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contents
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FALL 2019 | VOLUME 10 ISSUE 42
13 community
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A taste of Okotoks Hyper local restaurants serving up the best eats
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Pawsitively purrfect The best doggy day care in Okotoks
business
10
What’s old is new again Kristin Halpape knows consignment
18 homes
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MountainView calling Few chances remain to call Okotoks’ community home
items
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Editor’s Message Events
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editor’s note
PUBLISHER |
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca
Oh my gourd, I love fall! I T ’ S H A R D T O believe I am already writing the editor’s message for the fall issue, summer sure did fly by, as it always does. This summer was packed with tons of town events that Okotoks Living was fortunate to attend, and even some Dawgs games too! We had such a great time, as we always do at the annual Taste of Okotoks event. We met many fur babies, which in turn inspired the story on Gus’s Pet Resort which graces our cover this issue. I am such an animal lover and being able to get out and spread some love was absolutely wonderful. We also ate so much food at the event that we wanted to learn more about locally owned and operated restaurants in town. So, I put Suzanne Hale to the task of talking to some of her favourite spots to eat around town and share with us their stories. There are so many great places to eat in town, but make sure to check out some of Okotoks Living’s favourite spots. The shopping in downtown Okotoks is top notch and Rhoda’s Elegance Again and Man of Distinction have grown into staple shopping spots for many Okotokians and even out of towners. Kristin Halpape has an interesting story of how she got into the consignment business and how she continues to run a handful of very successful stores in Okotoks and Calgary. The story is one you don’t want to miss and stopping into one of her stores is sure not to disappoint — especially if you are in need of some new to you back to school apparel. As summer comes to a close and the new school year is upon us, I hope you all can squeeze in some last minute family time and give the summer a great send off!
EDITOR |
Brandi Holmes
brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR |
Jean Faye Rodriguez
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GR APHIC DESIGNER |
Vivian Zhang
vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca P RODUC T ION CO - OR DI NAT OR |
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Brandi Holmes
brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Richard MacQuarrie
richard.macquarrie@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Norma Robertson
norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL
Alyssa Burnham, Suzanne Hale Brandi Holmes, Pepper Rodriguez PHOTOGRAPHY
Rob Bolton, Brandi Holmes, Nick North, Thomas John, Jean Faye Rodriguez, Sally Tran DISTRIBUTED BY
Media Classified, Town of Okotoks, Okotoks Welcome Wagon, Source Media Group, Yellow Pages Group PRINTED IN CANADA
© 2019 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. Okotoks Living™ is published four times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Okotoks. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Okotoks Living™ accepts editorial submissions and letters to the editor by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions, including your full name, phone number and return email address, to okotoks.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca C O N TA C T:
Source Media Group. 6109 – 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9 tel 403.532.3101 fax 403.532.3109 toll free 1.888.932.3101 www.sourcemediagroup.ca
@OkotoksLiving
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OkotoksLiving
FALL 2019 | OKOTOKS LIVING  7
community
A taste of Okotoks Story by SUZANNE HALE
Little Fast & Fresh
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esponding to the demands of modern society, families and individuals alike are busier than ever, thus always on the lookout for ways to compensate for the lack of time. One of the most common responses to the challenge of too few hours in the day? Call on someone else to do the cooking. Okotokians’ options range from tasty meals with a Rocky Mountain view at D’arcy Ranch Golf Club, to Mr. Spud’s cozy and casual offerings, to the classy offerings at Heartland Café. Popular and reliable favourites such as Browns, the Brewhouse and Boston Pizza serve as the go-to for many; while other non-chain restaurateurs are also hard at work crafting their menus in response to their customers’ feedback. One such spot is Little Fast & Fresh, located on Riverside Gate since April 2018. Beckoned by the family-focused, small-town feel, owners Michelle & Jarod Traxel moved to Okotoks in 2012. Having joined the myriad of other on-the-go parents, the Traxels understand the lifestyle challenges faced by busy families and working people — and with Little, they’ve worked to lessen these. “We make real food fast — we too strive to eat ethically, but being on the go makes that tricky,” says Michelle, “so we created a menu that allows people to eat well, even if they face food allergies or a lack of time.” One of their most popular selections is the highly-customizable CTRL (control) which can take the form of a sandwich, wrap or bowl. Lit-
