Whether you’re decorating, putting together a costume, or doing a bit of both, make 17th Ave part of the hunt.
Set the scene
You don’t need to fill every corner with pumpkins to get into the Halloween spirit. A few pieces with personality can change the mood of a room and stay in your home long after October.
Start at Steeling Home and Rubaiyat for home pieces that suit your Halloween style. If you’re drawn to crystals and a little mystique, add Earth Gems to your route. Prefer to make your own decorations? Pick up supplies at Reid’s Stationers, or stop by Color Me Mine to paint a piece you can bring out every Halloween.
Seasonal selections change, so give yourself time to explore. The best find might be something you weren’t looking for.
Build a costume that feels like you
A great costume doesn’t always begin with a complete outfit. Sometimes it starts with one piece you can’t stop thinking about.
Vintage & Secondhand Costume Finds
- Zoe’s Store, 1403 14 St SW
- The Peacock Boutique, 814 16 Ave SW
- Danielle’s Consignment Boutique, 908 17 Ave SW #105
- Corner Luze Consignment, 1510 7 St SW
- Sweet Like Vintage, 924a 17 Ave SW
- From Another Calgary, 624 17 Ave SW
- HGVintage, 720 17 Ave SW #200
The Details Make the Costume
- LYLAS Jewelry, 908 17 Ave SW #112
- Beadles Gemstones, Crystals, Beads & Jewelry, 1606 7 St SW
- Purr, 940 17 Ave SW
Whether you’re going all out or pulling something together at the last minute, the fun is in making it your own.
Make a day of it
Halloween shopping is better with a little wandering. Bring a friend, stop for a coffee or something to eat, and see what you discover between shops. You might come away with a costume idea, a new piece for your home, or inspiration for next year.
Then put your look to good use at Halloween on 17th, October 23 & 24. With two days of free Halloween fun on the Avenue, you’ll have somewhere to show it off.
Come curious. Leave ready for Halloween.
Halloween happenings at 17th Ave businesses
The Halloween fun doesn’t stop at the shops. Businesses along 17th Ave are planning their own parties, specials, and day-of activities throughout October. Check back as we add more ways to celebrate.
Without Co. | 335 17 Ave SW | October 31 from 1-4 pm
It’s Witching Hour at Without Co. Join them for tarot readings, a fall floral pop up, sips + snacks, and of course, sustainable shopping.
Cleaver | 524 17 Ave SW | October 31 from 7 pm to 2 am
House After Dark is coming to Cleaver with beats, drinks & late-night energy.
Lululemon | 727 17 Ave SW | October 31 from 5 pm to 7 pm
Stop in for Trick-Or-Treating at Lululemon’s 17 Ave location.
PinBar | 501 17 Ave SW | October 31 from 10:00 pm
Dress up and party at PinBar all night long. $15 Early, or $20 at the door. Tickets on Showpass.
Blackbyrd Myoozik | 1126 17 Ave SW | October 31 from 10:00 am
It’s Halloqueen at Blackbyrd this year. Join them for an exclusive listening event for PERFECTH, the brand new album from Queens of the Stone Age.
Whiskey Rose | 335 17 Ave SW | October 30 & 31
Two nights of Halloween at Whiskey Rose. Live country music, late-night DJs, cheap drinks and a packed dance floor.
Are you a 17th Ave business planning something for Halloween? Send us your event details so we can add them to the guide.
]]>And while we’ve got the movies covered, 17th Ave has everything else you need to make a day, night or full weekend out of it.
Whether you’re looking for dinner before the show, snacks to bring to the park, something warm to wear or a last-minute movie night essential, here’s your guide to getting Cinema-ready on 17th Ave.
Grab Dinner Before the Movie
A movie night is even better when it starts with dinner.
Arrive early and make a stop at one of the many restaurants along 17th Ave before finding your spot in Tomkins Park. From pizza, burgers and tacos to sushi, Vietnamese, Korean BBQ and date-night dining, there are options for every kind of movie crew.
Perfect for: date night, dinner with the family or turning your movie into a full night out.
