Banff Writers Group

An inclusive community for writers in the Banff area. We facilitate co-working and socializing meetups. All disciplines, projects, and experience levels welcome.

Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Kyo Maclear
Oct
8
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Kyo Maclear

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Begin the Literary Cabaret: Memoir series with an intimate evening of original writing hosted by acclaimed essayist and author Kyo Maclear. Participants from the Literary Journalism: Memoir Writing residency share selections from their work, followed by a special reading from Maclear.

This two-week residency encourages writers to explore new ideas in memoir, develop creative works of nonfiction, and strengthen their storytelling with the guidance of faculty mentors.

Dr. Kyo Maclear is an essayist, editor, novelist, and children’s author whose books have been published in more than 25 countries. Her nonfiction includes the hybrid memoir Birds Art Life, winner of the Trillium Book Award, and Unearthing: A Story of Tangled Love and Family Secrets, winner of the Governor General’s Literary Award for Nonfiction.

Enjoy a drink from the bar, browse a curated selection of books from onsite bookseller Pages Books, and immerse yourself in an evening of memoir. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. in CLVB ’33, with readings beginning at 7:00 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Experience original memoir writing as it moves from the page to the stage.

Literary Journalism: Memoir Writing residency is supported by the Rogers Communications Chair in Literary Journalism.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Oct
11
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 2 - Hosted by Ivan Coyote
Oct
13
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 2 - Hosted by Ivan Coyote

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Stories take centre stage in the second chapter of Literary Cabaret: Memoir, hosted by writer and storyteller Ivan Coyote. Hear original works from participants in the Literary Journalism: Memoir Writing residency before Coyote closes the evening with a special reading.

This two-week residency encourages writers to explore new ideas in memoir, develop creative works of nonfiction, and strengthen their storytelling with the guidance of faculty mentors.

Born and raised in Whitehorse, Yukon, Ivan Coyote is the author of 13 books and the creator of films, stage shows, and albums that combine storytelling with music. Their books have won the ReLit Award, been named a Stonewall Honour Book, and been shortlisted for the Hilary Weston Prize for non-fiction and the Governor General's Award for non-fiction twice.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in an evening of memoir. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. in CLVB ’33, with readings beginning at 7:00 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Come hear these stories as they take shape and connect with the writers behind them.

Literary Journalism: Memoir Writing residency is supported by the Rogers Communications Chair in Literary Journalism.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Dionne Brand
Oct
15
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Memoir - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Dionne Brand

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Celebrate the final chapter of Literary Cabaret: Memoir with an evening of original writing hosted by renowned poet, novelist, and essayist Dionne Brand. Residency participants share selections from their developing work, with a special reading from Brand closing the series.

This two-week residency encourages writers to explore new ideas in memoir, develop creative works of nonfiction, and strengthen their storytelling with the guidance of faculty mentors.

Dionne Brand is an award-winning poet, novelist, and essayist. Her writing is notable for the beauty of its language and for its intense engagement with issues of social justice.  A former Poet Laureate of the City of Toronto and a Member of the Order of Canada, Brand’s acclaimed works include A Map to the Door of No Return, The Blue Clerk, Theory, and the Toronto Book Award-winning novel What We All Long For.

Enjoy a drink from the bar, browse a curated selection of books from onsite bookseller Pages Books, and immerse yourself in an evening of memoir. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. in CLVB ’33, with readings beginning at 7:00 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Join us for the final chapter and celebrate the voices, stories, and possibilities of memoir.

Literary Journalism: Memoir Writing residency is supported by the Rogers Communications Chair in Literary Journalism.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Author Visit with Fay Martin
Oct
15
6:30 PM18:30

Author Visit with Fay Martin

“Join us for an author visit with Fay Martin as she presents her debut book, Dementia Widow: A Memoir about Love, Death, and Survival.

