This weekend in Red Deer is packed with exciting events you won't want to miss! Bring the whole family for a variety of activities that ensure everyone has a great time. There's something for everyone in Red Deer this weekend!
1. The weekend marks the return of the 77th Red Deer Highland Games in Red Deer. Dive in and celebrate Scottish culture with what’s sure to be a fun-filled day starting with the Kilted Mile Run and Individual Piping, Drumming, Highland Dance, and Heavy Athletic Competitions. Be sure to check out the Shortbread Competition, Puppy Parade, Sheepdog Demonstrations, Nessie's Nook Children's Area, Celtic Market, and live entertainment in MacPhearson's Pub on June 22 at Central Middle School grounds. Tickets for the 77th Red Deer Highland Games are $15 for adults, $10 for children and seniors, and free for those five and under. Click here for more information.
2. Don't forget to check out the Norwegian Laft Haus festival on Saturday, June 22 from 10:00am - 4:00pm, where you can immerse yourself in Scandinavian culture and traditions. With free admission from 10 am to 4 pm, attendees can explore a diverse range of attractions. From the charming sight of "Goats on the Roof" to the grace of Fjord horses. Visitors can enjoy watching Scandinavian dancing, axe throwing, Viking reenactors, while savoring delicious Norwegian baked goods. The festival promises a vibrant celebration of Norwegian heritage and community spirit. Click here for more information.
3. Enjoy the electrifying live music of dueling pianos, perfect for a fun night out! Three-time Canadian Event Industry Entertainers of the year, Dueling Piano Kings, take event entertainment to the next level, with their build your own adventure style concert "where your requests rule". From classic hits to modern favorites, they'll have you singing along and tapping your feet all night long on Thursday, June 20 from 6:00pm – 10:30pm at Bo’s Bar & Stage. Click here to purchase tickets.
4. The opening day for horse racing in central Alberta is June 23 at The Track on 2. Family friendly (but please leave furry friends at home!) and parking and admission is free. In addition to the one mile dirt track, there is a 7/8 turf track as well. The Track on 2 hosts live standardbred horse races (season varies). Outside of the live race season, guests can view streaming international races in the simulcast lounge! Click here for more information.
5. Wrap up the second-longest day of the year with a family friendly interactive guided hike around the 4.0 km trail at Kerry Wood Nature Centre. Refreshments will be served. This event is Drop-in but attendees are asked to please arrive no earlier than 7:50 p.m. The hike will leave shortly after 8:00 p.m. Cost is $3 per person or $10 for a family. For more information, please click here. Don't forget! The 100th birthday of the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary is June 27! Make sure to stop by from 4:00pm - 8:00pm for a free celebration!
6. The Red Deer Cruise night is one of the largest weekly car shows out there! Held at Parkland Mall from 6:00pm – 9;00pm on June 20. On average 350-450 vehicles fill the NE parking lot every week and some weeks brings as many as 670 vehicles in one night! For more information click here.
7. Friday, June 21 brings Game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals! Catch all the action at Bo’s Bar & Stage viewing party. Reserve your table by clicking here
8.Hop on your bike or scooter! The Capstone Night Market returns June 21 against the scenic backdrop of the Red Deer River at Canada 150 Square. The market runs every other Friday from 5:00 to 9:30pm.
9.It’s looking like it’s going to be a beautiful sun filled weekend in central Alberta! Here are 10 additional ideas for a well spent weekend:
Ride the paddleboats at Bower Ponds Recreation Area
Feel the rush of the Canyon Coaster
Bring the whole family to the Gasoline Alley Farmers Market
Experience over 100kms of trails on a Neuron Mobility Scooter
Visit the horses at Heritage Ranch
Discovery Canyon is OPEN! Float down this natural waterway.
Take the kids to one of the 10 Best Playgrounds in Red Deer!
Take in some live music downtown on the Ross Street Patio
Get wild! Have unforgettable encounters at Discovery Wildlife Park
Have a picnic in the beautiful City Hall park in downtown Red Deer
Visiting from out of town? Visit our list of hotels by clicking here and our list of restaurants by clicking here