Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is set to celebrate its diverse artistic and cultural identity throughout September as Alberta Culture Days gets underway on September 1, bringing a month-long programme of events to communities across the province.
The annual celebration will feature a wide range of activities centred on arts, music, food, dance, history and local traditions. Free events will be held in communities of different sizes, giving residents and visitors opportunities to discover local talent, cultural heritage and stories.
Nearly 240,000 Albertans participated in Culture Days events last year, highlighting the popularity of the province-wide initiative. The programme also provides an important platform for community groups, artists and cultural organisations while encouraging people to explore local attractions.
This year, the Alberta government is providing $380,000 in funding to 120 community organisations to help deliver Culture Days programmes. The supported activities are designed to reflect the individual character, heritage and experiences of communities throughout Alberta.
Residents can use the online Culture Days event calendar to find activities taking place in their area and plan their participation throughout September.
A special opportunity will also be available later in the month, with free admission to 20 provincially owned museums, historic sites and archives on September 26 and 27.
Five featured celebration sites
Five locations have been selected as featured Alberta Culture Days celebration sites. Each will host three days of events and cultural programming:
- Calgary Public Library Foundation in Calgary
- Spruce Grove and District Agricultural Society in Spruce Grove
- Arts on the Ave Edmonton Society in Edmonton
- Arts Council Wood Buffalo in the Wood Buffalo Region
- BIPOCFoundation in Lethbridge
These featured locations will provide additional opportunities for communities to come together through performances, creative activities and cultural experiences.
Arts Council Wood Buffalo Executive Director Liana Wheeldon said the programme would give artists, makers, performers and community members an opportunity to showcase their creativity while helping people build connections.
Alberta Arts, Culture and Status of Women Minister Tanya Fir also encouraged residents to participate, describing Culture Days as an opportunity to celebrate the traditions, people and stories that shape Alberta’s identity.
With events running throughout September, Alberta Culture Days is expected to offer residents an opportunity to experience the province’s cultural diversity while supporting local artists and community organisations.
