Report to Community · 2025
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
Jennifer Thompson
President
2025 was a year defined not only by growth at The Confluence, but by action. Across the site, we focused on strengthening operations, improving the visitor experience, and building programs and partnerships that respond directly to community needs. Every project, event, and improvement this year reflected our commitment to making this historic place welcoming, safe and alive with activity.
Throughout the year, we expanded public programming and cultural events that invited people onto the site in new ways. Families, Elders, students, artists, knowledge keepers, and community organizations all helped shape a calendar of experiences grounded in learning, culture, and connection. We also continued building strong working relationships with organizations across Calgary and Treaty 7, creating opportunities to collaborate, share resources, and increase community impact.
At the same time, significant effort went into caring for the site itself. Maintaining and improving aging infrastructure across 42 acres is ongoing work, but it is essential to ensuring the parkland and facilities remain safe, accessible, and ready to support increasing public use. Over the past several years, we have embraced a philosophy of making the most of what we already have — investing thoughtfully in repairs, upgrades, and operational improvements that allow us to better serve the community today while preparing responsibly for tomorrow.
That practical approach has also shaped how we think about the future. Rather than planning in isolation, we have spent the last several years testing ideas through operations. We have learned from experience, listened carefully to community feedback, and observed how people use and value this place.
Those lessons became foundational to the development of our Site Concept Plan. The plan represents an important milestone for The Confluence and a long-term vision for how the site can evolve while respecting its cultural, historical, and ecological significance. Most importantly, the plan was informed through extensive community engagement, particularly with members of Treaty 7, whose perspectives and guidance helped shape the process in meaningful ways. Rooted in the vision of I’táámito’táaattsiiyio’pi — harmonious meeting place — the Site Concept Plan reflects a future that is grounded in relationship, stewardship, and shared use of the land.
What gives me confidence in this vision is that it builds from what is already working. The activity we see across the site today — cultural gatherings, educational programming, community partnerships, environmental stewardship, and public events — demonstrates the important role The Confluence already plays within Calgary and Treaty 7. The Site Concept Plan creates a framework to support and strengthen those successes over the long term.
As President, I am continually grateful for the dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners, Board members, and community supporters. The work we did this year was made possible through collaboration, care, and a shared belief in the importance of this place.
Thank you for being part of The Confluence and for helping shape its future alongside us.
Brian Beck
Board Chair
Over the past year, momentum at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland has continued to build in both meaningful and exciting ways. Following a period of transition and rejuvenation, a strong sense of alignment and shared purpose has crystallized across the organization. With new Directors joining the Board, an energized leadership team, and a clear strategic direction, a solid foundation has been laid to support the implementation of a long-term vision for The Confluence site.
This year also saw The Confluence’s evolved identity and leadership position within the community continue to clarify and be thoughtfully understood. As the organization continues to grow and thrive, increasingly we see The Confluence’s role as a place for gathering, learning, and connection within Calgary and Treaty 7 being valued and recognized. This increased profile has helped us to fortify relationships with visitors, partners, funders, and community organizations, and this in turn has allowed us to pursue many new opportunities for collaboration, sponsorship, and earned revenue.
The Board of Directors has played an important role in guiding this work. The addition of new Board members has strengthened our collective perspective and positioned us well to support the organization through its next phase of growth. As a Board we are truly fortunate to spend collegial time together in the never-ending pursuit of good governance; we seek always to meet and to lead in a good way.
As The Confluence matures, so too does the Board, and effectively this means that the right time for thoughtful succession planning and recruitment at the Board level is always now. We are therefore busy today getting things ready for new directors even before we are sure who precisely they will be. Ensuring continuity in leadership while welcoming fresh perspectives will help position the organization to enjoy long-term resilience and success.
To work at The Confluence in 2026 is to work within a complex and evolving civic environment for arts, culture, history, and the management of public spaces. Across the sector, organizations are navigating real economic pressures, changing public expectations, and broader political conversations that can at times create uncertainty and stress. In such a context, partnerships and relationship-building are absolutely essential.
I am very pleased to report that The Confluence continues to work constructively with municipal, provincial, and federal governments to advance shared priorities and to create lasting public value.
I would like to recognize The Confluence’s President, Jennifer Thompson, and her staff for their leadership and steadfast dedication throughout this period of growth and change.
With a new site concept plan now in hand that allows us to visualize together how the future of this special place might be magnificently realized in the coming years, The Confluence is today embarking upon yet another new phase of its long journey. It does so confidently and full of optimism, and I for one will look forward to seeing what we can all accomplish together.