Breakfast Ideas:
Maven, 1006 17 Ave SW
The Coup, 924 17 Ave SW
The Sweatered Hen, 819 17 Ave SW
An Sang, 843 17 Ave SW
Lunch, and dinner faves:
5 Senses Ramen & Bistro, 634A 17 Ave SW
Alumni Sandwiches, 725 17 Ave SW
Porch, 730 17 Ave SW
National on 17th, 550 17 Ave SW
Stock Up on Movie Snacks
No movie is complete without snacks.
Before heading into Tomkins Park, explore the Avenue for something sweet, salty or snackable. Pick up candy, baked goods, ice cream, macarons, chocolate or your favourite grab-and-go treats to enjoy during the show.
You can even build your own 17th Ave movie snack haul before settling in for the night.
Find something sweet:
Ollia Macarons & Tea, 810C 16 Ave SW
Made by Marcus, 1013 17 Ave SW
Biscettes Bakery, 1516 6 St SW
Butter Block Bakery & Cafe, 908 17 Ave SW
Grab-and-go snacks:
European Bakery & Deli, 515 17 Ave SW
Lang’s Grocery & Confectionery, 833 17 Ave SW
Save on Foods, 906 16 Ave SW
Kalamata Grocery, 1421 11 St SW
Hot, Cold & Everything in Between
September evenings in Calgary can go either way, so choose your movie drink accordingly.
Grab an iced drink while the sun is out, pick up a coffee or tea before an evening screening, or find something fun to sip while you explore the Avenue.
Philosafty Coffee, 632 17 Ave SW
PurrTea Fresh Tea & Smoothie, 816a 16 Ave SW
Analog Coffee, 740 17 Ave SW
Caffe Beano, 1613 9 St SW
Reminder: Cinema on 17th and Tomkins Park are alcohol and drug-free spaces, so please leave alcoholic beverages at the restaurant.
Dress for the Movie
Why just watch the movie when you can dress for it?
With everything from Ghostbusters II and Frozen to Moulin Rouge!, Footloose and Saturday Night Fever hitting the big screen, there are plenty of opportunities to have a little fun with your movie-night look.
Explore 17th Ave’s vintage, consignment and clothing shops to find colourful layers, retro pieces, accessories and other treasures inspired by the weekend’s lineup.
HGVINTAGE, 720 17 Ave SW
Sweet like Vintage, 924 17 Ave SW
From Another Calgary, 624 17 Ave SW
The Peacock Boutique Consignment, 814 16 Ave SW
Bonus points if your outfit makes it obvious which movie you’re here to see. 
Calgary Weather Happened. Now What?
Outdoor movies + Calgary weather = come prepared.
If the temperature drops or you realize your movie-night outfit was a little optimistic, there are plenty of places nearby to pick up an extra sweater, jacket, blanket or other cozy essentials.
Purr, 940 17 Ave SW
The Latest Scoop, 808 16 Ave SW
Gravitypope, 1126 17 Ave SW
Mirra Masa Fashion, 911 17 Ave SW
Our recommendation? Layers, layers, layers.
Forgot Something?
Sunscreen? Check. Phone charger? Maybe. Tissues? Bug spray? An extra layer? Snacks for the kids?
If you arrive at Cinema on 17th and realize you’ve forgotten something at home, don’t panic. Pharmacies, convenience stores and retailers throughout the district can help with those last-minute movie-night needs.
Canadian Tire, 906 16 Ave SW
Shoppers Drug Mart, 815 17 Ave SW
Dollarama, 1508 8 Street SW
Keep the Night Going
The credits don’t have to mean the night is over.
After your movie, take a walk down 17th Ave for dessert, a late-night bite or another stop with your movie crew. With plenty happening throughout the district, Cinema on 17th can be just the beginning of your night on the Avenue.
The whole family:
La Diperie, 1103 17 Ave SW
Holy Shakes Cafe, 1535 5 St SW
Trolley 5, 728 17 Ave SW
Browns Socialhouse, 880 16 Ave SW
Adult’s Only:
The Ship & Anchor, 534 17 Ave SW
Watchman’s Pub & Eatery, 1109 17 Ave SW
One Night Stan’s, 520 17 Ave SW
PinBar, 501 17 Ave SW
See You at the Movies
Cinema on 17th returns to Tomkins Park September 11–13, 2026, with three days of free outdoor movies and entertainment as part of Calgary Culture Days.
