In and Around Vegreville 2016

2 In & Around Vegreville 2016

Contents Introduction...............................................................Pg 04 Chamber Message...................................................Pg 05 Mayor’s Message......................................................Pg 06 Vegreville’s Ecology.................................................Pg 08 Beginning’s of Vegreville.......................................Pg 10 Historic Heart of Vegreville...................................Pg 11 Pysanka........................................................................Pg 14 Elks/Kinsmen Park....................................................Pg 16 Vegreville Regional Museum...............................Pg 18 Rotary Peace Park......................................................Pg 19 Our Lady of the Highway.......................................Pg 20 Vegreville Aquatic & Fitness Centre...................Pg 21 Vegreville Lions Community Spray Park..........Pg 22 Events Listing............................................................ Pg 23 Ukrainian Pysanka Festival................................... Pg 24 Father’s Day in Vegreville...................................... Pg 26 Country Fair................................................................Pg 27 Area Camp Grounds & Fishing Lakes................Pg 30 Vegreville Map.......................................................... Pg 32 Town Listing Starts..................................................Pg 34

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Beaver County...........................................................Pg 35 Lamont County.........................................................Pg 36 Andrew........................................................................ Pg 38 Bruce............................................................................ Pg 39 Chipman..................................................................... Pg 40 Hairy Hill......................................................................Pg 41 Holden.........................................................................Pg 42 Innisfree.................................................................Pg 44,45 Lamont.........................................................................Pg 43 Mundare..........................................................Pg 46,47,48 Ranfurly........................................................................Pg 49 Tofield...........................................................................Pg 52 Two Hills................................................................ Pg 50,51 Viking.......................................................................... Pg 53 Willingdon..................................................................Pg 54 Ryley..............................................................................Pg 55 Parks Listing Start.................................................... Pg 56 Elk Island National Park..........................................Pg 57 Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village...................Pg 60 Kalyna Country Eco Museum...............................Pg 62

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In & Around Vegreville 2016

Welcome to Vegreville Welcome to In & Around Vegreville 2016. We’ve put this guide together for your benefit, and we hope you enjoy it. While Vegreville has strong Ukrainian ties, it is also an economically diverse community. With a population of just over 5,700, Vegreville is a small but growing rural town. Vegreville is an hour east of Edmonton, the Capital of Alberta, and can be a launching point for visitors wishing to experience the exciting events and culture in and around the area. The town itself offers a variety of amenities including hotels, motels, campgrounds, convenience stores, retail shopping from major brand names and small-town stores with heart, restaurants, and grocery stores. This great mix gives the town a big-city feel with a relaxed small-town atmosphere. Don’t forget if you’re a geo-cache fanatic there’s dozens of cache’s in the area! From Vegreville, visitors can spread outwards and take in what the surrounding communities have to offer. During the summer months, nearby communities host annual fairs, rodeos, entertainment days; all of which are always a great time. The surrounding area is also filled with camping facilities, lakes, parks and museums that tourists are always welcome to visit. Whether your interests are car shows, drag races, agricultural fairs, rodeos, museums, live performances or exhibitions, Vegreville and the surrounding communities have a vast amount of activities and sights waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Make sure to check out our event listings page to find out what’s coming up next during your stay! Vegreville itself hosts three annual events during the summer months; the Father’s Day Show n’ Shine and Demolition Derby in June, the Ukrainian Pysanka Festival in July and the annual Country Fair in August. Returning this year in September will be the Canadian Pony Chuckwagon Finals, a weekend event filled with live chuckwagon racing excitement! Vegreville is also home to the world famous Pysanka – the biggest Easter Egg on the planet! Join the thousands of tourists who stop by and take a picture of it every year! In and around Vegreville you will find fantastic scenery, great events to participate in and pleasant people to visit with. We challenge you to tour Vegreville itself and the nearby communities as they offer numerous attractions you won’t want to miss. Within this guide are brief explanations of major events taking place this year, which community they’re in, and when they’re happening. We’ve also included a list of locations in the surrounding area where you can camp, fish, spend a day at the lake and get in touch with nature.We hope this guide helps you in your travels in and around Vegreville.

Chamber Message Welcome to Vegreville On behalf of the member businesses and organizations of the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce, we invite you to partake in all the sights and sounds that our community has to offer. We are so proud of our community’s strong work ethic, commitment to family and dedication to its hometown values. We pride ourselves on our great schools, strong organizations and hard working business owners. The Chamber of Commerce membership not only helps businesses, but it enables us to work together to create a vibrant local economy that is an essential ingredient to providing a healthy community. During your time here, I hope you enjoy your visit while exploring everything Vegreville has to offer. Darcie Sabados, President Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce

vEGGfest 2016 2016 will mark the 41th anniversary of our worldfamous Pysanka. To mark this milestone the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce, along with the support of community groups, will be joining together to present vEGGfest on August 26th and 27th, 2016. The event is expected to bring thousands of people from near and far allowing us to showcase our Pysanka and community as a whole. In 1973 the Alberta government established the Alberta Century Celebrations Committee to co-ordinate the Centennial Celebrations of the RCMP to be held in 1974.The committee was to distribute funds to commuities that wished to build a monument to commemorate the RCMP. The Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce seized the opportunity and erected the Pysanka. The Pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg) was erected to symbolize the cultures of the settlers of this area during the early years of the twentieth century. It symbolizes also the harmony which has prevailed among the numerous ethnocultural groups who have developed this prosperous community.Thousands of tourists from around

the world visit Vegreville annually to marvel at the attraction which measures 25.7 feet long, 18 feet wide and stands 31 feet tall. It is one of the premier tourist attractions on the Yellowhead highway. This premier event will be an explosive end to the summer,and we’re eagerly anticipating thousands of visitors to the festivities taking place. An outline of the weekend is as follows: Friday evening will feature a large outdoor Rock concert at the Vegreville Agricultural Society grounds. Canadian headlining acts Tom Cochrane with Red Rider and Joint Chiefs, along with Edmonton band Captain Tractor, will keep the crowd on their feet late into the night. Saturday morning will be kicked off with a pancake breakfast at the Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Park followed by family entertainment and activities,an outdoor market featuring local artists and crafters, food vendors, and a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the Pysanka as well as celebrating the legacy of the RCMP. Saturday evening will wind up at the Vegreville Agricultural Society grounds with a large outdoor Country music concert. Headlining bands Charlie Brown along with Corb Lund and Edmonton band Give ‘em Hell Boys will wrap up the two-day festivities. In & Around Vegreville 2016 5