When: Thursday, October 15 |  6:30-8:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room

Fay Martin spent fifteen years caring for her late husband as dementia reshaped their lives. Dementia Widow discusses spousal caregiving and the wide-ranging experiences of love, loss, exhaustion, guilt, etc. that it can entail. Fay's memoir offers comfort to caregivers and insight to those who support them, and her presentations provide practical guidance on topics such as how to take control of dementia, what caregiving entails, and the grieving process, all with just enough humour to make the unbearable bearable.

For more information about Fay and her work, please visit her website: https://www.faymartin.ca/.”

Hosted by the Canmore Public Library.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Oct
18
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Author Visit with Olympic Athlete Clara Hughes
Oct
23
6:30 PM18:30

Author Visit with Olympic Athlete Clara Hughes

“Join us for an evening with Olympic athlete Clara Hughes as she shares her latest memoir, Learning to Breathe!

When: Friday, October 23  |  6:30-8:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room

Six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes became the only athlete to win multiple medals in both the Summer and Winter Games. She is a member of the Order of Manitoba and an officer of the Order of Canada, has received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, and was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. Clara was Canada’s flag bearer for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the founding spokesperson for Bell Canada’s Let’s Talk initiative, a campaign dedicated to breaking down the stigma of mental health, and in 2014, she was awarded the Meritorious Service Cross, which recognizes those whose outstanding personal commitment has brought honour to Canada. In 2022, she was named an Olympian for Life in recognition of her making the world a better place by promoting the Olympic Values at every stage of her life. Clara lives with her husband, Peter, on Vancouver Island, and continues to enjoy bike touring and hiking.

About Learning to Breathe:
As an elite athlete, Clara Hughes thrived on powering through pain, with profound consequences for her body and mind. Following her retirement from sport, the mantra ‘‘movement as medicine’’ fueled her public advocacy for mental health and her personal healing journey. However, Clara’s attraction to extremes persisted: grueling months-long hikes and bike-packing trips began to take a toll. In 2021, a catastrophic knee injury coincided with menopausal hot flashes and dizzying mood swings, forcing her into stillness, and her depression, kept at bay for years, loomed larger than ever.How do you move forward when the body you’ve always relied on doesn’t bounce back like it used to, when you feel like a stranger to yourself, and the punishing voice in your head won’t stop? Clara sought help through traditional avenues, but after realizing how little support there is for people in menopause, she turned to a different kind of medicine. Enter the world of psychedelic-assisted therapy.Through guided experiences — some hilarious, some alarming, and some mind-expanding — Clara begins a winding trip back to herself, and to a deeper awareness of the roots of the inner pain she’d suppressed through sport. Along the way, she forges new relationships; begins the work of repairing old ones; and faces long-held fears.Learning to Breathe is a vulnerable, funny, wise, and fascinating memoir about one human’s healing journey, the terrors and joys of midlife change, and the potential for new beginnings at any stage.

Café Books will be on site for the event with copies of Learning to Breathe available for purchase.”

Hosted by the Canmore Public Library.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Oct
25
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Fireside Chats with Local Authors - Steve Swenson and Barry Blanchard
Oct
27
6:30 PM18:30

Fireside Chats with Local Authors - Steve Swenson and Barry Blanchard

“Join us for a Fireside Chat with Steve Swenson and Barry Blanchard, moderated by local author Nikki Tate!

When: October 27  |  6:30 - 8:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room

Steve Swenson and Barry Blanchard, two great raconteurs and world-renowned mountaineers, will be joining local author Nikki Tate for an evening of storytelling and mountain wisdom.

Barry Blanchard’s new book, The Echo, has just been released and is full of the honesty, wit, and insight that we have come to expect when Bubba shares his adventures on the page.

Steve Swenson’s epic, Karakorum: Climbing Through the Kashmir Conflict, reflects not only on his more than 1200 days of climbing in the Karakorum Range, but also on the troubled politics of the region. Hear all about the adventures, adversities, and accomplishments that form the foundations upon which these two legends have built their lives.

