Although parts of Ross Street may be closed Thursday for the Tour of Alberta, businesses along that stretch will remain open, with some taking advantage of the situation.
A Whittle Piece of U, an art gallery on Ross Street, has decided to set up an artists market on the day of the event.
Co-owner Desiree Marshall said while parking on Ross Street will be limited, there will still be a lot of people downtown on that day.
“We have 12 tables that we have rented out,” said Marshall. “It is mostly independent distributors and craftsy people.”
The gallery is making the most of the situation, running the market from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Just down the street, the food trucks will be in full force around the Cool Beans Bus.
A traditional Friday feast in Red Deer, the trucks will start at 11 a.m. and be a part of the festivities. Other businesses will remain open during the day, including Victoria Lane Brides, Bishops Rexall Drug Store and the Ross Street I.D.A.
City Hall and the Red Deer provincial court house will also function on normal hours during the Tour of Alberta street closure.
Along with the food trucks there will also be a beer garden and entertainment at two stages.
At the entertainment stage on Ross Street between 48th and 49th Avenues, Charlie Jacboson will perform from 11 to 11:45 a.m., Waskasoo from noon to 1 p.m. and Emerson Drive starting at 1 p.m.
At the race stage, between 47th and 48th Avenue, Outlaw Mary will perform from 11 to 11:45 a.m. and Donny Smith from noon to 1 p.m.
Although the arrival of the cyclists is dependent on a number of factors, including weather and speed, it is anticipated they will arrive in downtown Red Deer between 3:15 and 3:30 p.m.
The current plan is to hold the awards ceremony for the second stage of the event at 3:45 p.m.
mcrawford@www.reddeeradvocate.com