Mayor’s Message On behalf of Town Council and the citizens of Vegreville, I am welcoming you with open arms and an invitation for you to visit, discover and experience our great community. Vegreville offers several memorable annual events, an array of attractions and a full range of recreational facilities for your enjoyment and use. In addition to your leisure requirements, our friendly business community has all the amenities - from food to hobbies - and will be able to accommodate all of your individual needs. In our busy little Town of about 5,700, you will find a quality of living like no other. Clean streets, smiling people, and an abundance of community pride that shines like a beacon of light on the prairies. We work hard, we play hard, and we’re always gracious hosts. We hope you’ll take us up on our hospitality, it’s our pleasure to have you in our neighbourhood. If you require more information, please contact the Town Office Myron Hayduk Mayor of Vegreville

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Go East of Edmonton Inspirations for great staycations in 2016! With some destinations mere minutes from the Capital City region, Go East of Edmonton for a wide variety of attractions and activities that are perfect for day-trips, romantic getaways, family vacations, or fascinating back road excursions and driving tours. The Go East of Edmonton tourism region includes the scenic North Saskatchewan River valley, and areas also known as Battle River Country, Kalyna Country and the Lakeland. East of Edmonton you will find Western Canada’s largest concentration of the World’s Largest Roadside Attractions – over 10 in total! Where else will you find a giant Sausage (Mundare), a giant Easter Egg (Vegreville), and the largest free standing Oil Derrick (Redwater) to name just a few? Each one is a great photo opportunity – so don’t forget your camera. Take a relaxing drive into the east central Alberta countryside and discover over 40 Museums and some amazing Heritage and Cultural Attractions! Only half an hour from Edmonton is the award-winning Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Other major historic sites include the former forts and trading posts at Fort Saskatchewan,

Fort George-Buckingham House Interpretive Centre, east of Elk Point, the Victoria Settlement and Metis Crossing south of Smoky Lake. Located southeast of Edmonton experience one of the largest and most well preserved archaeological sites in Alberta- the Bodo Archaeological Site and Centre. Enjoy Great Outdoor Adventures, with Elk Island National Park, 10 Provincial Parks in and around the region, along with over 100 campgrounds and RV parks in picturesque settings, there is an abundance of excellent places to stay or play. Since there are over 40 golf courses plus many lakes and recreation areas, it is a good idea to bring golf clubs, beach towels, fishing rods, and plenty of sunscreen. In total there are over 1000 km of multi-use trails to explore, and ATV & off-road enthusiasts will enjoy the Iron Horse Trail, and the Redwater Sandhills Natural Area. Over 500 Events crowd the four-season calendar including Agricultural Fairs, Music Festivals, Pow Wows and Rodeos. Experience great events like the Vegreville Pysanka Festival, Hairy Hill Rodeo, or the ever popular Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

In and Around Vegreville you are in the heart of agriculture country. The area, in the summer months, holds a unique beauty of field after field of planted crops or hay land. Visitors are often in awe at the yellow canola fields or flowering alfalfa, a couple of the many things you may see in this area during the summer or fall months. During the winter, the area looks completely different as it is blanketed with thick, heavy snow and the trees are bare and frosty. The winter scenery is, though, beautiful in its own way. Though the area is mainly farmland, there are also a number of lakes where visitors can spend time, especially during the hot summer months. Visitors can go fishing, swimming, boating or camp out at a number of

the lakes surrounding Vegreville. There are numerous wild flowers found throughout the area, the most common may be wild crocuses or buffalo beans. Bird watchers are also drawn to the area as unique and rare birds often make a stop. Wapasu Recreation and Conservation Park near Innisfree, Alberta has, over the years, become home to many rare birds. If you’re in the area early enough each year you can bear witness to the thousands of snow geese returning on their annual migration. As for wildlife, many deer and coyotes can be spotted as well as the less common Moose. Mallard Ducks ,

Geese pass by during the spring and fall, as do herons from time to time. You may also spot beavers, gophers, skunks and wild rabbits as they are often around. Those who travel through the area will also see numerous farm animals, which may include: cattle, horses, sheep, or elk. Quite a few of the local farmers own animals as well as farm the land. No matter what time of year you visit the area, this agricultural community’s nature and scenery is stunning. Whether it is in the winter months, on the coldest day, or during the (sometimes) sweltering summer days, it has something to offer for everyone who passes through.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

The Beginnings of Vegreville Compared to some places in the country, Vegreville is still quite young, but it has a rich, full and unique history. On April 21st, 1894, a group of Francophones arrived from Kansas in the United States to the site later known as “Old Vegreville”. Some of their wives and families and a few more settlers soon followed, so that August of the same year, the Northwest Mounted police (NWMP) census recorded 88 people living in the area, including some English settlers. Immigration came in three distinct waves: before World War I, during the 1920s, and after World War II. The first wave accounted for most settlers to the Vegreville area. There were many reasons for people leaving their homelands and traveling such great distances, including oppression, poverty, drought, poor land, serfdom and a lack of freedoms. It didn’t take long for 33 different ethnic groups to settle in the Vegreville area, setting up homes and businesses and learning each others languages and customs in order to communicate and conduct business more easily. Multi-lingualism was common. Records speak of a German farmer who spoke seven different languages fluently as well as of church sermons being delivered in both French and English. “Vegreville” was name din honor of Father Valentin Vegreville, a Roman Catholic Oblate missionary who served with dedication and distinction for 50 years, although he never served in the Vegreville area. It was the Oblate Fathers of St. Albert, west of Vegreville, who often helped the new settlement. Father Vegreville was, however, credited with encouraging settlement in Western Canada, so a few months after their arrival, two of the founders of Vegreville, Joseph Benoit Tetreau and Joseph Poulin, submitted his name to the Government of Regina when they re-

