by Danelle Wettstein

Move over, Broadway – the trendiest game in town brings fireworks and music together to create pyromusicals.

Did you know fireworks date back to the 10th century? While the technology has changed, the allure sure hasn’t worn off. Calgary’s very own fireworks competition, GlobalFest, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.

For six nights this month, different countries present their own versions of pyromusical masterpieces. The brainchild of the Calgary Fireworks Festival Society and the International Avenue Arts and Culture Centre, GlobalFest brings a fitting multicultural festival to southeast Calgary’s Elliston Park. GlobalFest is quite often compared to the Celebration of Lights in Vancouver but, by all accounts, Calgary’s festival is much more intimate an experience.

While there’s a great deal of information out there about attending the festival, here are a few insider tips:

• Parking – Save yourself frustration by considering the shuttle service to GlobalFest from Marlborough Mall. The $6 round-trip per person is well worth the cost as there is no parking available at Elliston Park and multiple road closures can make navigating the area difficult.
• Seating – The South Bowl is the best for viewing the show, and it also faces the OneWorld Main Stage. Arrive early to claim your spot. Oh, and during the show, don’t overlook the beauty of the reflection of the fireworks on the water.
• Dining – Eat on site. There are dozens of concessions available, with everything from cultural cuisine to your standard fare of mini donuts and kettle corn, if you didn’t get your fill during Stampede.
• Experience – Arrive early to catch the cultural shows of the OneWorld Festival. With 15 cultural pavilions, four stages, the new Aboriginal Village and a night market, this is a must-see slice of GlobalFest.
• Finale – This spectacle on August 26 is worth the time and the wait. This choreographed show is like none other.

Looking to extend your GlobalFest experience beyond the borders of Elliston Park?

• The Human Rights Forum runs all week during the lunch hour at Calgary’s Central Library. The forum is intended to share information about issues as part of a larger international coalition. Did we mention admission is free?
• Don’t forget to Vine and Dine. Three local venues are opening their doors for a dining & beverage pairing experience throughout the festival. Purchase your tickets in advance – these events are expected to sell out.

Convinced to attend Alberta’s most explosive festival? GlobalFest sells out every year, so get your tickets today.

GlobalFest runs August 16 – 26, over six nights, at Elliston Park. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit GlobalFest.ca.

Danelle Wettstein is a Calgary 2012 Cultural Ambassador, avid volunteer, social butterfly and native Calgarian. Catch her innermost thoughts at @DanelleW.