Community events at local leagues are ramping up now that restrictions have been lifted. 

Alberta Avenue league president Ali Hammington says, “We’re slowly beginning to open.” 

On July 28 at 7 p.m., the league will be screening a new documentary called The Wisdom of Trauma featuring Dr. Gabor Maté, a trauma expert. The screening will be held at the community centre lounge, although it may be moved to the hall if there are enough people.

The recent pub night the league held was a huge success, and Hammington says, “We’re going to be doing at least one more pub night.”

On Aug. 5 from 5-8 p.m., the league will launch the new version of their Community Hub Night. “It’s replacing the food pantry we were running.” The Community Hub Night will include activities such as a place to practice speaking English, help with resumes, and crafts. “There will be socializing, coffee, snacks, a knitting circle, and computer access.” Hammington plans to have a regular and free collective kitchen at the league.

She advises people to keep an eye on the league website for updates.

Eastwood Community League has events throughout August and into September. 

The league is hosting Nancy’s Notes, a summer music camp for youth ages 4-12 from Aug. 9-27 at Eastwood Hall. Register by visiting nancysnotes.ca and email jessica.nancysnotes@gmail.com for more information. 

The community has also been working hard on a mural, and it’s set to unveil on Aug. 5. Kate Wilson, facility coordinator says, “People can watch for more information on our website.” 

Arts on the Ave is organizing Birds on a Wire Performance Series, with some performances at Eastwood rink on Aug. 6 and 28 and Sept. 2, 11, and 14. Visit artsontheave.org for more information.

Wilson says, “We’re planning a great outdoor event called ‘Dog Days of Summer’ at our outdoor rink. It’s happening Aug. 17, with family-oriented activities and doggie treats.”

She adds, “We’re also planning regular coffee houses at the hall, starting in August. They’ll be a great way to mingle with fellow community members, with music and food. Go to the website to find out dates and times.”

In late August, Eastwood is planning an African-themed event at the outdoor rink, with food and music. “Visit the website for the date and time as it becomes confirmed.”

Farid Foroud, president of Delton Community League, says, “At the moment we don’t have anything planned for July or August. We are aiming towards a grand opening in the fall.”

Elmwood Park Community League is holding a barbecue and concert on Aug. 14 from 5-8 p.m. on the league grounds. The Parklanders will perform. The league is also hosting Muttstock on Aug. 28, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Parkdale-Cromdale Community League has a number of youth and artistic activities. 

CHANGE Adventure Camp is associated with Alberta Health Services. Sarah DeLano, program director, says, “It’s a fun day camp for kids aged 7-14. They also do a bit of healthy living, too.” The day camp typically takes place at the league, but participants sometimes walk to places like Borden Park or even local businesses. 

DeLano gives an example of a recent outing. “Battista’s opened up shop and the kids made calzones.”

It’s $70 for a full week, but there are options to waive the fee. Visit campchange.ca/ for information. Spots are still available for this week of July 26-July 30.

This summer, Creart is replacing 21 damaged murals. It’s an ongoing project throughout the summer, held Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. until the murals are painted. Register via the Creart website. 

Green Shack also started up again at Sheila Bowker Park (located near the league), running from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. “We’re super happy to have it back because we didn’t have it last year. We find it’s very well used in the community.”

DeLano adds, “And we will have another clinic for youth on how to bike, likely in August. The first one was a big success.”

Spruce Avenue Community League will be holding a barbecue and hosting live music in August. 

Sabino Spagnuolo, league communications director, says the league will be a host for Birds on a Wire Performance Series on Aug. 20, 5:30-8 p.m. “We will have a 50-50 Raffle from 5:30-6:30 p.m. You can purchase tickets on spruceavenuecommunity.com starting Aug. 6.” The family-friendly barbecue starts at 6:15 p.m. and the performance runs from 7-8 p.m. Visit the league website for more details closer to the event. 

And on July 30, Westwood Community League is holding its Westwood Fest from 5-8 p.m. at Westwood Community Park. Enjoy glitter tattoos, face painting, a balloon artist, and music from a DJ. Food trucks will be on site. As part of the Birds on a Wire Performance Series, Afro Dance will hold a workshop from 7-8 p.m. The event is free to attend.

The league has also signed up for The Güd Box, a fundraising model selling produce to the members.  

Katie Hayes, league communications, says, “They reached out to us and we thought it was a good idea. It celebrates produce and trying to make it accessible to the community.”

Boxes are $30 and filled with seasonal produce. Visit here to find out more. 

Westwood’s Green Shack has also started up from 2:30-5:30 p.m. at Westwood Community Park. 

With all these great events planned, local residents should have a full summer.