Steve Swenson

Steve Swenson grew up in Seattle and started climbing in the nearby Cascade Mountains at age 14. Over the last sixty years, he has completed over twenty expeditions to South Asia, including ascents of K2 and Everest without supplemental oxygen. He was also part of a team that won the 2012 Piolet d’Or award for the first ascent of Saser Kangri II (7518 meters) and a team that won the 2020 Piolet d’Or for the first ascent of Link Sar (7041m).  Steve graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Civil Engineering and retired after a 35-year consulting career in project management, design, policy making, finance, and communications related to water and wastewater infrastructure projects. He has served on several nonprofit boards since his retirement and has expertise in governance, fundraising, and strategic planning. Steve is married and has two sons. His book, Karakoram, Climbing Through the Kashmir Conflict, was published by Mountaineers Books in 2017. 

Barry Blanchard

Canadian Mountain Guide and alpinist, Barry Blanchard, was born in Calgary in 1959. Twelve years later, he and two friends navigated the Bow River through the western side of the city on a raft made of railway ties, with Barry at the helm. Barry first discovered mountain climbing in the books of his high school library, some of which are still in his possession. A six-month trip to the French Alps in 1980 set the course of Barry’s life: to climb the steepest and most complicated faces of the world’s great glaciated peaks. Barry moved to the mountains in 1982 to pursue his Mountain Guiding career (he is an internationally certified UIAGM mountain guide) and part of his professional life has included working on various Hollywood feature films. Barry lives in Canmore with his fiancé, Nicole, and his two daughters, Rosemary and Eowyn, as well as their cats, Orion and Lemmy, and dog, Strummer.

Moderated by Nikki Tate

Nikki Tate has lived in the Bow Valley on and off since 1969. The great outdoors never fail to inspire her and she enjoys, among other things, horseback riding, sailing, rock climbing, cross-country skiing, and hiking.

Nikki is the author of more than three dozen books (including Writer on Fire: Poetry Prompts to Inspire the Poet Within, co-authored with Carol Thornton, another Canmore author), several thousand articles and blog posts, a couple of short screenplays (including Spindrift: The Barry Blanchard Story), as well as works for the stage.

Nikki loves to tell stories in a wide range of genres and for all ages. As the founder of the Writers on Fire writing group, she is also passionate about helping others find the best way to tell their own stories.

Connect with Nikki:
IG: @writergrrrl
FB: /WritersOnFire
Blog: nikkitate.substack.com”

Hosted by the Canmore Public Library.

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Court of Splintered Harmony - Release Party
Oct
27
7:30 PM19:30

Court of Splintered Harmony - Release Party

“Join us in celebrating the release of Sarah J Maas' "Court of Splintered Harmony"!

Cafe Books & Romantasy Book Club invite you to celebrate the release of ‘A Court of Splintered Harmony’ at a free after-hours event. Mocktails, desserts & snacks galore! Games to be played and prizes to be won. Themed dress up encouraged, but not compulsory. All welcome!

Make sure to RSVP and  pre-order your copy to avoid disappointment on the night.

Grab your bat wings, tiaras and gowns and join us for an after hours party at Cafe Books 27th October 7.30-10pm!”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Oct
4
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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All Ages Queer Open Mic Night
Sep
28
7:00 PM19:00

All Ages Queer Open Mic Night

“Calling all local singers and songwriters, dancers, spoken-word artists, and all types of performers! Join us for a special edition of the artsPlace Open Mic Night...in partnership with Canmore Pride Society!

Enjoy the artsPlace cabaret set-up and sit with your friends in a cozy cafe-style seating to appreciate the performances. Thank you to our partner, Baklabayan YYC, for helping us host the event!

Who is this event for? This event is open to 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and allies are welcome to join us! You don't need to perform to attend—we'd love to have you in the audience, although we encourage you to participate if you'd like. If the event reaches capacity, we ask allies to help us prioritize space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community members.

