Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Conference?

The conference was originally scheduled for April 2020, but has been postponed until November.

  • Friday, Nov. 6, from 2:30pm until 9pm
  • Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9:30am until 11pm
  • Sunday, Nov. 8, from 10am until 11:30am

See the schedule for full details and event times.

Where is the Conference?

Memorial Park Library
1221 2RD STREET SW, CALGARY

  • Wordfest’s Performance Space and Libations Bar (2nd Floor)
  • The Alexander Calhoun Salon (1st Floor)
  • Meeting Rooms (Basement)

Check your tickets and the schedule for the location of each session within the building. Volunteers and staff will be onsite to provide directions.

Who should attend?

Are you an aspiring writer or an avid reader? An established author or an adventurous soul? An extroverted introvert or an introverted extrovert? This is the creative gathering for anyone who is curious about exploring and expressing their innate bionic powers. Of course, you don’t have to identify as a woman or even have hair to be welcome. Bionic power is for everyone!

Where can I buy a Conference Pass?

Purchase your $180 pass ($220 value!) for the full weekend (Nov 6-8, 2020) online here. There are only 80 conference spots available, so act now before it’s too late!

What is included in the Conference Pass?

How do I sign up for my Mentor Speed Dating Session?

Registration for Mentor Speed Dating sessions is first come, first served via a hidden link provided with your Conference Pass order. You’ll then have the opportunity to choose one 7-minute slot with either Gwen Benaway, Claire Cameron, Kate Harris, or Jenny Heijun Wills, during one of the following periods: Friday, Nov. 6 from 2:30 to 4:30pm, OR Saturday, Nov. 7, from 3pm to 4:30pm.

Can I buy Single Tickets?

Single tickets are only available for the Friday Night Showcase on Nov. 6 @ 7pm, and the Sunday Morning Showcase on Nov. 8 @ 10am. All other activities and workshops over the weekend are for Conference Pass Holders only. Buy your pass here.

How do I get to the Conference?

PLEASE NOTE: In order to enable us to start our events on time, please arrive at least 10 minutes ahead of showtime to guarantee your seat. Latecomer entry is at the discretion of front of house staff.

Memorial Park Library
1221 2RD STREET SW, CALGARY

TRANSIT

The following routes and bus stops are within a block of Memorial Park Library. Also, the main Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations servicing downtown are only a 15 minute walk away.

PARKING

Street parking is available near Memorial Park Library, and some areas such as 13 Avenue may have free spots after 6pm. Please read street signage carefully before parking your vehicle. Nearby paid parking lots include ImPark Lot #77, Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre Parking Lot, and Hotel Arts Non Guest Parking.

What if I can’t attend one of the sessions or I what to make a change?

Please contact the Wordfest Box Office by email at boxoffice@Wordfest.com as soon as possible with your request. We also appreciate you letting us know if you are unable to attend particular sessions.

Single tickets and conference passes are final sale. Pass holders may change their Bionic Workshop selections and Mentor Speed Dating time slot if space allows. Final decisions on ticket exchanges are at Wordfest’s discretion and must be confirmed by box office staff at least 24 hours before your event.

Where can I grab a bite between sessions?

Unwind and reflect between your morning, afternoon and evening sessions. We’ve allowed for generous breaks between sessions to fuel up. Take this opportunity Calgary’s happening Beltline neighbourhood around Memorial Park Library. Treat yourself while also supporting our local businesses. Here are some recommendations.

Libations Bar

For events starting after 1pm in Wordfest’s Performance Space on the 2nd floor, a selection of wine, cider, beer and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, chips and candy are available at the Libations Bar in the lobby. We accept cash, credit and debit tap. There is no ATM in the building, but there is a bank machine in the Circle K on the corner of 11th Ave and 5th Street SW.

Social Media

Become active members of the Bionic Women Writers community by sharing photos and posts online. Use the hashtag #Bionic2020. Tag us on Twitter using @WordfestTweets. Tag us on Instagram using @wordfest. Who knows which Bionic Superheroes will want to connect right back with you?

Accessibility & Inclusivity

The Bionic Women Writers Experience strives to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Please strive with us. Embracing and encouraging diversity is an essential part of our programming and our values. The conference venue is accessible to those with limited mobility. Courtesy seating is available upon request. All festival venues have gender neutral bathroom facilities. Please contact the box office with any questions or concerns.

If your financial situation limits your ability to experience this conference, please contact us. We have a limited number of complimentary passes and tickets, thanks to the generosity of our individual donors.