So, it’s the beginning of a phenomenal week of music in Calgary, as the annual audio juggernaut that is Sled Island roles into town and threatens to take over all of your free time from now until Sunday night. It’s a wonderful time, but there’s stress that comes with Sled Island – so many shows, so many venues, so many late nights.
Here’s a tip to remember: you won’t see it all. There will be awesome shows that everyone will talk about for years to come that you won’t see. Either it will be running at the same time as another show you want to see, or you’ll be on the other side of the city as the curtain is set to rise, or gawd forbid, you’ll be stuck in line and won’t get in at all.
Don’t focus on those negatives. Sled has so much good stuff going on, that you’re bound to see at least five amazing things this week, no matter what venues you get to.
There are over 250 bands playing at over 30 venues all across town, so proper planning will help keep you sane. Check out the personalized schedule at the Sled Island website, and you can arrange with your friends on what shows to hit up. Of course, remember that lineups form for popular shows, and venues can’t always accommodate everyone. Check Twitter for updates about venues, and always have a backup plan. If your favourite show is full before you arrive, don’t despair. There are plenty of other shows, not to mention the accompanying film fest, comedy and art shows that will offer your broken artistic heart some well-needed creative relief. Another option is checking out the Green Calgary initiatives – try out the valet bike parking at the East Village Block Party, or go see the good people of the Prohab Helmet Society, who can help save your brain with a reasonably priced bike helmet. And if you have a wrist band, don’t forget that tons of awesome local businesses have offered discounts and specials for Sledders.
If you haven’t yet picked up your pass for Sled Island, you can check availability on their website, or gamble on single show tickets. Not every event has ’em, but you can check with retailers like Sloth Records, Heritage Posters, The Uncommons, Purr and Luke’s Drug Mart to see what they have available. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try for walk-up tickets, but be prepared for the occasional swing-and-a-miss.
Above all else, remember that you are a part of Sled Island, so do your part to make it a great time. Be friendly to strangers, clean up after yourself, and enjoy the arts that so many people have worked so hard to put in front of you.
