Calgary’s Glamorous, Not-to-Be-Missed Gala Returns to Its Roots

Outside temperatures are cool in Calgary in March, but Calgary Health Foundation has plans to turn up the heat inside Hotel Arts. The foundation has teamed up with the contemporary hotel to present a night of glitz, glamour and goodwill on March 20, 2026.   

“We are excited to partner with Hotel Arts on The Big Ball 2026,” says Paul Rossmann, President and CEO of Calgary Health Foundation. “Calgarians are passionate about health in our city, and also about phenomenal parties! The gala is going to be a memorable evening, a night combining philanthropy and fun.”

The Big Ball 2026 is a revived partnership between Hotel Arts and Calgary Health Foundation. The gala was originally started over 25 years ago to support prostate cancer research, education and treatment. In the years since, it has also raised funds for broader philanthropic work in the city, and 2026 marks a return to its roots in healthcare through Calgary Health Foundation.

Come for the ball, stay for the cause

Calgary Health Foundation, a community-based charity dedicated to advancing healthcare across the city, is the 2026 gala beneficiary. 

“I’m thrilled to welcome Calgary Health Foundation as our new charity partner,” says Mark Wilson, VP of Hotel Arts Group. “Supporting healthcare excellence in our community aligns deeply with our values, and we’re excited to help amplify their impact through this signature event at Hotel Arts.”

A pearl soirée 

The partnership is perfectly timed: this year marks Calgary Health Foundation’s 30th anniversary. After three decades of funding patient care and medical innovation, the organization hopes its Pearl Anniversary will move others to give back. 

Prominent Canadian community leader and gala co-chair, M. Ann McCaig, understands the importance of carrying on this legacy. McCaig’s late husband, J.R. (Bud) McCaig, founded Calgary Health Foundation in 1996 (then Calgary Health Trust). 

“Calgary’s philanthropic spirit has contributed to the development of world-class healthcare in our city,” says McCaig. “This unique event is a meaningful way to rally people around our shared vision to ensure our city continues to be a healthy, vibrant place to live, work and raise a family.”

Dance the night away

The gala will showcase live music by one of Western Canada’s best party bands, Famous Players. The Vancouver group features four lead singers, each with their own sound and flair.

Between band sets, DJ Joanna Magik promises to bring the vibes. Former pro-snowboarder and Olympic sports announcer, DJ Magik is a rising force on the North American dance music scene, with sets that blend house, techno and bass.

In between dancing, luxurious cuisine by Hotel Arts Executive Chef Scott Redekopp will replenish attendees’ energy. 

Gala-goers will also get to meet and mingle with like-minded Calgarians who care about healthcare. 

A legacy of fun and friendship

What began as the Bill Brooks Gala over 25 years ago is the brainchild of Calgary native and social scene columnist Bill Brooks. Co-chair of the 2026 event, Brooks wants gala guests to know their attendance will offer them glam and goodwill. 

“I am honoured to co-chair this year’s gala with my good friend Ann McCaig,” says Brooks. “Together, with gala guests, we will celebrate not only Calgary Health Foundation’s anniversary but also raise funds for some of Calgary’s greatest healthcare needs.” 

The Big Ball 2026 is March 20, 2026. Get your tickets at bigball.ca.

About Calgary Health Foundation  

Calgary Health Foundation is a nonprofit organization raising funds for healthcare. We find opportunities to work with donors, medical specialists, community partners, and the public to invest in innovation across the entire healthcare system, all with the goal of bettering healthcare outcomes and improving lives. givehealth.ca

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