The Confluence Site Concept Plan
2025 was a year for listening and responding to community about how to tap into the full potential of east downtown’s largest greenspace.
After months of extensive engagement and development led by O2 Planning & Design, a new 20-year Site Concept Plan is in place, presenting a high-level vision for the future site layout and amenities.
The site concept plan features:
The Confluence is replacing 30-year-old exhibitions to better reflect the stories of this land and its people. Significant work to the cultural centre was completed in 2025, with new exhibitions opened and the remaining space converted into a temporary gallery until permanent exhibitions about the Tsuut’ina, Stoney Nakoda, and Métis Nations, and the North-West Mounted Police are installed in 2027.
(Our Way of Life)
In May 2025, The Confluence opened a new 900-square-foot permanent exhibition — the first in 25 years. Kípaitápíiyssinnooni (Our Way of Life) invites visitors into an immersive Blackfoot cultural experience grounded in living traditions. Curator and Niitsitapi artist Star Crop Eared Wolf worked in consultation with more than 50 elders, artists and knowledge keepers to develop the exhibition, which reflects cultural continuity, sovereignty and belonging, while sharing vibrant perspectives of Blackfoot life today.
This multimedia showcase highlighted the personal migration journeys of Filipino immigrants, Moses (Moey) Aquino, Euniz Brown, and Salvacion Atay. Through intimate, community‑rooted storytelling, the exhibit shared how life in their adopted country shaped their identities and sense of belonging.
Dark Chambers, created by Siksika artist Adrian Stimson, is an artistic response to archival photographs of Fort Calgary. The exhibition reveals the human stories often obscured in official histories. Through a blend of humour, reflection, and sharp commentary, the exhibit invited viewers to consider the legacy of the North-West Mounted Police from diverse perspectives.
Examining the history of the North-West Mounted Police through archival materials and lesser-known stories, this exhibit encouraged visitors to reflect critically on history and how it is represented, exploring events such as the March West and the impacts of colonial enforcement.
This mural, created by artist Nicole Wolf, personifies the spirit of the Bow River and wraps around the exterior of the Holy Gathering Place on the northeastern corner of the Replica Fort Calgary Barracks in an effort to make the building more welcoming. The mural was completed in 2025 with a grand opening in early 2026.
Visitors to the Cultural Centre in 2025 — a 19% increase from 2024
By offering diverse, meaningful and dynamic programs, workshops and experiences at accessible prices, The Confluence embodies its role as a community connector. With opportunities for meaningful discussion, artistic expression, and learning about the history of the land, new audiences were attracted to The Confluence in 2025.
Despite heavy rain, 296 people joined the 16th annual Walk for Reconciliation on National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), presented in partnership by The Confluence, Trellis Society, the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary and Bow Valley College.
On the east side of the cultural centre, a free, legal wall for graffiti brought a welcoming splash of colour to the plain exterior. Alcove Centre for the Arts and Como se Dice Art Collective partnered with The Confluence to offer graffiti art workshops and engaged street artists throughout Calgary. Even after programming ended, the free wall remains open with creatives regularly leaving their mark.
The 150 Years Later: Reflecting on Fort Calgary’s Legacy walking tour was offered in five languages: English, Mandarin, Ukrainian, Punjabi and German. These tours gave an opportunity for Calgarians to learn about the history of the site and impacts of the North-West Mounted Police in their native language.
New in 2025, Professional Development workshops focus on reconciliation and embracing Indigenous perspectives. The program equips participants with knowledge and tools to help foster a respectful, inclusive environment that honours Indigenous traditions and experiences. The workshop content was developed with Otsskoipiiks’aakii (Blue Bird Woman) Paula Smith, Blackfoot Knowledge Keeper from the Piikani Nation and Indigenous Relations Manager at The Confluence.
Looking Way Back
Community Program Revenue Over the Years
In 2025, The Confluence hosted 150 Years Later: Reflecting on Fort Calgary’s Legacy — a year‑long series marking the 150th anniversary of the North‑West Mounted Police first arriving at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers. Through seven projects, the initiative connected community members with historians, artists and knowledge keepers to foster thoughtful dialogue about local and national histories and the ongoing impacts of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples.