Come early, explore the Avenue, support a local business and settle in for a movie under the stars.
View the full Cinema on 17th schedule → Cinema-On-17th
]]>You might learn how to make a macaron, find your new favourite vintage piece, discover which colours look best on you, and end the evening over Vietnamese coffee and a bowl of vermicelli.
That was the idea behind our recent 17th Ave Tour.
We invited a group of locals to spend an afternoon exploring four businesses along the avenue. Rather than simply stopping in for a quick visit, we wanted them to meet the people behind each business, try something they might not normally experience, and see just how much there is to discover within walking distance.
Four hours, four businesses, and four completely different experiences later, we had a few new favourite spots.
Stop One: Ollia Macarons & Tea
We started our afternoon at Ollia Macarons & Tea, where owner David welcomed us in and gave us a little history lesson on Ollia, the macaron, and the surprisingly precise process behind making them.
Thankfully, he let us skip some of the hard parts.
Instead, we got hands-on practice at filling our own macarons to take home before diving into a guided tea and macaron tasting.
We sampled two of Ollia’s in-house tea blends alongside three macarons, including a delicious and perhaps underappreciated savoury combination: goat cheese and apricot.
For anyone who wants the full experience, Ollia regularly hosts macaron-making classes as well as wine and macaron tastings. You can also take home their tea blends or leave the work to the experts and have a cup prepared for you right at the bakery.
It was the perfect way to start our tour, and we hadn’t even made it to 4 p.m.
Stop Two: Sweet Like Vintage
Next, we headed to Sweet Like Vintage, where founder and manager Trista shared the story behind the shop.
Her love of vintage grew from an interest in reducing environmental waste and giving clothing another life. Today, that passion has become a constantly changing collection of vintage fashion right here on 17th Ave.
We browsed their current selection of Y2K pieces, found more than a few things we wanted to take home, and, of course, experienced the famous fluffy changing room in person.
With new pieces constantly rotating through the shop, it’s the kind of place where you never quite know what you’re going to find.
Sweet Like Vintage is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 7 pm, which means there’s plenty of opportunity to stop in and hunt for your next great find.
Stop Three: Unique Bunny
From vintage fashion, we moved into the world of beauty at Unique Bunny, one of the newest additions to 17th Ave.
If you know Unique Bunny for its selection of Asian beauty products, there’s even more waiting inside its 17th Ave location.
Our group had the opportunity to try both a skin analysis, complete with personalized product recommendations, and a colour analysis to learn which shades best complement our individual features.
The location also offers Japanese-inspired facials and Japanese nail services, making it much more than a shopping destination.
Most importantly, the team was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, walking everyone through their results and answering plenty of questions along the way.
We arrived expecting to browse beauty products and left knowing considerably more about our skin and colour palettes than we did an hour earlier.
Stop Four: Golden Bell
After an afternoon of macarons, vintage, and beauty, there was really only one way to finish: over great food.
Our final stop was Golden Bell, a longtime 17th Ave staple and multigenerational, family-run Vietnamese restaurant.
The table quickly filled with Vietnamese coffee, passionfruit tea, classic vermicelli, spring rolls, and plenty of conversation.
After spending the afternoon moving from experience to experience, Golden Bell gave everyone a chance to sit down, debrief, compare their new discoveries, and laugh over dinner.
And yes, Love Island was discussed at length.
It was exactly the kind of ending you’d want for a 17th Ave tour.
Four Stops, One Avenue
One thing came up multiple times throughout the afternoon: everything was so close.
Within a few hours, we had experienced food, education, fashion, beauty, and local history, all while walking from one business to the next.
That range is part of what makes exploring 17th Ave so much fun.
You don’t necessarily need an itinerary. Pick somewhere you’ve been meaning to visit and start there. Walk another block. Pop into the shop that catches your eye. Try something you haven’t tried before. Stay for dinner.
You might head home with a bag of macarons, a vintage find, a better understanding of your skin, or a new favourite restaurant.
So the next time you have an afternoon free, come see where 17th Ave takes you. You never know what you’ll find.
]]>Whether you’re heading into elementary school, university, or simply love the excuse to refresh your workspace, 17th Ave has everything you need to start the year off right.
