Things to do this weekend | August 25-27, 2023
Check out our list of fun things to do this weekend around Red Deer and Central Alberta!
Get ready for the annual Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market tradition of hosting a lively outdoor day on the last Saturday of August! It’s your chance to soak up the sun and fun before the school routine kicks in. Everyone’s invited, and the best part? It won’t cost you a dime! Just head over to the west parking lot along Lantern Street, where the party’s happening beside the patio. They have a stellar lineup including a bouncy castle, Paws and Claws Animal Rescue Foundation, a face painter, and live music by Dean Ray. Don’t miss out on this fantastic time!
Website: www.gasolinealleymarket.ca/event
When: Saturday, August 26, 2023 (12 pm – 3 pm)
Where: Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market (558 Laura Avenue, Red Deer County, AB)
2. SUNFLOWER DAYS AT KRAAY FAMILY FARM
Don’t miss out on Sunflower Days at the Kraay Family Farm – it’s a race against time! The sunflower field is bursting with vibrant blooms, but their show won’t last much longer. Hurry on over to capture those picturesque moments before they fade away. You can even purchase sunflower stems, and the proceeds will go towards helping families affected by child cancer. Your visit makes a difference – purchase tickets online to secure your spot!
Website: www.kraayfamilyfarm.com/events
When: Until the end of August (not guaranteed)
Where: Kraay Family Farm (Site 6 Box 9 RR 1, Lacombe, AB)
3. RIVER TOURS WITH MOUNTAIN SURF CO.
Embark on a journey along the Red Deer River with Mountain Surf Co. Enjoy a variety of tour options available to explore and experience the natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance of the area surrounding the river. All packages include paddle board rentals, personal floatation devices, and a shuttle up to 6 people per tour.
THE CITY SLICKER (1.5 hours)
Starting from the Heritage Ranch lookout tower, this guided river tour sets the stage for an exceptional adventure. Experience the heart of the city from the comfort of your own paddle board, sit back, and relax.
SIX BRIDGES TOUR (2.5 hours)
Starting from the Heritage Ranch lookout tower, this guided river tour will take you on an adventure all the way to the River Bend Recreation Area. On this tour, there could be opportunities for wildlife sightings and more!
PADDLE & A PINT (3.5 hours)
This clever collaboration combines the excitement of a guided paddle board tour along the river with a refreshing pint from Red Hart Brewing! To enjoy this experience, all participants must be 18+.
Website: www.mountainsurfco.square.site
When: Wednesday – Sunday
Where: Mountain Surf Co. (95 Isherwood Close, Red Deer, AB)
4. CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT AT RED HART BREWING
Red Hart Brewing and Spark It Up Productions are teaming up to bring you an exciting Corn Hole Tournament! To join, just send an email to Shane Clark before the event at sparkitupprod@gmail.com. When you pre-register, you get to be part of the tournament and you also get a fresh pint to enjoy. Prizes will be awarded for a variety of achievements including Best Dressed, so don’t forget to dress up in your 80s attire and have a blast!
Website: www.facebook.com/event
When: Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 1 pm
Where: Red Hart Brewing (112 – 488 McCoy Drive, Red Deer, AB)
5. RAFTING MCKENZIE TRAILS TO RIVER BEND BOAT LAUNCH
Enjoy a scenic and educational float from McKenzie Trails to the River Bend boat launch. Discover the wonders of the river valley’s plants, animals, and geology while enjoying a relaxed journey. Suitable for ages 5 and up, secure your spot by pre-registering before August 26 at 4:30 pm. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, bring essentials like a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat. Personal Flotation Devices will be provided; if your child is small for their age, visit the Kerry Wood Nature Centre for a PFD fitting in advance!
Website: www.waskasoopark.ca/programs
When: Sunday, August 27, 2023 (12 pm – 2:30 pm)
Where: Kerry Wood Nature Centre (6300 45 Ave, Red Deer, AB)
6. ANNUAL HAMMER-IN FESTIVAL AT LACOMBE BLACKSMITH SHOP
Brace yourself for the Annual Hammer-In Festival at the Lacombe Blacksmith Shop, hosted by the Lacombe & District Historical Society. This event promises an exciting day packed with blacksmithing wonders, artisan markets, and immersive historical encounters. Delve into the past as heritage interpreters guide you through Alberta’s oldest blacksmith shop, revealing the techniques and tools that shaped the town’s history. Experience the heart of blacksmithing and its significance in the community at the Hammer-In Festival, the largest gathering of its kind in Western Canada!
Website: www.lacombemuseum.com/event
When: August 26, 2023 (10 am – 4 pm)
Where: Blacksmith Shop (5020 49 Street, Lacombe, AB)
7. BOOTLEGGER BRISKET AT DNA GARDENS
Be sure to visit DNA Gardens and take part in their delicious Bootlegger Brisket Dinner! Indulge in the evening’s highlights: exquisitely smoked slow-cooked brisket, accompanied by roasted vegetables, fresh bread, and DNA Garden’s renowned saskatoon pies. Anticipate an enjoyable time at the Bootlegger Brisket, complete with merriment and the tales of origin. Don't miss out on the fun and be sure to visit the website and make a reservation.
Website: www.dnagardens.info
When: Friday, August 25, 2023 (5 pm – 9 pm)
Where: DNA Gardens (35344 Range Road 230, Elnora, AB)
8. SPLASH BASH AT THE RECREATION CENTRE
Get ready to make a splash at the Summer Splash Bash Recreation Centre Pool Party! Come and enjoy an unforgettable day filled with music, games, and non-stop fun under the sun. This event is free with any Recreation Pass or visitors can pay a drop-in fee.
Website: www.reddeer.ca/recreation
When: Sunday, August 27, 2023 (6 pm – 8 pm)
Where: Recreation Centre Outdoor Pool (4501 47a Ave, Red Deer, AB)
9. DOWNTOWN BUILDINGS WALKING TOUR
Learn about and explore Red Deer during a 1-hour guided historical walking tour hosted by the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant downtown core of the city, where arts and culture take center stage, and take the time to appreciate the remarkable public art collection.
Website: www.reddeermuseum.com
When: Saturday, August 26, 2023 (1 pm – 2 pm)
Where: Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (4515 47a Avenue, Red Deer, AB)
10. HORSE RACES AT THE TRACK ON 2
Experience the thrill of Standardbred Horse Racing at The Track on 2, located just west of Lacombe, with free admission and parking, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Gates open one hour prior to post time, and the races typically span 3-4 hours. Satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst with available food and beverage options (outside food and beverage not permitted) and choose between indoor air-conditioned or outdoor seating for you comfort!
Website: www.thetrackon2.com/event
When: Sunday, August 27, 2023 (2:15 pm)
Where: Track on 2 (40309 Range Road 272, Lacombe, AB)