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tle highlights Alberta produce and proteins and offers gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options. “Our space is small, but full of life and laughter — it’s amazing to see neighbours, friends, and schoolmates bump into each other at Little.” Across town in Westmount is family-run Bravo Pizza, where owner Waleid Nasriyay already has a loyal following since opening in June 2019. After selling many successful Calgary establishments, Nasriyay was happy to open here when the opportunity arose. “I’ve been working in my dad’s restaurants all my life and the recipes are his — he makes the dough and sauce every morning.” At Bravo you’ll find the classics you’d expect at a pizza place (along with a few “cool new twists”), as well as wings, pasta and dessert. He says, “We really just want to make people happy with what we serve — we have a passion for feeding customers the best possible food.” Bravo’s focus is on responding to the high demand while staying on top of quality control by sourcing top-quality local ingredients and making everything fresh daily. “People in this town really know good food, and you have to consistently offer a great product. Business has exceeded our expectations!” A short drive out of town will take Okotokians to a crowd-pleasing barbecue joint owned by locals Rob and Jody Bolton. After selling their wildly popular Rylie’s Restaurant, the Boltons rejoined the restaurant scene with a Texas-style BBQ eatery. Referencing their growth experiences, Rob notes, “I can cook great on the back deck for my family — the trick is learning to do it for thousands of people weekly.” Big on meat proteins and gorgeous views, Big Sky’s inviting bar and pleasing ambience are the perfect spot for friends to share drinks over platters of meat-centered options — topping the meal off with uniquely decadent desserts. The Boltons habit has been to support the community and activities they hold close
P H O T O B Y R O B B O LT O N
Hyper local restaurants serving up the best eats
to their hearts. “Hosting team events and fundraisers has always been our specialty — the relationships make it all work,” Rob says. “We’re clientele-driven, and we’ve made major changes to accommodate our customers.” Order online for pick-up or visit the drive-up window or take the opportunity to walk into the restaurant and enjoy the atmosphere first-hand, be sure to show up hungry! Downtown at Cha Cha John’s Indian fusion restaurant, since 2015 co-owner Thomas John has been busy creating a living legacy to his father, who suffered a stroke and is unable to help in the restaurant. In Hindi, “Cha Cha” means Uncle, and his father John Sr. was nicknamed Cha Cha John through his own years in restaurants. “My dad’s proud to know we’re serving his recipes — and my mom works to create our Indian curries,” says John. Along with family help, John has filled a void in our restaurant scene with a menu primarily focused on Indian curries. John is proud to note that locals visit just as often to experience the house made burger and fries. “We opened a fusion restaurant to allow people a chance to try Indian cuisine while in their comfort zone,” John says. Offering such gems as butter chicken linguine and calamari, this spot has enjoyed great support from locals. “Okotoks is family-centered and we cater to families,” says John. Residents can rest assured that restaurant owners and chefs have their needs in mind as they evolve to fit the demand. OL
B E
D A and B Big on meat proteins and gorgeous views, Big Sky’s inviting bar and pleasing ambience are the perfect spot for friends to share drinks over platters of meat-centered options — topping the meal off with uniquely decadent desserts. C At Bravo you’ll find the classics you’d expect at a pizza place (along with a few “cool new twists”), as well as wings, pasta and dessert. D Since 2015, co-owner Thomas John at Cha Cha John’s Indian fusion restaurant, has been busy creating a living legacy to his father, who suffered a stroke and is unable to help in the restaurant. E Little Fast & Fresh is located on Riverside Gate since April 2018.
PHOTO BY NICK NORTH
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P H O T O B Y R O B B O LT O N
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“Hosting team events and fundraisers has always been our specialty — the relationships make it all work.” FALL 2019 | OKOTOKS LIVING 9
PHOTO BY THOMAS JOHN
P H O T O B Y S A L LY T R A N
community
business
What’s old is new again Kristin Halpape knows consignment Story by ALYSSA BURNHAM
Photos by JEAN FAYE RODRIGUEZ
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ristin Halpape has been in the consignment business for more than 30 years. Today she’s the proud owner of Rhoda’s Elegance Again and Man of Distinction in the heart of Olde Towne Okotoks, but once upon a time she was known simply as Rhoda’s daughter, the one who could be found helping out behind the scenes at her mother’s consignment store.
