Top 20 Activities in Calgary to Help You Learn a New Skill

Calgary is a city bursting with opportunities for personal growth and skill development.

If you're looking to pick up a new hobby, advance your career, or simply challenge yourself, Calgary has a variety of activities and classes to help you learn something new. From cooking and boxing to pottery and photography classes, this guide covers the best places and activities to master a new skill in Calgary.

We've scoured the city to find top-rated classes and workshops that cater to all interests and skill levels. So, if you're ready to start a journey of learning and discovery, read on to find out the best activities in Calgary to help you achieve your goals.

Looking to conquer the waters? The Glenmore Sailing Club in Calgary offers an incredible chance to learn sailing through their Adult Learn to Sail Course.

This program welcomes everyone, from complete beginners eager to take up a new hobby to seasoned sailors aiming to refine their techniques.

Start your journey with Keelboat 1, the foundation course that introduces you to the essentials of sailing. Here, you’ll grasp the basics of crewing and skippering on a keelboat. With no prior experience required, this course ensures you get a solid grounding in sailing, guided by experienced instructors in small, focused classes.

For women who prefer a female-only environment, there's a dedicated course available, making learning even more comfortable.

Once you've got the basics down, progress to Keelboat 2: Keelboat Skipper. This stage builds on your initial skills, preparing you for more advanced sailing experiences. It's perfect for those who have completed Keelboat 1 and are keen on deepening their understanding. At this level, you'll gain knowledge tailored to the unique conditions of the Glenmore Reservoir, an ideal training ground.

Ready to really set sail? Keelboat 3: Keelboat Cruising is an immersive three-day course that takes you beyond the reservoir to the stunning tidal waters of the Gulf Islands. Here, you'll earn your Basic Cruising Standard certification, a testament to your sailing prowess.

Looking to shake things up in your social life? Calgary's cocktail-making classes offer a fun and engaging way to learn the art of mixology.

These sessions are perfect for anyone 18 and over, whether you’re a budding bartender or just looking to impress friends with your drink-making skills.

In these classes, you’ll get hands-on experience creating three delicious cocktails. You'll delve into cocktail and spirit theory, giving you a brief history and understanding of the essentials. Learn the secrets behind the perfect muddle, stir, and shake.

You’ll also master the use of various bar tools, ensuring you know what glassware to use and when. The classes cover the use of egg whites to craft the perfect sour, a technique that adds a professional touch to your creations.

A standout venue for these classes is Shelter Cocktail Bar, known for its artistic ambiance featuring a wall of 21 gas masks turned into art pieces by local artists.

It’s an evolving gallery that adds a unique flair to your learning experience.

Dive into the world of tufting at Tuft Love Studios in Calgary, where creativity knows no bounds. This unique workshop offers a hands-on experience in transforming ordinary rugs into stunning pieces of art.

Perfect for families, friends, or solo creators, these sessions welcome participants of all ages and skill levels.

Before your visit, pick or design a simple pattern, especially if you’re new to tufting. You can email your designs to the studio ahead of time to prepare for your session. On the day of your workshop, expect to spend up to three hours creating your masterpiece.

The dedicated staff at Tuft Love Studios will guide you through the tufting process, from the basics to more advanced techniques, ensuring you get the most out of your time there.

During your session, you’ll receive a thorough demonstration on how to use the tufting tools and techniques to bring your design to life. 

Step into the world of string art with Workshop Palak Studio in Calgary. This workshop, led by the talented artist Palak, offers a chance to explore a unique and captivating art form.

Ideal for beginners, the class provides all the materials you need—paints, nails, threads, and prints—so you can focus on unleashing your creativity.

At the String Art Workshop, you’ll receive step-by-step instructions from Palak, ensuring that even those new to the craft can produce a beautiful piece of art.

The process is simple yet rewarding: you'll start with a basic design and, using threads, weave intricate patterns and shapes. Palak's expert guidance and passion for teaching make the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The workshop is held at The Mash | Marda Loop, a vibrant venue where you can immerse yourself in creativity while enjoying the local food and drink offerings.

