Things to do this weekend | September 1-4, 2023

Things to do this weekend | September 1-4, 2023

Check out our list of fun things to do this weekend around Red Deer and Central Alberta!

1. RED DEER EPIC QUEST

Join in on the fun with Mickey the Beaver and Francis the Pig, two cherished icons of Red Deer, and embark on an exciting adventure that’s suitable for everyone, as part of the Alberta Culture Days festivities! Throughout the entire month of September, engage in the Downtown Red Deer Scavenger Hunt at your own leisure, with some truly amazing prizes being given out. Scan all the QR codes concealed at important landmarks spread across Downtown Red Deer for your chance to win!

Website: www.reddeer.epicquest.ca  
When: Launches Friday, September 1, 2023, at 10 am | Finishes Saturday, September 30, 2023, at 11:59 pm

2. WILD ROSE SHOWS CARNIVAL AT PARKLAND MALL

Get ready for a fun weekend of carnival chaos as the Wild Rose Shows Carnival makes its way to Parkland Mall! Enjoy a variety of rides including the Graviton, Hurricane, Zipper, and Carousel, or challenge your friends to a bumper car showdown. Don’t forget to indulge in the assortment of carnival treats, from Mini Donuts and Cotton Candy to Candy Apples and Lemonade Shake-ups!  

Schedule:

Friday, September 1, 2023 (3 pm – 11 pm)

Saturday, September 2, 2023 (12 pm – 11 pm)

Sunday, September 3, 2023 (12 pm – 11 pm)

Monday, September 4, 2023 (12 pm – 5 pm)

Website: www.parklandmall.ca/events  
Where: NE Parking Lot at Parkland Mall (6359 50 Ave, Red Deer, AB)

3. CAPSTONE COMMUNITY EVENTS

Come on down to Capstone for a fun weekend full of activities! Here’s the lineup of exciting events happening:

Friday, September 1, 2023

Food Truck Friday (11 am – 2 pm) - Indulge in tasty treats with several food truck options every Friday in Capstone.

Cap Cruise (7pm) - Participate in a free bike cruise throughout Red Deer’s Waskasoo Park trail system, lasting about 1.5 hours with refreshments at Troubled Monk afterwards.

Capstone Cabaret (7 pm – 9:30 pm) - Enjoy live music at this free outdoor concert series featuring the Half Step Trio.

Saturday, September 2, 2023

Creative Art Classes (11 am – 1 pm | 2 pm – 4 pm) - Get your creative juices flowing and learn from local artists! These events are free and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Sounds Like Sunday (11 am – 1:30 pm) - Discover the Sounds like Sunday music series – a free public concert offering a mix of genres and band size.

Website: www.liveincapstone.ca  
Where: Canada 150 Square (210-5589 47 St, Red Deer, AB)

4. PARKS AND TRAILS

Explore the outdoors on foot and get your heart pumping. The Red Deer trail system is well known as one of the best in Alberta, with over 110 kilometers of easily accessible, paved, hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails connecting park users to beautiful green space and park attractions. The nature and stunning sights you’ll see along the way will create beautiful lasting photos and memories.

Website: www.visitreddeer.com  

5. THE MARKET AT RED DEER

The Market at Red Deer takes place every Saturday until Thanksgiving weekend at its new location, Red Deer Polytechnic. Prepare to be enthralled at this fully stocked market full of farm-fresh produce and an extensive selection of goods, services, and entertainment.  

When: Every Saturday, (8 am – 12: 30 pm)
Where: Red Deer Polytechnic (100 College Boulevard, Red Deer, AB)

6. LIVE MUSIC ON ROSS STREET PATIO

Experience a summer of unforgettable music at the Ross Street Patio! Embrace the incredible talent of local musicians and bands as the patio serves as the perfect backdrop for a memorable experience. Enjoy these free, public events and immerse yourself in the vibrant melodies.

Website: www.downtownreddeer.com/ross-street-patio/  
When: Friday, September 1, 2023 (12 pm – 1:30 pm) | Saturday, September 2, 2023 (2 pm – 4 pm)
Where: Ross Street Patio (4930C 50 St, Red Deer, AB)

7. FIRST FRIDAY AT THE RED DEER MUSEUM + ART GALLERY

Get ready to join the fun every first Friday of the month in downtown Red Deer! The galleries there are all about celebrating the talents of local, regional, and national artists. You’ll find these galleries bustling with art experience, open spaces to explore, chances to mingle with others, and maybe even some entertainment. It’s a great time for adults, youth, families, music fans, culture buffs, and anyone who loves starting off their weekend with a Friday night party.

Website: www.reddeermuseum.com/event  
When: Friday, September 1, 2023 (5 pm – 8 pm)
Where: Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (4525 47A Avenue, Red Deer, AB)

8. 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.trackon2.com/event  
When: Saturday, September 2 & Sunday, September 3, 2023 (2:15 pm)
Where: Track On 2 (40309 Range Road 272, Lacombe County, AB)

9. GOAT WALKS AT ELLIS BIRD FARM

Embark on a delightful adventure at Ellis Bird Farm through their unique Goat Walks! Immerse yourself in the charming company of these friendly goats as you stroll through the scenic farmland and engage in an exceptional experience that combines nature appreciation with animal companionship. Offering a memorable outing for individuals and families alike, the walks are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and promise both a connection with nature and an opportunity to experience heartwarming moments with these endearing creatures.

Website: www.ellisbirdfarm.ca/events
When: Sunday, September 3, 2023 (10:30 am – 11 am | 1:30 pm – 2 pm)
Where: Ellis Bird Farm (39502 Range Road 260, Lacombe County, AB)

10. RYAN SIMMONS TRIO AT THE VELVET OLIVE

Enjoy live music at The Velvet Olive featuring the Ryan Simmons Trio! Blending inspirations like Radiohead, Meshuggah, and Slowdive, Ryan Simmons stands out as a rising star in the Edmonton jazz scene. His focus is on presenting fresh tracks and innovative arrangements in a modern vibe. Entry to the show is by cash donation or The Velvet Olive staff can add any amount to your overall bill. Seating for guests is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Website: www.velvetolive.bigcartel.com  
When: Friday, September 1, 2023 (8:30 pm)
Where: The Velvet Olive Lounge (4928C 50 St, Red Deer, AB)