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By Suhaib Yusuf

What's Happening

Family Day in central Alberta

Feb 18, 2022 | 5:39 PM

The Family Day long weekend is upon us and there are many events scheduled throughout the region for Albertan’s of all ages to enjoy.

In Red Deer, soccer fans can check out Red Deer City Soccer Association’s 21^st annual Red Deer Family Day Tournament for youth. The tournament will run from Feb. 18-21. The tournament will feature both boys and girls that are 18 years of age or younger.

At the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery, central Albertans can come dressed up in western wear to experience the Ya Ha Tinda – The Ranch and Our West Country exhibits as the museum dives into a western theme for Family Day. These exhibits will be on from 1-4 p.m. on Monday, Feb 21.

Sylvan Lake will be having its annual Winterfest with festivities kicking off on Feb. 18. Activities include the Winterfest Glow N’ Throw Axe Throwing, along with many forms of entertainment for those simply looking to relax and enjoy a show, like the fire show on ice, a stunning fire show that heats up on the frozen lake, where those in attendance can experience the magic of spinning fire as acrobatic dancers flip, twirl, and spin, showing off their latest tricks.

You can also stop by one of the lakeside cafes, grab a warm drink and make your way down to the festival grounds. On Saturday night, catch the fireworks that’ll be starting at 7 p.m., grab a spot anywhere along Lakeshore Drive and you’ll have yourself a great view.

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It also happens to be family fishing weekend, which means that for this weekend only, it is not required to have a fishing license when you fish. Event organizers say this happens to be good timing with the Big Jig Ice-Fishing Derby, which is also taking place in Sylvan Lake, featuring thousands in cash prizes, free fishing workshops, an epic poutine contest and so much more. Officials say the BIG JIG has something for the whole family to enjoy.

The Town of Innisfail also features a lineup of family day events for its residents starting with the Helping Hand Fund 3-on-3 Family Day Hockey Tournament, a tournament that goes back over 20 years serving the same mission back then which is to provide children from financially challenged families with the opportunity to participate in Innisfail’s minor sports programs.

A Family Day event at the Innisfail Arena will run from noon to 3 p.m., with the first running from 1-2 p.m. and the second one from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. and feature an All-Ages Free Skate with music and prizes. There will also be outdoor skating, if conditions allow, at the skating loop to the northwest of the Arena.

There is plenty to do in Ponoka this Family Day long weekend, as you and your family can go skating downtown at the oval rink from 2-4 p.m. If things get too cold, you can warm up by the bonfire while sipping on some hot chocolate. The Town of Ponoka is also having an ‘Everyone Welcome’ swim at the Ponoka Aquaplex where it’s a free swim for all ages from 2-4 p.m., then again from 4-6 p.m.

Penhold will be having Family Day fun at the Penhold Multiplex, where you can bring your skates and enjoy hot chocolate, treats and an evening of skating with your community. It runs from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

In Olds, you can also go for a skate on Family Day, with free skating from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. at the Olds Sportsplex. There will also be a Family Day swim at the Olds aquatic centre from 1-4 p.m.

Blackfalds will be having its Winterfest at the Eagle Builders Centre this year. On Feb. 20 and 21, ice sculptors will be on hand from 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., with a free family skate taking place on holiday Monday from noon until 3 p.m. as well. In case you get hungry, Blackfalds Fire Department will hold a ‘By Donation” BBQ during the event.