Top 12 Interactive and Fun Activities You Can Do with Friends in Calgary
Top 12 Interactive and Fun Activities You Can Do with Friends in Calgary.
Looking for the perfect place to hang out with friends, have fun, and make lasting memories? Look no further than Y Not Today Boardgame and Bingsu Cafe! This lively and welcoming spot offers a variety of interactive activities that will bring you and your friends closer while keeping you entertained. Here are the top 7 must-try activities that will make every visit unforgettable:
1. Seasonal activities
Winter:
- Play shinny – Enjoy a casual hockey game at one of Calgary’s many outdoor rinks, like Olympic Plaza or Bowness Park.
- Go skating – Try ice skating at Prince’s Island Park or the Bowness Lagoon.
- Hit the slopes – Visit Canada Olympic Park for skiing, snowboarding, or tubing.
Spring:
- Explore local parks – Stroll through Prince’s Island Park or the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary as nature comes back to life.
- Check out the Calgary Zoo – Spring is a great time to see baby animals and enjoy blooming gardens.
- Enjoy all multicultural festivals – Calgary has lots of festivals for you to explore like Lilac, Global Fest, Latin, Filipino, etc.
Summer:
- Play golf – Calgary has great courses like Shaganappi Point Golf Course and Confederation Park Golf Course.
- Go rafting on the Bow River – A must-do summer activity! Rent a raft and float down from Bowness Park to Prince’s Island Park.
- Visit the Calgary Stampede – Experience “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” in July.
Autumn:
- Take fall photos – Capture the golden larch trees in Kananaskis or the vibrant colors at Nose Hill Park.
- Visit a pumpkin patch – Check out Cobb’s Adventure Park or Butterfield Acres.
- Attend Halloween events – Try ScreamFest, Haunted Calgary, or ghost tours in Inglewood.
2. Neon Paint Night – Light Up Your Creativity!
Neon Paint Night is not your typical art class. It’s an immersive experience where you paint with vibrant, glow-in-the-dark colors under UV lighting. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a complete beginner, this event is designed to be fun, stress-free, and full of surprises.
Let your artistic side shine at Neon Paint Night, a vibrant and fun-filled evening where you can create glowing masterpieces under blacklight. Happening every evening from 6-8 PM, this event provides all the materials you need, courtesy of the talented artist leading the session. All you have to do is bring your enthusiasm and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just a beginner, this is the perfect way to express yourself and have an amazing time with friends!
3. Play outdoor sports
Strengthen your friendships by playing outdoor sports! Enjoy fresh air, teamwork, and friendly competition with activities like soccer, basketball, frisbee, or beach volleyball. Stay active, have fun, and create lasting memories with your friends!
Stanley Park is a convenient spot for travel and a great place to meet new people. With its scenic views, outdoor activities, and accessible location, it’s perfect for socializing, exploring nature, and enjoying recreational fun with friends.
4. Boardgame Nights – Play, Connect, and Have a Blast!
Nothing brings people together like a great board game! Boardgame Nights happen twice a week—Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 PM and Saturdays from 1:30-4:30 PM. Whether you’re bringing your own crew or looking to join in with regular players, this event is all about strategy, laughter, and building new friendships. With a fantastic selection of games to choose from, you’re guaranteed a fun-filled night of competition and camaraderie!
What to Expect at Y Not Today Weekly Board Games Event
– A Wide Selection of Games – From classic favorites to modern strategy games, we have something for everyone.
– Perfect Atmosphere – Our cozy and artistic environment makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed game night.
– Meet New People – Connect with fellow board game lovers in a friendly, engaging atmosphere.
5. Karaoke Night – Hit the High Notes!
Love to sing? Or maybe just enjoy listening to others belt out their favorite tunes? Karaoke Night is your time to shine!Happening every Thursday, this lively event invites you to grab a mic, sing your heart out, and cheer on your friends. Whether you’re a pop diva, a rockstar, or just someone who loves a good duet, this is the perfect place to have fun and let loose!
6. Organize a day trip to Banff
Living in Calgary has its perks, and one of the biggest is how close you are to the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park. Just an hour and a half away, Banff makes for the perfect day trip, offering breathtaking hikes, fresh mountain air, and a chance to connect with friends through nature. Whether you’re looking for a short scenic hike or a full-day adventure, Banff has something for everyone.
Here are some recommended trails you can do in 4-5 hours round trip
- Tunnel Mountain
- Johnston Canyon
- Lake Agnes Tea House
- Sulphur Mountain
Hiking isn’t just about the exercise – it’s about the memories you make along the way. Whether it’s taking fun group photos, playing trail games, or simply having deep conversations while walking, nature has a way of bringing people closer together.
7. Chess Night – Test Your Wits!
Chess isn’t just a game—it’s a battle of the minds, a test of patience, and an endless source of fun. Whether you’re a casual player looking for a friendly match or a serious competitor aiming to sharpen your skills, Calgary has plenty of places to play chess.
