News and Events for Seniors
EVENTS
Summer Day Trips
Summer is a great time to visit new places in Edmonton and outside the city. Edmonton seniors centres have planned day trips to a variety of events and destinations.
Take in events such as the RCMP Musical Ride, a Prospects baseball game and a music festival. Ride the rails with the Battle River Railway and Stettler Steam Train. Visit historical sites such as the Danish Canadian Museum and Markerville Creamery. Enjoy nature at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden, Ellis Bird Farm, Birchwood Meadows U-Pick Flower Farm, Peaceful Valley, Elk Island, and more.
ESCC has compiled a list of the many day trips offered by Edmonton seniors centres. Enjoy!
June
Creative Classes at CLSA
Central Lions Seniors Association (11113 113 Street)
If your creativity is blooming this spring, check out the following classes at CLSA:
Silk Scarf Creations: June 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., $27 member/$62 non-member + supplies
Make your own summer-inspired scarf created from men’s silk ties.
A House of Cards: June 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., $38 member/$73 non-member + supplies
Using a variety of fancy folds, you will complete an assortment of “all occasion” cards.
Pressed Flowers 101: June 26, 1 – 4 p.m., $20 + supplies
Learn how to preserve your favourite blooms.
Review the program guide for more information on these and other creative classes. Call 780-496-7369 for more information.
Wednesday Night Dances
North Edmonton Seniors Association (7524 139 Avenue)
7-10 p.m.
$8 NESA members / $11 non-members at the door
Dance to a different live band weekly and enjoy an evening of socializing! Music you can look forward to over the next several weeks:
June 5: Romantics
June 12: Chwill Brothers
June 19: Ghost Riders
June 26: Diamonds
Call 780-496-6969 for more information.
Art Classes at CLSA
Central Lions Seniors Association (11113 113 Street)
Artists have many classes to choose from at CLSA including:
Fun with Caricature Drawing
June 7 – 21, 1 – 4 p.m., $55 member/$90 non-member + supplies
Drawing caricatures is a fun and entertaining way to tap into a different art form – cartoon
drawing.
Painting Nature Impressions
June 25, 10 – 3 p.m., $35 member/$70 non-member + supplies
Diversify your painting approach by choosing different art tools such as sponges, fingers and twigs in addition to brushes, your hands and arms.
Review the program guide for more information on these and other art classes. Call 780-496-7369 for more information.
Spanish Chat Group
Sage Seniors Association (15 Sir Winston Churchill Square)
2nd and 4th Fridays from May to August, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Free
This group is a chance to practice your Spanish conversational skills, learn vocabulary, and meet some great people. No registration required as this is a drop-in group. Call 780-423-5510 ext. 301 for more information.
Thursday Luncheons with Entertainment
Southwest Seniors’ Outreach Society (10832 62 Avenue)
June 20, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
$10/member and $12/non-member
This is the last luncheon before breaking for the summer. Enjoy a barbecue and entertainment by the Chwyll Brothers. You must purchase your tickets in advance. Call 780-435-9515 for more information.
Book Sale
Strathcona Place 55+ Centre (10831 University Avenue)
June 20-21, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and June 22, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Strathcona Place Society is using generous donations from companies and patrons and selling the books at a low cost to make the books accessible to everyone. Anyone is welcome to purchase any of the books. After June 22 the sale will continue until August 30 during week days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 780-433-5807 for more information.
Joining a Board of Directors: What are you getting yourself into?
Charity Village
June 20, 1 p.m. (Eastern)
Free
Being a board member for the first time means a lot of things: taking on significant responsibility, doing a tremendous service, and committing to learning a lot of new things. But what does a board member actually do? What are your roles, responsibilities and duties? How much time should you expect to commit? What expertise do you need to bring to the table? Many people join boards without knowing the answers to these questions, which sometimes makes the reality of board membership a bit surprising, to say the least.
This webinar will provide participants with guidance about what boards expect of you, and what you should expect from your board. It will cover the fundamentals about being a director, bust some myths, and help to get you ready for board membership.
Migraines/Headaches
SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association (SWESA)
June 24, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Yellowbird East Community Centre (10710 19 Avenue)
$2
If you were unable to attend Dr. Kang’s first session, he returns to answer frequently asked questions about:
migraines versus headaches
new research on migraines/headaches
what you can do today to better track your migraines/headaches
Nucca upper cervical care
Call 587-987-3200 for more information.
Estate Planning and Banking
North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 120 Street)
June 25, 10 a.m.
Free
Learn from the experts about real estate planning, wills, and power of attorney. Find out how to make your future plans fit your banking needs. Legal experts and ATB staff members will be available to answer your questions. Call 780-451-1925 to register.
