Hundreds of Calgarians gathered in Bridgeland on Saturday afternoon to take part in the first ever Cultura Fest, a street party that transformed a section of 1 Avenue Northeast into a pedestrian stroll.
Visitors were greeted with live music performances, vendor booths, beer gardens, and summerlike weather conditions
“We have an amazing neighbourhood with amazing businesses and amazing residents, and we thought it would be a great idea to share that secret with the rest of the city,” said Roseanne Penner, events director Bridgeland/Riverside community association.
According to organizers, the turnout exceeded expectations.
“It’s been fantastic so far. Even walking up the street, just before 12, I thought ‘Wow, am I late? Because it looks like it’s going already’,” laughs Penner. “It’s wonderful to see how many people have come out and embraced this opportunity to experience Cultura Fest on its inaugural occasion.”
The Bridgeland/Riverside community association plans to make Cultura Fest an annual event.