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- Cowboys on skis and Calgary's race to 2 million
Cowboys on skis and Calgary's race to 2 million
Plus a French bar with Lactaid
From Calgary
February 20, 2026
Before jumping into today’s edition, I want your help. I have had the name Cowtown Crew (CowntownCrew .com) rattling around in my brain for the past few months. I also have a bunch of cool local design and merch ideas around the name, “Cowntown Crew.” So, let’s put it to a vote! Make your voice heard by clicking on the name you think this newsletter should be called going forward:
What Should This Newsletter Be Called Going Forward? |
Top 3 Stories
📈 Calgary's Countdown to 2 Million
Remember when planners thought it would take Calgary 60 to 70 years to double from one million to two million people? That was 2009. Just 17 years later, the city is on the cusp of hitting that milestone. A Conference Board of Canada report projects Calgary will reach two million residents by around 2029-30. The Calgary Herald has launched an eight-week series exploring what this breakneck growth means for housing, affordability, transportation, safety, and the opportunities that come with it. As Mayor Jeromy Farkas put it, that growth is "a vote of confidence" in Calgary, "but it's also a responsibility to be ready." The series will feature a virtual think-tank of three dozen civic leaders and welcomes reader input.
🎭 Theatre Calgary's World Premiere Musical Opens Tonight
Theatre Calgary hosts the world premiere of The Tale of the Gifted Prince tonight, featuring an all-Asian cast from across Canada and the U.S. The musical, more than a decade in the making, is based on Lloyd Alexander's 1991 novel The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen Yahoo and follows a young prince armed with five humble gifts on a quest to save his father's throne. The production features Broadway and West End veterans, including director-choreographer Darren Lee (who recently starred as the King of Siam in The King and I) and stars Kelvin Moon Loh, Ma-Anne Dionisio, and Kennedy Kanagawa. As Lee puts it, there are very few Asian musicals on the major stage, making this one especially meaningful. The show runs at the Max Bell Theatre through March 15. Tickets at theatrecalgary.com.
🏠 City Invests $29.3 Million to Create 566 Affordable Homes
Calgary is putting serious money behind its housing crunch. The city announced $29.3 million in funding awarded to six non-profit organizations for eight non-market housing projects that will deliver approximately 566 new homes. Combined with round one projects announced in May 2025, the investment fulfills council's direction for a total of $60 million in housing capital. Separately, another $10.3 million from the federal Housing Accelerator Fund will convert nearly 100,000 square feet of vacant downtown office space into 128 additional non-market homes. The announcements come on the heels of a record year. Calgary granted occupancy to nearly 28,000 new homes in 2025, more than double the city's 10-year annual average.
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🍽️ Feature Restaurant: Francine's
Location: 306 Centre Street S. (Chinatown)
Vibe: Petit French Bar, Intimate & Indulgent
When it's -24°C outside, few things hit like a dimly lit room, a well-made cocktail, and a plate of something rich and French. That's the whole idea behind Francine's, a "petit French bar" that just opened in January in the heart of Calgary's Chinatown, and it's already one of the hardest tables in town to get.
The concept comes from chef Garrett Martin and bar manager Nate Wry, who first made their names helping launch Major Tom with the Concorde Group. After years of dreaming about going out on their own, they tested the waters with a six-month pop-up inside the Meat & Bread sandwich shop in 2024. The response was overwhelming, and the hunt for a permanent home began. They landed in a former herbal medicine store on Centre Street, which they transformed into a chic, 48-seat space with an open kitchen in the back and a long bar up front where you can watch Wry work his magic. They even kept wallpaper from the original shop as a nod to the building's cultural roots.
The menu is small and intentional. Cheese puffs are a must-order, the steamed cheeseburgers with brie are dangerously good, and the comté and honey ice-cream French toast might be the best dessert in the city (they offer a Lactaid pill on the menu… that's how much cheese we're talking about). Drinks-wise: fennel martini, crepe suzette old-fashioned, and their signature Francine's 75.
Pro Tip: Francine's is open weekdays for lunch and dinner, and Saturdays from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. The 48 seats fill up fast — book a table by texting 403-471-6776. Sitting at the bar is the move if you're flying solo or want the full show. Book a table
SUPPORT FROM CALGARY
From Calgary is 100% free and independently owned and operated (heck, it’s just me!). Your contributions go toward keeping the From Calgary going so we can have more fun and build more community. I appreciate any and all support, my friends! When you support From Calgary, I’ll send you some exclusive stickers to show my appreciation!