Stationery & School Supplies
Reid’s Stationers
The definition of a local classic. From notebooks and planners to pens, markers, art supplies, and office essentials, Reid’s has been helping Calgarians get organized for decades.
Steeling Home
Looking to personalize your locker, desk, or study space? Browse locally made gifts, cards, décor, and accessories that make heading back to school a little more fun.
Bags & Everyday Essentials
Whether you need a backpack, tote, or everyday carry-all, explore local boutiques throughout the avenue for something that fits your style instead of everyone else’s.
Recommended businesses: LESS 17, Peacock Boutique, Sweet Like Vintage, Gravity Pope.
Gym Class & Activewear
From gym shoes to workout gear, these businesses can help you head into P.E. prepared.
Recommended businesses: lululemon, Sporting Life, Gravity Pope.
First-Day Outfit
Nothing says new school year like a fresh outfit.
Whether your style is vintage, streetwear, elevated basics, or designer resale, 17th Ave has plenty of options to help you show up feeling confident.
Vintage & Thrift
- Sweet Like Vintage
- From Another
- Peacock Boutique
Contemporary Fashion
- LESS 17
- Gravity Pope
- Leo Boutique
Fuel for Study Sessions
Every successful study session starts with coffee… or at least a good snack.
Grab your favourite drink or treat from:
- MIK Coffee
- Philosafy
- Butter Block Bakery
- Amato Gelato (because studying deserves rewards)
Find Your Study Spot
Need somewhere to focus?
Grab a coffee and settle into one of the avenue’s welcoming cafés, or take advantage of a sunny afternoon in Tomkins Park between classes.
Not Sure What They Need?
Skip the guessing and let them choose.
A 17th Ave Gift Card can be used at participating businesses throughout the avenue, making it the perfect back-to-school gift for students, teachers, or anyone looking for a fresh start this fall.
From school supplies and clothing to coffee, lunches, and little rewards after a big exam, one gift card opens the door to dozens of local businesses.
Here’s to a successful school year, and happy shopping!
]]>Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends over drinks, test your knowledge at trivia night, belt out your favourite karaoke song, or simply enjoy a late-night bite, there’s no shortage of ways to spend an evening on the avenue.
Grab a Patio and Unwind
Sometimes the best plan is no plan at all. Meet up with coworkers, order your favourite drink, and let one patio turn into an entire evening.
With dozens of patios to choose from, it’s easy to settle in and soak up Calgary’s summer nights.
Put Your Knowledge to the Test
Looking for something a little more interactive? Several businesses on 17th Ave host weekly trivia nights, making them the perfect excuse to gather a team and see who actually remembers all those random facts.
Check with your favourite venue for upcoming trivia schedules.
- Jameson’s Irish Pub: Their Thursday Trivia is a weekly go to, but they have also build a great sports community as they regularly play all our favourites.
- Mug’s Pub: With something every night of the week, Mug’s is always a good go to for anything. Open Mic nights, Karaoke, Wing Nights, Name that Tune, you name it.
Take the Stage at Karaoke
No experience required, just confidence.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, ending the week with friends, or finally ready to perform your go-to anthem, karaoke nights bring plenty of energy to the avenue. The Watchman’s Pub is a local favourite for nightly karaoke and a guaranteed good time.
- Watchman’s Pub: Did you know they actually have karaoke 7 nights a week from 9:30pm to 2am? No one does it like Watchman’s!
- PinBar: Join their host, Cam, every Sunday for some next level Karaoke! From 9pm – 2am – if it’s on YouTube, you can sing it!
Rather Listen to Someone Actually Talented?
Maybe karaoke isn’t your thing, and that’s okay.
If you’d rather leave the singing to the professionals, 17th Ave is home to plenty of spots featuring live music throughout the week. There’s always a chance to discover your new favourite artist while enjoying dinner or drinks.
- The ship and Anchor: Known for their consistent, wide range of live music, The Ship and Anchor is a 17th Ave staple. They also regularly have open mic nights as well as monthly Ship & Arcade nights.
- Prohibition Lounge: Their weekly Jazz Nights (Thursday & Sunday) are also a hit! They also have detective date nights, and tableside magicians periodically if that’s more your jam.
Craving a Late-Night Bite?
From pizza and burgers to ramen and tacos, 17th Ave has plenty of options for those nights when dinner happens a little later than planned. Sometimes the best meals are the ones that happen after 9 p.m.
