Cochrane's Best Place for Children's Parties

Families purchase homes in Cochrane because they love the small-town feel. The community has responded with the construction of new schools and improved leisure facilities. Calgary’s Child Magazine has recognized the contributions of local business in Cochrane to serve young families by providing recognition to several local organizations. In Calgary's Child Magazine's Parent’s Choice Awards for 2017, the award for Best Place for Children’s Parties in Cochrane has been given to 4Cats Arts Studio on Bow Ridge Road.

What is 4Cats

4Cats is an art studio that provides classes, workshops and hosts parties for children and adults alike, allowing people to enjoy the creative life.

The name was derived from a famous café in Barcelona Spain called Els Quatre Gats, or the Four Cats.  It was frequented by the one and only Pablo Picasso, along with a creative host of poets, philosopher and actors who met to discuss their craft.  The concept to create a gathering spot for creative types was conceived by husband and wife team Joey and Darryl Simon of Victoria B.C.

The Simons, in response to their very premature birth of their son Jet, were proactive in the development of their son because of the possibility of learning challenges.  As artists themselves they instilled a love of the creative process and of reading in their young son.  Their friends took note of Jet’s remarkable talent, even at the age of 4, and urged the Simon’s to share their teaching methods in a workshop setting.  It was the seed that led to the opening of the first 4Cats Studio in Victoria in 2005.  There are now 4Cats Studios throughout Western Canada, including the location in Cochrane.

Children’s Parties at 4Cats

Most parents know that when kids want to paint, it’s a lot of fun but incredibly messy.  Children at 4Cats are encouraged to let loose and creative in a controlled atmosphere.

There are 17 different party packages to choose from.  Some include painting with a few clay and sculpture packages thrown in for good measure.  There’s sure to be a party package that appeals to the birthday boy or girl.  Pirate, Knights, Robots, Princess and Fairy packages are available.  Children can paint with glow paint or acrylics.  There’s nothing toxic about painting at 4Cats.

Party packages are reasonably priced. For example, the Paint Splatter Party which takes place in a dedicated Paint Splatter Room, is $215 which covers the cost for 10 children for an hour of painting with 45 minutes for refreshments and presents.   If there are more than 10 children, additional guests are charged $15 each.  If there are more than a dozen children, an extra instructor can be brought it for an addition $35.

The Paint Splatter Party gives children that opportunity to be an abstract expressionist.  Kids pick their favourite colours and then, they are completely allowed to throw paint.  It’s not as chaotic as you might think.  There are are splatter techniques that the party guests will be instructed upon. At the end, each guest will be able to take home their creation on a 36-inch by 66-inch canvas.

When you book your party, 4Cats will ask how old the guests will be as some of the 17 different programs appeal to different ages.  On the whole, children aged 4 to 16 will enjoy parties at 4Cats.

Adults Too

There are a variety of single-day workshops and paint evenings for adults too. That includes painting and working with clay or sculpture.  The 4Cats website has a complete calendar with all programs listed for adults along with an online retail store for those who just want to purchase supplies.

Birthday parties in Cochrane can also be booked online through the website.