Calgarians looking to take part in Culture Month have a perfect opportunity this week: come down to the Cultural District this Thursday, September 3 for First Thursday – Calgary’s monthly cultural crawl.

On the first Thursday of every month, arts organizations, attractions, hotels and restaurants in the Cultural District stay open late and offer special programming, deals and events, most of it free. 

Within a few blocks around Olympic Plaza,  September’s First Thursday celebration in the Cultural District includes the Canadian Premiere of Milestones Project, an internationally acclaimed photo exhibit that has been recognized by the UN and Time Magazine and premiered in London by Prince Charles. Theatre Junction GRAND throws a party in the alley as they open up their stage door for a behind-the-scenes look at their new theatre season.

In addition, Art Central offers a solid lineup of over 50 artists all with unique events for First Thursday, and multiple music events around the District provide a soundtrack to the night featuring local DJs, blues, jazz and funk musicians.

“We’re encouraging Calgarians and visitors to our city to get engaged with Culture Month and try out Calgary’s arts and culture scene,” says Terry Rock, President & CEO, Calgary Arts Development. “An easy way to do that is to come down to the Cultural District for First Thursday. With so many events, all within steps from each other, it’s an easy way to get a taste of what Calgary has to offer.”

Highlights of September’s First Thursday include:

First Thursday at Art Central, 100 7 Ave SW, 5 – 9pm

Live music from Simon Evans, exhibition openings, and artist demonstrations. Pick up your copy of the Fall 2009 Cultural District Arts & Dining Guide.

Canadian Premiere, Milestones Project Photo Exhibit

Gallery 213, Art Central, 213-100 7 Ave SW

Thousands of National Geographic-like photos of children and adults from all over the world promote cultural tolerance. Honoured by the UN, acknowledged by Time Magazine, and premiered in London by Prince Charles, to date an estimated 200 million people have seen this work.

Theatre Junction GRAND Season Launch Party - Art in the Alley, 608 1 St SW - Back Alley, 5 - 10pm

Local artists animate the alley, The Hifi Club provides the tunes, and Theatre Junction GRAND opens up the back doors to the theatre. 

Mid-Century Icons: Architectural Photography from the Panda Collection, Official Opening, Triangle Gallery of Visual Arts, 104-800 Macleod Trail SE, 7:30 – 10pm

Photographer Hugh Robertson documents the growth of post-WWII Canada as reflected by its architecture.

Kirby Sewell Concert, Cantos Music Foundation, 134 11 Ave SE, 7pm

"Kirby Sewell grabs the blues and soul of the past and pulls it into the present, dragging elements of Motown, Mussel Shoals and post-war Chicago along for the emotional ride". ~ Avenue Magazine. Tickets $15 and includes a free CD.

WorldSkills 2009 Artisan Village, Olympic Plaza, 11am - 3pm

Events include live demonstrations and sales by artisans, performances, fashion shows and more.

For more information about First Thursdays, to view the full lineup of events, or to sign up for news visit CalgaryCulture.com/FirstThursdays.