Make a Night of It
Why stop at one destination? Hint these spots when you don’t want the fun to end.
- Fire N Ice Bar: Food, Sheesha, bottle service, and an underrated patio! It’s the obvious choice when you want to just have a good time with your friends.
- Pour Decisions: Founded in 2024 by a group of bar owners who were passionate about bringing Billiards to 17th Ave. Featuring billiards, golf simulators and live sports, you have got to check it out!
Start with happy hour, wander through a few local shops, grab dinner, stay for trivia or karaoke, and finish the night with dessert or a walk through Tomkins Park.
The best evenings on 17th Ave usually aren’t planned. One stop simply leads to another.
]]>- go in without a strict plan
- check every rack
- look at fabrics, not sizes
- try things on
- accessorize
- patience = payoff
Vintage
- HGVINTAGE, 720 17 Ave SW
- Zoe’s Store, 1403 14 St SW
Consignment
- The Peacock Boutique Consignment, 814 16 Ave SW
- Corner Luxe Consignment, 1510 7 st SW
- Danielle’s Consignment Boutique, 908 17 Ave SW
Retro/Y2K
- Sweet like Vintage, 924 17 Ave SW
- From Another Calgary, 624 17 Ave SW
Bonus: Curated Boutiques
- Purr, 940 17 Ave SW
- Leo Boutique, 810 16 Ave SW
- Mirra Masa Fashion, 911 17 Ave SW
- Era Style Loft on 17th, 917 17 Ave SW
- The Latest Scoop, 808 16 Ave SW
- pipp.s 1409 11 St SW
- Kate Hewko, 908 17 Ave SW
Every member of our team has their own favourite places depending on the day. Some of us are chasing the perfect sandwich. Others can’t resist a good bakery, vintage shopping, or a little self-care after work. So we rounded up a few of our personal favourites to help inspire your next visit.
A Great Meal (and Maybe a Good Book)
Betty Lou’s Library, 908 17 Ave SW
Part cocktail bar, part hidden library, Betty Lou’s is one of our favourite places to slow down and enjoy a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking for a memorable evening, this spot never disappoints.
Prickett Richard, 638 17 Ave SW
A neighbourhood favourite that’s always worth recommending. Great food, welcoming service, and the kind of place that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation.
Alumni Sandwiches, 725 17 Ave SW
Sometimes all you need is an incredible sandwich. Fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and one of our favourite grab-and-go lunches on the avenue.
Nhớ Saigòn Vietnamese Pho & Cuisine, 1411 17 Ave SW
Comfort food at its best. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of pho or classic Vietnamese dishes, this is one of our favourite spots for a satisfying meal.
Coffee & Sweet Treat Stops
Amato Gelato, 602 17 Ave SW
Because there’s never a bad time for gelato. Especially during Calgary’s summer months.
Philosafy Coffee, 632 17 Ave SW
A great place to slow down with a coffee and catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in the middle of the day.
Butter Block Bakery & Cafe, 908 17 Ave SW
Flaky pastries, beautiful baking, and one of those places where it’s almost impossible to leave with just one item.
MIK Coffee and Shop, 1019 17 Ave SW
Whether it’s your morning coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up, MIK is always a solid choice.
European Bakery & Deli, 515 17 Ave SW
A long-standing 17th Ave favourite offering fresh baking, European treats, and plenty of reasons to stop in. Their recent expansion means there’s even more to discover.
Our Favourite Places to Browse
Sweet Like Vintage, 924a 17 Ave SW
A carefully curated vintage shop that’s perfect for finding one-of-a-kind fashion and accessories.
LESS 17, 930 17 Ave SW
Minimal, modern, and thoughtfully curated. A great stop if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe.
Sloth Records, 736b 17 Ave SW
A haven for music lovers. Browse new and used vinyl, discover local artists, or stop by for one of their listening parties.
Earth Gems, 1022 17 Ave SW
Whether you’re looking for crystals, unique gifts, or simply enjoy exploring beautiful collections, Earth Gems is always an interesting stop.
A Little Treat Yourself Moment
La Babie Nails & Spa, 1330 15 Ave SW
When it’s time for a fresh set, this is one of our favourite places to unwind and leave feeling polished.
