
Arts and Entertainment

new tourist attraction
Blindman Valley Lions launch 'Barn Quilt Trail'
The Blindman Valley Lions Club has launched a unique new tourist attraction.The 'Barn Quilt Trail' borrows from a rural art form started in 2001 by an Ohio woman.There are now over 40 states and three provinces with such a trail, and the Lions Club views it as a scavenger hunt for curious folks."We wanted to showc...
Jul 03, 2026
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west of 22
New film production studio opens in Didsbury
Didsbury and the Mountain View Regional Film Office (MVRFO) are celebrating the grand opening of a new film production facility.West of 22 Productions Inc., which includes a 20-foot green screen and sound stage, cut the ribbon on Canada Day. It is the only facility of its kind in Alberta, outside of Calgary and Edmonto...
Jul 02, 2026
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a safe space for all
Week of Red Deer Pride events kicks off July 4
Pride events are set to get going this weekend around Red Deer. Traditionally, Pride Month takes place around the world in June. However, in Alberta, groups have staggered their events throughout the summer so that they don't take attendees away from one another. Kaelyn Yeager is the coordinator for Red Deer Pride 2026...
Jul 02, 2026
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imagination and creativity
Ponoka Stampede announces art contest winners
The Ponoka Stampede is here, running June 25 to July 1, and organizers have announced the winners of its 2026 stampede art contest. The contest was for students in grades 1-12, with winners receiving a day pass for the stampede midway. More than 450 posters were submitted, more than double the number in 2024. Submissio...
Jun 30, 2026
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Arts and Entertainment

