(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

back in a big way

Westerner Days to return after two-year hiatus

Apr 20, 2022 | 3:58 PM

Red Deer’s Westerner Days is coming back this summer, after two long years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event, which has been happening for more than 130 years, is scheduled for July 20-24.

“We are excited to be planning the largest summer celebration in Central Alberta,” said Mike Olesen, CEO of Westerner Park. “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 dollars.”

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• North American Midway, featuring all the fan favorites for little tykes and thrill-seekers alike
• Kids Corral

Entertainment & Shows

• TD Main Stage – Peavey Mart Centrium will be host to three concerts – headliner announcements coming soon
• The Canine Stars stunt dog show
• New this year, the Exhibition Hall will host an International Festival, celebrating diversity and culture

Agriculture

• North American Pony Chuckwagon Championships
• Agricultural shows and exhibits

Shopping | Food

• 19th Street Market
• The most popular treats and food indulgences at Grub Hub
• Kick back and enjoy a farm-to-fork western style meal at the Family Barbeque Chalet
• Enjoy a festival-vibe at the Outdoor Beer Gardens with live entertainment

Community

• Westerner Days Parade: kicking off Westerner Days, we look forward to seeing the thousands of people who line the streets of Red Deer’s historical district to watch the variety of parade entries, including horse-drawn wagons, decorated vehicles, elaborate floats, dance troops, marching bands, mini cars, and collector vehicles
• Organizations from across the city are 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 (RAD) Passes, plus concert series tickets, will be available online at www.ticketsalberta.com in May.

Westerner Park now offers free parking, and there will be a new website, www.westernerdays.ca, launched soon.