As you work on your string art, you'll also learn various painting techniques to enhance your project, making it truly one-of-a-kind.

Discover the joy of cooking with Calgary's diverse cooking classes, where culinary skills are elevated to an art form.

 At The Cookbook Co. Cooks, nestled in a cozy space in Calgary, you can dive into an array of hands-on classes tailored to all skill levels.

Learn to whip up Thai classics bursting with vibrant flavors, or transport yourself to a Parisian bistro with courses on French favorites. Bread-making classes offer a great start for beginners eager to create homemade loaves, while pasta enthusiasts can explore handmade ravioli and tagliatelle.

These classes, led by expert chefs, promise not only skill-building but also an enriching experience that allows you to recreate these dishes in your own kitchen.

For a more interactive and social learning environment, The Cooking Room offers hands-on classes perfect for adults. Here, participants cook together in a communal setting, making it a great activity whether you're attending solo or with friends.

Dive into Tex Mex & Margaritas, where you'll create fresh tacos, shrimp "ceviche" salad, and more, finishing with delectable churros. Other classes include Herb Garden, Patio Appetizers, and Sourdough Workshop, each focusing on different culinary techniques and dishes.

Looking for a thrilling way to spend your time in Calgary? Try axe throwing at Axe Games Calgary. This activity combines the excitement of target sports with innovative game modes, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned throwers.

With options for one-hour or two-hour sessions, there's plenty of time to hone your skills and have fun.

Axe Games Calgary features a digital target system that takes the traditional axe throwing experience to the next level. You can engage in a variety of game modes, including classics like tic-tac-toe and Connect 4, as well as more adventurous challenges like Zombies and Duck Hunter.

For those who prefer traditional target practice, the standard bullseye and a dynamic target mode where the bullseye moves with each throw are also available.

Suitable for participants aged 10 and up, Axe Games Calgary is a family-friendly venue where safety and enjoyment are top priorities.

The facility is fully licensed, ensuring a safe and regulated environment for everyone.

Looking to pack a punch into your fitness routine? Rumble Boxing Studio in Calgary offers an electrifying workout experience that combines high-intensity boxing with the energy of a nightclub.

Perfect for all fitness levels, Rumble fosters a supportive community where everyone is welcome.

Each session at Rumble starts with a review of basic moves, ensuring that participants are comfortable and confident. The workout then kicks into high gear with a mix of heavy bag boxing, bodyweight exercises, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

The studio's upbeat music and experienced instructors keep the energy high, motivating you to push your limits.

Boxing at Rumble is a full-body workout targeting your legs, core, and upper body. You can expect to burn up to 700 calories per class, making it an effective way to tone and define your physique. Beyond the physical benefits, boxing is a great stress reliever, allowing you to release pent-up energy and leave your worries behind.

Rumble offers a variety of classes, from standard heavy bag sessions to more personalized fitness programs. No prior experience is necessary, as instructors are on hand to assist with hand wrapping and answer any questions. Equipment like wraps and gloves are available in-studio for those who need it.

Discover the craft of soap making at Bowness Soapworks in Calgary, where you can learn the traditional cold process method and unleash your creativity.

Perfect for small groups, these workshops are an engaging way to spend time with friends or family, and even include the option to co-host with a YYC Drag Queen for added fun and flair.

At Bowness Soapworks, each session begins with a detailed introduction to the basics of soap making. You'll dive into the chemistry behind the process, ensuring you understand how to safely and effectively create your own soap.

Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll mix oils, lye, and fragrances to craft a unique soap loaf. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a pound of beautifully handcrafted soap to take home and cure.

Workshops can be booked for private events, with a minimum of six guests and the flexibility to add more.

Choose from venues like Greenbriar Market + Refillery, Wild Rabbit Vintage, or Wine Kits Montgomery, each offering a unique atmosphere and special touches, such as delightful beverages and snacks.

Explore the captivating art of stained glass at Muk Luk Magpies in Airdrie, a creative haven just outside Calgary.

This vibrant community offers comprehensive workshops perfect for both beginners and seasoned artisans looking to enhance their skills.

