Our Mission

History of the

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

In the early 1980's, a proposal was put forward by a group of land developers to reclassify Calgary Chinatown's land use and density. Motivated by a mission to save Chinatown, a group of determined and concerned citizens bravely challenged this proposed plan that could cause the disintegration of Chinatown. After almost two years of negotiations, a better Area Redevelopment Plan (A.R.P.) for Chinatown was agreed upon by all concerned parties. In the process, a piece of land for a future cultural centre was obtained. The aspiration at that time was to construct a culture centre that would serve as a concernstone to revitalize and stabilize a community that had long been neglected.

The construction of this $10 million facility began in the spring of 1991 and the building was completed in the fall of 1992. The federal, provincial and city governments, as well as many generous donors and enthusiastic volunteers, contributed immensely to the success of this project.

The inauguration of the Chinese Cultural Centre marked a new era in promoting Chinese culture to the mainstream and by fostering cultural exchange between the East and West. It also contributes meaningfully to the Canadian spirit of multiculturalism. Since its grand opening on September 27, 1992, the Cultural Centre has remained the focal point for community activities and a premier venue offering stimulating environment for cultural activities, artistic presentation and quality educational programs.

Our Vision

To contribute and build a united, diversified and vibrant community through the preservation and promotion of Chinese heritage, arts and culture.

Our Mission

To establish and maintain unique facilities in order to promote community, educational, recreational and cultural activities.

About CALGARY CHINESE CULTURAL CENTRE ASSOCIATION

1. Chinese Learning Academy

Offers accredited, basic training (ECS to grade 12) in mastering the skills in Mandarin Chinese language.

2. Chinese Library

Has had about five thousand members since its inception in 1992 and contains seventy thousand items of books and videos.

3. Educational.Cultural.Recreational Courses

A home to a number of educational, artistic, cultural and recreational programs as well as summer camps.

4. Chinese Artifacts Museum

The Museum displays a diverse collection of objects reflecting the history and culture that goes back more than five thousand years and offers guided tours of the Centre, the Museum and Chinatown as well as customized cultural programs.

5. Facilities Rental

Open for public renting, the facilities features a 6,250 sq.ft. multi-purpose auditorium with performing stage,

a unique cultural hall, Wi-Fi connections, meeting space in various formats.