Elbow River is more than just a casino- it is a complete entertainment facility. The varied gaming options include the 24-hour Poker Room, slot machines, a plethora of table games, as also facilities for off-track betting. If you need a break from all the games, you could try out a buffet from Jester's Buffet or have a couple of drinks at Sammy's Sports Bar. You can enjoy live music at the Bayou Stage, or laugh till you cry at Yuk Yuk's comedy club.

For fans of the ridiculous, occasionally rude, and bluntly unsophisticated comedy presented at Yuk Yuk establishments across the country, the Calgary version should offer few surprises. The familiar red-brick wall behind the stage—where aspiring comedians stand in the glare of a spotlight and crack jokes ranging from the clever to the obscene—is the signature of comedy clubs the world over. A high-class crowd of young professionals patronize the club, where they swill expensive mixed drinks and giggle over the performer's antics.

The Loose Moose Theatre company has garnered international acclaim for the pioneering work it has done in the field of improvisational comedy. Established in 1977, this theater company puts up some wonderful productions for children, a repertoire which includes stories like The Ugly Duckling and Aesop's Fables. The shows are always hilarious, and make for fantastic entertainment for the entire family. They also offer improv classes for adults.

At The Laugh Shop, be prepared to roll on the floor laughing, because you will be entertained by some of the best local and international performers in the business. Located inside Hotel Blackfoot, this 18-and-above club has established quite a reputation for its side-splitting comedy shows. If you cannot make it to the venue, you could even hire a professional stand up for your own private event. There are also dinner-and-show packages you could avail of, making it an evening of fun, food and of course, laughter.

A wonderful addition to Calgary's comedy scene was made with the introduction of The Comedy Cave. True to its name, this comic joint is a rather dark place, giving you the feel of being in a dungeon, an illusion dispelled only by the bright laughter the stand-up comics manage to evoke every few minutes. This is a great place to enjoy a dinner-and-show package, but unfortunately the whole family cannot enjoy together, as children are not permitted.