Cancer and Caregiving
Strathcona Place 55+ Centre (10831 University Avenue)
June 26, 12:15 p.m.
Free
This presentation by experienced staff from the Cross Cancer Institute is focused on cancer and caregiving. However, some of the practical resources and psychological information that are provided in the presentation have relevance for caregiving in general. The presenters will outline strategies for psychological coping from a self-compassion perspective and describe resources that can assist patients and caregivers to manage the cancer experience. An opportunity for questions will be provided. This presentation, coffee, and cookies are complimentary. Call 780-433-5807 to reserve your spot.
Technology Classes for Seniors
University of Alberta Technology Training Centre (B-11 Cameron Library, University of Alberta)
$25 each
The Technology Training Centre offers Tech Savvy Seniors classes on a variety of topics. Check out their summer offerings:
- June 26: Introduction to Social Media
- July 10: Taking Better Photos with Your Smart Phone
- July 24: Senior's Tech Q&A
- August 21: Sharing Photos from your Smart Phone
Outing to the Freewill Shakespeare Festival: The Winter’s Tale
SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association (SWESA)
June 27, 8 – 10:30 p.m.
Location: William Hawrelak Park (9930 Groat Road)
$30
Join a group from SWESA attending the Freewill Shakespeare Festival to see The Winter’s Tale. The Winter's Tale was originally published in the First Folio of 1623. Although it was grouped among the comedies, some modern editors have relabeled the play as one of Shakespeare's late romances. Some critics consider it to be one of Shakespeare's "problem plays" because the first three acts are filled with intense psychological drama, while the last two acts are comedic and supply a happy ending.
This is a self-drive event. The group will meet at the gate at 7:15 p.m. and be seated as a group. Food and drink are available for purchase. Please be prepared for the weather. Registration is required by June 24. Call SWESA at 587-987-3200.
June Monthly Dinner
South East Edmonton Seniors Association (9350 82 Street)
June 27, doors 4:30 p.m. and dinner 5:30 p.m.
$15
Beef kabobs and other tasty accompaniments are on the menu. The entertainment features music by Todd Reynolds who has a catalog of songs from a Celtic to contemporary and has been honing his repertoire for many years. Tickets available in advance only until June 26 at noon if not sold out. Call 780-468-1985 for more information.
Lunch and a Show
North West Edmonton Seniors Society (12963 120 St.)
June 28, doors 11:30 a.m., lunch 12 p.m.
$10
Enjoy lunch with friends and then watch an exciting show. The menu features hotdogs, nachos and cheese, a treat, and punch. Purchase your tickets by June 21. Call 780-451-1925 for more information.
Canada Day Celebration
Strathcona Place 55+ Centre (10831 University Avenue)
June 28, 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Free
Come out for a day of fun in the sun celebrating Canada Day. The celebration will feature a BBQ and fun and games for seniors and their families. The BBQ will serve hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks, and desserts. There are no tickets or entry fees, but guests may choose to bring cash to purchase food from onsite vendors. Call 780-433-5807 by June 25 to reserve your spot
Free Computer Sessions
SCONA Seniors Centre (10440 84 Avenue)
Sunday afternoons
Free
Every Sunday, SCONA Seniors Centre offers free computer sessions to seniors who wish to learn digital technology. Seniors are matched with a University of Alberta student who will teach them how to use lap tops, cell phones, tablets, etc. on a one-on-one basis. For more information or to register, call Dellah at 780-450-0738. To get a call back make sure your telephone number is clear.
Big Bin Events
Save yourself a trip to the dump! The City of Edmonton Big Bin Events allow residents to recycle or dispose of household items too large for regular garbage collection for free. The website includes a list of accepted materials, dates, and locations around the city.
July
Summer Fitness Programs
North Edmonton Seniors Association (7524 139 Avenue)
July, various dates
Want to stay active during the summer but don't know what to do? Join the North Edmonton Seniors Association for an exercise-filled July! With over 30+ exercise programs to choose from, come find your fit. Registration for July programs is open and all are welcome to join. Please call 780-496-6969 for more details.
Dominion Day Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Rutherford House (11153 Saskatchewan Drive)
July 1, 12 – 4 p.m.
$7 adults; $6 seniors/student; $20 family (2 adults plus youths); free for children 0-6
Gather with friends and family for a Dominion Day Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the Rutherford House. Just bring your lunch and the Rutherford House will supply the blankets and cold drinks. Bring along your favourite Teddy or stuffed toy for a scavenger hunt with the chance to win great prizes.
