A new season of Ross Street Patio parties and the downtown farmer's market are beginning this month in downtown Red Deer.
Red Deer Downtown Business Association is presenting a line-up of spring and summer activities to draw Red Deerians to the city's core as the weather warms.
It all starts with the opening of the popular Downtown Farmers' Market on May 22. More than 15 regular vendors will be joined by up to 10 additional rotating vendors each Wednesday from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Little Gaetz Avenue, amid retail stores and restaurants.
"There's always something new to discover," said the DBA's executive-director Amanda Gould. From farm-fresh produce to handcrafted articles and baked goods, the market will celebrate shopping local by selling Alberta-made products weekly until Oct. 2.
Gould urges area residents to support the downtown market and locally owned downtown businesses — and then to head over to the Ross Street Patio for some live entertainment by musicians. A new season of Ross Street Patio entertainment will also kick off on May 22.
Some of Red Deer's finest singer-songwriters and bands will entertain on the Ross Street Patio every Tuesday and Wednesday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Evening live performances will happen on Thursdays, with Open Mic Night from 7 to 10 p.m. And Friday lunchtime jams will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m.
The Ross Street Patio is the perfect place to unwind and connect with friends and neighbours, said Gould, who noted both the market and the music are free to enjoy — and are open to all ages.
The set-up of the new season is already in progress "Picnic tables are making their way to Ross Street, side-walk murals are being painted and the flowers are just about ready to bloom," said Gould. "We can’t wait to see everyone come and be part of the magic happening in our beautiful downtown."
Looking ahead, the DBA is excited to help celebrate the Westerner Days fair by working with Westerner Park, Family Services of Central Alberta, downtown businesses and market vendors for extended market hours, pancake breakfasts and barbeques. As well, additional Ross Street performances and family activities ae being planned to enhance the Westerner Days parade on July 17.
Other special downtown events will be the Centrefest street performers' festival July 26-28 and the African-Caribbean Festival Aug. 17 and 18. Gould said Alberta Culture Days and the Magic Festival are being planned for September.