Are winter blues getting you and your boo down? Starting February 13th, 2021 you can experience the Chinook Blast— a stunning winter round-up of outdoor art installations and more! This is the perfect time for you and your love to get outside and enjoy some socially distanced beautification that will not only boost your mood but help get those positive endorphins flowing.
What to Expect Before You Arrive
Chinook Blast has worked side-by-side with local artists and Alberta Health Services to bring this experience to life while keeping Calgarians safe! As you walk through all of the installations, you can feel at ease knowing that this unique winter adventure has been designed to keep your health protected while allowing you to get out of the house and enjoy new and exciting scenery. Masks are required during your viewing experience and top-notch physical distancing measures are in place.
So you’re getting ready to head out but where do you go and when? From 3 PM to 9 PM for three weekends in a row starting on February 13th, you can visit The Hub in the downtown core. Jaw-dropping art and light installations are located throughout The Hub, from East Village to Municipal Plaza, Olympic Plaza, down Stephen Avenue and Barclay Mall (3rd Street SW). Also, be sure to explore the Partner Pop-Ups in surrounding neighbourhoods. Check out chinookblast.ca for more information and a helpful map.
You’re welcome to grab takeout coffees from nearby local businesses to warm you up as you gaze on the various art pieces and gorgeous light displays — perfect for snapping new content for the gram! Deville located on 1st SW and 8th Ave SW or Caffe Artigiano on 4th St SW are ideal spots to order tasty warm beverages and sweet treats for a cozy walk.
A good thing to note is that most public washrooms are currently unavailable so make sure you go at home!
Prepare appropriately by checking out all the Chinook Blast safety guidelines here.
The Perfect Valentine’s Date
Let’s face it, it’s been a hard time for everyone between working from home, being confined to constant at-home dates, and basically spending the bulk of your time between the same four walls. Sigh. It’s time for us to get real with each other because this monotony can take its toll on creativity and our mental health when it comes to our relationships and other key areas of life! And that’s OK. We know that things are different but this is your chance to spend time with your number one person and stimulate those feel-good endorphins and share in a new, encompassing experience.
Pro tip: plan to visit Chinook Blast with your love, get some fresh air, and then hit up your favourite restaurant! As restaurants are now open, try booking a reso in advance. Win big with your date this Valentine’s this year and don’t miss out on your chance to impress with an unforgettable experience!
Something New Every Weekend
The great thing about Chinook Blast is that every weekend is a little different, so if you attend all three weekends, you’ll experience three unique and captivating date nights with your partner or your cohort. Better still, Chinook Blast is FREE with only a few designated exhibits coming at a small cost! That’s right, this experience that’s going to give your mood, your relationships, and, of course, your Instagram feed the spice it’s been missing with amazing affordability!
It’s time to have good old fashioned FUN this winter and reconnect with YYC’s distinctly vibrant arts community. You’ll be able to experience something new while being comforted by the fact that all activities have been AHS approved. That’s a win-win!
Click here for more info and follow @chinookblast on Instagram to keep up with their amazing initiatives, artwork, and viewing experience.
