Alberta Day is coming up, and Heritage Park has a full day of programming planned to celebrate. You can cruise around the Glenmore Reservoir aboard the S.S. Moyie, hop on the steam train, catch live music, and check out family activities throughout the park. Then, as the sun goes down, the sky will light up with a drone show at 9 p.m. And the entire celebration is free to attend, so you can spend the whole day exploring the park and taking in the festivities without an admission fee.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
What is the Alberta Day celebration all about?
According to organizers, the celebration recognizes what makes Alberta special, with programming that highlights the province’s diverse communities, traditions, and history. The event is hosted in partnership with the Government of Alberta, giving you a chance to learn, celebrate, and take part in activities throughout the day,
What can I do while I’m there?
The celebration starts with an opening ceremony at 11 a.m., featuring remarks from the Alberta government, an Indigenous blessing, and drummers before the rest of the programming gets underway.
After the opening ceremony, you can catch live music, Ukrainian dance, and cultural performance across the Main Stage and Gazebo Stage throughout the day. Highlights include performances from Trsyub Ukrainian Dance Society, John Wort Hannam, and Kyle McKearney, along with other local artists and performers.
If you’ve got little ones, you can head over to the Calgary Kids Zone for face painting, giant games and crafts. There will also be a magic show from Christoper Cool!, puppet performances from Puppet Stuff Canada and a circus workshop from Green Fools.
And if you want to get out on the water, you can take a $5 cruise aboard the S.S. Moyie, with timed sailings available throughout the day. The historic steam train will also run through the village, with 20-minute rides from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For some old-school fun, head over to the Antique Midway, where you’ll find classic rides running all day long.
When is the drone show happening?
At 9 p.m., the sky above the park will light up with drones bringing the day-long celebration to a close. The show will take place at the Celebration Field, giving visitors a central spot to settle in and watch the display. Heritage Park recommends bringing a low-rise festival chair or picnic blanket, so you can get comfortable while watching the show.
Where can I park?
Heritage Park will not offer general guest parking during the Alberta Day celebration. Instead, parking will be available at Anderson CTrain Station and Mount Royal University, with complimentary shuttles running to the Park approximately every 10 minutes.
At Mount Royal University, guests can park in lots A, B, and 8, as well as the East Parkade, subject to availability.
Free parking will also be available at Anderson CTrain Station’s Park and Ride lot, and shuttles will be taking guests directly to the park from there.
Accessible parking will be available at Heritage Park for guests with a valid accessible parking tag.
According to organizers, it’s recommended that you arrive an hour early to allow extra time for parking and the shuttle.
When is the Alberta Day celebration?
The Alberta Day celebration will take place on Sunday, Aug. 30, from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. The Historical Village will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the official programming begins at 11 a.m. The Antique Midway runs from 10 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., and S.S. Moyie cruises are scheduled throughout the day, with the final sailing at 7:20 p.m. The celebration will wrap up with a drone show at 9 p.m.
Do I need to register for the event ahead of time?
Registration isn’t required, so you can still show up and enjoy the celebration without signing up. However, Heritage Park recommends registering online ahead of time to confirm your attendance and help them plan for the day.
Admission is free, while some activities cost extra, including the $5 S.S. Moyie cruises and $15 Antique Midway ride bracelet.
When: Sunday, Aug, 30, 2026
Time: Historical Village: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Alberta Day Programming: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Antique Midway: 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; S.S. Moyie: 10:35 a.m. to 7:20 p.m.; Steam Train: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free (advance registration is recommended)
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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