The month of May marks Asian Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and diversity of Asian communities across Canada.
The people who have journeyed from Asia to Canada over the last two centuries have brought with them a rich cultural heritage. From 51 countries, they represent many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions, adding to the vibrant and diverse fabric of Canadian society.
At YMCA Calgary, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusivity, and we are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
During Asian Heritage Month, we encourage everyone to take the time to learn more about Asian cultures, traditions, and history.
There are many ways to engage in Asian Heritage Month at the YMCA.
Attend a FREE Asian Heritage Month event:
Lion Dance
Location: Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge
Date: May 6, 11– 11:30 a.m.
Kick off Asian Heritage Month at Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge with a traditional lion dance performed by the Calgary Tai Chi & Martial Arts College. While there, you can also pop by our community market which will be happening at the same time.
Lion Dance
Location: Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton
Date: May 6, 1:30 – 2 p.m.
Kick off Asian Heritage Month at Brookfield YMCA at Seton with a traditional lion dance performed by the Calgary Tai Chi & Martial Arts College.
Youth Obstacle Course: Squid Games
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: Wednesdays, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
For the month of May, our Teen Vibe experience is hosting a Squid Game obstacle course for youth ages 12+ to test their skills in a safe environment.
Drop-In Fitness Class: Bollywood Dance Class
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: Thursdays, 6:15 – 7 p.m.
For the month of May, we will be offering a Bollywood dance class every Thursday. This will be a free drop-in class at no extra cost to members.
Tinikling and Bhangra Performance
Location: Saddletowne YMCA in the Genesis Centre Commons Area
Date: Friday, May 12, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Stop by the Genesis Centre common area for a performance of Tinikling, the National dance of the Philippines and Bhangra, a traditional dance originating in Pakistan.
Family Fun Day
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: May 19, 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Drop in for crafts, activities and games in celebration of Asian Heritage Month. Perfect for children under 12 and their families.
Table Tennis
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: May 19, 4 – 6 p.m.
This drop-in table tennis session will include the equipment you need to play. All you need to do is show up!
Night Market
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: May 25, 3 – 6 p.m.
Join us for a special pop-up night market. Take in the tastes and creations of vendors from India to China!
Cricket – Soft Launch
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: May 29, 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Cricket is coming this summer to the Saddletowne YMCA! For Asian Heritage Month, we will be hosting a soft launch at the end of May. This drop-in session will include the equipment you need to play. All you need to do is show up!
Badminton
Location: Saddletowne YMCA
Date: May 30, 4 – 6 p.m.
This drop-in badminton session will include the equipment you need to play. All you need to do is show up!
Explore recreation across the YMCA with roots in Asia:
Badminton
Although Badminton was first played in Gloucestershire England, its roots can be traced back to Ancient Greece, China, and India. It comes directly from Poona, a game played in India by British army officers in the 1860s. https://www.britannica.com/sports/badminton
You can play Badminton at all YMCA Calgary locations!
*Badminton courts fill up fast and new offerings are added every Friday at noon.
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. Its roots can be traced back to the Indus-Sarasvati civilization around 3000 BCE, diversifying over the centuries into many different forms and styles. Today, yoga is practiced by millions of people around the world to improve physical health, reduce stress, and cultivate inner peace and well-being.
YMCA Calgary offers yoga classes at all our Health & Fitness facilities!
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a combat sport that combines elements of traditional boxing with kicks and strikes from martial arts such as karate and Muay Thai. The origins of kickboxing can be traced back to Japan in the 1950s, where it was known as "karate-boxing" or "full-contact karate." Today, kickboxing is a well-established sport with a large following around the world and is also practiced by many as a form of fitness training and self-defense.
Kickboxing classes are offered at Saddletowne YMCA and Brookfield YMCA at Seton!