Vikings Guided Museum Tour
Edmonton Seniors Centre 3Y (11111 Jasper Avenue)
July 3, 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
$35 ESC members; $65 non-members
Join the Edmonton Seniors Centre for a fun and educational Vikings history tour at the Royal Alberta Museum. The tour group will depart the Edmonton Seniors Centre at 9:30 a.m. and return by 2 p.m. Lunch is not provided but snacks will be available. RSVP by June 25 by calling 780-342-8625.
The Senior Actor Workshop
GeriActors
Fridays, July 5 – August 9, 3 – 5 p.m. (Drop in for one session or stay for all six weeks)
Location: Sage Seniors Association (15 Sir Winston Churchill Square)
Cost: Pay-What-You-Will (GeriActors believes everyone should be able to participate. There is a suggested rate of $10-15 per session, but it is not necessary. The workshops are made affordable so that everyone can join in.)
Ever acted or never acted? The Senior Actor Workshop is the perfect place to begin. Through storytelling, theatre games, improv, laughter, and fun you can use your imagination and watch your memories come alive.
The workshop features stress-free acting. There are no lines to be learnt and there are lots of laughs.
Register by contacting Becca Barrington at 780-248-1556 or geriactors.friends@gmail.com.
Summer Arts and Crafts Classes
Central Lions Seniors Association (11113 113 Street)
July and August
Discover Watercolour and Pen Painting Course
July 9, 11, 16, 18
1 – 4 p.m.
$67
Sun Glass with Pressed Flowers Workshop
July 10
1 – 4 p.m.
$20
Flights of Fancy Painting Course
July 15, 17, 29, 31
1 – 4 p.m.
$102
Jewellery with Real Flowers
August 14
1 – 4 p.m.
$20
For more information check out www.CentralLions.org or call 780-496-7369.
Guitar, Mandolin and Ukulele Workshops
Central Lions Seniors Association (11113 113 Street)
July and August
$15 each
Central Lions Seniors Association is bringing back memories of summer camps with four workshops this summer for the acoustic guitar, mandolin and ukulele.
Music of the Caribbean: Jamaica & Cuba - SM04
Ska (Simmer Down, the Wailers), Reggae (stir It Up in the key of A, Bob Marley)
July 11, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Evolution of the Blues - SM05
One Chord Mississippi (Rolling Stone by Muddy Waters, in the key of E). Three basic barre chords for swing rhythm guitar (Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, the Andrews Sisters, in the key of A).
July 18, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
American Roots: Country & Rockabilly - SM06
Rhythm with bass runs: Maybelle Carter (Wildwood Flower in the key of C). Accompaniment and solo style of Carl Perkins (blue Suede Shoes in the key of A).
August 8, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Music of Eastern Europe - SM07
The minor pentatonic scale and basic arpeggios. Rubato Playing: Dark Eyes (ochi Chornya in D minor). Gypsy rhythm guitar ("la Pompe"): Minor Swing (Django Reinhardt).
August 22, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
For more information check out www.CentralLions.org or call 780-496-7369.
5th Annual Nacho Friday
SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association (SWESA)
July 12, 1 – 2:30 p.m
Location: Brewsters (2335 - 111 Street)
$12 (cost does not include beverage order or gratuity)
Nacho Friday is back by popular demand! Join the SouthWest Edmonton Seniors Association at Brewsters and catch up with friends over a delicious plate of nachos. Your personal plate of nachos will include your choice of mango chipotle chicken breast, pulled pork, or just the “basics” of Tex-Mex cheese, tomatoes, black olives, and green onions. All nachos come with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. To register, please call 587-987-3200 by June 28.
35th Annual Grand North American Old Time Fiddle Championship
July 19-21
Location: Agricentre, Radway, Alberta (Hwy 28 northeast of Edmonton)
Prices: see brochure for details
Participants come from various provinces of Canada and some have come up from the United States to compete for the more than $16,000 in prize money. The weekend’s activities include fiddling contests for all ages, open mic and dance, old time family dance, dinner, and camping.
To find out more:
- Read the brochure and additional information.
- Call Ken at 780-237-2706
- Email wildrosefiddlers@gmail.com
Grow-A-Row
With summer just around the corner, the Edmonton Meals on Wheels Grow-A-Row program is going to be blooming in no time! Growing an extra row in your garden is a fun and easy way to give back this summer to those who need it most. Produce donations will be incorporated into the spring and summer menu, which means clients are able to enjoy a variety of fresh and flavorful meals. Simply drop off your extra homegrown produce, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. at the Edmonton Meals on Wheels office (11111 103 Ave.). Call 780-429-2020 for more information.
