Calgary's Tourism Chief Envisions City's Next Million Residents
By Alisha Reynolds
Published February 21, 2026
A genuine sense of place extends beyond mere visual impressions; it encompasses the emotions and experiences that residents and visitors encounter. Calgary, according to Tourism Calgary President and CEO Alisha Reynolds, radiates the palpable energy of a city poised on the brink of significant transformation. Reynolds contributes her insights as part of a virtual think-tank associated with the Postmedia Calgary initiative, Countdown to 2 Million.
The Driving Forces Behind Travel to Calgary
People embark on journeys for a multitude of reasons: culinary delights, romantic pursuits, family reunions, cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, restorative breaks, aesthetic appreciation, business engagements, and countless other motivations. In 2025, nearly nine million individuals selected Calgary as their destination for one or more of these compelling reasons.
With over 110 direct flight destinations accessible through Calgary International Airport, the city stands as the most interconnected mid-size urban center in North America. Selecting Calgary has never been more straightforward or enticing. The visitor economy, valued at an impressive $3 billion, currently provides employment for 84,000 Calgarians and energizes thousands of local businesses. Among the tens of thousands of cities worldwide, Calgary secured a position within the top 100 on the prestigious World’s Best Cities Report last year. This forward momentum feels akin to a warm, welcoming chinook wind sweeping across the prairies.
Approaching a Monumental Milestone
Calgary is rapidly approaching a demographic milestone that speaks volumes about its evolution: two million residents. What originated as a modest prairie outpost has transformed into one of North America’s most rapidly expanding and dynamic metropolitan areas. This vibrant energy is perceptible throughout the city:
- In the bustling activity of the downtown core
- Amid the construction cranes dotting the skyline
- Through the confident demeanor of a city fully embracing its potential
The most remarkable aspect is that Calgary is not merely expanding in size; it is ambitiously dreaming and constructing a superior urban environment. Several landmark projects underscore this commitment:
- The new BMO Centre establishes Calgary as home to the nation’s second-largest convention facility.
- Scotia Place is ascending as a next-generation arena, destined to serve as the cornerstone of the emerging Culture + Entertainment District.
- The Werklund Centre is materializing as a vibrant celebration of artistic expression, cultural richness, and community engagement, reinforcing downtown Calgary’s revitalization.
- The cherished Glenbow Museum is undergoing a profound transformation, poised to reopen as a rejuvenated cultural institution of immense influence.
- WestJet recently announced its 100th direct destination from YYC to São Paulo, Brazil, boldly proclaiming Calgary’s global connectivity and openness to international engagement.
These initiatives represent far more than mere construction projects; they are powerful declarations of intent. Calgary is pulsating with potential, collectively believing in, building toward, and evolving into an even more remarkable city.
The Pervasive Energy of Community and Culture
This dynamic energy permeates every corner of Calgary. While global news headlines may induce uncertainty, Calgary remains steadfast in its commitment to kindness, meaningful connections, and community solidarity. There exists a universal desire to participate in something positive and uplifting.
This sentiment manifests vividly along the Bow River pathways, bustling with cyclists, and on the joyful faces of couples sharing a Peters’ Drive-In milkshake while observing the sunset over the downtown skyline from Crescent Heights. It resonates within vibrant neighborhoods such as Inglewood, Kensington, and the Beltline, where craft breweries, live musical performances, and culinary innovation flourish. And, of course, the Calgary Stampede endures as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, reminding residents and visitors alike that while the city accelerates toward the future, it remains deeply rooted in its distinctive heritage and identity.
It comes as no surprise that both visitors and locals hold profound affection for this remarkable place. Somewhere out there, a fortunate individual awaits the honor of becoming Calgary’s two-millionth resident and Flames fan. The city has navigated economic cycles of prosperity and challenge, wearing its lived-in Wrangler jeans with authentic pride. Calgary has evolved, diversified its economy, and courageously reimagined its trajectory. However, one fundamental truth persists: growth alone does not define an exceptional city. It is the collective belief in its potential and future that truly shapes its greatness.