This event is open to all ages. However, since there may be performances that involve swearing and adult content, we recommend this event for ages 14+. Please come at your own discretion.

What should I bring? Bring your own instruments and be welcome to play the beautiful artsPlace grand piano.

The 2026 Canmore Pride Festival is taking place from September 23 to 28. To view details on this event and learn about other festival events, visit canmorepride.ca.

Thank you to the Government of Alberta for funding this as part of Alberta Culture Days.”

Hosted by artsPlace.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Sep
27
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

  • The Happy Camper Cafe and Bar (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Danika Smith - Author Signing
Sep
26
12:00 PM12:00

Danika Smith - Author Signing

“Join us in welcoming Danika to Cafe Books 26th September 12-4pm for the signing of her book ‘One Year & a One-Way Ticket’. 

What if the path you were meant to follow wasn’t a path at all?

At 23, Danika was determined to follow the plan: veterinary school, career, home, family—just like her mother expected. But when a rejection letter derails everything, she buys a one-way ticket to Sri Lanka, hoping a faraway escape will help her regroup. Instead, it unravels her carefully constructed identity and opens the door to something far more life-changing.

With no return flight and no clear plan, Danika embarks on a year of solo travel through Asia and beyond—navigating cultural mishaps, unsettling volunteer placements, and altitude-sickness-inducing treks. But the hardest challenge isn’t on the road—it’s untangling the beliefs she grew up with about success, safety, and self-worth. Told with honesty, humor, and a deep sense of place, One Year and a One-Way Ticket is a story for anyone who's ever felt stuck in a life that doesn’t quite fit.

Let this memoir take you farther than a plane ticket ever could.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Sep
20
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

  • The Happy Camper Cafe and Bar (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Sep
13
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

  • The Happy Camper Cafe and Bar (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

View Event →
Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Sep
6
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

  • The Happy Camper Cafe and Bar (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Joanne Kormylo - Author Signing
Sep
5
12:00 PM12:00

Joanne Kormylo - Author Signing

“Join us in welcoming Joanne Kormylo, author of 'The Resistance Daughter', for an exciting book signing event at Cafe Books on 5th September 12-4pm.

Inspired by true stories of WWII, don't miss this emotional and poignant historical novel debut of courage against all odds, perfect for fans of Anna Stuart and Soraya M Lane.

Poland, 1942. After witnessing the destruction of her hometown in Warsaw, Anna Kowalski joins the Polish Resistance. She is tasked with smuggling as many children as possible out of the Warsaw Ghetto through the sewers and relocating them to safety.

Through her work, Anna meets Johnnie Nowak, an RAF pilot who had managed to escape from a prisoner of war camp. He's not safe in Warsaw, so Anna leads him out of the city to protect him...

But suddenly Anna is caught by the SS and sent to Ravensbrück concentration camp where she is surrounded by even more horror and despair. A female guard, known as The Beast, is renowned for her violence and aggression towards her prisoners, and she's set her sights on Anna.

When Anna is relocated to a different camp, she finds herself reunited with Johnnie Nowak, the pilot she had saved. Desperate to escape, the two of them devise a plan, that if caught, could mean a fate far worse than death.

Will Anna and Johnnie finally find freedom, and survive the war together?”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Gordan McArthur - Author Signing
Sep
4
12:00 PM12:00

Gordan McArthur - Author Signing

“Join us for an exciting book signing with Gordon McArthur and his climbing book 'Throwing Hope'. In store at Cafe Books 4th September 12-4pm.

'Throwing Hope' is about resilience. It's about learning that success isn't measured by trophies or titles, but by our willingness to keep moving forward when life asks everything of us.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Aug
30
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Ellen Anderson Penno - Author Signing
Aug
29
12:00 PM12:00

Ellen Anderson Penno - Author Signing

“Cafe Books is hosting Ellen Anderson Penno for an author signing on 29th August 12-4pm. Please come and grab a signed copy of her latest memoir book, Counting Bones.