159 years
Celebrate Canada Day 2026 around central Alberta
If you're hoping to celebrate Canada Day this July 1 (and maybe before), check out the list below of all that's happening around central Alberta.RED DEERPONOKALACOMBE View this post on Instagram A post shared by City of Lacombe (@cityoflacombe)<script async src="//" target="_blank" rel="noop...
Jun 29, 2026
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big plans for 80th anniversary
Red Deer Highland Games bring pride, culture to city for 79th year
It didn't matter that it was raining, and it mattered not that Scotland was officially eliminated from the World Cup on Saturday; the 79th Red Deer Highland Games went on and were enjoyed by many."This is more like a Scottish afternoon than ever with this overcast weather," remarked Ben Arthur, organization p...
Jun 29, 2026
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A new story each day
Counting down the top 10 most memorable local stories of the past decade, as reported by rdnewsNOW
This July, rdnewsNOW.com is celebrating 10 years, continuing a legacy of news at Pattison Media in Red Deer that pre-dates the site by many years and many people.One way we're marking the occasion is by counting down the top 10 most memorable stories of the last decade, as reported by rdnewsNOW.Return each day to this ...
Jun 26, 2026
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wishes are medicine
Podcast: Make-A-Wish offers inside look
Make-A-Wish Northern Alberta was slated to hold the annual Heroes Challenge this September in Red Deer.Unfortunately, it had to be cancelled due to unforeseen and uncontrollable weather-caused issues at the venue.While officials are searching for the best path forward for fundraisers and events in central Alberta, rdne...
Jun 26, 2026
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Entertainment
Country Thunder cancels Calgary festival citing sound restrictions, construction
A major Alberta music festival has cancelled this year's show, citing construction and noise levels. Country Thunder Alberta announced it two days before its shows were set to begin. Festival organizers say they're flushing the festival because they reached an impasse with city officials over decibel levels below the l...
Jun 24, 2026
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89th and 23rd years
Red Deer Highland Games and CentreFest return this weekend
**Note: CentreFest has moved to Westerner Park (with one exception) due to anticipated weather (same times as listed below)--It's bound to be a busy and fun weekend in downtown Red Deer.The 89th Red Deer Highland Games are back this Saturday, June 27 outside at Central Middle School, and just up the street will be Cent...
Jun 23, 2026
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lots to digest
Frist Friday Galleries: July 2-Aug. 16
Red Deer Arts Council and Red Deer Public Library are pleased to present:"Life In Clay"Life in Clay brings together 5 artists from the Red Deer Pottery Club. This collection of sculptural ceramic work reflects on various themes of human life and experience. Clay has a life of its own, and lives forever in the...
Jun 23, 2026
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across alberta
Discounted rates to visit Alberta museums and sites this summer
Alberta's participation in the Canada Strong Pass will allow Albertans to visit a great number of museums and sites in the province this summer at a discounted rate.General admission to these sites will be free for children 17 and under, and half-price for those aged 18-24. There is no limit on visits."We're pleas...
Jun 19, 2026
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Film and Televison
Alberta government announces updates to film and television support programs
The province is making major investments in Alberta's film and television industry.As part of Budget 2026, $60 million is being invested through Alberta's Film and Television Tax Credit, while $8 million is being invested through the Alberta Media Fund.As the 2026 Banff World Media Festival wraps up, the province has a...
Jun 17, 2026
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First location in Western Canada
Highly visual 'Museum of Illusions' opens at West Edmonton Mall
A globally recognized attraction built around perception, illusion, and interactive design is ready for you to discover at West Edmonton Mall. Museum of Illusions opened its first Alberta location on May 15, offering visitors a highly visual, immersive experience that blends science, art, and entertainment. Located in ...
Jun 15, 2026
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sarasota music festival
Red Deer cellist takes talents international
A cello player from Red Deer has spent the last two weeks participating in the world-renowned Sarasota Music Festival, but her worldly summer is just getting started.Kathryn Fakeley was selected from more than 450 applicants to study and perform at the festival, which has taken place in Florida from June 1-13. She has ...
Jun 12, 2026
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june 21
CACO presents Father's Day concert 'Broadway Baby'
Central Alberta Chamber Orchestra PSA -- The Central Alberta Chamber Orchestra (CACO) is thrilled to present Broadway Baby, an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the greatest music from the Broadway stage on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Gaetz Memorial United Church in Red Deer.Featuring guest vocalists, a fu...
Jun 11, 2026
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during july
Summer Sounds Concerts kick off live music in Ponoka's Lions Centennial Park
Town of Ponoka PSA -- Enjoy Ponoka's new Summer Sounds concerts from July 7 to August 25 at Lions Centennial Park on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. These events are free for all attendees. Bring a lawn chair or a picnic blanket and enjoy live music featuring the following musicians: • July 7 - Steve Arsen...
Jun 11, 2026
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collaborative effort
Escuela Vista Grande students paint beautiful mural
The entire student population at Red Deer's Escuela Vista Grande contributed to a new mural adorning the school's exterior.The project was supported by the Vista Grande Association, a school-based group that raises funds to enhance Spanish culture and language education at what is the city's only Spanish bilingual K-8 ...
Jun 10, 2026
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june 13
Historic Markerville to celebrate Icelandic Independence Day
Markerville will celebrate Icelandic Independence Day this June 13.The free festivities kick off at noon at the Creamery Courtyard."Our Icelandic Day picnic recognizes Iceland's independence from Denmark on June 17, 1944. A variety of activities are staged to celebrate and showcase Icelandic culture in Markerville...
Jun 08, 2026
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Decades of teaching
Retiring Thurber music teacher honoured by former students in emotional final concert
After a teaching career that spans decades, Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School music teacher Jennifer Mann couldn't dream of a better send-off.On Friday, the long-time educator, who will retire at the end of June, conducted her final performance alongside her current band students, but also several of her former...
Jun 08, 2026
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get down there now!
Central Alberta Children's Festival on Saturday
The 20th annual Central Alberta Children's Festival is this weekend at Recreation Centre Park in Red Deer's downtown.Hours Saturday are 9-4:30.Tickets are $10 for all, except for infants under one-year-old.A family pass (four people) is $35.Entertainment includes:Box CityPancake SaturdayJojo's Magic CircusAmanda PandaP...
Jun 06, 2026
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DOC Z
Local filmmakers win Telly Award for best micro-budget project
Two Red Deer filmmakers are the recent recipients of a prestigious Telly Award.The Tellys recognize excellence in video and television across all screens, according to their official website.Representing central Alberta as winners during the Telly Awards' 47 season are Dave Dinan and Dean Busch, who met during the form...
Jun 02, 2026
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snell auditorium
First Thhursday Concert -- June 4: Cara Wing and Matthew Whitfield
Friends of the Red Deer Public Library PSA -- The Friends of the Red Deer Public Library are pleased to present violinist Cara Wing and pianist Matthew Whitfield on Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 12:15-1 p.m. in the Snell Auditorium of the Red Deer Public Library, Downtown Branch.Program: Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterThe...
Jun 01, 2026
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Appetite for Instruction
Youth rock band fundraiser just a few weeks away
The second rendition of a youth rock band fundraiser called Appetite for Instruction is set for June 16.Presented by Red Deer Public Schools and Guitarz For Kidz, the fundraiser will be held at Bo's Bar and Grill, where youth will play a series of performances beginning at 6 p.m.Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and ticket...
May 30, 2026
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Inaugural event
'An incredible start': Westerner Park excited for future of Red Deer Pro Rodeo
Ticket sales for the Inaugural Red Deer Pro Rodeo surpassed initial expectations, according to Westerner Park.Following the three-day event at the Centrium from Thursday through Saturday last week, organizers are reporting that there was a strong community demand for professional rodeo in central Alberta."This wee...
May 25, 2026
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At the City Chapel
Free gospel concert set for Sunday in Red Deer
Generation Rising is inviting members of the public to attend a free gospel concert in Red Deer this weekend.On Sunday, May 31, at the City Chapel (5850 Kerry Wood Drive) at 3 p.m., those in attendance will get to enjoy Celtic gospel music at the event called "An Afternoon with Rhythm & Grace."Generation ...
May 25, 2026
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open to 55+
Ponoka to celebrate Seniors' Week June 1-7
Join the Town of Ponoka in celebrating Seniors' Week from June 1-7.Seniors' Week was proclaimed by town council at its April 28 meeting."This proclamation honours the essential role that seniors play in fostering a vibrant community through their experience, knowledge and active involvement in our town," said...
May 21, 2026
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May 27-30
18th annual Safe Harbour Community Feast happening this week
The 18th annual Community Spring Feast is slated for May 27-30 at Red Deer's Fort Normandeau. The event, which is put on by Safe Harbour Society, will play host to traditional teachings, wellbriety sessions, ceremonies, and a community sweat lodge throughout the week. The actual feast day is May 30, but people are welc...
May 21, 2026
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What's Trending
ENDED: Severe thunderstorm warning for Red Deer area
Jul 04, 2026

Summer Travel Season
Think Kelowna is just wine tours? The locals would like a word
red deer, blackfalds, lacombe, and sylvan lake
Central Alberta communities impacted by Lime e-mobility takeover of Neuron
Jul 03, 2026
Neighbourhood recreation
City of Red Deer announces the return of 'Meet Me at the Park' program
Jul 03, 2026

3 and 8 km options
Register now for Red Deer's 34th Harvest Run
Conditions as of June 30
Warmer temperatures helping crops progress in central Alberta
Jul 03, 2026
new tourist attraction
Blindman Valley Lions launch 'Barn Quilt Trail'
Jul 03, 2026