With many of the festivals and other summer events cancelled, Inglewood has announced new summer programs for Calgarians. 

Rebecca O’Brien, Executive Director with the Inglewood BIA said COVID-19 has forced most of the community’s annual events like Sunfest and monthly night markets to be put on hiatus for the year.

The Inglewood Business Improvement Area (BIA) will provide entertainment featuring local artists and a movie under the stars.

O’Brien said they want to bring people together.

“It’s really just about placemaking, bringing people in and allowing people to feel connected while also respecting physical distancing,” she said.

“Art and culture we know is essential right now in elevating the spirits.”

Programming is both COVID-19 regulation-dependent and weather permitting

There will be a movie this weekend and music through July. All events will take place in and around Gopher Park. It’s located on the corner of 11 Street and 11 Avenue SE.

On July 4 at 9 p.m., the park will be screening the 1986 film Down by Law.

Popcorn and drinks will be available for purchase at the park. 

The evening movie is allowing an audience maximum of 50 people and social distancing will be in effect. 

Saturday evening’s screening will be first come first serve, until the maximum capacity is met.

If weather doesn’t cooperate, the events will be cancelled.

Inglewood to be filled with music

Inglewood residents’ ears will soon be filled with the sound of bongo drums.

Every Sunday morning in July, local band The Motherhuggers will play at the park.

On July 11 and July 18 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., cellist Shirley Wright will perform at the park.

Wright’s performance will feature early Italian composers.

O’Brien said she listened to a lot of classical music during the pandemic and is excited for others to hear some great music.

“It’s really just so beautiful to listen to a piano or a cello, and just, you know, escape from some of the harshness of COVID,” she said.

Local businesses are back in action

Many of Inglewood’s businesses have reopened and are excited to welcome back customers. 

A number of restaurants have added pop-up patios to encourage people to explore the neighbourhood. 

O’Brien said all the BIAs worked with the City of Calgary to find a solution to physical distancing rules.

She said the city helped businesses create a temporary space that works for everyone.

“It really slows the traffic down. It brings a lot of vibrancy to the street, and it allows people to practice physical distancing and still go out and enjoy the neighborhood and support the businesses,” said O’Brien.