Peaseblossoms, 1417 11 St SW
Beautiful flowers have a way of brightening any day. Whether you’re celebrating someone else or yourself, Peaseblossoms is always a lovely stop.
Epiphanie Chocolate, 1417 11 St SW
Handcrafted chocolates that feel like a little luxury. Perfect as a gift or simply because you deserve one.
These are just a handful of the places our team loves, and one of the best parts about 17th Ave is that everyone has a different list.
Next time you’re on the avenue, try one of our staff picks… or better yet, discover one of your own.
]]>Whether you spent your week line dancing until midnight, hopping between breakfasts, or simply soaking up the energy around the city, there’s no shame in admitting you could use a little reset. Luckily, 17th Ave is full of places to help you recharge.
Hydrate & Refuel
After a week of mini donuts, midway snacks, and late-night eats, your body might be craving something a little fresher.
- Good Earth Coffeehouse, 1502 11 St SW
- Q. Lab by Chronicle Coffee Roasters, 926 16 Ave SW
- Element Cafe, 331 17 Ave SW
- Cafe Beano, 1613 9 St SW
And don’t forget the simplest recovery tip of all: drink plenty of water.
Move Your Body (Gently)
You don’t have to jump straight back into an intense workout.
- League, 1463 17 Ave SW
- Myodetox, 1709 8 St SW
- Goodlife Fitness, 880 16 Ave SW
- Rumble Boxing Studio, 720 17 Ave SW
Sometimes the best recovery is simply getting outside and moving at your own pace.
Treat Yourself to a Reset
Recovery isn’t just physical. It’s mental, too.
- Sublime Life, 815 17 Ave SW
- Luna Spa & Therapeutic Massage, 1230 17 Ave SW
- VP Beauty & Wellness Spa, 1524 17 Ave SW
Think of it as giving yourself permission to slow down after a very busy couple of weeks.
Eat Somewhere That Makes You Feel Good
Recovery food looks different for everyone.
- Freshii, 1708 8 Street SW
- Nobushi Kitchen & Bar, 1054 17 Ave SW
- Chez Nguyen Vietnamese, 1436 8 St SW
- Myhre’s Deli, 1411 11 St SW
There’s no wrong answer if it helps you feel like yourself again.
Romanticize the Slow Moments
Stampede is loud. Recovery doesn’t have to be.
Pick up a book, wander through a few local boutiques, sit in Tomkins Park, or spend an afternoon with no plans at all. Sometimes the best detox isn’t about what you’re taking away, but about slowing down enough to enjoy where you are.
Remember summer isn’t over so take a deep breath, recharge, and enjoy everything the rest of the season has to offer on 17th Ave.
]]>With more than 10 tattoo shops spread throughout the corridor, the avenue has become home to a wide mix of artists, styles, and studio aesthetics, making it one of Calgary’s go-to destinations for tattoos. Whether you’re booking your first appointment, adding to a growing collection, or just love the culture surrounding tattooing, here are some of the shops that help shape the tattoo scene on 17th Ave.
Highwire Tattoo, 503 17 Ave SW
Known for its bold branding and experienced artists, Highwire Tattoo has become a recognizable staple along the avenue.
Alartink Studios, 718 17 Ave SW
A creative studio space offering a more boutique tattoo experience with a strong focus on artistry and custom work.
The Brindle Room. #312, The Devenish Building
Tucked inside the historic Devenish Building, The Brindle Room combines tattoo culture with a unique and intimate studio atmosphere.
Ambassador Tattoo, #312, The Devenish Building
Another studio located within the Devenish Building, Ambassador Tattoo has helped contribute to the creative energy found throughout this historic space.
Dark Dimension Tattoo, 1039 17 Ave SW
Known for darker aesthetics and striking artwork, Dark Dimension Tattoo brings a distinct visual identity to the avenue.
Irreversible Tattoo, 1127 17 Ave SW
A longtime name in Calgary’s tattoo community, Irreversible Tattoo has built a strong reputation for custom work and experienced artists.
Lucky Cat Tattoo Studio, 1127 17 Ave SW
Sharing a home with Irreversible Tattoo, Lucky Cat Tattoo Studio brings its own unique personality and artistic style to the corridor.