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quested a post office in October of 1894. One of the most remarkable bits of Vegreville’s history was the moving of the entire town. In 1905, the Canadian Northern Railway (CNR) was being brought through the area. Vegreville was several miles from the surveyed cut, which just wouldn’t do. The people knew they needed to have the railway closer because poor weather often made the road to Edmonton impassable. Since the CNR wasn’t about to change course for the people, the town was moved closer to the railway. Buildings were carefully transported, some on wheels, some on skids, four and a half miles to the present town site. At the time there were 20 business buildings in town, including a livery barn, two restaurants, a blacksmith shop, three machine shops, a post office, two banks, four stores, a hotel, a jail and police barracks, a doctor’s office and a barber shop. It isn’t definitely known if all of them were moved but the undertaking is still quite amazing. Now all that stands of “Old Vegreville” is a stone cairn. In 1906, Vegreville was incorporated first as a village and than as a town in the same year, after reaching a population of 344. The first Mayor was William Clements. The following year the Board of Trade was established with 31 members. A year later the Roland M. Boswell Hospital was built and three years later St. Joseph’s General Hospital was opened by the Sisters of Charity. When the Roland M. Boswell Hospital was closed, the building was demolished and all moveable equipment was shipped to their Frontier hospital at Rocky Mountain House. The Town has continued to grow and prosper as a unique multicultural community, which now has a population of more than 5,700 people who live in harmony and cooperation.

A “must” attraction for any visitor to Vegreville should include a stroll along the Town’s historic Main Street. In 1991, the establishment of the Vegreville Main Street project began a remarkable partnership effort among over 30 businesses, the Town, the Alberta Historical Resources Foundation, Heritage Canada and Canada Employment and Immigration, aimed at economic development through the preservation of this community’s fine heritage resources. Vegreville boasts one of the best examples of Main Street architecture in the province. Many of the buildings are over 50 years old and as part of the Town’s effort to maintain its built heritage, participants in the project became involved in the sensitive rehabilitation of their sites. Such work includes a restoration of a building whereby once lost or covered prominent features may have become restored or rebuilt along the building

façade. Prominent buildings like the Dobbins Block, built in 1913, the 1950s Capitol Theatre, complete with a neon marquis, are only small samples of the work undertaken by the community. Sadly, one bit of heritage was lost as the famed Alberta Hotel succumbed to fire in 2008. The Town’s commitment to heritage not only includes building fronts, but the sidewalks, historic-style lamp posts and brightly-coloured motif banners. This completed streetscape enhancement not only provides four seasons’ worth of changing Main Street beauty, but also includes historic plaques dating from 1905 when the Town moved from it’s old location to its present site. The winter scenery is a site to behold when the Town puts up the Christmas lights and all of Main Street shines with lights on every tree. Main Street is indeed the “Heart and Soul” of community. Enjoy this town’s living heritage as you visit Vegreville.

The Historic Heart of Vegreville

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Story of the Pysanka Of all things, why an egg? The story began in 1973 when the Alberta government established the Alberta Century Celebrations Committee to co-ordinate the centennial celebrations of the Royal Canadian mounted police to be held in 1974. The committee was to distribute funds to communities that wished to build a monument to the R.C.M.P. The Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce took up the challenge. Numerous suggestions were made but the best by far was a giant Easter egg symbolizing the peace and security the Mounties had offered the area’s pioneers and their descendants. The exquisite and intricate decoration of Easter eggs is a Ukrainian folk art known the world over. (The Ukrainian word for Easter egg, Pysanka, comes from the verb pysty – to write.) The unique nature and complicated geometry of the egg shape made the design of the Pysanka a highly complex project. Professor Ronald Resch, a computer scientist at the University of Utah, agreed to take on the design project. Realizing the significant nature of the project, the Century Celebrations Committee increased the Chamber’s grant to $25,000. Professor Resch was responsible for the entire Pysanka concept which required the development of new computer programs. The Pysanka is really an immense jig-saw puzzle containing 524 star patterns, 1,108 equilateral triangles, 3,512 visible facets, 6,978 nuts and bolts and 177 internal struts. As a result of Professor Resch’s work and leadership, the Pysanka is recognized around the world as not only a unique artistic masterpiece, but also as an achievement of nine mathematical, architectural and engineering firsts. The design represents the first computer modeling of an egg. Thousands of tourists from around the world visit Vegreville annually to marvel at the Pysanka. It measures 25.7 feet long, 18 feet wide, and stands 31 feet high. It is one of the premier tourist attractions on the Yellowhead Highway. The 2,000 pound aluminum skin is at-

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tached to the central mast at a 30-degree angle with 177 turn-buckle struts. Cessco International Ltd., Edmonton, fabricated the massive internal structure which weighs 3,000 pounds. The Pysanka rests on a 27,000 pound base of concrete and steel and turns in the wind line a weathervane. Paul Sembaliuk, an authority on traditional Easter egg design, used three colors - bronze, silver and gold – to symbolize prosperity. Bronze is the pre-dominant color of the design and suggests the “good earth”, the land on which our forefathers struggled for survival and existence. Five distinct symbols make up the design. The radiating gold stars on the end sections symbolize Life and Good Fortune. The three-pointed stars, in alternating gold and silver, symbolize the Trinity, representing the strong devotion of the faith of our ancestors. The band of silver circumscribing the Pysanka, with no beginning or end, symbolizes Eternity. On the central barrel section, gold and silver windmills with six vanes and points symbolize a Rich Harvest. The most prominent motif of the design, the silver wolf’s teeth, which point to the centre from the silver band, symbolizes the main message of Protection and Security afforded our pioneers by the R.C.M.P. The dedication message is written in four languages: English, Ukrainian, French and German. It reads: “Pysanka (Easter egg) symbolizes the harmony, vitality and culture of the community and is dedicated as a tribute to the OneHundredth Anniversary of the Royal Canadian mounted Police, who brought peace and security to largest multi-cultural settlement in all of Canada.” The Pysanka was the showpiece of the R.C.M.P’s centennial celebrations. The Century Celebrations Committee concluded its report to the provincial government with this statement: “Of the great variety of projects undertaken to mark the Century Celebrations, none can be regarded as more unique than the Ukrainian Easter Egg, ‘Pysanka’, undertaken by Vegreville. It