Kristin Halpape -owner (left) and Christine Nimeck -manager.
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“Rhoda is my mom,” Kristin explains. “She raised me and my sister as a single mom, running her consignment store in Saskatchewan. She believed that women could work and look good on a budget. I started with that idea and made it my own.” Growing up, Kristin spent hours in her mother’s store, hanging clothes, vacuuming and eventually learning to love customer service. When Kristin left for university, she thought her retail days were behind her; however, by the time she graduated with a business degree she knew she was ready to dive back in, this time as the boss. At 23, Kristin moved to Alberta, applied for a business license and opened her first store, carefully picking a name that would honour her mom. Rhoda’s Elegance Again opened on Elizabeth Street in March 2005. Those early days were filled with nervous energy, Kristin recalls. The nerves still creep up every once in awhile, but they quickly dissipate when the day’s first customers step through the door and the work day kicks into gear.
Rhoda’s quickly gained a following of loyal customers which has grown ever since. The store’s popularity gave Kristin the confidence she needed to grow. In 2012, Rhoda’s expanded into the next door retail space, doubling in size. Then, over the next six years, Kristin launched another five consignment stores, including three Man of Distinction locations, one in Okotoks and two in Calgary, as well as another women’s location called Expressions and an accessories store called Molly’s, after her fouryear-old niece. “It’s busy, but I don’t ever take any of it for granted,” Kristin says. “Every little thing matters. Every customer matters. “It’s a lot of work, but I love it.” Speaking about Okotoks, Kristin has nothing but praise for the community, the customers and the local businesses, which she says are much more like partners than competitors. “Everyone looks out for one another. The support has been unreal.” Every week, hundreds of items arrive for consignment. The stores accept new or gently used high-quality fashions including denim, work, casual, athletic and western wear, as well as unique one-of-a-kind items that theatre companies often come looking for. Kristin’s goal has always been to create a place where anyone and everyone can shop. “I love it when a mom and daughter come in and both find something great.” Kristin loves almost every part of her busy and demanding
job, but her favourite part is seeing the effect that finding a great outfit has on her customers. “You just see people light up with confidence, and it’s awesome,” she says. “If you look good you feel good.” Even on vacation, Kristin can’t seem to get away from the business she is so passionate about. Every time she travels, Kristin brings with her a list of must-see consignment stores, partly because she just loves the thrill of the hunt that consignment shopping provides, but also because she’s constantly searching for new ideas and inspiration. In places like Arizona, Kristin discovered the popularity of having sister stores located near one another — one for men and one for women. She decided to bring the idea home with her to Canada, and it quickly proved a winner. In 2015, Kristin launched Man of Distinction a few doors down from her women’s store in Calgary’s Avenida Shopping Centre. Soon after, she opened a second location in Okotoks, beside Rhoda’s, and a third standalone store in
Calgary’s trendy Inglewood neighbourhood. “The stereotype is that men don’t care about clothes, they wear clothes until they’re worn out, but that’s not what we’ve found,” Kristin explains. “Men come in once to see what we have, and they keep coming back.” Yes, the fast fashion movement is still alive and well, but more and more Kristin is seeing people drawn to quality that lasts. She sees people who want high quality pieces but don’t want to pay a fortune for them. Those are the people for whom consignment is the perfect fit. Kristin also credits Marie Kondo, the organizational guru whose Netflix popularity caused an overnight surge in the frequency of consignments, with opening people’s eyes to the benefits of consigning items they no longer use. “Consignment is the new way,” Kristin states confidently. After all, she has a lifetime of experience and six busy stores to back up her claim. OL FALL 2019 | OKOTOKS LIVING 11
business directory To book a space call 403.532.3101 or email advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca
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community
Pawsitively purrfect The best doggy day care in Okotoks Story by BR ANDI HOLMES
Photos by JEAN FAYE RODRIGUEZ
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eaving our beloved fur babies at home all alone all day while we are at work or away on vacation is sometimes very hard for us humans and especially on our canine companions.
