Northern selections
Northern Alberta has wild and whimsical events taking place all year long—here's five of the best
Northern Alberta is a picturesque land rich in natural wonders—as well as plenty of festivals, celebrations and events. Start marking your calendar as soon as the snow starts melting, so as not miss the many goings-on in the area's five regions: Athabasca Country, Lesser Slave Lake, Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo, Mighty Peace Country and Grande Prairie.
Angela Betts, the marketing and communications co-ordinator for Travel Alberta, listed five of Northern Alberta's attractions, but these are just a taste of all the area has to offer.
1) See what has made interPlay a success for more than two decades
Taking place from August 5 to 7, 2011, in Fort McMurray, this festival is a celebration of the visual and performing arts. The thousands of spectators are treated to street performers, theatre, music and much more.
2) Discover why sandcastles aren't just for kids
Interested in a little competition? Head to Slave Lake for the annual Alberta Open Sand Sculpture Competition—you might even come away with a cash prize. There is additional entertainment during the contest, ensuring that this is an event for the whole family.
When you're looking to up the action, attend Slave Lake's summer Demolition Derby, put on by the Lakeshore Motorsports Association. Spectators can expect to be awed by the cars and trucks getting muddy and performing daring feats. There is also live music and beer gardens.
The Lesser Slave Lake Region has events happening year-round; read more at the region's website.
3) Start horsing around for the Rycroft Chuckwagon Races
Come July, the equine inclined will be flocking to Rycroft for the largest chuckwagon racing event in the region, organized by the Rycroft Agricultural Society. Attendees can also get in touch with their inner cowpoke at barrel races and chariot races. There will be plenty of western-themed entertainment for people of all ages.
The Rycroft Chuckwagon Races will take place between July 8 and 10, 2011. There will be a parade at 11 a.m. on the Saturday.
4) Have a stompin' good time at the Grande Prairie Stompede
Grande Prairie is a fantastic place to start off a season of RVing, beginning with the annual Grande Prairie Stompede. From May 24 to 29, 2011, visitors can witness professional rodeos, chuckwagon races and much more. The Stompede is entering its 34th year in 2011; it has built up a dedicated following, attracting tens of thousands every year. Adding to the festivities are things like barbeques and a parade.
Got a sweet tooth? Grande Prairie has a Maple Sugar Festival every February—read about it here, or, learn more about the Grande Prairie Region.
5) Athabasca Country attracts some of Canada's best musicians
With a name like the Magnificent River Rats Festival, an event has a title to live up to—and this one does. Legendary Canadian artists like Kim Mitchell and Randy Bachman have graced the Athabasca Riverfront Stage. Apart from music, festival-goers are also treated to a car show, and there are more than enough activities to keep little ones occupied. The 2011 Magnificent River Rats Festival takes place on July 1 and 2.
