Leaders gearing up for the upcoming G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alta., may not be welcomed with the traditional white hat ceremony, a popular Calgary gesture. Tourism Calgary and the mayor’s office have indicated that there are currently no arrangements for the iconic ceremony as dignitaries arrive in the area for the summit due to security complexities.
While Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek remains open to the idea, there is uncertainty regarding her role in distributing white hats. The Alberta ministry of tourism and sport has also mentioned that they are not organizing a ceremony for the G7 and have directed inquiries to federal organizers, who have yet to comment.
The white Smithbilt cowboy hat, symbolizing Calgary’s hospitality, has a long-standing tradition that dates back to the late 1940s. In past summits, visiting dignitaries have been greeted with these hats, with some leaders, like former U.S. president George W. Bush, embracing the gesture, while others, such as former French president Jacques Chirac and former British prime minister Tony Blair, have chosen not to wear them.
The G7 summit, scheduled for June 15 to 17, is anticipated to be a massive domestic security operation, with thousands of delegates, journalists, and security personnel anticipated to be present in Calgary and its surroundings. New security measures, including addressing concerns about drones, will be a focal point during the summit.
Despite the potential absence of the white hat ceremony, former attendees like Gary Mar are confident that Calgary will showcase its hospitality in other ways. The tradition, while significant, is not deemed essential, with Mar expressing certainty that the region will extend warm hospitality to the attending leaders.