PHOTO COURTESY GUS’S PET RESORT
Luckily, for us Okotokians there is a stellar doggy day care right here in town! Gus’s Pet Resort is located on Stockton Point and is an all around awesome facility to take your pup. Jessica Maurice, the current owner of Gus’s purchased the resort back in 2015 and has since expanded two times to 7,000 square-feet of space inside with an additional outdoor fenced in space. “After just having a baby I wanted to be able to work locally and with animals,” says Jessica. Her want to work with animals is deep-seeded and comes from growing up as an only child on an acreage that was pretty secluded from the town. “Animals were my friends and got me through a lot of things,” explains Jessica, “dogs just love you unconditionally no matter what is going on and they are always so excited to see you.” Most of the staff at the resort share in Jessica’s stance on working with and loving animals and truly treat each and every animal as their own. Many staff even bring in their own dogs to doggy day care! Gus’s offers a handful of services to dog owners. “We’ve learned what we are good at”, explains Jessica, “so we offer day care, grooming and lodging.”
»
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community
A and F Depending on how many dogs of each group come in, sometimes larger groups are split into smaller groups to ensure every dog gets the attention and care that they need. B “We work on training and safe play to ensure the safety of all the dogs. We want everyone to go home happy.” C Jessica Maurice owner of Gus’s Pet Resort. D Grooming was added when Jessica first purchased the resort. There are currently two talented groomers that take the utmost care in doggy haircuts. E There are currently a handful of private suites that can house up to 18 dogs at a time.
A On the doggy day care side of things, there is a rotating schedule of fun and enriching activities for the pups that are fully supervised and even includes private naptime. “We get to know the dogs and understand what they need,” says Jessica, “we work on training and safe play to ensure the safety of all the dogs. We want everyone to go home happy.” Having a rotating daily schedule of social and enrichment activities is something that sets Gus’s apart from other typical doggy day cares. “Activities are not the same every day,” says Jessica, “it keeps things exciting for the dogs.” Each schedule is tailored to the type of dogs in the group and are scheduled in half an hour increments to keep things as organized as possible.
B
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C
Before any dog is able to come to day care there is an assessment, evaluation and introduction process they have to go through first. “The assessment and introduction to the group is for the safety of everyone involved,” says Jessica. “We want all the animals to enjoy their time with us which means that certain behaviours and temperaments may not be suitable.” Dogs are also put into groups according to approximate size. There are littles and bigs and depending on how many dogs of each group come in, sometimes larger groups are split into smaller groups to ensure every dog gets the attention and care that they need. Grooming was added when Jessica first purchased the resort. There are currently two talented groomers that take the utmost care in doggy haircuts. There are also big windows looking into the grooming room from the reception area and when visiting the resort you are sure to see a smiling pup. I was fortunate enough to witness two sweet fluff balls smiling while getting trimmed up. Lodging is quite new to the resort but has been popular in the past eight months. There are currently a handful of private suites that can house up to 18 dogs at a time. In addition to the single suites there are also two double sized suites that can accommodate giant dogs or siblings that need to be kept together. The overnight suites give complete privacy so no dog bothers their neighbour and allows everyone to rest easy. “For our boarding clients
community
PHOTO COURTESY GUS’S PET RESORT
D
E
F
everything is tracked, from special dietary needs, playtime, and even when the suite was last cleaned,” says Jessica. All this information is written on the door of the suite, including the overnight guests’ name so staff can say hi to them while walking up. Upon my visits to Gus’s Pet Resort I was fortunate enough to meet so many happy fur babies enjoying their time in the playrooms with their friends and some overnighters that were resting in their suites. I even had the pleasure of connecting with some repeat pups that I’m certain remembered me. Both visits eased any sort of weariness I ever had with a doggy day care for Jessica and the rest of her staff are so incredibly friendly and genuinely love and care for the animals at their resort. Visit www.gusspetresort.com for more information. OL
“We want all the animals to enjoy their time with us which means that certain behaviours and temperaments may not be suitable.” FALL 2019 | OKOTOKS LIVING 15
homes
MountainView calling Few chances remain to call Okotoks’ community home Story by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
S
trolling down the gently sloping pathway at the end of MountainView Drive in Okotoks, one can’t help but feel one with nature — and one with the community, too.