Thank you, Brent
REPORT
🌤️ 7-Day Weather Forecast
FRI | SAT | SUN | MON | TUE | WED | THU |
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CALGARY FLAMES
The Flames headed into the Olympic break on a high note, beating the Edmonton Oilers 4-3 in the Battle of Alberta on February 4. Always a good way to leave things. On the season, Calgary sits at 23-27 and 7th in the Pacific Division, so the playoff picture is tight, but the hill is steep. The break gives the boys some time to regroup before a tough California road trip to kick off the stretch run.
Speaking of hockey, if you haven't been setting your alarm for the Olympics, now's the time. Team Canada pulled off a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Finland in today's semifinal, with Nathan MacKinnon scoring the game-winner in the dying seconds after Canada trailed 2-0. Connor McDavid is wearing the 'C' after Sidney Crosby was scratched with a lower-body injury. The men's gold medal game is this Sunday, February 22, at 6:10 AM. Early, but worth it. Set that coffee maker tonight.
When NHL action resumes, the Flames hit the road for three straight: at San Jose on February 26, then the Kings and Ducks on February 28 and March 1. The first home game back at the Saddledome is Tuesday, March 3, against the Dallas Stars. After that, it's Ottawa on March 5. A strong push out of the break could make things interesting. Text 403-975-5515 for tickets.
View From Your Seats!
Upcoming Calgary Flames Games - Call / text 403-975-5515
Mar 3 vs Dallas Stars at 7:00 PM - SOLD OUT
Let me know how many you need, and I can source them for you!
Mar 5 vs Ottawa Senators at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – $88/pair
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $108/pair
Mar 7 vs Carolina Hurricanes at 8:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $134/pair
Mar 18 vs St. Louis Blues at 7:30 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $94/pair
Mar 20 vs Florida Panthers at 7:00 PM - Mathew Tkachuk + Stanley Cup Champs
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $164/pair
Mar 22 vs Tampa Bay Lightning at 6:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – $129/pair
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $129/pair
Mar 24 vs Los Angeles Kings at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – $88/pair
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $98/pair
Mar 26 vs Anaheim Ducks at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – $109/pair
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $109/pair
Mar 28 vs Vancouver Canucks at 8:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 tickets) – Text 403-975-5515 for price
Apr 12 vs Utah Mammoth at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – $118/pair
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $118/pair
Apr 14 vs Colorado Avalanche at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – $118/pair
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Apr 16 vs Los Angeles Kings at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – $118/pair
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $118/pair
Please call / text 403-975-5515
[BUSINESS OWNERS: Want to advertise to smart Calgary locals? Reply to [email protected] and let me know!]
HAPPENINGS
FEATURED EVENT
SKIJOR DUE ‘26
Only in Calgary could someone look at a horse, a skier, and a block of fondue cheese and say, "Yeah, that's a festival." SkijorDué, self-described as "The Greatest Show on Snow," is a two-day spectacle where cowboys on horseback tow skiers at high speed through a 230-metre snow course, launching off jumps and pulling tricks along the way. Twenty teams compete in two performances each day (noon and 2pm), but the action between runs is just as good: a Maker's Marketplace, fondue stations, food trucks, craft beers, wood fires, big screens, and Spectator Style Awards — so break out your best fur, fringe, or denim. About 15,000 people are expected over the weekend, and the vibe lands somewhere between Stampede and a day at the ski hill. No parking on site, so take transit. And your ticket gets you free priority access to the official after-party at Whiskey Rose Saloon at 6pm both days.
🐎 Featured Event: SkijorDué 2026 When: Saturday & Sunday, February 21–22 | 11am–5:30pm Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (750 9th Ave SE) Cost: $32+ | Kids under 10 FREE | Get Tickets
FREE MEN’S WORKOUTS
No membership fees. No sign-ups. No fancy equipment. Just you, the cold Calgary morning, and a group of men who refuse to let you quit. Every workout is different. You just show up and follow along—whether you're a beast or haven't worked out in years.
Stop letting your excuses win. Stop going it alone. The workouts will challenge you physically, sure—but it's the fellowship and genuine community that'll transform your life. That's the secret sauce. That's what keeps guys coming back week after week, getting stronger, sharper, and more connected.
🏋️ Featured Event: Unlock your potential at a FREE Men’s Workout on Saturday and Sunday from 6:30-7:30 AM at 2019 Chicoutimi Dr NW (MAP).
