Rotary Takes the Ice!!!! 

June 24, 2025 

Yesterday, the Saddledome—usually echoing with the roar of hockey fans and the fast-paced action of the Calgary Flames—became the vibrant stage for Rotary International, where the day’s agenda mirrored the intensity and quick transitions of a hockey game.  Just like line changes on the ice, the program shifted seamlessly from laughter to learning, with a lively game show, signing and dancing, and inspiring talks.  We explored the importance of letting children experience failure as a path to resilience, witnessed how developing countries are leading the charge in green technology, explored the importance of vision and its role in achieving outcomes, and wrapped it with Oscar-nominated actress Geena Davis sharing how media has shaped multiple generations of  understanding around gender parity, and can be a key tool in redefining our perceptions within a short span of time. The energy, diversity, and impact of the day reflected Rotary’s global spirit—where innovation, inclusion, and bold ideas took the spotlight in an arena usually reserved for athletic feats.

That was Day One…what will TODAY bring????

It’s hard to believe, but tonight is your final opportunity to experience a Calgary Signature Event—and we’re ending with a bang at the Western Ranch Showcase | Calgary 2025 HOC.  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.  

Don’t have tickets yet, there’s a few left, but they’re going fast…

Already have tickets, pop over to Attending the Western Ranch Showcase | Calgary 2025 HOC for all the details.

Host Hospitality a HUGE Success
The photos below capture the warmth and camaraderie of our sold-out Host Hospitality Evening—an elegant tradition where attendees experienced genuine local hospitality at Rotarians’ homes, restaurants, and venues across Calgary, and around the communities surrounding the city.  From moments of laughter over shared meals to heartfelt conversations that bridged cultures, each snapshot reflects the home-away‑from‑home atmosphere that makes this event unforgettable.

THANK YOU to all of the Rotary Members and Rotary Clubs of District 5360 for your generosity of time, treasure and talent in showing our friends from around the world why our district will always welcome them with OPEN ARMS!!!

Welcome to the House of Friendship — your one-stop shop for all things Rotary!  Whether you're looking to discover innovative projects, shop unique merchandise, connect with fellow Rotarians from around the world, or experience inspiring art and performances, the House of Friendship is the heart of the convention and a must-visit destination

Food and Refreshment Options
Feeling a little peckish or in need of a quick refuel?  Swing by the House of Friendship for a variety of food and beverage options to keep you energized throughout the day.

• Check out all the great options at Rotary International | Food and Beverage
• Remember, to Ask for ILA | Calgary 2025 HOC which is served in the House of Friendship

Centre Stage Today at the House of Friendship (HOF):

• Recently named "Solo Artist of the Year" at the 2024 YYC Music Awards, Justine Giles has been affirming her place within the local and global singer-songwriter scene.  Additionally nominated as an "Exceptional Rising Leader" at the 2024 Calgary White Hat Awards (linked with her Education Team Lead role at the National Music Centre), Justine is known as a passionate leader in the arts.
• ​Harp Angel, Deborah Nyack, is one of the premiere harpists in the world today.  Deborah performs and concertizes extensively worldwide, captivating audiences in intimate settings and renowned concert halls, such as Carnegie Hall in New York and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

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.

Grab a Memento of your time in Calgary!

After your break in the House of Friendship, make sure you drop in to visit Calgary-based painter Nic Martin who brings vibrant energy to the House of Friendship with a dedicated booth showcasing his bold, expressive works.

Visitors can explore his art in person and purchase high-quality prints directly through the booth or online at Calgary 2025 Nic Martin Print | Calgary 2025 HOC.

As a special feature, attendees can also place bids on a one-of-a-kind original piece created exclusively for the 2025 Rotary International Convention — a unique opportunity to own a striking work of art that captures the spirit of this global gathering.  Bid NOW at Art Auction | Calgary 2025 HOC for this one-of-a-kind, truly unique Calgary keepsake.

In Other News…

• Looking for the program for New Blood with the Calgary Civic Symphony.  It’s here for the downloading New Blood Program
• 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 in the link.
• 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.