Jane’s Walk, a global movement celebrating community-led walking conversations, is set to return for its second year under the management of The Federation of Calgary Communities.
Inspired by the activism of Jane Jacobs, Jane’s Walk fosters free walking tours led by community members, aiming to reclaim streets for the betterment of neighbourhoods.
Jane’s Walk is a great way for people to meet their neighbours and promote their community,” said Adam Schwartz, community activator and Jane’s Walk Coordinator.
“And to share the stories of the place we live here in Calgary,” he said.
Jane’s Walk has become a global sensation, with Calgary’s event ranking as the third largest globally, behind only Toronto and New York, said Schwartz.
Jane’s Walk Calgary welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, offering diverse walking tours across the city. From poetry walks to historical explorations and garage art tours, the event promises something for everyone.
“The festival has grown into something people look forward to, and just kind of rely on at the start of spring,” said Schwartz.
“It gets people out which gets people connected. And there’s always new walks every year, which is fun as well.”
Diverse Walks Offered in Jane’s Walk Calgary 2024
In 2017, there were 1,700 Jane’s Walks held across 225 cities worldwide, covering 37 countries and 6 continents, according to the Jane’s Walk website.
The movement has grown steadily each year to include more than 500 cities.
Some of the walks this year include the Historic Walking Tour of Old Main Street Bowness, Public Art at the University of Calgary and The Calgary that Could Have Been.
For those considering hosting a walk, Schwartz recommends keeping it simple.
“It can just be a walk that gets people together and gets the conversation going,” said Schwartz.
“It doesn’t necessarily have to be strictly a history walk. It can be anything that your mind can think of to get people out and involved in talking to each other.”
Participants can register up to 24 hours before a walk. Individuals and organizations interested in leading walks during Jane’s Walk Calgary are encouraged to register by the April 28th deadline.
Each walk is free and participants can register at https://janeswalk.calgarycommunities.com/join-a-walk/