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20th
Scotiabank Saddledome – Megadeth with Anthrax and Exodus at 7pm. A massive night of metal at the 'Dome! tickets
Max Bell Theatre (Werklund Centre) – The Tale of the Gifted Prince world premiere at 7:30pm. An all-Asian cast brings this new musical to life for the very first time. tickets
Central Library – Locked Library escape room event, 7:30–9:30pm. All four floors become a giant puzzle. Proceeds support library programming. $40 details
Calgary Farmers' Market (West & South) – Cold Cut Calgary: Canadian Ice Carving Championship kicks off! Fire pits, live music, s'mores, maple taffy. FREE! details
BMO Centre – Calgary Boat & Outdoors Show (noon–4pm). Hundreds of booths of fishing, boating, camping, and outdoor gear. $14+ details
Beddington Theatre Arts Centre – Disney's Frozen JR. opens tonight, performed by young local actors. Runs through March 15. tickets
Various locations – YYC Hot Chocolate Fest continues all month! Over 200 locations, $1–$3 from each drink supports Meals on Wheels. details
Candlelight Concert: Tribute to The Weeknd – 6:30pm at Grace Presbyterian Church. tickets / other candlelight concerts
SATURDAY 31st
F3 Calgary FREE Men’s Workout – Come join me from 6:30-7:30 AM tomorrow morning at 2019 Chicoutimi Dr. I’ll be leading the F3 Calgary workout 💪 (Details)
The Confluence Historic Site – SkijorDué 2026! Cowboys on horseback pulling skiers at high speed — part rodeo, part winter sport, 100% Calgary. Marketplace, fondue, food trucks, craft beer, and wood fires. $32+ details
Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre – Chinese New Year Festival (Year of the Horse). Lion and dragon dances, live music, martial arts, local vendors. 11am–5pm. FREE! details
Scotiabank Saddledome – Calgary Hitmen vs. Saskatoon Blades at 6pm. tickets
Hangar Flight Museum – National Aviation Weekend. Family-friendly programming celebrating the anniversary of Canada's first powered flight. 10am–4pm. $17+ details
Calgary Farmers' Market (West & South) – Cold Cut Calgary: Ice Carving Championship continues. FREE! details
BMO Centre – Calgary Boat & Outdoors Show (noon–4pm). $14+. details
Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac – Grace Presbyterian Church at 6:30pm, followed by Coldplay & Imagine Dragons at 8:45pm. tickets / other candlelight concerts
Spruce Meadows – February Classic show jumping. Free admission and parking! details
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22nd
F3 Calgary FREE Men’s Workout – 6:30-7:30 AM at 2019 Chicoutimi Dr. (Details)
Your couch, 6:10 AM – Team Canada Men's Hockey Gold Medal Game at the 2026 Olympics! Set the alarm and brew the coffee. GO 🇨🇦 GO!
The Confluence Historic Site – SkijorDué Day 2. More high-speed horse-and-skier action. $32+ details
Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre – Chinese New Year Festival final day. 11am–5pm. FREE!
Scotiabank Saddledome – Calgary Hitmen vs. Red Deer Rebels (Every Child Matters / Sunday Funday) at 2pm. Features a Round Dance during the 2nd intermission honouring residential school survivors. A meaningful afternoon for the whole family. tickets
The Shawnessy Barn – Barn Artisan Market. 30+ local artisans, crafters, and makers. 11am–4pm. FREE! details
Studio Bell (National Music Centre) – Old Skool DJ Party with DJ Gummi celebrating Black History Month. Noon–2pm. details
BMO Centre – Calgary Boat & Outdoors Show final day (noon–4pm). $14+
Eau Claire Plaza – Chinook Blast continues with more live performances and installations. FREE!
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – Calgary Opera: Hansel and Gretel matinee at 2pm tickets
Various locations – YYC Hot Chocolate Fest kicks off! Sip your way through Calgary all month, with $1–$3 from each hot chocolate supporting Meals on Wheels details
THANK YOU!
Thank you for reading From Calgary today. If you enjoyed this edition, found something useful, or learned something new, please share it with someone who lives in Calgary.
Chat soon,
Brent
Publisher - From Calgary
P.s. BUSINESS OWNERS: Want to advertise to smart Calgary locals? Email [email protected] (or reply to this email) and let me know!
P.p.s. Looking for a side hustle that could one day let you escape the rat race? Check out my friend Tim’s Private Label Masters on Skool. Tim has sold over $100 million worth of products on Amazon and is an all around great guy.
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