Commemoration Programming
This one-act play presented by Quest Theatre recounts the signing of Treaty 7 and the ongoing challenges we face today. Performed for hundreds of attendees through school groups, public performances, and for visitors on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Commemoration Programming
The Confluence Symposium was a powerful gathering of community voices, scholars, and knowledge keepers sharing ideas about history, Indigenous experiences, and colonial power. This three-day event brought together community to broaden collective understanding of the past and inspire active consideration for the present and future. The symposium was presented in partnership with the University of Calgary.
Commemoration Programming
The Confluence hosted Circle Camp on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Tipi owners from all Treaty 7 Nations and several community organizations set up their tipis as part of the event. Kainai Elder Minipoka Peter Weasel Moccasin, who inspired the idea of the Circle Camp, transferred a painted lodge design to The Confluence. Lindsie Bruns, Director of Creative Experience, accepted the snake design in a transfer ceremony, and the new painted lodge was amongst the 18 tipis that made up the Circle Camp. Circle Camp served as a physical reminder that Indigenous Peoples were not only on the land first, but they are still here.
Commemoration Programming
A monthly program where historians and subject matter experts share their research and offer new perspectives on the history we think we know. In 2025, more than 659 attendees enjoyed spicy takes, delicious hot dogs, and spirited discussion in what has become a flagship program.
Community organizations and all three levels of government recognized the importance of commemorating the 150 years since the establishment of Fort Calgary and contributed a total of $290,000 in grant funding. Thank you to our partners for supporting this important reflection on our local history.
In 2025, The Confluence supported the next generation of Calgarians through dynamic learning experiences across our school programs, camps, and youth initiatives.
The Confluence provided day camps to support families during the Alberta teachers’ strike in fall 2025. These programs provided safe, engaging child care, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor activities — responding quickly to an immediate community need while creating meaningful experiences for participating youth.
Summer Camps at The Confluence inspire curiosity through hands-on learning connected to history, nature, and community. With regularly refreshed activities and local field trips, campers enjoy engaging, dynamic experiences in a welcoming environment where children can explore, learn, and build lasting connections.
“Our household was very impressed by the program, counsellors and activities. Everyone really cares about the children and running an absolutely amazing summer camp. Truly appreciate this community and camp.”
— Parent, Summer Camp 2025
School Programs offer students meaningful opportunities to engage with history and place. Designed to support curriculum learning, these interactive experiences encourage critical thinking and inquiry while exploring the diverse stories that have shaped the land and community.
Offered in partnership with the Sinopaa Blackfoot Society and funded by Alberta Health Services, the camp provided urban Indigenous youth with opportunities to connect to Blackfoot culture through land-based learning and teachings from Elders, creating space for cultural connection, knowledge sharing, and community building in a supportive and meaningful environment.
“The team was excellent and adjusting for the older students (grade 7). The students felt connected to the content, challenged by the questions, and inspired. The clarity of the program description on the website allowed us to ensure we made connections to the content ahead of time to set everything up.”
— Grade 7 TeacherLooking Way Back
Youth Program Revenue Over the Years
The Confluence strives to be an accessible place where all visitors can reflect on the past, help create better paths for the future and engage with community. In 2025 The Confluence increased accessibility with expanded financial support programs, infrastructure upgrades, and the completion of Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p (Holy Gathering Place).
The Confluence Reciprocity Program supports Indigenous-led events by providing space and resources at no cost. Rooted in the long history of gathering on this land, the program fosters accessibility and strengthens relationships, while recognizing the contributions of Indigenous communities in shaping meaningful experiences at The Confluence.
In April 2024, The Confluence and the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary (AFCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create a dedicated, no-cost space for Indigenous ceremony, smudging, and community programming. Renovations to create the space were completed in late 2025, and Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p (the Holy Gathering Place) is now open for Indigenous organizations and individuals to book. The indoor space extends outside to a firepit with built-in seating and will eventually connect to the residential school memorial. Naatowápitao’ohkánnao’p supports culture, ceremony, and connection on this historic land.
The Confluence improved exhibit walkability and readability, and installed universal, all-gender washrooms to create a more welcoming space for all people, regardless of ability. New roads and pathways on the grounds provide safe and easy access for the organizers and attendees of major events. Two accessible parking stalls outside The Holy Gathering Place and a newly paved road also improved accessibility.
Money shouldn’t be a barrier to access the stories and histories of this significant place. The Confluence’s pay-what-you-can pricing for special events and the Equity and Accessibility Program provide tickets at low- and no-cost price points. Calgarians can access the cultural centre for reduced admission prices through the Fair Entry and Access 2 Card programs. The Confluence covered busing and school program costs for 12 classes from 6 low-resource schools in 2025.