When she was twenty-four years old, Ellen Anderson Penno lost her partner in a climbing accident while they were ascending Mount Baker in Washington’s Cascade Range. The avalanche hid his body in a crevasse just weeks before Anderson Penno was slated to begin medical school, and she soon found herself torn between deferring her studies for a year, or starting right away with a full course load.

Rather than succumbing to grief and risk never beginning her medical education at all, she plunged deep into her studies, surrounded by death on all sides, struggling to maintain her way through her turbulent emotions and a rigorous med school schedule.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Nita Prose
Aug
27
6:30 PM18:30

Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Nita Prose

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for a gripping evening of suspense-filled storytelling at this Literary Cabaret, sharing works from the Crime Writing residency at Banff Centre. Across three nights, explore readings of razor-sharp mystery and crime writing by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for one-and-a-half weeks, this debut residency brings together writers working across crime fiction, mystery, noir, and crime-informed nonfiction, with room for hybrid forms that engage with criminal justice, investigation, and moral consequence.

This chapter is hosted by global crime writing phenomenon Nita Prose, the number-one New York Times and Canadian bestselling author of The Maid series, which has sold more than two million copies worldwide.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in powerful explorations of justice, violence, and survival. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this unique chance to discover the next bestseller and celebrate the artform of a great crime novel.

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 2 - Hosted by David Heska Wanbi Weiden
Aug
25
6:30 PM18:30

Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 2 - Hosted by David Heska Wanbi Weiden

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for a gripping evening of suspense-filled storytelling at this Literary Cabaret, sharing works from the Crime Writing residency at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Across three nights, explore readings of razor-sharp mystery and crime writing by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for two weeks, this debut residency brings together writers working across crime fiction, mystery, noir, and crime-informed nonfiction, with room for hybrid forms that engage with criminal justice, investigation, and moral consequence.

This chapter is hosted by award-winning Indigenous crime writer David Heska Wanbli Weiden, whose work brings moral complexity, cultural depth, and social critique to the genre. He’s the author of Winter Counts, named by Time magazine as one of the best mystery novels of all time.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in thrilling explorations of justice, violence, and survival. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this unique chance to discover the next bestseller and celebrate the artform of a great crime novel. 

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Aug
23
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Natalie Sue - Local Author Signing
Aug
22
12:00 PM12:00

Natalie Sue - Local Author Signing

“Join us in welcoming Natalie Sue, author of 'You'll Love It Here', for a signing event at Cafe Books on 22nd August from 12-4pm.

From the bestselling author of 'I Hope This Finds You Well' comes a sharply funny, surprisingly tender novel about a woman stuck in place, her nosy neighbours and the journey to find where she belongs—with all the heart of a grown-up The Breakfast Club.

Mona thought her living situation was bad . . . but the real mess is just beginning. One day is all it takes for Mona’s life to implode. After years of climbing at her marketing firm, she was supposed to be getting promoted and finally moving out of her crumbling apartment building. Instead, she’s jobless, aimless and still stuck in a space barely big enough for a yoga mat.

Then her eccentric landlady takes a tumble and asks Mona to step in as the building’s reluctant super. The deal is simple: help prep the place for sale, and she can secure the upgrade she’s been chasing. But that’s easier said than done when the neighbours treat “boundaries” as optional.

There’s the shouting couple, the mysterious shut-in, a possible panty thief in the laundry room—and Sami, the relentlessly cheerful diner owner who keeps showing up with coffee and unsolicited ideas about community. As Mona gets pulled deeper into the building’s chaos—and closer to the people inside it—she’s forced to confront what, and who, she’s really been trying to outrun. Sometimes, the place you’re desperate to leave is the one that finally shows you who you are.

