Calgary doesn’t enjoy the same level of tourist popularity as Toronto, but it unquestionably stands out for its exceptional quality of life and breathtaking landscapes. The city offers the vibrant energy of a major metropolis combined with the warm, welcoming spirit of a close-knit community. For most Canadians, Calgary is often associated with oil, beer, and cowboy hats. However, there are many things about the city that not only visitors but even its residents might not know. Here are 10 fascinating facts about Calgary, as highlighted on icalgary.
1. The Caesar Cocktail Was Invented in Calgary
It may come as a surprise to many, but the Caesar cocktail was invented in Calgary. In 1969, Walter Chell, the manager of the Italian restaurant Marco’s, created this unique cocktail to commemorate the restaurant’s opening. At the time, he likely had no idea that the Caesar would become Canada’s national cocktail, gaining immense popularity not just across the country but also in parts of the United States.
2. Ginger Beef Was Also Created Here
Calgary’s culinary creativity didn’t stop at cocktails. In the 1970s, George Wong, a chef at the Silver Inn restaurant, wanted to attract more attention to his family business. This led to the invention of ginger beef, a dish that combines bold flavors with a unique Canadian-Chinese fusion. It has since become internationally recognized and loved.
3. Canada’s Sunniest City
Despite its challenging winters, Calgary has an undeniable advantage: it’s the sunniest city in Canada. Residents endure bitterly cold temperatures, including a record low of -45°C on February 4, 1893. However, the city’s abundant sunshine provides some compensation. Calgary is brighter and sunnier than Vancouver, which many might mistakenly believe to hold this title. For context, June is typically Calgary’s rainiest month, while January is the coldest.
4. Nature’s Gift: Chinook Winds
One of Calgary’s unique weather phenomena is the Chinook wind, which makes the harsh winter months more bearable. The Chinook, a warm and dry southwestern wind, occurs when moist air loses its humidity while crossing mountain ranges, resulting in significantly warmer conditions as it descends into the prairies. A strong Chinook can melt up to 30 cm of snow in just a day and can raise winter temperatures from -20°C to +10°C. The word “Chinook” translates to “snow-eater,” reflecting its impact. Calgary experiences Chinooks more frequently than other regions, offering much-needed respite during the cold season. While there’s a belief that Chinooks can trigger migraines, scientific studies suggest insufficient evidence to confirm this link.
5. Over 700 km of Bike Paths
Calgary’s love for cycling has made it a Canadian leader in bike-friendly infrastructure, with over 700 km of bike paths throughout the city. Residents embrace cycling as a popular mode of transportation, and the city government supports this with maps, updates on road closures, safety tips, and educational initiatives designed to encourage biking while ensuring rider safety.
6. Diverse and Young Population
The 2016 census revealed that 477,780 Calgarians identified as visible minorities or Indigenous Canadians, highlighting the city’s rich diversity. Calgary also boasts a youthful demographic, with a median age of 37.6 years in 2021. Over 120 languages are spoken in the city, reflecting the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines its population. A significant portion of this diverse community includes Ukrainians, a common presence across Canada.
7. Naheed Nenshi: Canada’s First Muslim Mayor
Naheed Nenshi, born in Toronto but raised in Calgary, made history by becoming Canada’s first Muslim mayor. He was also the first Muslim mayor of any major North American city. In 2013, Nenshi was recognized as the second most influential Canadian after Prime Minister Stephen Harper. His innovative approach to urban planning earned him accolades such as the Young Global Leader Award from the World Economic Forum and the World Mayor Prize in 2014, making him the first Canadian mayor to receive this honor.
8. The World’s Cleanest City
Calgary has consistently ranked as one of the cleanest cities in the world. Despite its reputation as Canada’s oil hub, the city has maintained its status by excelling in areas such as waste management, air quality control, and clean water access. Strict measures, such as fines for littering, and programs like Alberta’s Too Good to Waste initiative launched in 2007, have been instrumental in promoting environmental sustainability. Calgary is also home to numerous eco-friendly businesses and environmental organizations that contribute to its reputation.
9. Host of Canada’s First Winter Olympics
In September 1981, Calgary won the bid to host the 1988 Winter Olympics, marking the first time Canada hosted the Winter Games. The event brought international attention to the city, with iconic venues like the Scotiabank Saddledome and Canada Olympic Park constructed specifically for the occasion. While Canada didn’t win a gold medal, the games significantly boosted the city’s economy and established Calgary as a tourist destination.
10. Calgary Stampede: The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth
The Calgary Stampede is a world-famous 10-day rodeo festival, often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Dating back to 1886, when the first agricultural fair was held, the Stampede has grown into an annual celebration that attracts over a million visitors from around the globe. Featuring rodeo competitions, parades, concerts, exhibitions, and more, it has become a symbol of Calgary’s culture and heritage.