Are you a chess master or just getting started? Either way, Chess Night is the perfect place to test your skills and challenge your friends! Happening every Friday from 5-8 PM, this event offers the chance to compete with experienced players or learn from others who are new to the game. Whether you’re aiming for checkmate or just looking for a fun mental workout, this is the ideal way to sharpen your mind and enjoy great company.
Located in the heart of Calgary, Y Not Today Board game cafe is more than just a café—it’s a community hub for board game lovers, artists, and chess enthusiasts.
8. Play puzzles and have a sip of bubble tea
There’s something magical about sitting down with friends, solving puzzles together, and chatting over a refreshing sip of bubble tea. Whether it’s the intricate twists of Hanayama puzzles, the timeless beauty of wooden brain teasers, or the challenge of a tricky brain teaser, these interactive puzzles are perfect for bonding. Plus, nothing quite complements a relaxing puzzle session like a cup of bubble tea, making it the perfect opportunity to unwind, talk, and have fun with your closest friends.
When solving a puzzle, you’ll often need to communicate with your friends to exchange ideas, strategies, and insights. This makes puzzles a great way to promote teamwork. As you collaborate on finding the solution, you’ll learn more about how each person thinks, leading to better communication and stronger bonds.
Now, let’s talk about the ultimate companion to your puzzle-solving sessions: bubble tea. This delightful drink is a perfect way to relax and refresh during your puzzle breaks.Bubble tea, with its chewy tapioca pearls and flavorful blends, is the ultimate comfort drink. As you work through puzzles, a sip of bubble tea can help you relax and recharge. It’s the ideal way to cool down and take a break while still enjoying your time with friends.
9. Walk around downtown
Explore Art & Architecture 🎨🏙️
- Walk along Stephen Avenue to see murals and sculptures.
- Visit the Wonderland Sculpture at The Bow for a cool photo.
- Check out the Calgary Central Library, a stunning modern building.
- Explore the East Village for street art and hidden gems.
Discover Shortcuts & New Buildings 🚶♂️🏗️
- Walk through old favorite spots and see what has changed.
- Explore new pathways and shortcuts between buildings.
- Check out new skyscrapers and urban developments.
Recall Old Memories 🏫💭
- Visit places that remind you of past experiences.
- Share stories with friends about high school days.
- Find an old favorite café or hangout spot.
10. Old friends reunion
Plan the Meeting
- Choose a Date & Time – Pick a date that works for most friends. A weekend or evening might be best.
- Select a Location – Your home, a café, a park, or even Y Not Today if you want a cozy spot with games!
- Send Invitations – Create a group chat or send a message with all the details.
Prepare Some Treats
- Bake Cookies – Try classic chocolate chip, oatmeal, or sugar cookies. You can also add fun decorations!
- Bring Drinks – Offer coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a warm and welcoming vibe.
Make It Fun
- Play Games – Board games or card games can help bring back old memories.
- Share Memories – Bring old yearbooks or photos to spark nostalgia.
- Catch Up on News – Go around and share life updates, funny stories, and future plans.
Capture the Moment
Take photos together and maybe even start a new tradition of meeting up more often!
11. Rediscovering an Old Hobby: Learning Crochet Again
Life gets busy, and sometimes we leave behind hobbies we once loved. But revisiting those old passions can bring immense joy, nostalgia, and even new friendships. Whether it’s picking up your crochet hooks again or enrolling in an art class, reconnecting with creativity can be both fulfilling and socially rewarding.
Crochet is one of those hobbies that is easy to pick up again. It’s a relaxing, hands-on activity that allows you to create beautiful pieces while unwinding. Whether you used to make scarves or intricate doilies, starting again is simpler than you think.
Art has a unique way of bringing people together. If you’re looking to expand your social circle, an art class can be the perfect solution.
Finding the Right Art Class for You
Community Centers & Workshops: Local classes are a great way to meet like-minded individuals.
Online vs. In-Person: Choose based on your comfort level and schedule.
Medium of Interest: Painting, pottery, or even digital art—find what excites you!
It’s natural to feel hesitant about restarting a hobby. The key is to embrace imperfection and enjoy the journey. Small progress is still progress, and connecting with fellow hobbyists can be incredibly motivating.
12. Check out local bakeries and try yummy boston cream donuts
Over the years, Calgary has seen a shift from mass-produced baked goods to artisan creations made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Many local bakeries focus on using organic flours, locally sourced dairy, and unique flavors to create one-of-a-kind treats. Whether you prefer traditional bread-making techniques or modern twists on classic desserts, Calgary’s bakeries have something for everyone.
Top Local Bakeries to Visit
- Sidewalk Citizen Bakery
- Alforno Bakery & Café
- Yann Haute Patisserie
- Glamorgan Bakery
- Black Sheep Pâtisserie
Conclusion – Maximum Fun, Minimal Cost!
At Y Not Today Boardgame and Bingsu Cafe, there’s always something fun to do! Even better, events like Boardgame Night, Karaoke Night, Canasta Night, and Chess Night are free to join—all you need is a minimum purchase of $6 per person to keep the fun going. So, gather your friends, grab your favorite drink, and dive into a world of games, creativity, and unforgettable memories!
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