Ongoing Programs
Jam Sessions and Dancing
The Wild Rose Old Tyme Fiddlers Association offers two weekly opportunities for you to enjoy music and dancing. Email wildrosefiddlers@gmail.com to learn more.
Acoustic Music Jam & Dancing
Mondays, 7 – 10 p.m.
Pleasantview Community Hall (10860 57th Ave.)
$4
Plus: Group fiddle lessons or workshop for beginner/intermediate level
7 – 8 p.m.
$5 for members (annual membership $15)
Call Ava at 780-962-8857 or Barbara 780-906-6862 for more information.
Open Mic, Country Singing, Music & Dancing
Thursdays, 7 – 10 p.m.
North Glenora Community Hall (13535 109A Ave.)
$5
Call Wayne at 780-722-9428 for more information.
South Clareview Seniors Hub
South Clareview Community League (3250 132A Avenue)
The South Clareview Seniors Hub provides a social network for all to participate and interact with others living in northeast Edmonton. Participants enjoy a rich variety of presentations, activities, interactions and outings:
- Drop-in coffee on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. and the second and fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m.
- “Take-out style” dinner on the 15th of every month at 6 p.m. (by donation)
- The Coffee Club meets in the community room for conversations, cards and board games
- Little library book exchange
- Darts, floor curling, ping pong or shuffleboard
- Tai Chi every Friday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and planning for evening classes
- Group exercises for seniors on Monday evenings
Activities are somewhat subject to weather conditions but are scheduled year-round. Organizers invite your suggestions and participation. If you are interested in sharing, participating or teaching, they would love to hear from you. Contact them via email seniors@southclareview.ca or phone 780-473-3593 and leave a message.
Open Jam Music Sessions
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 1 – 3 p.m.
$2 drop-in fee
Music fills the soul! Come join this open jam session. You don’t have to be an expert musician; only a love of music is required. Drop in with your guitar, banjo or any instrument you fancy. New members are welcome. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.
The Silver Tones
Westend Seniors Activity Centre (9629 176 Street)
Practice sessions are Fridays 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
$2 drop-in fee
The group is comprised of committed musicians who like to play, sing and share new material with band members. They perform from time to time at WSAC and other seniors’ centres. If you have mastered the basics on your instrument, enjoy singing, and are willing to share new material with others, you might find this group of interest. Call 780-483-1209 for more information.
Summer Telephone Programs
Seniors’ Centre Without Walls
May - August 2019
Free
Check out the Summer Program Guide from the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls for phone-based recreational activities, health and well-being topics, and friendly conversation for older adults. In addition to their regular programming and exciting guest speakers, they are increasing their support groups to offer groups for COPD, Post-Stroke, Caregivers, LGBT+ Pride Seniors, Grief and Men.
Speechreading Drop-In Practice
Canadian Hard of Hearing Association – Edmonton Branch (Jerry Forbes Community Spirit Centre at 12122 68 Street)
Wednesdays, 1 – 3 p.m.
$5 per session
Are you interested in learning speechreading? Have you taken speechreading? CHHA-Ed now offers drop-in practice with an instructor and others. The practice is open to all who are interested in speechreading. Let CHHA-Ed know if you plan to attend by phoning 780-428-6622 or emailing info@chha-ed.com.
Men’s Sheds
Men's Sheds are welcoming, respectful, and inclusive spaces that provide opportunities for men of all ages and abilities not only to build projects, but also to build community. Sheds could be places to work on hobbies, share stories, drink coffee, cook, or build/fix something while simultaneously forming positive relationships and increasing neighbourly connections.
The Men’s Shed concept began in Australia, and is a grassroots, bottom-up movement driven by the members it serves. Men share their skills and learn new skills from other Shedders by participating in a variety of activities of their own choosing (e.g., woodworking, painting, cooking activities, etc.). It is an opportunity for men to be both teachers and learners while sharing stories, venting, or simply having a coffee and working away at projects.
There are four Men’s Sheds in Edmonton open to men of all ages and abilities:
- The Downtown Men's Shed meets Thursdays at The Churchill (10015 103 Ave) from 7-9 p.m. as well as Fridays at Sage Seniors Association (15 Sir Winston Churchill Square) from 2–4 p.m.
- The Beacon Heights Men's Shed meets Wednesdays at Jubilee Park (12037 43 Street) from 7–9 p.m.
- The Pehonan Elders Men's Shed meets the third Monday of the month at Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society's Parent Link Centre (11666 95 St) from 6-8 p.m.
- The SEESA Shed meets Mondays at SEESA (9350 82 St) from 1-4 p.m.
New members are encouraged to drop in and participate, or to help host additional Sheds throughout Edmonton. For more information on the Men’s Sheds Initiative, call 780-809-9404.