May at Alcove

We had a very busy April, and May is shaping up to be just as exciting! We’ve got a fresh lineup of programs ready for you to explore, create, and experiment.

Check out the programs calendar below to see what’s coming up.

We’re Hiring! Programs Coordinator - Summer Position

Did you know that Alcove has a LinkedIn page? Click the embedded link below to check out our feed, stay informed about the latest updates, and apply for our newest Canada Summer Jobs posting!

ARTIST2ARTIST: Grant Writing Workshop w/ Dennis

About: Dennis Lee is a Calgary-based grant writer, photographer, and community arts organizer. He’s the Co-founder of Alcove Centre for the Arts and founder of Alcove Photo Club, where he focuses on creating accessible, community-driven opportunities for artists. Over the past few years, he’s helped secure over $1 million in funding for arts and community projects, while also supporting his own creative practice through grants. He’s passionate about making grant writing feel more approachable and practical, and regularly shares what he’s learned through workshops with artists and nonprofits.

• The workshop is admission by donation! Suggested $20 - $30 to support facilitator fees and supplies.

• Registration on Eventbrite required.

• Ages 12+ recommended

This workshop is graciously funded by Calgary Arts Development.

• Free event!

• Drop-in, no registration required

• All Ages

This program is graciously funded by the City of Calgary.

Clock Out! Your Creative Escape: Beats & Crafts ft. DJ Dex One

Do you work or live downtown? Need to step away from the stress of everyday life? Looking for a quick midday reset?

Clock Out! Your Creative Escape is a fun, casual monthly drop-in series open to anyone looking to pause, create, and recharge. Happening every third Wednesday, each session offers a low-pressure creative break designed to fit within the hour. Whether you're clocked out for lunch, exploring the area, or visiting Alcove, join us for hands-on art activities, live music, and artist talks. Plus, complimentary coffee and refreshments are provided!

This month, we're hosting a crafts day with clay, paint markers, yarn, and more while DJ Dex One performs!

• Free admission

• Drop-ins are welcome, but registration is encouraged on Eventbrite

• All Ages

Alcove Beltline Thrift Market

• Free admission

• Drop-in, no registration required

• All ages welcome

Open House Punk Show ft. Haze Fridge & The Petty Larceneers

• Free admission

• Drop-in, no registration required

• All ages welcome

This program is graciously funded by the City of Calgary.

Best Way to Support Us? The 2026 Alcove Community Card!

One small card. Big local impact.

For just $30, unlock exclusive perks at 63+ local cafés, bookstores, breweries, studios, galleries, and more — all while directly supporting Calgary’s creative community. Here’s what you get:

✨ Discounts across the city
✨ Access to our quarterly Creatives Mixer
✨ Insider arts podcast from our Executive Director, Bethel
✨ Year-round creative perks

Every card fuels free & by-donation programs, helps us pay 100+ artists annually, and sustains Western Canada’s first and only recreational arts space.

The perfect local, impact-driven gift (yes, even for yourself).

Take a look at our amazing sponsors below!

We also have discounted Team Packages available! Email [email protected] for details.

Valid January 1–December 31, 2026.

Buy yours at our front desk during regular hours!

Help Us Make Calgary’s Creative Scene Thrive!

• If you’re able, consider making a donation! Donations help fuel our mission to provide a full-time space where people can cultivate their creativity and build meaningful connections within our community. Donations over $20 are eligible for a tax receipt. 

• Snag a 2026 Community Card — Treat yourself or a friend to an all-access pass to special offers and creative experiences in Calgary for $30! Every purchase helps support local businesses AND accessible arts programming in Calgary!

• Bring Alcove to Work — Does your workplace support local arts and culture? Whether it’s through an employee giving campaign or a corporate donation, your workplace can help fuel creativity in Calgary. Email [email protected] and let’s chat!

• Show Up & Get Creative — Swing by during drop-in hours, join a workshop, or check out one of our events. When you show up, you support local artists and help build community. Click here for our program schedule. 

Alcove belongs to all of us — thanks for being part of it!

*Friendly reminder to guests that hot food is not permitted in the space, with exceptions during special events. This is to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the recreational art space.

*Parking in the loading zone by the back door is NOT permitted. It can only be used for unloading or drop-offs.

About Us
The Alcove Centre for the Arts is a charity located in Calgary (Alcove Core - 244 7th Avenue SW & Alcove Beltline - 1040 8 St SW). Our aim is to make the arts accessible through pay-what-you-can events and art workshops. We believe that art and creativity are integral to the human experience and in building vibrant and dynamic communities.

Visiting Us
Affordable parking for Alcove Core is located at: TD Core’s Underground Parkade (745 4 St SW, Calgary, AB T2P 4K9). It has free 3-hour parking after 3pm on Weekdays, and a flat rate of $2 for longer. There is free 3-hour parking all day on Weekends, with a $2 flat rate for longer. If you are taking Calgary Transit, we are just across the street from 3rd Street Station.