Languages Spoken in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide

Calgary, located in the province of Alberta, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. It is a multicultural city with a diverse population, which leads to a variety of languages spoken in the city. In this blog post, we will discuss the various languages spoken in Calgary.

English

English is the official language of Calgary and is the most commonly spoken language in the city. It is also the primary language used in schools, government offices, and businesses. According to the 2016 census, 71.4% of Calgary residents speak English as their mother tongue.

French

French is another official language in Canada and is spoken by a small percentage of Calgary residents. According to the 2016 census, 1.6% of residents in Calgary speak French as their first language. The usage of French language is mainly concentrated in government offices and educational institutions.

Mandarin and Cantonese

Mandarin and Cantonese are two of the most widely spoken languages in the world and are also spoken by a significant number of people in Calgary. These two Chinese dialects are the most commonly spoken languages in Calgary apart from English. According to the census, Mandarin and Cantonese are the mother tongues of 8.2% of Calgary residents, making it the second most spoken language in the city.

Punjabi

Punjabi is an Indo-Aryan language that is widely spoken in India and Pakistan. It is also spoken by a significant number of people in Calgary. According to the census, Punjabi is the mother tongue of about 2% of the Calgary population. Due to the high demand, many schools and institutions in Calgary are now offering Punjabi language classes.

Tagalog

Tagalog, also known as Filipino, is the national language of the Philippines and is also spoken by a significant number of people in Calgary. According to the census, Tagalog is the mother tongue of 1.9% of the Calgary population.

Spanish

Spanish is a widely spoken language in the world and is also spoken by a significant number of people in Calgary. According to the census, Spanish is the mother tongue of about 1.3% of Calgary residents.

Other languages

Apart from the languages mentioned above, Calgary is home to many other languages spoken by a smaller percentage of the population. Some of these languages include German, Hindi, Urdu, Vietnamese, Korean, and Polish.

The Importance of Multilingualism

In a diverse city like Calgary, multilingualism plays a significant role in creating a inclusive and welcoming community. Being able to communicate with individuals from various cultural and language backgrounds helps break down barriers, promote understanding, and improve relationships. Therefore, it is important for individuals and institutions to recognize and support the diversity of languages and cultures in the city of Calgary.

Conclusion

Calgary is a diverse and multicultural city, home to a variety of languages. While English is the most commonly spoken language, there are many other languages spoken by significant portions of the population. Multilingualism is essential in promoting inclusivity and a sense of community among Calgary residents.

Languages Spoken in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide to the City

Calgary is a vibrant Canadian city surrounded by towering mountains, pristine natural parks, and crystal clear lakes. If you’re a tourist, Calgary might surprise you with its diverse population and rich history. This blog post is your ultimate guide to the languages spoken in Calgary and the must-visit attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and hidden gems.

Attractions

Calgary is home to several iconic attractions that both locals and tourists enjoy. Here are the must-see attractions:

– Calgary Tower: The Calgary Tower is an iconic landmark that provides a 360-degree view of the city skyline. If you’re not afraid of heights, visit the observation deck to enjoy the spectacular views.

– Banff National Park: A visit to Calgary is not complete without exploring Banff National Park. Located just an hour and a half from the city, the park is home to majestic mountains, jaw-dropping glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes.

– Calgary Zoo: The Calgary Zoo offers visitors the chance to see over 1,000 animals from all over the world. Highlights include the Penguin Plunge, Canadian Wilds, and the Prehistoric Park.

Dining Spots

Calgary is known for its diverse food scene, offering everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to classic pub fare. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

– Native Tongues Taqueria: If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine, head over to Native Tongues Taqueria. This restaurant serves up mouth-watering tacos, nachos, and other classic dishes.

– OEB Breakfast Co.: This breakfast and brunch spot is a must-visit for foodies. OEB offers a wide selection of dishes, from classic eggs benedict to the notorious breakfast poutine.

– Charcut Roast House: Charcut is a classic steakhouse that offers dishes made from locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, this is the place to go.

Cultural Experiences

Calgary is a multicultural city with a thriving arts and culture scene. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to check out:

– Glenbow Museum: The Glenbow Museum is a world-renowned art and culture museum located in the heart of downtown Calgary. The museum features over a million artifacts, from Western Canadian history to contemporary art.

– Studio Bell National Music Centre: Music lovers should check out the Studio Bell National Music Centre. This museum celebrates Canada’s musical history and offers a hands-on experience.

– Heritage Park Historical Village: If you want to step back in time, head over to the Heritage Park Historical Village. This living museum showcases what life was like in Western Canada in the early 1900s.

Local History

Calgary has a rich history, and there are several sites that showcase its fascinating past. Here are some of the best places to learn about Calgary’s history:

– Fort Calgary: Fort Calgary is where the city of Calgary was founded in 1875. Today, the site offers guided tours and exhibits that showcase the city’s history.

– The Hangar Flight Museum: This museum is dedicated to Canada’s aviation history and features over 20 aircraft. The museum also has exhibits on the history of aviation in Western Canada.

– Lougheed House: The Lougheed House is a 19th-century mansion that has been restored to its former glory. The house showcases what life was like for Calgary’s elite in the early 1900s.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While Calgary has plenty of well-known attractions and restaurants, there are also some hidden gems that are worth checking out. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Fish Creek Provincial Park: Fish Creek Provincial Park is a hidden gem located in the suburbs of Calgary. The park offers over 80 kilometers of trails and is home to a diverse range of wildlife.

– Chinatown: Located in downtown Calgary, Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood that offers visitors a taste of Chinese culture. Check out the shops, restaurants, and the iconic Chinese arch.

– Reader Rock Garden: The Reader Rock Garden is a hidden gem located in the middle of the city. The garden features over 4,000 plants, a pond, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Conclusion

Calgary is a beautiful city with a diverse population, rich history, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or history buff, there’s something for everyone in Calgary. Follow this insider’s guide to ensure you don’t miss out on the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.