Living Prayer Tattoo, 1235 17 Ave SW
A newer addition to the avenue’s tattoo community, Living Prayer Tattoo adds another creative voice and aesthetic to the west end of the corridor.
Sorry Mom Tattoo Shoppe. 1230A 17 Ave SW
Known for its playful branding and strong visual identity, Sorry Mom Tattoo Shoppe has quickly become a recognizable part of the avenue.
13 Cats Tattoo Studio, 1211 14 St SW
The private tattoo studio is a burst of pink, glitter, and fun. 13 Cats Tattoo Studio is home to 4 local artists who are always ready to create something you’ll fall in love with.
Smilin’ Buddha Tattoo, 1501 17 Ave SW
Recognized as Calgary’s oldest tattoo shop, Smilin’ Buddha Tattoo was originally founded by tattoo pioneer Paul Jeffries and is now home to a diverse group of artists specializing in styles ranging from traditional and geometric work to fine line and custom designs.
Tattoo shops have helped shape the creative identity of 17th Ave for years, adding to the individuality, artistry, and culture that make the corridor feel unlike anywhere else in the city. And honestly, there’s probably no better place in Calgary to wander around and suddenly decide you need another tattoo
The grounds aren’t the only place celebrating Stampede. From pancake breakfasts and brunches to live music, shopping events, recovery classes, and late-night parties, there’s something happening on 17th Ave every day.
We’ll continue updating this calendar as more businesses announce their Stampede plans!
Happening All Stampede Long
Beautiful Brows Boutique
Get ready with these two stampede specials: Brow Lamination + Lash Lift — $150 & Waxing Package (Full Legs, Brazilian, Full Arms & Underarms) — $150
PRML x Drinkwell
Recovery Roundup! $30 drop-in classes from July 3–12. Every booking includes a complimentary Well Juice recovery drink. Use code WELLxPRML at checkout.
Ollia Macarons & Tea
Try their limited-edition Stampede Macaron Collection.
PinBar X Bastion Burger
Get your burger fix earlier during Stampede with their specialty hours: 12pm -1am throughout the whole 10 days!
Thursday, July 2
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Dawson Gray.
Friday, July 3
The Coup
Stampede Brunch begins! Available daily from 9 AM–1 PM through July 12. Reservations are now open.
Fire N Ice
Kick off Stampede with their official Stampede Kick-Off Party. Doors open at 9 PM, with DJs all night long.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Connor Wicklum.
Saturday, July 4
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live performance by Daring Greatly.
Sunday, July 5
Prohibition Lounge
Dean Martin Tribute Show beginning at 5 PM.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Dirt Road Kings.
Wednesday, July 8
Ship & Anchor Pub
Their legendary annual Stampede Whoop-Up returns! Starting at 8 PM, enjoy live music all evening before a free midnight pancake breakfast. Featuring performances by Agriculture Club, Peter and the Wolves, The Haybelles, Buzz Elroy and His Hayseed Rockets, Sean Hamilton and the Amber Hour, and The Sadlier-Brown Band.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with N. Compton.
Thursday, July 9
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Leo Martinez Project.
Ship and Anchor Pub
Kick off stampede with this specialty saloon show! 8:30 pm start and no cover.
Friday, July 10
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Special Guest (to be announced!)
Saturday, July 11
Deng’s Dumplings
Free Stampede Lunch from 12–2 PM.
Play 17 Lounge
Something special is in the works… stay tuned!
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with New Law Brothers.
Sunday, July 12
Texas Lounge
End of Stampede Hangover Bingo starring Malibu Stacey and Daisy Devine beginning at 3 PM.
Know of another Stampede special, event, or promotion happening on 17th Ave?
Let us know! We’d love to add it to the calendar.
]]>In honour of Multiculturalism Day, we wanted to highlight just a few of the family-owned and multigenerational businesses that continue to shape the character of 17th Ave.
Golden Bell
A longtime staple on the avenue, Golden Bell has been serving the community for decades and continues to be a go-to spot for comfort food and familiar faces.
Ethos Bridal Boutique
Ethos Bridal has been serving Calgary since 1970, and you will find exquisite couture designer wedding gowns, a wide selection of bridesmaid dresses and gowns for the entire wedding party – from mother-of-the-bride to the smallest flower girl. They carry many elegant evening gowns for all occasions, like graduations or prom as well as unique bridal accessories.
