Bringing Together our Rotary Family!

June 23, 2025 

Sunday’s pancake breakfast was a heartwarming kickoff to the Calgary 2025 Convention, bringing together thousands of Rotarians and their families in celebration and fellowship.  President Stephanie welcomed everyone during then Opening Ceremonies with a reminder that we are part of one Rotary family, and that spirit was on full display as more than 16,000 pancakes were served on the lawn outside the BMO Centre.  Families from around the world gathered to share in the fun—including the family of District 5360 Governor Christina Hassan, pictured enjoying pancakes together on the grass.  A heartfelt thank you to all who donated to End Polio Now—your generosity fuels Rotary’s mission and impact.  With the Convention now officially underway, we look forward to the important work that begins tomorrow.

Today is Host Hospitality Evening, a treasured Rotary Convention tradition that brings international guests together with local Rotarians for an evening of genuine connection, great food, and cultural exchange.  Tonight, nearly 2,500 Rotary members from around the world will experience District 5360’s signature hospitality—continuing a tradition Calgary began when it last hosted the Convention in 1996.  Whether in private homes, restaurants, or larger venues, each guest will enjoy dinner, transportation, and warm local fellowship.  We’re proud to welcome the world with our signature down-home hospitality.

If you are registered to be part of this Rotary tradition, make sure you:

1.      Review Attending Host Hospitality | Calgary 2025 HOC one more time to ensure you have all the last-minute details

2.      Know what time you are meeting your Bus or your Host.

Last night was nothing short of spectacular!  Nearly 1,000 Rotary members experienced the powerful performance of New Blood with the Calgary Civic Symphony, while over 2,000 more celebrated the best of Canadian music at the Big Four Roadhouse with Rock the Nation.  The Host Organizing Committee is absolutely thrilled with your incredible engagement and energy.  Thank you for embracing the vibrant culture we’re so proud to share—it’s your participation that’s making Calgary 2025 truly unforgettable.

Tonight is your final chance to experience one of our Signature Events—and we’re ending with a bang at the Western Ranch Showcase | Calgary 2025 HOC.  Head to the Nutrien Western Event Centre and step into the spirit of the Wild West, where you’ll enjoy an evening of live entertainment, Western hospitality, and timeless frontier traditions.  From rodeo action to cultural celebrations, it’s an unforgettable way to wrap up your Calgary adventure.  So, grab your cowboy hat, rally your crew, and join us for a night to remember—Yahoo!

The Rotary House of Friendship is the heart of connection at every Rotary Convention—a vibrant hub where attendees from around the world gather to network, exchange ideas, and explore the global impact of Rotary.  Seasoned convention-goers know it’s a can’t-miss experience, and for first-time attendees, it’s the perfect place to truly feel the spirit of Rotary.  Check out ​House of Friendship Exhibit Hall for hours and an interactive map of the hall.

The House of Friendship (HOF) Stage is a vibrant showcase of music, culture, and connection.  Featuring local talent and international Rotarians, the stage offers everything from country and folk to line dancing and ukuleles.  It’s a place to unwind, celebrate Rotary’s diversity, and experience the joy of global fellowship through music.

Today, the HOF Stage highlights the rich diversity of Calgary and Rotary.

• The day opens with Rotary Peace Fellow Diego Carneiro on cello, followed by
• The Travelling Mabels’ award-winning folk harmonies.
• Ginger Beef blends pop, jazz, and Chinese folk, while
• K-Riz & The Family energize the stage with hip-hop and R&B.
• The Legacy Ukulele Ensemble closes the day with a joyful performance from Rotarian musicians.

When you need a break, grab a refreshment and head over to the HOF Stage where you can relax, catch your breath, and re-energize taking in some terrific entertainment.

Yesterday, we shared the exciting news about our partnership with Fahr Brewery in the fight against polio—and guess who made a special appearance at Pancakes for Polio?  None other than Fahr founder Jochen Fahr himself, joining HOC Promotions Co-Chair Miriam Mitchell-Banks.  While it may have been a bit early for an ILA (though we know a few of you asked!  😊), Jochen’s presence reminded us that raising a glass isn’t the only way to make a difference.  When we rally around a shared cause, like ending polio, the impact is powerful—and delicious. 

When attending any of our Signature Events, make sure you Ask for ILA.  For more details oni this powerful partnership, check out Ask for ILA | Calgary 2025 HOC

In Other News

• 1,000's Pack Saddledome to Kick-Off Rotary International Convention
• We have received a number of email asking about the details of Unofficial Affiliate Events, Rotaract Events, and Rotary Fellowships and Rotary Action Groups.  A listing and details can be found on this page.
• Calgary 2025 Print | Calgary 2025 HOC
• Get Up to the Minute News | Calgary 2025 HOC

Join Us in Thanking Our Sponsors

​On behalf of the Calgary 2025 Host Organizing Committee, thank you to each of the organizations that made this convention a reality.  Their generosity plays an instrumental part in making this world-class, once-in-a-generation event a reality for our city.

We would like to also recognize these amazing partners who have been architects in building the Calgary experience

We would also like to THANK and recognize the ​Rotary International Sponsors whose commitment to the convention made it a reality for our City and District.