIDEO MARATHON
Become your friends’ most beloved couch potato by hosting a video marathon. You could knock off an entire night with classic TV favourites like The Prisoner or Twin Peaks. Cinephiles might watch the complete Godfather trilogy or, if they’re truly brave, try to figure out why the French think Jerry Lewis is an auteur by watching all of his films back-to-back.
COCKTAIL CRAWL
It used to be that the true sign of a serious bartender was his or her ability to mix a good Old Fashioned (that bittersweet mixture of bourbon, bitters, sugar, soda and a cherry). See if the homily still holds true today. Gather your friends, dress up in old-style hats and coats and see which of your favourite establishments mixes the best cocktail – just make sure you drink the same thing wherever you go. Hey, at the very least you’ll get sloshed. Ain’t that what nightlife is all about?
ON ICE
Skating at Bowness Park: The lights are on and the lagoon is frozen. With the mid-ice firepit, Bowness Park at night is like a Normal Rockwell painting. If you're looking for more of a Van Gogh evening, don't forget the tummy-warming whisky in your thermos. Or, if you prefer skating to the ’80s, go for a disco-inspired skate at Olympic Plaza.
ALL-NIGHTER
Pack a picnic basket or knapsack full of your favourite things, kidnap your lover or your best friend and head to the mountains for an overnight getaway…. – whether that includes chocolate, strawberries and champagne or hot chocolate, Bailey’s and a box of Wagon Wheels – and
HOT TUB PARTY
What could be more fun than a rented backyard hot tub in the middle of winter with two-dozen of your closest scantily clad friends? If there's snow on the ground, it's even better.
MIDNIGHT LUNCH
Everyone seemingly knows somebody who works nights – nurses, cops, road pavers or hotel workers. Surprise them with a hot midnight lunch. They'll appreciate the company and the meal, and you'll spend some time in their good books (which is especially useful if you're trying to get in their pants).
CRIME SPREE
When it’s too cold to leave the house, check out "crime night" on Saturdays on CTV. Hey, you can't party like Nikki Sixx every night.
GET SOME CULTURE
On the first Thursday of every month, the Olympic Plaza Cultural District promotes the various events and venues in the area – from plays to music to food and wine. February 6 is a busy night, including the opening night performances of The Plum Tree and Filth, champagne tasting at The Cellar, two new exhibits at the Art Gallery of Calgary, and more. For details visit RealLiveArts.com. |