The World’s Largest Pysanka is spectacular in its contrivance to combine the ancient traditions of one of Alberta’s largest ethnic groups with architectural and geometric developments that represent a ‘breakthrough’ in modern science thus linking heritage and progress.” The Pysanka has a beautiful setting in the Elks Park beside the fish pond at the east end of the town and highlights the entrance to

the park. The complete story of the building of the Pysanka is available in the book “Now That’s an Egg”, an interesting and informative account, available at local merchants. Also available now is the DVD of the design and construction of the egg, entitled “The Pysanka Story” and is available for purchase at the Vegreville News Advertiser. In & Around Vegreville 2016

The Elks/Kinsmen Park This beautiful park, located just off Highway 16 A on the east side of Vegreville, is the home of the world’s largest Easter egg, the Pysanka. This year the park will be home to a ceremonial event commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Pysanka on August 29. It will be a full day of fun and entertainment, bring the kids, and bring your baba! Drawing visitors from across the province,the park features a trout-stocked pond, ideal for fishing, (for seniors and children) and a large aerating water fountain. It is a complete park for picnicking or camping, and there is even a swan’s pen to give waterfowl shelter from the weather. The park is open year round. Grab your picnic basket, and spend the day

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relaxing in the sun at the Elks Kinsmen Park, a great day away from the office, and the perfect place to relax outside with your family and loved ones. The park features a bit of railway history in the form of a fully restored CN caboose, which is open for viewing by the public every day. Also available in the park are 93 sites (RVs and tents); an R.V. dump station; power hookups; picnic facilities; gazebos; a playground; tap water; public phone; showers; large public restrooms; and a tourist information booth with souvenirs and snacks.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Vegreville Regional Museum Treasures of the Past Waiting to be Discovered

Discover Vegreville and area history since the 1890s at the Vegreville Regional Mu-

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seum located just 1 km east of Vegreville on Hwy 16A. Located on the site of the internationally renowned solonetzic soils research station of Agriculture Canada (1956-1995), the museum highlights local development, chronicling how the area’s unique social fabric, including its four largest pioneer groupsEnglish, French, German, Ukrainian, has contributed to the harmony of community life. The museum is also home of the Vegreville and District Sports Hall of Fame and The Right Hon. Donald F. Mazankowski, P.C. Collection which highlights 25 years of public service of the former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada. (P.C. in this case means “Privy Council,” not the name of a political party.) Looking for something to do with your family? Stop by the museum and join in children’s hands-on activities with vintage toys and treasure hunts. Tour the museum’s indoor and outdoor exhibits showing the vitality of community life experienced through the decades. Also in the area are some geocaches, a great way to spend time with your family on a worldwide scavenger hunt! Step into the past…discover history!

Rotary Peace Park

The Vegreville Rotary Club, in conjunction with the County of Minburn, has joined with the villages, towns and cities all across Canada in a celebration of the country’s commitment to peace among all living things. The Rotary Peace Park was dedicated on July 1st, 1993, commemorating Canada’s 125th anniversary of Confederation. A circular “Peace Grove” of 12 trees was planted to represent our provinces and territories. Vegreville Rotary’s contribution is just one of many nationally-registered Peace Parks across Canada. It is a great place for a picnic of quiet lunch with family in the serenity of the outdoors. Facilities include a large picnic area and spacious log house with a fireplace in the centre and covered seating area for enjoying the outdoors in case of rain. Rotary Peace Park is located on the east end of Town on Highway 16A.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Our Lady of the Highway Our Lady of the Highway Shrine is one of Vegreville’s unique attractions, being the only one of its kind in all of Canada. The shrine, located just east of town on Highway 16A, is seven feet high and was sculpted in Italy from Carrara Marble (Italian White Marble). It was erected by the Vegreville Knights of Columbus. Before embarking upon a voyage, many famous This explorers asked the blessings of Our Lady to protect and direct them in their journeys. s u religio The shrine on Highway 16A exists to serve e is th t n the same purpose. The statue is dedicated e m u n o m to glorify the Blessed Virgin Mary, who acts d in k s it f o as a “Heavenly guide” along the highways of only one life – including those dangers that hinder our in Canada! daily travels along the cement, asphalt, gravel or dirt roads. Just as the explorers in our history books, a devotion to Our Lady has developed, but she is known in recent years as Our Lady of the Highway. The statue of Our Lady conveys the theme of ‘divine guidance sought by travelers.’The theme is displayed in the form of the world, represented by the sphere, and interwoven throughout the design. Four hoops grouped together to form a cross symbolize the four corners of the world, and at the same time reflect travel by suggesting the wheel. The base upon which the statue stands, (the larger base and the circular enclosure surrounding it), also symbolize the world. Of modernistic design, there is also a spacious parking area in front of the shrine for motorists who wish to stop a while. It makes a great spot for taking photographs as many local residents come to the shrine to take pictures for weddings of for large gatherings. Our Lady of the Highway Shrine is unique to only Vegreville and represents hope, guidance and safety for all.

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Vegreville Aquatic & Fitness Centre

The Aquatic and Fitness Center in Vegreville was recently upgraded. A perfect place for entire families to spend the day, the Aquatic Fitness center comes fully equipped with a giant pool and water slide, hot tub, and sauna. Ask about our new family-friendly programs that let mom have some fun while the tots are taken care of! There is a dance studio upstairs that comes fully equipped for rentals. Also in the facility are indoor racquetball courts, outdoor tennis courts, a cardio room, and weight room. There are lots of ways to take advantage of the facility, from swimming lessons to gym membership packages. Fitness classes also run in the fall, winter and spring months. There’s always something going on in the winter at the rink, or in the separate curling facility. The arena now features a wheelchair accessible lift to the comfy upper viewing area when you want to come out and watch the local hockey action! Concession-equipped so you never go hungry at the game. Community events brochures are available at the tourist booth.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Vegreville Lions Community Spray Park

This community-funded Water Spray Park was designed for kids of all ages to enjoy. It features 32 interactive units, with a little squirt unit for the young children, which runs on a manual start, 5-minute random cycle. A water purification recirculation system operates the units, keeping water consumption to a minimum. Located in the heart of Vegreville behind the Centennial Library (access from 49 Street S- 47

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Ave W), the location is surrounded by trees with open grass areas, making it perfect for picnics, birthday parties or just a day of fun in the sun! Newly added in 2013 is a terrific, toddler friendly playground with a giant pirate ship, merry goround and oversized swings perfect for parents to swing with their kids! The Park is open from 11am to 8pm, May through September.