Muk Luk Magpies provides a variety of workshops and classes that cover all aspects of stained glass artistry. Whether you’re new to the craft or have some experience, there’s a class for you.

The Beginner Stained Glass class is ideal for newcomers, offering step-by-step guidance on creating stunning glass pieces. More advanced classes, like Dragonfly Whirl and Wedi Board Mosaics, provide opportunities to refine your techniques and explore new designs.

All necessary supplies are provided for these hands-on sessions, so you can dive right into your project without any hassle. Instructors at Muk Luk Magpies are dedicated to helping you unlock your creative potential, teaching you everything from glass cutting and leading to fusing and painting.

For those looking to take their skills further, the Beginner Lead Class introduces the fundamentals of lead work, empowering you to tackle more complex projects with confidence. Muk Luk Magpies also offers unique sessions like Fused Valentine Hearts, making it a great activity for special occasions.

Delve into the art of fragrance creation with Calgary’s Candle & Diffuser Making Workshop, a two-hour immersive experience where you can craft your own aromatic masterpieces.

This workshop invites you to explore the enchanting world of scents, transforming ordinary wax and oils into unique, personalized creations.

In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of scent layering, mixing base notes, mid notes, and top notes to create a harmonious blend that reflects your personal style.

The process is akin to storytelling, with each layer of scent adding depth and character to your final product. You’ll be guided through each step, from selecting and blending oils to pouring and setting your candle and diffuser.

Enhance your creative journey by pairing your crafting session with a glass of wine, bubbly, or craft beer, adding a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere to the experience.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll take home an 8 oz candle and a 2 oz reed diffuser, both infused with your chosen scents.

Immerse yourself in the art of photography with classes at Snap Foto Club in Calgary.

Located in a charming loft-style heritage building, Snap Foto Club offers a unique learning environment with its beautiful sandstone, brick, and hardwood features, along with expansive windows that flood the space with natural light.

Snap Foto Club redefines the traditional photography studio experience by offering a walk-in, self-serve setup with over 30 different photography experiences and seasonally rotating backdrops.

Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the studio provides the perfect setting for capturing stunning photos for social media, holiday cards, event invitations, and more.

The photography workshops at Snap Foto Club are designed to cater to photographers of all skill levels. In these classes, you’ll have access to their expansive 4000 sq. ft. studio, complete with props and models to enhance your learning experience.

The workshops also take advantage of the picturesque Stephen Avenue, one of Calgary's most photographed streets, providing diverse backdrops for on-location shoots.

Discover the craft of leatherworking at Tandy Leather in Calgary, where you can immerse yourself in the art of creating beautiful leather goods.

Tandy’s Skill Classes are perfect for anyone looking to learn or refine their leatherworking abilities, whether you're a beginner or an experienced artisan.

In the Kit Classes, you'll have the opportunity to create items like the Dillon Bi-Fold Wallet, a practical and stylish project featuring two large pockets and three card slots on each side.

The class fee covers all the necessary supplies and tools, ensuring you can focus entirely on mastering the craft. With hands-on guidance, you'll learn essential techniques for cutting, stitching, and assembling leather pieces.

For those with some leatherworking experience, the Intermediate Leather Craft-Dyeing & Antiquing Techniques class is a fantastic way to elevate your skills. This class delves into advanced dyeing and staining methods, teaching you how to mix custom colors and apply them to your projects for a professional finish.

If you're ready to take your skills to the next level, the Advanced Leather Crafting-310 Advanced Figure Carving class offers an in-depth exploration of figure carving techniques. This advanced class will help you bring intricate designs to life on leather, with all materials and tools included in the fee.

Unleash your inner ninja at Breathe Parkour in Calgary, where you can learn Ninja Warrior skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.

This specialized facility offers Parkour classes for all ages and skill levels, from young beginners to advanced practitioners, guided by passionate experts in the art of movement.

At Breathe Parkour, you'll navigate through an ever-changing setup of walls, bars, and various obstacles designed to challenge and inspire.

