Food brings people together. The act of breaking bread with others nourishes not only our bodies but creates shared experiences and opportunities to foster meaningful connections.
Carya’s food programming is a place for community, connection, and well-being where participants can come together, learn, and thrive. Through our range of food programming, we address the importance of social connections, educate individuals about nutrition and healthy eating, and foster culinary skill development. We believe that everyone should have access to the knowledge and resources needed to make informed choices about their well-being.
Our programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all, offering no-cost drop-in and registered opportunities.
Community Meals and Social Gathering
Community meal programs play a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion, enhancing support networks, and promoting overall well-being within neighbourhoods. By providing a space where individuals can gather, share a meal, and connect with one another, these initiatives contribute significantly to the fabric of Calgary and The East Village.
Upcoming Community Drop-In Opportunities
Chow and Chatter
Looking to connect over good food and great conversation?
Chow and Chatter is a monthly community meal created especially for older adults (55+), offering a chance to build friendships, share stories, and enjoy lively activities in a welcoming space. Enjoy a delicious, made-from-scratch meal prepared by Carya’s in-house chef and dedicated volunteers from the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Society (CIWA).
Upcoming Event Details
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE
How to Attend:
Registration is required and opens on the 1st of each month. Space is limited, and will close the Friday before the event, or earlier if capacity is reached.
Registration for this month’s Chow and Chatter opens June 1st.
To register, please contact Megan Ringness:
Call or text: 403-863-7675
Email: MeganR@CaryaCalgary.ca
Registered Culinary Demonstration Programs
By focusing on accessible, affordable, and nutritious cooking, these programs empower individuals to make informed dietary choices. From learning basic cooking techniques to understanding the nutritional value of ingredients, Carya’s culinary demonstration programs aim to help individuals develop the confidence and knowledge necessary to prepare healthy meals for themselves and their families.
Upcoming Program Dates and Times
For more information or to register, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca or call 403-536-6558.
Culinary Showcase with Mr. Sun Tea YYC
Carya’s Culinary Showcase invites you to learn how to make your own boba pearls and discover tips to enhance your tea flavour profiles. Join us for a fun, hands-on, and flavourful experience with Mr. Sun Tea YYC.
Dates: Friday, June 27, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Village Commons – 610 8 Ave SE
For more information or to register, contact AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca or call 403-536-6558.
Culinary Skill Development Programs
Carya’s culinary skill development programs go beyond honing skills, emphasizing passion and creativity and fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging among participants. These initiatives aim to build stronger communities by nurturing talent and positive relationships with food. Accessible, no-cost training opportunities are provided to individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a curriculum covering culinary techniques, theory, and practical kitchen experience, including foundational skills like knife handling and food safety. Modules on nutrition, cultural cuisines, and sustainable cooking practices promote holistic learning and empower individuals to cook for themselves more often, overcoming barriers through practical life skills education.
Upcoming Culinary Skill Development Programs
Whisk to Wellness
Whisk to Wellness is an introduction to healthy cooking, including cooking with whole grains, lean proteins, and plant-based cooking. Each program consists of three sessions. While this program is open to everyone, it is tailored towards adults 18+ and older adults (55+).
Each session runs from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Village Commons.
Stay tuned for upcoming Whisk to Wellness dates.
For more information, call 403-536-6558 or email AdminVC@CaryaCalgary.ca.