June is here, and this month is prime time to learn more about Alberta’s history—or enjoy some Canadian music legends set to visit the province.
Connect with Alberta’s Indigenous history
The month of June marks Indigenous History Month in Canada, and many community groups around the province will host events through the month—and on Indigenous Peoples’ Day on June 21. It’s a great way to learn about Indigenous history, heritage, and culture—so keep an eye on what special events are planned in your local community.
There are many ways to learn about Indigenous culture and heritage on your own. This includes the Calgary Public Library, which supports an Indigenous Languages Resource Centre at its Central Library, inviting Albertans to learn Treaty 7 languages. In Alberta’s capital city, the Edmonton Public Library supports Indigenous programming every month. And, of course, it’s a great time to visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, one of Alberta’s most significant spots for Indigenous history and a designated World Heritage Site, where you can also get 10% off admission with your AMA membership.
Rock out to Burton Cummings
Stand tall, Canadian rock music fans. One of Canada’s most celebrated musicians, Burton Cummings, is set to tour Alberta this June. Known for leading The Guess Who in the ‘60s and ‘70s, but now as an established solo performer, Cummings will be featured in shows all around Alberta. He’ll stop by Lloydminster on June 6, Enoch on June 8, Lethbridge on June 11, Red Deer on June 13, Medicine Hat on June 15, and Calgary on June 16. So, no matter where in the province you are, you won’t have to travel far to be serenaded by Canadian rock ‘n’ roll royalty.
A concert for the kids, too
If you have some little ones who love to jam out, you don’t have to go down by the bay where the watermelons grow for some fun. Canadian music legend, Raffi, is stopping by Alberta in June. The popular children’s entertainer will bring his beloved songs Baby Beluga, Down By The Bay and ultimate ear worm Bananaphone that will get the latest generation of kids singing along to his charming, whimsical lyrics. Raffi, now 74 years old and an Order of Canada recipient, will perform at Edmonton’s Northern Jubilee Auditorium on June 17 and at Calgary’s Southern Jubilee Auditorium on June 18.
Brew at the zoo
Enjoy some adult-only fun at The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo during the Zoo Brew event, an evening featuring beer from local breweries, food, and live entertainment. While many events that feature alcohol usually involve purchasing drink tickets on-site, Zoo Brew tickets include unlimited access to samples while you’re at the event. Check it out on June 3 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Series sequels hit the big screen
Summer movie season is when the most significant and memorable flicks tend to be released, and this June, two installments are coming from some major movie franchises.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts releases on June 9, marking the seventh film in the Transformers series. The movie is set in the ‘90s and may bring audiences back to a time when parents may have been kids themselves playing with Transformers toys. This film also includes Maximals—known from the Beast Wars series, but essentially: transformers that turn into animal-inspired robots instead of vehicles. It’ll be an action-packed adventure with more than a hint of nostalgia.
And speaking of nostalgia—Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is set to hit theatres on June 30.Harrison Ford returns as archaeologist and professor Indiana Jones, shaking his whip out to act alongside Mads Mikkelsen as the Nazi villain of the film, as well Antonio Banderas as Indy’s ally Renaldo, and Phoebe Waller-Bridge (from Fleabag fame) as Dr. Jones’ slippery, yet charming goddaughter Helena.
As always, AMA members save on passes for Landmark and Cineplex theatres. Head to your local AMA centre to purchase your passes ahead of time.
Celebrate Pride!
June is Pride Month, which celebrates equal rights for all people, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity. Pride Month is celebrated in many countries worldwide and takes place in June to commemorate New York City’s 1969 Stonewall Riots. Here in Alberta, over 150 events are planned during June in communities all around the province—including parades, drag shows, art classes, brunches, and family carnivals. Find out what’s happening for pride in your community!
Note: While Calgary has some smaller events planned for June, that city’s main Pride celebrations (and parade) will be held Aug. 26-Sept. 4, 2023.