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Calgary, renowned for its industry, history, and cowboy culture, harbors the Mission neighborhood, a cherished and historically rich area. Evolving over time, Mission has transformed from a scatter of houses into a dynamic district adorned with trendy shopping areas, delectable restaurants, and a thriving nightlife. At the heart of Mission lies the esteemed 4th Street corridor, home to numerous top attractions in Calgary.

4th Street radiates an unrivaled essence of walkability and vitality. The neighborhood intertwines various pubs, bars, lounges, and cafés within a community brimming with townhomes and Calgary condos. Daytime activities blend seamlessly with nighttime entertainment, providing ample opportunities for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the community. This article aims to showcase the reasons why living near 4th Street in Mission is an experience to relish.

Proximity to a Gastronomic Wonderland When purchasing a home in Mission, one can revel in the wealth of dining options and exciting new restaurants waiting to be explored. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, the neighborhood boasts an extensive range of culinary choices to delight any food enthusiast. Kickstart your day at Purple Perk, savoring a cup of delicious organic coffee, or indulge in local farm-to-table fare at Seed AND Salt, supporting the area’s farmers and growers.

After a delightful breakfast, stroll through shops and salons and savor the flavors of JINYA Ramen Bar, where a unique ramen experience awaits, courtesy of their 20-hour simmered broth. Additionally, numerous cafés and lunch spots beckon with delectable sandwiches, pizza, salads, and more. Come dinnertime, relish the diverse international cuisines at establishments like Fleur de Sel Brasserie or Shokunin. Conclude the evening with tantalizing desserts from La Boulangerie or a glass of fine wine at Vin Room.

Enchanting Events: The 4th Street Lilac Festival
The annual 4th Street Lilac Festival, held in the spring, epitomizes local charm and serves as the first glimpse of the season’s offerings. It provides an opportunity to explore local vendors, revel in musical performances, witness masterful craftsmanship, enjoy captivating entertainment, and partake in the beloved pastime of people-watching. This festival caters to all ages, with games and play areas for children while parents delight in performances by emerging artists.

The festival boasts six stages, featuring numerous local artists who showcase their talents and entertain audiences while gaining exposure. Visitors can peruse over 500 artisan vendors offering handmade crafts, imports, and art pieces sure to captivate and inspire. The Lilac Festival heralds the arrival of spring, inviting people to embrace the outdoors once more, support local artists, and relish a day of entertainment.

Artistry on Display: Public Art Installations
4th Street, renowned for its artsy ambiance and unique neighborhood atmosphere, naturally incorporates public art installations as an integral part of its cultural tapestry. The 4th Street Public Art Society endeavors to revitalize the artistic direction of the area, creating an ambiance that utilizes sculptures to enlighten and educate both residents and visitors. These sculptures include notable pieces such as Counting Crows by Evelyn Grant, Aesop’s Fables by Garry Williams, Hand Signals by Derek Micheal Besant, Angel Heart by Errol Lee Fullen, and Starting Fourth by Garry Jones.

Local Alberta artists, through art competitions facilitated by the Calgary Region Arts Foundation and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, have contributed numerous sculptural masterpieces throughout the 4th Street corridor. Their efforts have expanded the art scene of 4th Street, allowing local artists to leave their mark and contribute to the community’s artistic identity.
A Haven for Shopaholics

With over 300 businesses in the neighborhood, 4th Street presents an abundance of shopping opportunities, providing ample avenues to support local enterprises. Explore clothing boutiques that feature designer labels alongside local brands or uncover hidden treasures at Feisty, a local consignment store specializing in vintage goods. Inspirati, a home decor store offering fine linens, is a must-visit for those seeking stylish interior accents. Calgary’s shopping destinations abound, and Mission offers an ideal location to revel in them.
For perishable delights, Marlow Floralworks showcases breathtaking floral displays and offers unique plants for your home. Within the store lies a hidden tearoom, serving teas, beverages, and treats to be enjoyed while perusing the 4th Street shops. Pet lovers can explore Fin Calgary, the downtown area’s exclusive fish store, for an array of tropical fish and aquarium supplies, ensuring a fresh and vibrant aquarium display.

Embrace Nature: Easy Access to Parks
Calgary’s allure lies in its parks, and residing in Mission provides convenient access to these natural havens. Beyond the walkable neighborhoods, a plethora of stores, and an abundance of restaurants, the 4th Street corridor grants proximity to green spaces. Central Memorial Park, Calgary’s oldest park, modeled after Victorian gardens, boasts geometric pathways, majestic trees, and exquisitely designed flower beds. It offers an idyllic setting for an afternoon stroll or a peaceful retreat with a captivating book.

Adjacent to 4th Street, William Aberhart Park features picnic tables, lush green spaces, community gardens, and a playground for children to revel in. A short walk away lies the Elbow River Pathway, a scenic route providing breathtaking views and leisurely opportunities along the river. Spanning approximately 20 kilometers, the pathway is ideal for biking, walking, skating, and more, offering various viewpoints and parks along the way to bask in the beauty of the great outdoors.
Cherish Life in Mission: The Enchantment of 4th Street

No matter where one resides in Calgary, there are always reasons to embrace and cherish the quality of life it offers. However, living near 4th Street in Mission presents a plethora of activities, recreational opportunities, and entertainment that set it apart from other neighborhoods. From its walkable downtown to its picturesque parks and green spaces, Mission holds a unique ambiance brought to life through local arts and festivals. The 4th Street neighborhood has undergone remarkable development and refurbishment, continuously expanding to become a community-focused and expansive haven. As new restaurants, shopping centers, and nightlife spaces emerge, excitement and possibilities continue to thrive in the 4th Street neighborhood.