Marda Loop, Calgary facts for kids
Marda Loop is a lively area in Calgary, Alberta. It's a special zone where local businesses work together to make the area great. You can find it around 33rd and 34th Avenues SW, between Crowchild Trail and 18th Street SW. It also includes parts of Garrison Gate SW.
Marda Loop is surrounded by several neighborhoods like South Calgary, Altadore, Garrison Woods, and a bit of Richmond. It's known as one of Calgary's most popular places for outdoor shopping. You'll find many small shops, cozy coffee spots, and fun restaurants here.
Every year, Marda Loop hosts a big street party called the Marda Gras Street Festival. It happens on the second Sunday in August and is a super fun event for everyone!
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How Marda Loop Got Its Name
The name "Marda Loop" has a cool story behind it!
The "Marda" Part
The first part, "Marda," comes from two people: Marc and Mada Jenkins. They used to own a movie theater in the area called the Marda Theatre. The name "Marda" is a mix of their names! The theater opened in 1953 but closed down in 1989.
The "Loop" Part
The "Loop" in Marda Loop refers to a special turnaround spot. Long ago, there was a streetcar line that ended here, and the streetcars would "loop" around to go back. Later, trolley buses used the same kind of turnaround. So, the "Loop" reminds us of this old transportation hub.
The name "Marda Loop" was officially chosen in a contest back in 1985.
Marda Loop's History
Marda Loop has always been an important center for businesses in this part of Calgary.
Changes Over Time
In the late 1990s, the area saw a big change. A nearby military base, Canadian Forces Base Calgary, closed down. This meant many homes for military families (called PMQs) were no longer needed.
In the early 2000s, these old military homes were turned into a new community called Garrison Woods. This brought new houses and many new shops, helping the Marda Loop business area grow even more.
A Vibrant Community Today
Since about 2010, Marda Loop has become even more lively. Many new buildings and businesses have opened up. This has made the community feel vibrant and exciting, just like it was in the past.
Today, more and more people are moving into the neighborhoods around Marda Loop. Older houses are being replaced with new condominiums, which are apartment-style homes. This means Marda Loop is becoming a very popular and modern place to live and visit.
The area now hosts fun community events and has new places like a Yoga & Meditation Community Center. It even has its own film festival each year, along with the "Marda Gras" street festival.
