Alberta Culture Days in Stony Plain

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Every September, Stony Plain becomes a hub of artistic expression, cultural storytelling, and community celebration during Alberta Culture Days. This month-long event brings together diverse traditions and experiences, offering a taste of Alberta's rich cultural heritage. Here’s a sampling of the best events that you won’t want to miss.

September 13: Storytelling Festival

Begin your Alberta Culture Days journey at the Storytelling Festival in Shikaoi Park. Hosted by the Skydancer Indigenous Cultural Centre, this evening of oral storytelling weaves together cultural narratives and traditional tales. Listening to these stories offers a profound connection to Indigenous heritage and the art of oral traditions. It’s the perfect way to start your exploration of Stony Plain’s cultural roots.

September 21: A Day of Cultural Exploration

This day is packed with diverse events that showcase the heart of Alberta’s artistic and cultural landscape.

• Tipi Teachings: Dive into Indigenous knowledge at the Stony Plain Public Library with Tipi Teachings. Elder Phillip Campiou from Driftpile First Nation will walk participants through the cultural significance and construction of a tipi. This hands-on experience connects attendees to centuries of Indigenous wisdom.

• Exhibit Opening: "Spirit Creatures of Ancient Shorelines": Head over to the Red Brick Common Public Art Gallery to witness Alberta artist Adele Duguay’s new collection. Her Spirit Creatures artworks tell a captivating story of ancient stone formations and their role in human life, offering a unique glimpse into the intersection of natural history and modern artistic interpretation.

• Parkland Potters' Guild Open House: For lovers of craft, this open house offers an opportunity to witness the artistry behind pottery. Watch skilled hands shape, glaze, and fire bowls, and take home a small bowl as a keepsake from this fascinating art form.

• Poetry Treasure Hunt: Poetry lovers and adventurers can enjoy an afternoon exploring downtown Stony Plain with an interactive Poetry Treasure Hunt. This event, organized by the Parkland Poets’ Society, will guide you through hidden gems of local literature scattered throughout town.

• Harvest Festival: Travel back in time with the Harvest Festival at the Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum. From vintage machinery demonstrations to gold panning and an old-fashioned threshing bee, this festival celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region. Bring the whole family for a day of fun, history, and hands-on activities.

• Horse and Wagon Mural Tours: Discover Stony Plain’s history through art with the Horse and Wagon Mural Tours. These mural-filled tours through town tell the stories of the people and events that shaped Stony Plain’s identity. Pre-registration is a must for this engaging ride through public art.

• Taste of Downtown and Filipino-Canadian Heritage Dance: To wrap up your day, embark on a food adventure with Taste of Downtown. Sample delicious treats from local spots like Butter Chicken Hut and Pretzel Shack. With free samples for the first 150 guests, this tour brings the best of Stony Plain’s culinary offerings to life.

  After indulging in local flavors, enjoy a colorful performance by dancers from the Spruce Grove-Stony Plain Filipino Canadian Association. Their vibrant display of traditional Filipino heritage dances highlights the town’s multicultural spirit and adds rhythmic energy to your afternoon.

Alberta Culture Days in Stony Plain offers a wealth of experiences to dive into—from artistic expressions to cultural celebrations. Whether you’re engaging with Indigenous teachings, exploring art exhibits, or celebrating multicultural performances, the event is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the richness of Alberta’s culture.