Wipe the sweat out of your eyes, YYC! It’s been one unbearably warm week and while we wish we could tell you that it’s coming to an end, we’ve still got a few more days of sun, spice and everything that should be nice, but actually, kind of sucks unless you have AC.
However, If you’re among the many that don’t have a ‘chill out’ dial, just know that you’re in good company – and that there is hope! Though nothing will ever beat air conditioning on a hot summer day, there are a few other pretty effective ways to beat the heat and man, are we glad to be able to share them with you.
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you cool off this week in Calgary!
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OUTSIDE
LOUNGE NEAR OR IN AN ALBERTA BEACH
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We commend those who are committed to really soaking up the sun, but we also want you to be safe and stay cool. This week, or any others that may be painfully cozy, check out one of the many beaches and swimming holes in and around Calgary and Edmonton. Surprisingly, there is quite a few and trust us – you won’t be disappointed with any of them… unless you forget the sunscreen!
CHECK OUT A SPRAY PARK, WADING OR OUTDOOR POOL
Not feeling a road trip? Say no more! There are also a ton of ways you can take a dip in and around the city too! From one end of the city to the other, check out the link above for 15 splash parks that are open right now – many of which are actually free to access.
PICNIC, READ OR VEG UNDER THE SHADE OF A PARK TREE
Calgary is spoiled for choice when it comes to parks and greenspaces. This summer, get some fresh air while also protecting yourself from the sun under the shade of one of the city’s tallest trees or bushes. Whether you hit a garden or a river bed there really is nothing better than feeling the grass underneath your toes and taking in the beauty of inner-city nature. Other than outer-city nature, of course.
INSIDE
PUT YOUR ICE CUBE TRAY TO WORK
There are two ways to help cool your home using just a dish of ice or ice water. Placing it on a windowsill or in a doorway will give a little bit of relief, but more for serious results just set it down in front of a fan pointed towards you. Lacking an ice maker? Pretty much anything cool with help, from rolled-up towels to a bag of frozen peas!
THROW A FEW SHEETS TO THE WIND
Speaking of ‘cool stuff in an airway’ we’re throwing in a variation of the ‘Egyptian Method’. Basically, take a large-scale piece of fabric (sheets, a mat, or a blanket), wet it with cold water, and hang it in front of a door or a window. The larger the piece, and the colder it is (freezer hint), the longer the effect will last! Great way to cool your place while you’re sleeping.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LIFTED COVID MEASURES, AND VISIT A GALLERY, THEATRE OR LIBRARY
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In addition to it being incredibly nice to visit movie theatres, art galleries (like Contemporary Calgary or Glenbow) and libraries once more, they all feature some seriously high-level air conditioning. Catch your first summer blockbuster in over a year, learn about cool artists (especially at admission by donation spots) or just browse around for a new novel to read … at least you won’t get a wicked sunburn.
EAT YOUR VEGGIES… YES, REALLY
This is not the week to try and make a lasagna. Instead, focus on cold dishes (salads, spreads and charcuteries) that still provide all the vitamins and minerals to keep your body in tip-top shape. Bonus points for anything with super high water content, like oranges, melons and pineapple!
Alright, folks, that’s our roundup of some great ways to cool off in Calgary and beat the heat! Please, remember that no matter what you choose to do, that you drink a TON of water, wear your SPF and consider wearing a hat. You’ll thank us later!
