As the country gets set to celebrate its 142nd birthday next Wednesday, St. Albert and several neighbouring communities are preparing to hold their own parties for the people.
Here is a quick look at what's going on for citizens of all ages in St. Albert and area:
Pancake breakfast — Heritage Park, 9 to 11 a.m.
The Heritage Lakes Community Association brings together families with a pancake breakfast and children's activities such as sidewalk chalk, bubble blowing and bouncing toys.
City-wide Canada Day Celebration — Lions Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Program salutes members of the Royal Canadian Legion and pays a special tribute to new Canadians. Cake, ice cream, non-stop stage entertainment, drop-in road hockey with the St. Albert Steel, balloons, games for all ages, a petting zoo and horse drawn carriages. Event is free, however the public is invited to bring donations for the St. Albert Food Bank.
Heritage sites —Father Lacombe Chapel, Little White School House and St. Albert Grain Elevator Park are open from noon until 4 p.m.
Step back in time and take part in old-fashioned games.
All-day activities — Servus Place from noon to 4 p.m.
Check out the water slides and spray-park, family soccer, badminton and leisure skating. Membership or daily admission required.
Water play — Woodlands Water Play Park from 1 to 4 p.m.
The City aquatics staff is planning their version of a beach party with face painting, a bubble booth, mascots and a barbecue.
Strawberry Tea — St. Albert Botanic Park from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
One kilometre east of the water park at 265 Sturgeon Rd.
Enjoy sinfully sweet strawberry shortcake and ice cream in a tranquil setting of vibrant blooms. Adding to the ambiance is a stream of budding talent from strolling musicians to sketch artists. Visitors are invited to ramble through the numerous gardens either with a guided tour or at their own pace. There will be an activity corner for children. Admission is by donation.
Fireworks celebration — Seven Hills from 7 to 10 p.m. with fireworks launching at 11 p.m.
Located in the Mission neighbourhood behind école Father Jan.
A variety of fun family-oriented activities (including inflatable jumpy things and other kids games) will be available at the base of the hill from 7 to 10 p.m. The fireworks display — by Sturgeon County resident Rob Kowalyshyn of Thunder F/X Fireworks — starts when it gets dark, weather permitting. The event is once again sponsored by the Kinsmen Club of St. Albert.
There will be drop off bins for donations to the St. Albert Food Bank.
The city is also again expecting restricted one-way traffic on the laneway off of Mount Royal Drive. People are encouraged to walk to the site if possible.
Pancake Breakfast — Skyline Diamonds from 8 to 10 a.m.
Free meal sponsored by the Town of Morinville. Members of town council, including Mayor Bertschi, will man the griddle and serve up the food.
Children's Activities — Skyline Diamonds from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Kids can play for free in the Blow Up Castle, Loonie Sand Pit, and Water Play Area.
Servus Night at the Movies — Georges P. Vanier School gymnasium from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Come down and watch The Bee Movie, sponsored by Servus Credit Union. You can bring your own chairs if you want but there will be seating available. The movie is free and so is the popcorn.
Canada Day Fireworks — Georges P. Vanier School grounds from 10:30 to 11 p.m.
Bon Accord
Pancake Breakfast — Centennial Train Park from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Free pancake breakfast at the park. Mayor Van Dusen and members of town council will be manning the griddle and flipping flapjacks for everyone.