MountainView’s homes enjoy this natural splendour right at their backyard. But just like summers here in southern Alberta, the opportunity to own a new home here is fleeting, as this all-single-family-home community from Apex Developments winds down to its final few lots. “MountainView is now over 90 per cent sold with Excel Homes and Sterling Homes in the final phases of building, and a select number of both interior and ridge lots remaining,” says Morgan Gowland, development coordinator at Apex Developments. A hidden gem, Mountainview offers the tranquillity of small town living with the most amazing views of the mountains, the Sheep River and the town of Okotoks itself. Its success hinges on its secluded,
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family-friendly, close-to-nature features, but the strong bonds of community it has created are nothing short of enviable. “In all my years in the industry, MountainView is the nicest community I’ve ever seen,” says Sterling Homes area manager, Doug Anderson, one of just two home builders here. Ann Pierzchalski, the area manager for Excel Homes, agrees. “It’s a very friendly neighbourhood, everyone seems to know everyone else.” This quiet enclave tucked away in the northwest part of town is as exclusive as it gets in Okotoks. It is purely made up of upscale single-family homes — no laned homes, no duplexes nor townhomes and condos — and the low density helps retain its visage of suburban serenity. There are two roads in and out of the community and no through traffic offering residents privacy without com-
homes
promising convenience. Plus, residents have plenty of space to stretch their legs along the extensive pathway system or at the playground in the heart of the community. With almost half of MountainView dedicated towards green space, this young Okotoks community is indeed a hidden treasure. “MountainView is really on a level of its own, people fall in love with the community once they find us,” Anderson says. “We’re down to 20 lots and people are still surprised to find this community at this end of town.” Excel’s Pierzchalski nods in agreement. “People are always complimentary about the community when they visit and wish they had explored it sooner.” Sterling Homes has eight estate lots and 10 semi-estate lots left in MountainView. Both bungalows and two-storey front drive homes are available starting from the low $500,000s. Anderson says the amount of customization Sterling Homes is able to provide customers is their biggest edge. “It’s a full customization service, we don’t just move walls around homes, we do everything the customers need that will fit their lifestyle.” Excel Homes — the home building arm of Apex Developments — says it has seven lots left offering buyers their choice of park backing or cul-de-sac locations. “We have a 2,600-square-foot two-storey front drive home, the Seabrook, that is available for just $498,900 including GST. It comes with a deck and upgraded finishes including luxury vinyl plank floor and granite or quartz countertops
throughout,” Pierzchalski, says. MountainView is a welcoming community that has appealed to those looking for space and serenity in their home and surroundings. The community has been a big hit for young families who see the community has the perfect long term setting to raise their toddlers to teens and beyond. It’s also caught the attention of buyers who appreciate the community’s ridge lots, where they can build estate homes with spectacular views and have room for up to three-car garages. The community also offers a tree planting program to further compliment the existing green spaces and enhance the overall environmental friendliness of the community, Gowland says. There is even a rainwater conservation initiative, with one rain barrel provided to every homeowner. “For people looking to escape the city and live closer to nature, MountainView is the perfect fit”, says Gowland. In addition to the community’s proximity to Calgary and position above the escarpment, it’s also close to schools, recreation centres, golf courses, shopping and restaurants making it the perfect place to call home. Potential homebuyers still have the opportunity to choose their lot and build with Excel Homes or Sterling Homes, she adds. The community has front-attached garage, single-family homes starting from the $440,000s, upscale semi-estate homes from the $490,000s and glamorous ridge-view homes from the $815,000s. Bungalows and two-storey models are both available. OL
The community has been a big hit for young families who see the community has the perfect long term setting to raise their toddlers to teens and beyond. FALL 2019 | OKOTOKS LIVING 19
events
What’s happening ONGOING In the Open Air group exhibition running from August 10 to September 22 at the Leighton Art Centre. This exhibit honours the practice of creating art in the great outdoors, it showcases the work of several accomplished Alberta artists that create art in the outdoors. Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Okotoks and World War II at the museum starting September 7 to November 9. On September 1st World War II began 80 years ago and to honour the anniversary this exhibit looks at the local contribution to the war effort.