The gym provides a safe space for you to explore new ways of moving, emphasizing efficiency and style in every leap, climb, and roll.

Classes are tailored to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring everyone from age 3 to 99 can participate. Beginners start with Level 1-2 classes, focusing on basic techniques and foundational movements. As you progress, intermediate (Levels 3-4) and advanced (Levels 5-8) classes introduce more complex maneuvers and allow you to choose between traditional and freestyle Parkour styles.

Training at Breathe Parkour goes beyond physical skills. Participants also experience significant mental and physical transformations. By tackling various obstacles, you’ll develop problem-solving abilities, enhance spatial awareness, and build resilience. The practice fosters strength, coordination, and a positive mindset, helping you conquer fears and push your limits.

Explore the art of pottery with classes at Workshop Studios in Inglewood, Calgary. This ceramics haven offers a welcoming community and an excellent facility for both beginners and experienced artists.

Their comprehensive 6 and 8-week ceramic courses provide an in-depth exploration of pottery, catering to all skill levels.

Workshop Studios is equipped with everything you need to create beautiful ceramics. The studio boasts 16 Shimpo RK Whisper wheels, a large Bailey slab roller, extruders, and both gas and electric kilns.

They offer a variety of mid and high fire Plainsman clays, ensuring a broad selection for all creative endeavors.

The weekly ceramic workshops are structured to accommodate different experience levels. Beginner-friendly Level 1 classes introduce the basics of pottery, from hand-building techniques to wheel throwing.

These classes provide a solid foundation, perfect for those new to the craft. For those looking to advance their skills, Level 2 classes delve into more intricate projects and the science of glazing, offering a deeper understanding of ceramics.

Dive into the enchanting world of terrarium making at Plant Shop’s DIY Terrarium Workshop in Calgary.

 This hands-on class offers a unique opportunity to blend creativity with nature, crafting your own miniature ecosystem to bring home.

Hosted at Plant Plant, the sister shop at 5-2501 Alyth Road SE, this 1.5 to 2-hour workshop provides a cozy and interactive environment for participants.

The experience begins with a comprehensive step-by-step guide, ensuring you have all the knowledge needed to create and care for your terrarium. Expert instructors will walk you through the process, sharing tips on indoor plant care and design.

During the workshop, you'll be provided with all the materials necessary to build your terrarium. This includes a stylish glass container, a selection of 2-3 plants (such as succulents, cacti, or tropical plants), soil, and decorative elements to personalize your creation. Additionally, you'll receive a terrarium information booklet and care instructions to help you maintain your new green masterpiece.

To make the session even more enjoyable, participants are treated to complimentary hot or cold beverages, depending on the time of day. This relaxed setting allows for a fun and educational experience, perfect for anyone looking to explore a new hobby or add a touch of greenery to their space.

This 3.5-hour class is perfect for anyone from beginners to advanced coffee enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge and skills in coffee preparation. The Barista Level 1 Course provides step-by-step instructions to help you achieve consistency in brewing the perfect cup.

With no prerequisites required, it’s an accessible way for anyone to start their barista journey. The course covers the essentials of espresso making, including the intricacies of grinders and the rich history and theories behind espresso.

Participants will explore various brewing methods such as drip, pour-over, and French press, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of different coffee techniques.

You'll learn to pull a consistent espresso shot and master the art of milk texturing, crucial skills for creating those perfect lattes and cappuccinos.

In addition to hands-on practice, the course emphasizes troubleshooting common coffee-related challenges, providing a well-rounded learning experience.

Pre-registration is required, ensuring a focused and personalized training environment without drop-ins.

Dive into the delicate and delightful world of macaron baking at Ollia Macarons & Tea in downtown Calgary. Their Macaron 101 class is the perfect evening activity for anyone looking to master the art of these elegant French treats.

Over the course of 2-2.5 hours, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of macaron making, from history and technique to flavor creation.

In this hands-on class, all materials and ingredients are provided, so you can focus entirely on perfecting your macaronage technique. The experienced instructors at Ollia guide you through each step, ensuring you leave with around 25 beautifully crafted macarons in two rotating flavors.