Event Listing June 04 June 03-05 June 05 June 11 June 11 June 11 June 12 June 14 June 16 – 19 June 17 - 18 June 17 June 17 June 18 June 18 June 18 June 18 June 19 June 24 June 25 June 25 - 26 June 26 July 01 July 01 - 03 July 08 – 09 July 15-17 July 18 July 22- 24 July 29 - 31 Aug 04 - 06 Aug 06 Aug 07 Aug 10 Aug 13 - 14 Aug 20 Aug 20 Aug 20 - 21 Aug 20 - 21 Aug 20 - 21 Aug 26 – 27 Aug 26 – 27 Sept 03 – 05 Sep 10 Sep 11 Oct 15 Oct 15 Nov 06 Dec 03 Dec 03 Dec 31

Vegreville Triathlon Tofield Sod Buster Rodeo Chipman Show n’ Shine Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life Holden Farmer’s Day Ride For Dad Fly In Breakfast/Eggcellent Obstacle Course Legion Breakfast Brettzky’s Hockey Challenge. Viking in the Streets Chili Cookoff/Samantha King Music Village of Ryley Main Street Festival Vegreville Downtown Market Community Fair and 1st annual Perogy Festival Drag Racing Ryley Summer Bust Out Father’s Day Show n’ Shine Lord Mayor of London Memorial Tea Andrew Special Farmers’ Market Cloverlodge Stampede Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Vintage Day Canada Day Celebrations Vegreville Ukrainian Pysanka Festival Hairy Hill Rodeo Run to the Hills Motorcycle Rally Vegreville Downtown Market/Art in the Park Lamont Summer Sizzler 103rd Annual Bruce Stampede Vegreville Country Fair/Pony Chuckwagons Willingdon Agricultural Fair Ranfurly Fair and Horse Show Innisfree Fair Day and Horse Show Two Hills Ag Society Rodeo Agriculture Society Fair & Parade/Market on Main Mundare Quilt Show Canadian Bunnock Championships Mundare Agri-Daze Babas & Borshch Ukrainian Festival vEGGfest – 41st Anniversary Celebration Chipman Country Blues Festival Ry-Tof Softball Tourney Vegreville Downtown Market/Art in the Park UCHV Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Andrew Garlic Festival Old Timers Roundup Supper and Dance Legion Breakfast Last Stop Shop Christmas Home Business Show Christmas Extravaganza New Year’s Eve Gala

Vegreville Tofield Chipman Vegreville Holden Mundare Vegreville Vegreville Viking Viking Viking Ryley Vegreville Lamont Vegreville Ryley Vegreville Mannville Andrew Viking UCHV Hwy 16 Everywhere Vegreville Hairy Hill Two Hills Vegreville Lamont Bruce Vegreville Willingdon Ranfurly Innisfree Two Hills Mannville Mundare Vegreville Mundare Andrew Vegreville Chipman Ryley/Tofield Vegreville UCHV Hwy 16 Andrew Mannville Vegreville Vegreville Mannville Vegreville

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Ukrainian Pysanka Festival

FREE main gate admission! July 1, 2, 3, 2016 Bitaemo! Welcome to the 43nd annual Pysanka Festival and the 125th year of Ukrainian settlement in Canada. Three days of Ukrainian music, dance, culture and the most delicious authentic Ukrainian dishes this side of the Atlantic. Put on by the Vegreville Cultural Association, the Pysanka Festival is an opportunity for everyone to experience Ukrainian Culture! The Pysanka Festival has become known for the spell binding performers that take the grandstand stage over the weekend. Imagine an outdoor stage with an audience capacity of over 2000 people, and with a variety of entertainment by popular Ukrainian theme artists and heritage performers in music, song and dance from across Canada, the United States, and Ukraine! It’s an atmosphere you want to experience! With five unique and exciting grandstand shows over the weekend, you will want to be sure to take in a couple, or maybe all five! Get a feel for the history of Ukrainian pioneers with vintage rope making and blacksmithing demonstrations, authentic handmade bread baked in a piche oven, and more! With limited quantities of that fresh outdoor oven baked bread, we suggest you get there early to buy a loaf to take home. You’ll be happy you did. While you’re at the Pioneer Village

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you’ll be ready to experience the ways of old with a blacksmith demonstration, a tour of a working mill to see how grain was ground into flour, or how rope is made from twine. Enjoy a first-course of savory aromas from Ukrainian culinary delights all over the festival before demolishing a plate of perogies and sausage – choose your accessory side from onions to sauerkraut. From the pungent perfume of handmade Holubschi (cabbage rolls), the spicy scent of Kubasa (garlic sausage) and the tangy tickling of Borscht (beet soup), the Pysanka Festival offers a wide range of mouth watering, delicious delectable morsels. Over 30 vendors can be found at the Yarmarok Marketplace, ranging from Ukrainian themed souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, CDs, and too much more to list. And if you’re looking for something bigger to take home, the Art Show and Sale will be another stop you will want to make! With pottery & paintings, and other art available for purchase, making a decision may be the hardest part of your day. There will also be opportunities to try your creativity with painting, pottery and pysanka decorating! Another venue to add to your list is the free cultural and band showcase in the Beer Gardens! It’s a great place to enjoy the showcase

of Ukrainian dancers, other ethnic dancers, bands, musicians, vocalists and more. And to keep you in touch with your inner Ukrainian spirit, a sure way to end your evenings will be at the evening Zabava Dances, a Ukrainian party like no other! The scene: a crowded dance floor, the music of the best Ukrainian bands in Canada, line-ups for drinks, old friendships being re-established and new ones being formed! As the

night progresses, the dance floor is cleared and dancers from the best Ukrainian dance groups in Canada take centre stage and try to outdo each other with their finest, most intricate, most explosive dance steps. This is “Kolomeyka” at its best! Join the more than 4,000 other visitors over the weekend of July 1-3, 2016 in Vegreville at the Pysanka Festival. There is a hot plate of pyrohe waiting just for you!

