Connect with our team to learn more! visitcalgary.com/meetings EVENT SPOTLIGHT: 2025 ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION HISTORIC GATHERING: With an expected attendance of more than 17,000, one of the largest conventions in the city’s history is coming to Stampede Park, June 21–25, 2025. CORE SPACES: Main venues include BMO Centre, Saddledome, Rotary House and The Big Four Roadhouse, as well as GMC Stadium, Nashville North, Nutrien Western Event Centre and Grey Eagle Resort and Casino for Rotary’s Signature Events. CALGARY’S DRAW: “Calgary is a big city, with a small- town feel,” says Shannon Watson, director, meetings & events at Rotary International. “One item that really made Calgary stand out is that they are experienced at hosting international guests at large scale events like the Stampede every year, and that gave the site selection committee a lot of confidence in their ability to deliver the kind of experience we want for our attendees.” LOCAL SUPPORT: Watson notes that the city was motivated, with members who are capable and enthusiastic about helping to bring an extraordinary experience to life. “We’re fortunate in the confluence of a set of venues that works well for the kind of program we’d like to work with, a high quality membership base and host organizing committee as good partners with us, and a city that values hospitality and is an experienced international host.” Calgary TELUS Convention Centre Proof Cocktail Bar MILESTONE CELEBRATIONS Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC), Canada’s first purpose-built conference centre, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with activations and commemorative events in honour of its storied history and important contributions to the community. From hosting Canada’s first million-dollar charitable dinner and events tied to the 1988 Olympic Games, to welcoming world leaders, royalty and cultural icons, a new mural in the South Building highlights historical facts and influential moments from the last 50 years. Situated in the bustling downtown area, close to cultural attractions and an eclectic dining scene, the CTCC reflects the vibrancy of its surroundings. It offers more than 120,000 sq. ft. of event space and is directly connected to 1,100 hotel rooms, Calgary’s light rail transit system and the Plus 15 Skywalk Network— the 16-km elevated stretch of climate- controlled walkways. SUSTAINABLE CALGARY Committing to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, participating in the Global Destination Sustainability Index, protecting natural spaces and wildlife, delivering eco-friendly transit options, and encouraging local food sourcing and urban agriculture are just a few of the city’s sustainability initiatives. And their efforts have not gone unnoticed—Calgary earned a spot on Wanderlust Magazine’s 2024 Travel Green List, the only Canadian city to do so, which recognizes the top sustainable travel destinations in North America and the Caribbean. STAMPEDE HISTORY Sam Centre, now open at Stampede Park, celebrates the rich tapestry of stories, peoples and cultures that have shaped the Stampede. Visitors can experience the thrill of The Greatest Show on Earth all year long through engaging exhibits and memorabilia, historical artifacts and immersive digital displays. The Sam Centre is also a convenient location for offsite experiences located just steps from the BMO Centre. BEST OF THE BEST Calgary’s culinary scene is buzzing, with bars and restaurants being lauded for their inventive menus and welcoming vibes. Proof Cocktail Bar, number 10 on Canada’s 100 Best Bars list this year, offers artfully crafted cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere and curates custom menus for private events for up to 60. They can even teach your guests how to level-up their bartending skills with interactive classes. River Café, which serves up exquisitely prepared dishes that showcase local and seasonal ingredients, was number 23 on the Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list and made LA LISTE’s global list of Top 1000 Restaurants in 2024. The charming River Café is nestled in Prince’s Island Park—a picturesque natural oasis on an island in downtown Calgary. Full buyouts are available for standing receptions of 250 and seated dinners for 90. Sam Centre Sponsored Feature | Ignitemag.ca | 41