Wise, heartfelt and laugh-out-loud funny, Natalie Sue’s sophomore novel is a story about burning out, starting over and finding your people in the most unexpected places—perfect for fans of The Wedding People and Anxious People.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Wayne Arthurson
Aug
20
6:30 PM18:30

Literary Cabaret: Crime Writing - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Wayne Arthurson

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for a gripping evening of suspense-filled storytelling at this Literary Cabaret, sharing works from the Crime Writing residency at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Across three nights, explore readings of razor-sharp mystery and crime writing by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for two weeks, this debut residency brings together writers working across crime fiction, mystery, noir, and crime-informed nonfiction, with room for hybrid forms that engage with criminal justice, investigation, and moral consequence.

This chapter is hosted by seasoned crime novelist and literary agent Wayne Arthurson, whose work spans classic detective fiction and contemporary Canadian noir. He’s the author of eight novels, including three from his Leo Desroches crime series and two from his Sergeant Neumann mystery series.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in thrilling explorations of justice, violence, and survival. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this unique chance to discover the next bestseller and celebrate the artform of a great crime novel.

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Aug
16
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Aug
9
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Stephanie Forbes - Author Signing
Aug
8
12:00 PM12:00

Stephanie Forbes - Author Signing

“Stephanie Forbes is an internationally recognized expert in supply chain strategy, procurement governance, and operational resilience. With over two decades of experience spanning energy, manufacturing, construction, and technology sectors, she is known for transforming complex global supply chains into agile, value-driven ecosystems. Stephanie is the Founder and CEO of The Forbes Group, a boutique consultancy focused on helping organizations align people, processes, and systems to build competitive advantage.

Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping policy, driving sustainability initiatives, and advising boards and executive teams on fraud prevention, risk management, and performance measurement. She's also a keynote speaker on international stages, blending historical insights, modern practices, and humor to bring the world of supply chain to life.

In Global Wealth, Local Impact: How Supply Chains Build Thriving Companies, Cultures, and Countries, Stephanie invites readers into a practical yet visionary journey through time-tested strategies, real-world accounts, and future-forward thinking. Whether you’re a C-Suite Executive, Buyer on a major project, Category Manager, a student, or a curious reader, this book is your playbook for mastering the value chain in an uncertain world.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Aug
2
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

View Event →
Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Jul
26
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Friends of the Library Book Sale - Canmore
Jul
22
to Jul 25

Friends of the Library Book Sale - Canmore

  • Canmore Public Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“The Friends of the Library host book sales three times a year - in spring, summer, and fall. The 2026 Book Sales are scheduled for March, July, and November.

The sales run from Thursday to Sunday, each day with different hours. Thursday is the advance sale for Friends of the Library members only. Memberships are available at the door for $5. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are open to all members of the public. Sunday is always fill a bag for $10.

If you wish to donate items for the sales, please bring them to the library. We accept new and gently used books and audiobooks. Please note that we do not accept DVDs, CDs, textbooks, Reader's Digest condensed books, old encyclopedia sets, or any material that is in poor condition.

  • Wednesday, July 22, 2026 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

  • Thursday, July 23, 2026 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

  • Friday, July 24, 2026 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

  • Saturday, July 25, 2026 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.”

Hosted by the Canmore Public Library.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Jul
19
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Dr. Adam Dickinson
Jul
16
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 3 - Hosted by Dr. Adam Dickinson

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for an invigorating evening of poetry and prose at this Literary Cabaret, a sharing of works in the Summer Writers residency at Banff Centre. Across three nights, explore intimate readings of fresh contemporary literature by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for two weeks, Summer Writers is one of Banff Centre’s most popular open-genre Literary residencies, attracting participants working across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and hybrid forms to dive into works-in-progress under the gorgeous Rocky Mountain sun.

This chapter is hosted by Dr. Adam Dickinson, a poet and interdisciplinary artist whose work explores the relationship between bodies, environments, science, and art. His writing has been nominated for a Governor General’s Award and the Trillium Book Award for poetry.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in a vibrant literary atmosphere. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this chance to discover the books of tomorrow.

