After being sidelined by the pandemic for two years, planning is underway for the July 20-24 Westerner Days Fair and Exposition.
“We are excited to be planning the largest summer celebration in Central Alberta,” said Westerner Park CEO Mike Olesen in a statement on Wednesday. “With the midway, pony chuckwagon races, and an extensive assortment of activities and entertainment for children and adults alike, you have the makings of five great days.
“For our community, Westerner Days also has a major impact on the economy of Red Deer and surrounding area, with the overall effect estimated to be in excess of $7 million.”
As always, the fair will be kicked off with the Westerner Days Parade, which will wind through the downtown and feature horse-drawn wagons, decorated vehicles, elaborate floats, dance troupes, marching bands, mini cars, and collector vehicles.
Organizations from across the city will once again be invited to get in the western spirit by hosting their own off-site event, marching in the Westerner Days Parade, volunteering at Westerner Days, or setting up shop at the 19th Street Market.
Ride All Day Passes, plus concert series tickets, will be available online at www.ticketsalberta.com in May. Westerner Park now offers Free Parking too, providing greater value to fair-goers. A new website at www.westernerdays.ca is under construction and will be available soon.
The Westerner Days experience will include the midway, kids corral and big lineup of entertainment and music at the TD Main Stage at the Peavey Mart Centrium will be hosting three concerts, with headliners to be announced soon.
The North American Pony Chuckwagon Championships is back and visitors can also check out the Canine Stars stunt dog show and a wide range of agriculture shows and exhibits.
An International Festival is a new addition where diversity and culture will be celebrated in Exhibition Hall.
For those looking for a bite the 19th Street Market and Grub Hub, or for a farm-to-fork western style meal head to the Family Barbeque Chalet.
To get into the festival vibe, head to the Outdoor Beer Gardens with live entertainment.