Enjoy a cozy break with three delicious macarons and a cup of tea, making the experience both educational and relaxing.

Participants will also receive a PDF recipe book to recreate the magic at home. Plus, you'll get a 15% discount on bakeware, merchandise, and teas on the day of your class, perfect for stocking up on essentials and treats.

Children aged 12-15 are welcome to join with a parent or guardian, making it a great bonding experience. Both the child and adult must register for the class. With provided aprons and all necessary supplies, you’ll be set up for success from the moment you arrive.

These comprehensive courses cater to various firearm types and individual needs, ensuring that everyone from beginners to enthusiasts can find the perfect fit.

The Canadian Firearms Safety Course for Non-Restricted PAL is an 8-hour course ideal for those seeking a non-restricted firearms license. This license grants the right to possess and acquire most hunting rifles and shotguns.

Scheduled on most Saturdays, the course provides an in-depth introduction to the principles of safe and responsible firearm ownership. It covers essential topics such as firearm handling, safety protocols, storage regulations, and legal responsibilities.

For those looking to expand their firearm capabilities, The Shooting Edge also offers a Restricted PAL course. This 4-hour add-on course is designed for those who wish to include restricted firearms in their license, such as handguns. Typically offered on Sundays, it is the perfect follow-up to the Non-Restricted course, enabling participants to apply for both classifications simultaneously.

For a more efficient and cost-effective option, The Shooting Edge offers a combined Non-Restricted and Restricted PAL course at a discounted rate. This bundled course allows participants to complete both certifications over a single weekend, providing a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of firearm safety and legal requirements.

Unleash your creativity and dive into the world of handcrafted bath products with the Aromatic Bath Products workshop at The Apothecary in Calgary.

This engaging, hands-on class offers a sensory journey where you’ll learn to craft a variety of luxurious bath items using natural ingredients and essential oils.

Over the course of two hours, participants will explore the art of making four different bath products: bath melts, bath foam, tub tea, and bath salts. Each product is designed to elevate your bath time routine, transforming it into a soothing and aromatic spa-like experience.

The workshop follows a 'make and take' format, meaning you’ll not only learn the techniques but also get to take home your personalized creations.

All materials and supplies are provided, so you only need to bring a pen and paper for note-taking, an optional old shirt to avoid any mess, and a willingness to experiment and have fun.

The course fee includes all the ingredients and the recipes, ensuring you can continue crafting these delightful bath products at home.

Indulge in the art of chocolate making with courses offered by Master Chocolat by Bernard Callebaut in Calgary. These immersive three-hour sessions are perfect for chocolate enthusiasts eager to learn the craft from one of the best in the business.

Guided by Bernard Callebaut himself, you’ll explore the rich history of chocolate and learn to differentiate between candy ingredients and high-quality chocolate bars.

The course covers the essentials of chocolate making, with a strong focus on tempering—a crucial technique for achieving that perfect glossy finish and satisfying snap. You’ll learn the science behind tempering and how to master it using common tools from your kitchen.

This hands-on experience allows you to create a variety of chocolate delights, including bars, hot chocolate bombs, lollipops, and hand-molded salted caramel truffles.

What sets Master Chocolat apart is their commitment to quality. The chocolates crafted here are made with 95% organic ingredients and are free from preservatives or artificial colors, making them ideal for those with special dietary needs.

During the course, you’ll taste the difference that high-quality ingredients make, enhancing your appreciation for this delectable art.

And there you have it—an exciting array of activities and workshops in Calgary to help you learn a new skill!

From sailing the serene waters at Glenmore Sailing Club to mastering the art of chocolate making with Bernard Callebaut, there's something here for everyone. Whether you're looking to unleash your creativity with tufting or string art, get active with axe throwing and parkour, or indulge in the finer things with cocktail mixing and macaron baking, Calgary has you covered.

Each of these experiences not only offers the chance to learn something new but also provides a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and have fun. So why not step out of your comfort zone and try one of these workshops? Who knows, you might discover a hidden talent or even a new passion.