The streets of downtown Calgary transformed into a vibrant tapestry of fantasy, science fiction and pop culture on Friday as thousands gathered for the annual Parade of Wonders, officially kicking off the 2024 Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo.
I’ve covered this event for the past seven years, but the energy this time around felt distinctly electric. Even under overcast skies, Stephen Avenue was packed with spectators three-deep in some sections, their phones raised to capture the colorful procession of costumed enthusiasts.
“This is bigger than I’ve ever seen it,” remarked Jennifer Carson, a local teacher who’s attended the parade since its inception. “After the economic struggles we’ve faced, it feels like Calgary needed this celebration.”
The parade featured roughly 2,000 cosplayers showcasing their meticulously crafted costumes inspired by favorite characters from movies, television, comics and video games. Creativity was on full display, from elaborate Mandalorian armor that took months to craft to a family of five dressed as different iterations of Spider-Man.
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek led the parade alongside this year’s celebrity guests, including stars from hit franchises like “Stranger Things” and “The Lord of the Rings.” The mayor, herself sporting a Wonder Woman-inspired outfit, praised the event’s contribution to our city’s cultural landscape.
“What started as a niche gathering has become one of Calgary’s most beloved spring traditions,” Gondek told me after the parade. “It showcases our creative spirit and brings together people from all backgrounds.”
The economic impact shouldn’t be overlooked. According to Tourism Calgary, the four-day expo generates approximately $28 million for the local economy, with downtown hotels reporting near-capacity bookings.
“We’re completely sold out for the weekend,” confirmed Michael Rodriguez, general manager of the Fairmont Palliser. “This event has become a major driver for our spring business, especially with visitors coming from across Western Canada.”
For many local businesses along the parade route, it represents one of the busiest days of the year. Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters reported a 175% increase in morning sales compared to typical Fridays, while several restaurants extended their hours to accommodate the influx of costumed customers.
Walking through the crowds, I spotted impressive recreations from nearly every corner of pop culture. A towering Transformers costume that actually changed shape drew gasps, while a group portraying characters from the Netflix hit “Squid Game” posed for countless photos.
What struck me most was the diversity – both in costumes and participants. Children as young as four marched alongside seniors in their seventies. Computer programmers walked beside oil workers, their regular identities temporarily set aside for a shared passion.
Doug Williams, a 62-year-old grandfather dressed as Captain America, told me, “I used to hide my comic book collection. Now I’m marching down Stephen Avenue in spandex, and people are cheering. Calgary has come a long way.”
The expo itself, running through Sunday at the BMO Centre, expects to welcome over 90,000 attendees this year. Among the celebrity guests are stars from “The Last of Us,” partially filmed in Alberta, creating additional local excitement.
Calgary’s growing reputation as a filming location for major productions has strengthened the connection between the city and the entertainment industry. Several local film crews who worked on HBO’s “The Last of Us” participated in the parade, showcasing props from the production.
“Having these massive productions film here has really elevated our creative profile,” explained Luke Carter from the Calgary Film Centre. “People are starting to see Calgary