The Canvas of Human Emotion by Cameron Roberts at the art gallery. Roberts works are born out of his passion for Renaissance masters and his sense of aesthetic for the human figure. Tethered to Infinity by Amy Sallenback at the art gallery from September 7 to November 9. Amy Sallenback takes a multi-disciplinary approach reflecting on our world through assemblage. Tethered to Infinity contains two bodies of work: mobiles and mixed media paintings.
“In the Moment” Memory Café – Connection and hope for those with dementia and their caregivers. Held the first Wednesday of every month at the Okotoks Seniors Club from 1 to 2:30 p.m. For info contact Jennifer at (403) 995-6809. Tribal Connection Market live events on Fridays and Saturdays. Visit their facebook page for event listings. MITCH BELOT BAND
SEPTEMBER
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Square Dance Rocks at 7:30 p.m. at the Highwood Community Hall. Free admission and no partner necessary.
at 7:30 p.m. This event is rated R and is an 18 and over event. Visit showpass.com for tickets.
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Terry Fox Run starting at 11 a.m. The run kicks off at the Crystal Shores Beach House and is family and pet friendly.
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Yuk Yuk’s on Tour at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre starting
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Samson et Dalila Opera comes to Okotoks. In collaboration with Opera by Request and Foothills Philharmonic Opera Chorus starting at 3 p.m. at the Okotoks Alliance Church. Visit calgaryconcertopera.com for advanced ticket options.
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The Human Condition Comedy Tour at The George from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Three comedians are travelling across Canada to lift spirits and raise money for different local charities and causes. This stop on the tour will benefit the Okotoks Food Bank.
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Museum Scavenger Hunt from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Okotoks Museum & Archives. Come celebrate Alberta Culture Days by exploring the current exhibitions in an engaging and accessible way!
events To have your event listed, email info to okotoks.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca. For culture and heritage events visit www.okotoksculture.ca For information on Town of Okotoks events visit www.okotoks.ca/discover-okotoks/things-do/community-events-calendar
OCTOBER
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Dewdney Players: Plaza Suite running on October 4, 5, 10 -12, 17 – 19. Doors are at 7 p.m. for evening shows and 1:30 p.m. for matinees at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Hilarity abounds in this portrait of three couples occupying a suite at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
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Okotober Fest is an adult-only event in downtown Okotoks from 4 to 8 p.m. Enjoy live music, food trucks and microbrewery tasting.
Participants purchase a 5 oz. mug for $5 and tasting tickets for $2 each.
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Repair Café from 1 to 4 p.m. at the rec centre. If you are holding on to small items in need of repair, bring them down to the rec centre and be partnered up with handy volunteers who will share their skills, tools and knowledge to fix up your household items.
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Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advanced and $25 at the door. This event is rated R and is an adult only event.
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Ghost Tours starting at 8 p.m. and put on by the museum and the Okotoks and District Historical Society. Tickets are $5 for this 60 – 75 minutes walk and pre-booking is required.
NOVEMBER
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Day of the Dead at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Join Los Hermanos Cárcamo and La Calavera de Frida for traditional celebrations and music.
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A Heritage Christmas from November 15 to December 21 at the museum. Celebrate an old-fashioned Christmas, rooms will be filled with the sights, sounds and memories of a heritage Christmas.
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Sprit of Christmas & The Tree of Warmth running from November 15 to December 21 at the art gallery. The gallery is turned into the Spirit of Christmas and is your best choice for holiday gift shopping — all crafted by local artisans. Come down with new scarves, gloves, hats, socks and slippers to decorate the Tree of Warmth. All items collected with be donated to local and regional charities.
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The Gingerbread Station running at the art gallery from November 15 to December 21. Drop in to see or create some wonderful gingerbread houses. Light up Okotoks! From 5:30 to 9 p.m. in downtown Okotoks. Come down to celebrate the kick off to the holiday season. Festivities typically include a visit from Santa, wagon rides, sugar shack, cookie decorating, craft sales, late night shopping, fireworks and much more! Don’t forget your donation to the food bank!
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