The Confluence adds vibrancy, safety and economic activity to the community through year-round events held both inside and outside on the parkland. Whether it’s a third-party venue rental like Country Thunder, a community partnership like East End Cold Spell, or complimentary venue use through The Confluence Reciprocity Program, events at The Confluence nurture a stronger community in Calgary’s downtown.
East End Cold Spell brought energy and creativity to winter at The Confluence in February 2026. Approximately 13,150 people enjoyed a month of music, fashion, and community events, created in partnership with Block Heater, SkijorDue, East Village, Winter Round Up and One Big JAM.
People came to The Confluence in 2025 for programs, festivals, concerts, markets and more
In rental fees waived for 27 Indigenous-led events hosted on site in 2025
The Anneliese Weber Volunteer Program expanded rapidly in 2025. Rooted in our strategic plan, volunteers demonstrate integrity, courage, collaboration, and empathy as they help us work towards building community here at The Confluence.
Financial support for The Confluence helps connect community to culture through exhibits that tell truthful stories of the people of this land, a variety of interactive programming, and meaningful projects like the permanent residential school memorial The Wandering Spirit.
Grant funding supported initiatives like new cultural centre exhibitions, 150 Years Later: Reflecting on Fort Calgary’s Legacy, and The Confluence Garden.
As a major event site, The Confluence has a unique opportunity to fundraise through 50/50 raffles during incredible community moments that attract tens of thousands of people. Staff and volunteers come out to sell tickets and enjoy outdoor experiences like Country Thunder and SkijorDue.
Donations made to The Confluence help realize our goals to revitalize the parkland, renew cultural centre exhibits, run enriching programs, and provide no-cost use of event spaces through The Confluence Reciprocity Program.
449 people opted to add a few dollars to their program registration payments — together, these small donations added up to $3,264 in support for initiatives at The Confluence.
In 2025, Christy Caswell became the first-ever monthly donor to The Confluence. Christy supports the work of The Confluence and hopes she can inspire others to do the same.
Partnerships expand our reach, deepen engagement, and help us reflect and inspire the communities we serve. By sharing resources, energy and passion, partnerships help us do more in meaningful ways. Collaboration connects us with community and elevates diverse stories and initiatives.
The Confluence partnered with 26 organizations to bring to life 31 community‑enriching initiatives in 2025.
The Confluence Garden continues to grow as a space for learning, connection, and community care. With the support of dedicated volunteers, the garden produces fresh food and culturally significant plants to share through programs and local organizations. In 2025, a partnership with The Alex Community Food Centre strengthened this impact, expanding access to nutritious food and community-driven food education.
| Partner Organization | Partnered with The Confluence on… |
|---|---|
| ABC Bees | Programming and garden beehives |
| Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary | Holy Gathering Place development and operations, Walk For Reconciliation |
| Alcove Centre for the Arts | FreeWallYYC |
| Alpha House | Dedicated onsite intervention services |
| Bow Valley College | Walk For Reconciliation |
| Calgary Arts Development | FreeWallYYC, Twilight Creations Indigenous projection mapping |
| Calgary Justice Film Festival | Calgary Justice Film Festival |
| Calgary Pride | Pride Parade, Queer Prom |
| Calgary Public Library | Summer camp programming |
| Calgary Zoo | Summer camp programming |
| Chinook Blast | Onsite festival programming 2025 |
| Chinook Country Historical Society | Women’s History Walking Tour |
| Como se Dice | FreeWallYYC |
| Emmedia | Twilight Creations — Indigenous Projection Mapping |
| Government of Alberta — Historic Resources Management | What Makes a Provincial Heritage Site? lecture |
| Jasmine Atay and Sam Mendoza | Halo Halo exhibit, merkado and opening reception |
| Quest Theatre | We Are All Treaty People play |
| Sinopaa Blackfoot Society | Blackfoot Cultural Camp |
| The Esker Foundation | Summer camp programming |
| The King Eddy | Dark History of East Village tour |
| Trellis Society | Walk For Reconciliation |
| University of Calgary | The Confluence Symposium |
| Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth | Twilight Creations Indigenous projection mapping |
| Vertigo Theatre | Summer camp programming |
| Woezo Africa Music & Dance Theatre Inc. | The Black Excellence film series |
| Women’s Centre of Calgary | International Women’s Day talk and screening |