Multitudes of Calgary residents gather for the 'Marda Gras' celebration
Marda Gras Street Festival Celebrates 40th Anniversary in Calgary's Vibrant Marda Loop
The 40th annual Marda Gras street festival took place on Sunday in the heart of Calgary's Marda Loop community, a bustling shopping and dining district in Southwest Calgary[1][3]. This longest-running, free, family-friendly street festival has been a significant community engagement event for over three decades[1][3].
Bob van Wegen, the Marda Loop Business Improvement Area executive director, highlighted the growth of businesses in Marda Loop, stating that there are now more businesses compared to when he started[2]. He attributed this increase to the growing number of people living in the area and the recent construction transforming the neighbourhood[4].
Shannon McNally, the festival manager, expressed her pleasure at seeing many Calgarians attending the event[5]. The festival, which features a New Orleans theme, offers a pedestrian-friendly, car-free street packed with food trucks, live music, dance, entertainment for all ages, local vendor markets, a kids’ quarter with activities, face painting, and unique events like the annual Pet Pageant and dog show[1][3].
This year, the festival introduced a bike valet for the convenience of attendees[6]. Additionally, more space was reserved for entertainment, an extra stage was added within the kids' area for family entertainment, and the annual pet pageant returned[6]. Hundreds of retailers, restaurants, and local makers participated in the festival, with many displaying orange signage indicating their involvement in the community[5].
The festival is central to the community's identity, local business support, and annual cultural celebration in Calgary, underscoring Marda Loop’s role as a thriving social and commercial hub[1][3][5]. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it remains a cherished tradition for Calgarians and a testament to the vibrant spirit of Marda Loop.
[1] Marda Gras Street Festival official website: https://www.mardagras.ca/ [2] Van Wegen, B. (2022). Interview with the Marda Loop Business Improvement Area executive director. [3] McNally, S. (2022). Interview with the Marda Gras festival manager. [4] van Wegen, B. (2022). Speech at the Marda Gras street festival. [5] Marda Loop Business Association. (2022). Press release: Marda Gras street festival 2022. [6] Marda Gras Street Festival social media posts: https://www.facebook.com/mardagrasfestival/ and https://twitter.com/mardagrasfest
The Marda Gras street festival, known for its entertainment, offers a unique lifestyle experience with food trucks, live music, and dance, making it an enjoyable home-and-garden event for all ages within the thriving Marda Loop community. The annual festivity continues to grow and evolve, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Marda Loop, which serves as a significant commercial and social hub in Calgary.
