Patio at 2SLGBTQ+ nightclub vandalized days before Calgary Pride weekend
Posted Sep 4, 2026 11:12 am.
A downtown Calgary nightclub is dealing with thousands of dollars in damage after its patio was vandalized just days before Pride weekend.
Twisted Element, a 2SLGBTQ+ venue on 11 Avenue SW in the Beltline, discovered the damage on Tuesday.
AstroTurf was taken from the patio, and the bar area and electrical system were left damaged, impacts the owner says will affect both daytime and nighttime events planned for the weekend.
Owner Al Carswell says the timing couldn’t be worse.
Carswell said the patio had been set up for daytime parties, complete with a DJ and lighting that relies on the electrical system now damaged. He estimates the combined loss at around $10,000, which includes labour already invested in preparing the space.
“This is our main event this weekend being Pride,” Carswell said. “That’s really why we have the patio.”
Calgary police confirmed to CityNews they are investigating the incident but said it is too early to determine a motive.
Despite the setback, Carswell says Pride celebrations at Twisted Element will continue as planned.
“I want to make sure everyone who bought tickets is aware that all of our events are going ahead,” he said. “We are not letting this dampen our spirits or affect our Pride celebrations.”