Son of the Pharaoh
Since opening on 17th Avenue in 2001, Son of the Pharaoh has remained a family-run business connecting Calgary to Egyptian culture and craftsmanship. Many of the shop’s authentic jewelry, papyrus art, and handcrafted treasures are still made by family members in Egypt, making every piece a reflection of generations of tradition and heritage.
European Bakery & Deli
Family owned and operated since 2006, European Bakery & Deli has become known for its baked goods, deli offerings, and welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back. Last month, the business celebrated the expansion of its space on 17th Ave, a milestone that reflects both its continued growth and the strong community support it has built over the years.
Indo Designer Rugs
A longtime fixture on 17th Ave since 1988, Indo Designer Rugs specializes in premium hand-knotted rugs, custom sizing, and timeless pieces that bring warmth and character into a space. Family-owned and operated by the Mehrotra family, the shop blends decades of design expertise with handcrafted rugs sourced from South Asia, helping customers find pieces that feel both personal and lasting. Alongside their showroom, they also offer custom rug design, repair, and specialized cleaning services.
Sloth Records
Since opening in 2011, Sloth Records has become a go-to spot on the avenue for music lovers, collectors, and anyone who still appreciates flipping through records in person. The shop carries new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, books, apparel, and plenty of local Calgary music. The space has also become known for hosting live performances, listening parties, and community events that keep Calgary’s music culture thriving.
Steeling Home
Originally founded in 1993 by a local artist, Steeling Home has remained a unique creative fixture on the avenue, blending art, furniture, and design into a space unlike anywhere else.
Reid’s Stationers
Since 1984, John and Moira Reid have built Reid’s Stationers into a beloved stop for stationery lovers, artists, students, and anyone who still appreciates putting pen to paper.
Rubaiyat
Operating since 1973 and now in its third generation of ownership and operation, Rubaiyat continues to bring textiles, fashion, and handcrafted goods from around the world to the avenue.
Walls Alive
Founded in 1970 and carried through generations, Walls Alive has remained part of Calgary’s creative and design community for decades.
17th Ave Framing
Founded in 1974 by Bernard Drouin, 17th Ave Framing has spent decades helping Calgarians preserve artwork, memories, and meaningful pieces through custom framing.
Kalamata Grocery Store
Since 1978, Kalamata Grocery Store has brought Greek products, flavours, and traditions to 17th Ave, becoming a staple for both longtime customers and new visitors alike.
These businesses represent more than just storefronts. They reflect the families, cultures, histories, and communities that continue to shape 17th Ave into one of Calgary’s most vibrant and diverse corridors. And while the avenue continues to evolve, it’s places like these that help keep its character alive.
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Self-Care Stops
Girls’ night doesn’t always need to involve a bar. Book nails, facials, wellness treatments, massages, or a relaxing reset before heading out for the evening:
Drinks can still be on the Table
You can’t go wrong with cocktails, wine, happy hour specials, or a sunny patio. Whether you’re after low-key conversation or somewhere louder and more energetic, there’s no shortage of spots to start the night:
Do Something Together
Sometimes the best nights involve an actual activity.
Pottery painting at Colour Me Mine
Matching tattoos at Dark Dimension Tattoo or Smilin’ Buddha Tattoos
Take a Macaron 101 class at Ollia Macarons & Tea
Take Q.lab’s Barista Training Course together
Late-night shopping Unique Bunny, Lululemon or Arc’teryx
Play Pinball at PinBar or Retro game shopping at Vaulted
Try an escape room at E-Exit
Keep the Night Going
Not ready to head home yet? End the night with:
Dessert from D Spot Dessert Cafe or BeaverTails
Karaoke at Watchman’s Pub (7 nights a week)
Thursday Trivia Nights at Jameson’s Pub
Play some pool at Pour Decisions
Catch some live music at The Ship and Anchor Pub
Enjoy a magic show at Prohibition Bar on Tuesdays
Late-night snacks Kim Anh Vietnamese or Rosie’s Burgers or maybe Mug’s Pub
Because some of the best nights on 17th Ave are the ones that weren’t really planned in the first place.
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