The heat wave did not deter parade-goers who lined city streets to watch the 2024 Westerner Days Parade on Wednesday morning.
This year 120 floats entertained the crowd which was the maximum number allowed. Organizers even had to turn away some applicants once capacity was reached.
"I'm thrilled. It was absolutely a success," said Ian Allan, general manager, events and business development.
The parade is always the kickoff to Westerner Days, which opened its gates Wednesday and runs until July 21.
Three community pancake breakfasts were held on Wednesday, with more scheduled in the days to come. For a list of community breakfasts visit westernerdays.ca.
The gates at Westerner Days fair and exhibition open at 11 a.m. each day. Thursday is Senior's Day so the entrance fee for seniors is $10.
Admission now includes access to all entertainment in The District where Main Acts will make music outside, along with more than 20 other performers.
New this year are motocross events, larger rides on the Midway, and the Central Alberta Pavilion featuring an indoor maze on the history Westerner Park and Westerner Days and salutes the region's diverse communities.
Returning favourites include Kidventure in the air-conditioned Parkland Pavilion, where children 12 and under can play, explore, and shop while enjoying free shows featuring clowns, hoola hoopers, and much more.
The Market is back with over 60 vendors, along with the popular Extreme Dogs show. The North American Pony Chuckwagon and Chariot Races have also returned, and each night fireworks will light up the sky.
Multi-day admission passes are available: $39.99 for two days, $59.99 for three days, $69.99 for four days, and $79.99 for all five days. Passes provide total access to nearly all activities in the park. Ride All Day (RAD) Pass will give thrill seekers access to Westerner Days and all the Midway rides.
For more information and to buy tickets, visit westernerdays.ca.
