Life is full of significant events, dates, and anniversaries. This weekend “the greatest little city in the West” ushers in another big milestone: the 50th Annual Rainmaker Rodeo! While we may not see too much rain, if any, precipitate over the weekend, this golden anniversary edition of one of our city’s most beloved events, promises to be a rainbow of fun for the whole family!
Over the relatively brief time I have lived in St. Albert, my family has come to enjoy the excellent variety of events that the Rainmaker brings. Whether it be the free pancake breakfast to kick off the day or finding a great spot along the parade route, the opening festivities are very family friendly and certainly help to build the energy for the fairgrounds, music concerts, and rodeo events.
The parade, which leads off from Liberton Drive at 9:30 a.m. boasts an array of colourful floats and displays that will bring a smile to every face. For many folks, it’s the western wear, horses, rodeo clowns and cool cars that make coming to the parade so much fun. Me? I love the creativity put into the 120 or so floats that process along our streets. I also appreciate the diversity of participants who march in the parade which truly showcases the great community spirit and opportunities to get involved that we have. Then again … there is the free candy that gets tossed into the crowds … which might also be one of my favourite parts of the parade!
The midway is always fun so long as I remember to eat the corn dogs and cotton candy after going on the Scrambler and other twisty whirly rides … not prior to (good life lesson). Increasingly though, it is the amazing musical talent that headlines this great weekend that catches my ear! This year’s line-up is energizing, fun and certainly appeals to a broad range of musical tastes. Be sure to check out the Kinsmen Club of St. Albert website for full details.
As for my eye, it is always thrilling to take in the rodeo events. The skills, courage, and sheer determination of these participants will bring you to the edge of your seat! The antics of the rodeo clowns are also fun to see as are the many other aspects of the Rainmaker Rodeo and Exhibition. If you have not yet had opportunity to find out what all the fun and excitement is about, make today the day you decide to check it out!
As we acknowledge the significance of this 50th anniversary, I wish to express my thanks to the organizers, sponsors, and the hundreds of participants and volunteers who make this annual event possible. It is your investment of time, talent, and treasure that helps make our little city stand out as having the biggest heart! Hats off to you!
Congratulations St. Albert on this golden anniversary! May we see at least 50 more years of this wonderful community event!
Tim Cusack is a writer, education and member of the naval reserve.
