Point in almost any direction this weekend and there’s likely something new to do. After a long winter off, some of Central Alberta most popular summer attractions have dusted off and spruced up in time for the new season.
Biologist Myrna Pearman, site services manager for the Ellis Bird Farm, said she and her crew have been working through the winter on upgrades, including a new walkway so people in wheelchairs can get down to the pier.
Seven interpretive signs have been placed at locations on the site and a number of ailing spruce trees are being removed.
Ellis Bird Farm is introducing a couple of new events this year, including teaming up with Jeanette Jones at Ladybug Organic Gardens to host The Joy of Reconnecting: Grandparent/Grandchildren Days.
Also new at the bird farm, gardener Cynthia Pohl will give two workshops at the farm during summer and Rick More will present bluegrass music. Please visit www.ellisbirdfarm.ab.ca for more information on events at attractions at the site this year.
Darren Kuz, executive director of Tourism Red Deer, said the Victoria Day weekend is a kickoff to summer for many museums, farmers markets and summer attractions.
Environment Canada predicts warm, sunny days through the weekend, despite conventional knowledge among campers and tourism operators who have come to expect snow.
“I don’t want to jinx it. I’m hoping and praying (Environment Canada) got it right. It would be a great way to kick off our summer,” said Kuz.
The following is a synopsis of attractions getting started this weekend. Visit www.tourismreddeer.net and www.centralalbertaevents.com for more.
• Thursday: Innisfail Farmers Market — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m
• Friday through Sunday, Caroline Bighorn Rodeo
• Friday, Lacombe Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Friday opening, Danish National Canadian Museum, Dickson
• Saturday opening, Alberta Prairie Rail Excursions, Stettler
• Saturday, Red Deer Public Market — 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Saturday opening, Markerville Creamery Museum — 9 a.m. pancake breakfast
• Saturday opening, Stephansson House, Markerville — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Saturday, Bentley Farmers Market — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
• Monday opening, Ellis Bird Farm — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
bkossowan@www.reddeeradvocate.com