Activations

Enjoy our curated activities both before the conference, and during the conference.

Pre-Conference Excursions (Optional)

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Make the most of your time in Calgary before the conference kicks off! Choose from one of our curated excursions and experience the best of the city, prehistoric landscapes, or the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.

GCEC Workshop

Center Leader Bootcamp

Hosted by the Center Leader Academy, this interactive workshop is designed for new and aspiring center leaders and will introduce the fundamentals of running and growing a center. Participants will gain practical tools and insights from experienced leaders, as well as the opportunity to connect with peers facing similar challenges and opportunities. The session will be led by members of the Center Leader Academy. Space is limited to 80 participants. 

Time: Noon to 4 p.m.
Cost: $50 (lunch included)

You can select this bootcamp when registering for the conference. Register now.

 

Calgary bike

Explore Calgary

Explore Calgary like a local with a guided tour of the city’s top attractions. Whether by e-bike or on foot, you’ll discover the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, cultural landmarks, and scenic river pathways with an expert guide.

E-Bike Tour – $135 per person (Includes e-bike rental)
Walking Tour – $30 per person

Morning or afternoon departures available (2-hour tour)

You can select your excursion when registering for the conference. Register now.

Drumheller

Visit Dinosaur Capital

Step back in time with a trip to Drumheller, the Dinosaur Capital of the World! This full-day adventure takes you to the heart of the Canadian Badlands, where you’ll visit the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Includes: Round-trip transportation and museum entry
Excludes: Lunch

Cost: $100 per person

Morning departure / Full-day tour

You can select your excursion when registering for the conference. Register now.

Banff

Gateway to The Rockies

Discover the majestic Canadian Rockies with a full-day excursion to Banff National Park. Visit iconic locations like Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake, with plenty of free time to explore the charming town of Banff.

Includes: Round-trip transportation, park entry fee, lunch, and guided visits 

Cost: $150 per person

Morning departure / Full-day tour

You can select your excursion when registering for the conference. Register now.

Networking Dinner Venues

Experience Calgary’s vibrant culture at our exclusive networking dinners. Each evening offers a unique venue, immersive experiences, and great company. Dinners are included with your conference registration. Guest tickets are available for $150 per evening.

BMO Centre

Percheron Ballroom, BMO Centre

Thursday, October 2

Kick off the conference in true Calgary style with an evening at the Percheron Ballroom. Named after the powerful and dependable Percheron draft horses, this elegant venue pays tribute to the city’s rich agricultural heritage and to George Lane — one of the Stampede’s legendary “Big Four” founders, whose renowned team of Percherons was once described as “the finest selection of livestock ever gathered under one name.”

Studio Bell

Studio Bell

Friday, October 3

Home to the National Music Centre, Studio Bell is an architectural marvel in Calgary’s East Village. This 160,000-square-foot facility celebrates Canada’s rich musical heritage, featuring five floors of interactive exhibits, a world-renowned musical instrument collection, and four Canadian music halls of fame. The building also incorporates the revitalized King Edward Hotel—one of Calgary’s oldest buildings and a legendary blues club—adding a historic touch to an evening of networking and musical discovery.

TELUS Spark

TELUS Spark Science Centre

Saturday, October 4

Conclude the conference with an evening of innovation and discovery at TELUS Spark Science Centre. This dynamic venue offers interactive galleries and exhibits that inspires curiosity.. Engage with hands-on displays before celebrating the winners of the 2025 GCEC Awards in an environment that embodies the spirit of exploration and creativity.​