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 2 - Hosted by Jordan Abel
Jul
14
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 2 - Hosted by Jordan Abel

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for an invigorating evening of poetry and prose at this Literary Cabaret, a sharing of works in the Summer Writers residency at Banff Centre. Across three nights, explore intimate readings of fresh contemporary literature by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for two weeks, Summer Writers is one of Banff Centre’s most popular open-genre Literary residencies, attracting participants working across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and hybrid forms to dive into works-in-progress under the gorgeous Rocky Mountain sun.

This chapter is hosted by Abel, an internationally recognized Indigenous writer who moves powerfully between poetry, nonfiction, and fiction. Abel’s latest work—a novel titled Empty Spaces—was the winner of both the Governor General’s Award for fiction and the Banff Mountain Book Award.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in a vibrant literary atmosphere. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this chance to discover the books of tomorrow.

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Jul
12
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

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Colleen Heidecker - Local Author Signing
Jul
12
12:00 PM12:00

Colleen Heidecker - Local Author Signing

“Join us for an exciting book signing of 'Undercurrents of Love' with Local author Colleen Heidecker on 4th July 12-4pm at Cafe Books, Canmore.

Undercurrents of Love launches The Lagoon Chronicles, a sweet island romance series with a page-turning adventure. If workplace romance, suspense, and rambunctious dolphins call to you, you’ll adore Colleen Heidecker’s sweeping, romantic tale.

To start, we meet Riley Byrne, a woman struggling. Her island life seems like a dream. She trains dolphins and wants to build a world-class marine research facility. But a worrying lack of researchers and permit problems makes her face a difficult choice: leave the island, her found family, and the dolphins she loves and create her dream elsewhere. When a new project shows promise, she has hope.

Gray Whittal has spent six years working toward a specific goal. He is the youngest researcher at a well-regarded California lab. Now, with his project on the verge of approval, he hopes his relentless ambition finally pays off. But ambition attracts enemies. Someone from Gray’s past storms back into his life, ready to rip everything apart.

Secrets, sabotage, and sacrifice collide in a perfect storm, and one deadly chase could drown their dreams forever.”

Hosted by Cafe Books

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Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Dodie Bellamy
Jul
9
6:15 PM18:15

Literary Cabaret: Summer Writers - Chapter 1 - Hosted by Dodie Bellamy

  • Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

“Join us for an invigorating evening of poetry and prose at this Literary Cabaret, a sharing of works in the Summer Writers residency at Banff Centre. Across three nights, explore intimate readings of fresh contemporary literature by participants and faculty mentors.

Running for two weeks, Summer Writers is one of Banff Centre’s most popular open-genre Literary residencies, attracting participants working across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and hybrid forms to dive into works-in-progress under the gorgeous Rocky Mountain sun.

This chapter is hosted by Bellamy, a legendary figure in contemporary American writing, known for her radical, intimate, and influential contributions to poetry, nonfiction, and art criticism. She has published a dozen books, including—with the publisher Semiotext(e)—Bee Reaved, When the Sick Rule the World, and The Letters of Mina Harker.

Enjoy a drink from the bar and immerse yourself in a vibrant literary atmosphere. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., with readings starting at 7 p.m. Afterward, mingle with the writers and faculty until 9:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this chance to discover the books of tomorrow.

Literary Arts is generously supported by the Flanagan Foundation and Fondation David R. Graham.”

Hosted by the Banff Centre at CLVB ’33.

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Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup
Jul
5
2:00 PM14:00

Banff Writers Group Weekly Meetup

Regular weekly social and co-working meetups of the Banff Writers Group take place on Sundays, from 2-4pm, at the Happy Camper Café & Bar (545 Banff Ave). Our format is: half an hour of social time, followed by an hour of quiet co-working, then another half an hour at the end for wrap up. All experience levels and projects welcome, whether you're working on a book, blog, paper, personal journal, script, or anything else, so long as it is “written.”

We’re not a critique or reading group, so there’s no need to bring anything to share with other members.

View Event →