Calgary was buzzing with activity this past weekend, as Postmedia photographers captured a diverse array of events across the city. From educational pursuits to athletic competitions and quirky community gatherings, the city showcased its dynamic spirit.
Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction Kicks Off the Weekend
The weekend's festivities began on Thursday, April 9, 2026, with the Calgary Stampede Canvas Auction at the Big Four Roadhouse. This crucial fundraising event supports 27 invited chuckwagon drivers and their teams for the upcoming 10-day Stampede celebration and the season ahead.
Olivia Chung performed the national anthem to start the auction, which saw enthusiastic bidding throughout the evening. Notable moments included Ryan Robb of the Stoney Nakoda Nations celebrating his winning bid, and Layne MacGillivray of Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick securing a bid of $475,000. Auctioneer Rob Bergevin kept the energy high as chuckwagon drivers received awards and Heidi Lindgren of Bar L5 Ranch and MVA Group of Companies was recognized as the highest bidder.
Calgary Youth Science Fair Inspires Innovation
On Friday and Saturday, the Calgary Youth Science Fair took center stage at the Olympic Oval, welcoming over 800 students in Grades 5 to 12. These young scientists presented innovative projects, competing for awards and a chance to advance to the Canada-Wide Science Fair in May.
Notable Projects and Presentations
- Mia White and Blake Todd explored zombie fungi, while Rasha Shukeir and Avah Jadavji presented "Breaking Up with Plastic," focusing on bioplastics in daily life.
- Laura Kaastra and Alisha Wong showcased a low-cost rover inspired by an episode of the Magic School Bus, aiming to help people with affordable technology.
- Sophia Chan presented findings on an indoor grocery garden, and Rashadat Sagiyev and Maria Krasnikova studied Radon gas in homes, motivated by a friend's experience with radon poisoning and lung cancer.
- Erika Langenbacher demonstrated "Solar for the Modern Home," and Sahil Kiran investigated UV damage resistance in yeast with his project "RAY-SISTANCE Can Yeast Outrun UV Damage."
- Astrophysicist Jeroen Stil shared fascinating facts about Artemis II's return to Earth, and Mayada Shahada engaged students in mathematical reasoning.
On Saturday, additional projects were highlighted, including Aiden Bell's "Targeting MHC-1 Deficiency in Cancer" and Allen Guo-Lu and Luotong Shi's robotic tail designed to help people with Parkinson's stabilize while walking.
Cavalry FC Returns to Action
Soccer fans had plenty to cheer about as Cavalry FC returned to the pitch. On Friday, the team held a practice session where veteran Sergio Camargo, the last remaining original team member, had some fun with photographers and teammate Daan Klomp. Players like Ali Musse, Harry Paton, and Nathan Ingham warmed up, while assistant coach Nik Ledgerwood chatted with striker Tobias Warschewski.
The action continued on Sunday with Cavalry FC's home opener against Atletico Ottawa at ATCO Field in Spruce Meadows. Harry Paton and Daan Klomp scored first-half goals, with celebrations involving teammates like Amer Didic and Adam Pearlman. The match saw intense moments, including Tobias Warschewski taking on Ottawa keeper Tristan Crampton and Ballou Tabla tripping up Harry Paton.
Dinosaur Costume Record Attempt at University of Calgary
In a lighter moment, hundreds of people gathered at the University of Calgary on Saturday in dinosaur costumes, aiming to set a Guinness World Record for the largest such gathering. Participants like Erin Kaipainen and Mark Everaert, along with kids Miikka and Niiko, added to the festive atmosphere. A dog even joined the crowd, standing among the costumed attendees as they hoped to make history.
SAIT Round Dance Celebrates Indigenous Culture
Also on Saturday, the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology hosted a round dance, featuring Indigenous drummers performing at the center. This cultural event highlighted the rich heritage of the community, with multiple performances captured by photographers.
Weekend Weather and Scenes
Amidst the events, a cyclist was seen riding through sleet along Calgary's RiverWalk on Sunday, April 12, 2026, reminding everyone of the city's unpredictable spring weather. Despite the chill, the weekend was filled with warmth from community engagement and shared experiences.
Overall, Calgary's weekend was a testament to its vibrant community spirit, blending education, sports, culture, and fun in a series of memorable events.