In & Around Vegreville 2016

The Best Father’s Day Ever

On Sunday, June 19, 2016 the Iron Runners Auto Club and the Vegreville Agricultural Society will host their 25th Annual Fathers’ Day Event. Treat the whole family to some fast-paced action, lots of noise, and some gorgeous classic cars. The popular family event features a Show and Shine, Model train display, Garden train display, Snowmobile display, Lawn mower races, “Bone Wagon” hearse club display, and the popular Grandstand event, the Demolition Derby. As well, there will be numerous concessions and vendors. Car Show participants will have an opportunity to win one of 12 $25 gas certificates. Winners must be in attendance to claim their prize. Entry fee for

26 In & Around Vegreville 2016

the car show is $10 per car (includes driver only). Admission to the grounds is $10 for anyone over 15 years old, and $5 for children ages 6 – 15, and children under 5 are free when accompanied by an adult. The spectators will have an opportunity to vote for the Peoples’ Choice Award. Participants will judge the vehicles in the following categories, with first and second in each category: Convertibles, Muscle Cars, Pre ’50’s Cars & Trucks, 1950’s Cars, 1960’s Cars, 1970’s Cars, 1980’s and up, Hot Rod/ Street Rod/Modified, Low Riders, Trucks – 1950 to 72, Trucks – 1973 & Up, Foreign, Semi Tractor, Special Interest, Motorcycles, Best of Show.

Dennill’s Kubota and Vegreville Agricultural Society Country Fair

The 113th annual Dennill’s Kubota and Vegreville Agricultural Society Country Fair will be held August 4 - 6, 2016. The theme this year is “Fun for the Whole Family!” A parade will kick off the event on Thursday morning at 11:00 am, leading the crowd to the fair grounds on the east side of town. On the fairgrounds themselves, there are livestock shows, a terrific midway filled with rides and games – maybe you can win your sweetheart a prize this year! Don’t forget the chariots, indoor commercial exhibits, petting zoo and a bench show featuring a wonderful horticultural display put on by the Vegreville Garden Club.

Also featured this year will be the Barnyard Fun display. This is for the children to catch up on the agricultural aspect of life. There will be lots of fun activities for kids to try with some aspect of agriculture. Closer to the evening, you can catch the everexciting chuckwagon races, the Beer Gardens are open and the grandstand shows put on by top performers features lively and exciting acts from across the land. This year may find you mesmerized by our headliner performer. This year will have many different performances to choose from. There will be some local talent performing throughout the three days at the Bandshell,

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Dennill’s Kubota and Vegreville Agricultural Society Country Fair

while the Young Alberta Talent Showcase takes place on Saturday afternoon and evening at the Bandshell. The band for the beer gardens is not confirmed at this time. This memorable event is 113 years young in Vegreville this summer. Many people from Vegreville

28 In & Around Vegreville 2016

and the surrounding area attend the fair for the fun and enjoyment of the beautiful summer weather and the exciting games and rides. There are so many intriguing things to see and so many people to meet that it’s hard not to get caught up in the fun and excitement. See you there!

This is the 113th y r t n u o C l a u n An Fair!

Campgrounds & Fishing Lakes Area Campgrounds Andrew Andrew Campground Andrew, AB Phone: (780) 365-3687 10 sites, picnic shelter. Andrew RV Park Andrew, AB Phone: (780) 365-3687 16 sites, dump station, flush toilets, showers, playground, mini-golf. Elk Island Park Sandy Beach Campground Elk Island Park, AB Phone: (877) 737-3783 77 sites, day use area, firewood, flush toilets, picnic shelter, showers, walk in tenting, pay telephone, accessible for persons with disabilities, playground, golf, interpretive programs. Elk Point Kehewin Rec. Area Elk Point, AB Phone: (780) 645-6295 . Boat launch open - motor boating, water skiing, sailing, canoeing. Elk Point River Park Campground Elk Point, AB Phone: (780) 645-3301 10 sites, day use area, picnic shelter, playground. Elk Point Rec. Park Elk Point, AB Phone: (780) 724-3810 12 sites, firewood, picnic shelter, playground, baseball, golf. Trails, hiking, biking, ATV, equestrian, x-c skiing, snowmobiling. Fort Saskatchewan Turner Park Fort Saskatchewan, AB Phone: (780) 998-4074 20 sites, firewood, flush toilets, showers, playground, volleyball. Trails: (25 km paved), hiking, biking, x-c skiing. Water: canoeing. Elk Island Retreat Ltd. Ft. Saskatchewan, AB Phone: (780) 998-0708 Tipi camping & RV Park, private campground 36 full service sites, Tipis, trappers cabin, tenting. Shower/laundry facility, trails near Elk Island Park Holden Holden Campground Holden, AB Phone: (780) 688-3928 8 sites, day use area. Innisfree Innisfree Municipal Rec. Park Innisfree, AB Phone: (780) 592-3886 50 sites, flush toilets, group camping, showers, playground, baseball, horseshoe pits, hiking, biking, equestrian, beach, boat launch, sailing, canoeing. Jackfish Lake Jackfish Lake Recreation Area Jackfish Lake, AB Phone: (780) 657-3358

30 In & Around Vegreville 2016

26 sites, showers, dump station, free firewood, picnic shelter, caretaker on site, group camping, day use area, playground, horseshoe pits. Water: beach, swimming, fishing, boat launch, electric motor boating, water skiing. Lamont Lamont RV Park & Campground Lamont, AB Phone: (780) 895-2220 Mannville Mannville RV Park Mannville, AB Phone: (780) 853-0007 Spruce Park Campground Mannville, AB Phone: (780) 763-3500 10 sites, firewood, flush toilets, picnic shelter. Riverview Golf Club RV Park Mannville, AB Phone: (780) 763-2252 Play and stay at our fully serviced RV accommodations. Mundare Drahomanow Recreation Area Mundare, AB Phone: (780) 632-7486 8 sites, dump station, firewood, flush toilets, playground. Open weekends only or by appointment. Ukraina Park Recreation Area Mundare, AB Phone: (780) 764-3929 26 sites, flush toilets, showers, playground, picnic shelters. Myrnam Myrnam Campground Myrnam, AB Phone: (780) 366-3910 5 sites Ryley Ryley Recreation Park Ryley, AB Phone: (780) 663-3653 24 sites, dump station, day use area, free firewood. Recreation - playground, baseball. Smoky Lake Smoky Lake Golf and RV Park Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-2121 Camping with 14 full service RV park available. Golf course - 9 holes, par 36 layout professionally designed “best greens in Alberta”. Mons Lake Recreation Area Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (587) 335 5510 6 sites, day use area, firewood, playground, Waterbeach, swimming, fishing, boat launch, motor boating, water skiing, sailing, canoeing. Hanmore Lake West Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-6580 37 sites, firewood, picnic shelter, playground. Metis Crossing Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-2229

Metis Cultural Interpretive Centre with Zipline nestled on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River. Island Lake Recreation Area Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-6580 10sites, firewood, picnic shelter. Recreation- Waterfishing, boat launch, canoeing. Hanmore Lake East Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-6580 16 sites, day use area, firewood, group camping, picnic shelter. Smoky Lake RV Park Smoky Lake, AB Phone: (780) 656-3674 12 sites, dump station, firewood, flush toilets, showers, playground, baseball, museum. St. Michael Northern Ridge Golf and RV Resort Ltd St. Michael, AB Phone: (780) 5763939 9 holes, cart & club rentals, full service RV sites, antique machinery on this scenic course. Tofield Miquelon Lake Provincial Park Tofield, AB Phone: (780) 672-7274 275 sites, showers, concession, dump station, firewood, flush toilets, picnic shelter, day use area, group camping, playground, volleyball, golf, horse-shoe pits, interpretive programs. Tofield Campground & RV Park Tofield, AB Phone: (780) 662-3269 8 sites, flush toilets, showers, dump station. Black Nugget Lake Campground Tofield, AB Phone: (780) 663-2421 65 sites, concession, dump station, firewood, flush toilets, showers, picnic shelter, day use area, caretaker on site, bird watching, playground, horseshoe pits, fishing, electric motor boats, canoeing. Lindbrook Star Gazer Campground & RV Park Tofield, AB Phone: (780) 662-4439 powered sites, city water, showers, heated pool, playground, on site security, sani dump and well treed, private sites. Two Hills Geleta Park Two Hills, AB Phone: (780) 657-3395 Playground, day use area. Two Hills Campsite Two Hills, AB Phone: (780) 657-3395 Day use area, picnic shelter. Sandy Lake Park Two Hills, AB Phone: (780) 657-3358 37 sites, dump station, free firewood,

flush toilets, showers, picnic shelter, day use area , caretaker on site. Recreation - playground, baseball, waterbeach, swimming, sailing, canoeing. Vegreville Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Community Park Vegreville, AB Phone: (780) 632-6800 98 sites, concession, day use area, dump station, free firewood, flush toilets, showers, picnic area, visitor centre, playground, horseshoe pits, hiking, biking, fishing. Viking Eastview Park Viking, AB Phone: (780) 336-4747 18 sites, free firewood, flush toilets, showers, picnic shelter, day use area. Recreation - playground, baseball, soccer, golf. Camp Lake Park Viking, AB Phone: (780) 336-3414 35 sites, concession, day use area, firewood, flush toilets, showers, group camping, picnic shelter, caretaker on site. Services: 30 amp, Recreation- playground, volleyball, mini-golf, horseshoe pits, beach, swimming, boat launch Willingdon Willingdon Campground & RV Park Willingdon, AB Phone: (780) 367-2337 15 sites, flush toilets, showers.

Area Fishing Holes ARM LAKE: pike, perch. SW of Wainwright. BELLIS BEACH LAKE: rainbow, perch. Off Hwy 28, 2 km S of Bellis BLACK NUGGET LAKE: rainbow. 10 km E of Tofield on Hwy 14, then 11 km S. BONNIE LAKE: pike, perch. 5 km E of Vilna on Hwy 28, 4 km N. BOYLE POND: rainbow. S of Boyle. BUFFALO LAKE (METIS SETTLEMENT): pike, perch. W of Hwy 855. CACHE LAKE: pike, perch. 4km E of Vilna an Hwy 28 6 km S.

CARDIFF PARK - CARDIFF LAKE: trout, perch. Just E of Morinville off Cardiff Road. CHICKENHILL LAKE: walleye, pike, perch, whitefish, burbot. 6 km S from St.Vincent on Hwy 881, 13 km S from Glendon on Hwy 882 & 3 km E. CLEAR LAKE: perch, walleye, pike. 9.6 km W of Edgerton. FISHING LAKE - pike, perch. Fishing Lake Metis Settlement. FLOATING STONE (BOYNE) LAKE: pike, walleye, whitefish, perch, burbot. 4 km E of Ashmont on Hwy 28, 8 km N on paved road.

FORK LAKE: pike, perch, whitefish, burbot. 6 km E of Ashmont on Hwy 28A, 27 km N. FROG LAKE: pike, walleye, perch, whitefish, burbot. 3 km N of Frog Lake on Hwy 897. HALFMOON LAKE PARK: pike, perch. 14 km W of Thorhild along Hwy 18 & 12 km S. HANMORE LAKE: pike, perch, whitefish. 19 km N of Smoky Lake. IRMA FISH & GAME POND: rainbow. INNISFREE TROUT POND: rainbow. Located on Hwy 16 W of Innisfree. JACKFISH LAKE: rainbow. 6 km S of Myrnam, 5 km W. KADUC LAKE: perch, pike. 9 km N of Bellis. KEHIWIN LAKE: walleye, pike, perch, whitefish, burbot. Hwy 28 E of St. Paul to Hwy 41, 5 km N. LAC BELLEVUE: walleye, pike, perch. S of St. Paul. LAC SANTE: pike, perch, walleye, whitefish, burbot. 10 km E, 3 km N of Brosseau. LAMONT TROUT POND: rainbow. N side of Lamont on Hwy 637. LITTLE PERCH LAKE: pike. S of St. Paul off Hwy 646 & Hwy 881. MONS LAKE: pike, perch. 6 km E of Smoky Lake on Hwy28, 4 km N. MOOSEHILLS LAKE: pike. 6 km E of Elk Point on Hwy 646, 4 km N. MORINVILLE FISH POND: trout, perch. E of Hwy 2. NORTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER: walleye, goldeneye, perch, sauger, pike, lake

sturgeon, mountain whitefish, burbot. ROSS LAKE: pike, perch. 28 km E of Elk Point on Hwy 646. SADDLE LAKE: pike, walleye, burbot, perch, whitefish. N of Saddle Lake community. SHEMELUK LAKE: rainbow. 5 km E of Smoky Lake on Hwy 28, 10 km N, turn left at T-intersection, 15 km W. STONEY LAKE: pike, perch. 13 km W of Elk Point. STURGEON RIVER: walleye, pike, perch, burbot, goldeye, sturgeon, whitefish, sauger. From Big Lake downstream to the North Saskatchewan River. TWO HILLS TROUT POND: rainbow. Along Hwy 36 across from Geleta Park. VEGREVILLE ELKS/KINSMEN POND: rainbow. NE Vegreville, next to Pysanka. VERMILION PROVINCIAL PARK - TROUT POND: rainbow. In Vermilion , follow signs. VEGREVILLE TROUT POND (Reservoir): rainbow. S of Vegreville on Hwy 16A. VIKING TROUT POND: rainbow. WAYETENAW LAKE: pike, perch. 2 km S, 2 km E of Whitefish Lake. WHITEFISH LAKE: pike, burbot, walleye, whitefish, perch. 6 km E of Vilna on Hwy 28, 27 km N. WHITNEY LAKE: pike, perch. 27 km E of Elk Point on Hwy 646. WILLINGDON FISH & POND: rainbow. In town.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Town Listing Beaver County............................ Pg 35

Innisfree ................................Pg 44,45

Lamont County........................... Pg 36

Mundare ...........................Pg 46,47,48

Andrew........................................ Pg 38

Ranfurly.......................................Pg 49

Bruce............................................Pg 39

Two Hills ................................Pg 50,51

Chipman...................................... Pg 40

Tofield ......................................... Pg 52

Hairy Hill......................................Pg 41

Viking ......................................... Pg 53

Holden.........................................Pg 42

Willingdon .................................. Pg 54

Lamont........................................ Pg 43

Ryley............................................ Pg 55

Beaver County

Explore Beaver County A leisurely half-hour drive east of Edmonton is home to one of Alberta’s hidden gems, Beaver County. The unique ag-tourism, heritage and cultural attractions will provide a memorable experience that’s second to none while also offering you a chance to relax and enjoy the country. During your travels, discover small town charm, friendly people and local treasures. While you’re here, enjoy community markets, festivals, rodeos and much more. Our community offers a quality lifestyle with a unique blend of country and urban living. Black Nugget Lake Park: Developed out of a former coal mine, Black Nugget Lake Park is a long winding lake with waterfront sites and back-to-nature tenting.

Enjoy bird watching, boating (non-powered), canoeing, hiking, rainbow/tiger trout fishing and horseshoe pits. Children will enjoy a sand-covered playground and large playing field. Next door is the new 18-hole Coal Creek Golf Resort, so don’t forget to pack your clubs. Camp Lake Park: Just minutes from Viking, Camp Lake Park is the perfect place to get away from it all and relax. With a boat launch and trailer parking available, campers can enjoy swimming, boating, water-skiing and canoeing as well as hiking, bird watching and horseshoes. Spend an afternoon on one of the lake’s two beaches or enjoy the volleyball court and basketball hoop with a few friends.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

County of Lamont Lamont County is nestled in the Beaver Hills and is proud to boast attractions such as Elk Island National Park, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, the Basilian Fathers Museum in Mundare, the Babas and Borshch Ukrainian Festival, and over 40 historical churches and beautiful scenery. Additional recreational facilities include a nine-hole golf course at Elk Island National Park, and a world-class, 18-hole golf course, Whitetail Crossing, in Mundare. The diversified economy and tourism attractions of Lamont County are a tribute to the hardy pioneers who

36 In & Around Vegreville 2016

settled this area. Our success today is a result of people of varying nationalities and religious convictions that cooperated to forge a prosperous and progressive area. As the centre of a vast agriculture and oil and gas producing region we are prospering and growing. We’re proud of our community and welcome you to share it with us, either as a visitor, an investor or a new citizen.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Village of Andrew To our visitors, welcome! To the vacation seekers, consider us! To our citizens, promote us! Yes, we do have an identity, and yes, you did hear it right - Andrew is the home of the “World’s Largest Mallard Duck.” Although the history of Andrew commenced well before its incorporation as a village in 1930, Andrew has since been able to retain its vitality due to its ability to adapt to an ever changing economic and social environment. From a village that provided services to an agricultural hinterland of widespread farmsteads, Andrew has grown to become a village that provides services to both farmers and village residents, with a current focus on providing a quality of life for its citizens and

visitors, be they from near or far. We are proud of our modern school and civic, cultural and recreational centre, a joint use facility that opened in the fall of 1992. The latter consists of the Village offices, Council Chambers, multi-use meeting room, bowling alley, exercise/weight room, sauna, and change room facilities. Other facilities include an arena, curling rink, mini-golf, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, ball diamonds, campground, picnic areas, museum, caboose car and community drop-in centre. During the course of 2016, make Andrew a place you visit. If you have any questions or inquiries, please call or visit our staff at the village office. Andrew welcomes you!

Andrew Garlic Festival Don’t forget during Harvest season to check out the Andrew Garlic Festival, happening on October 15, 2016. The all-day event will feature the Family Garlic Country Hoe Down, a huge farmer’s market, Lion’s pancake Breakfast, banquet supper and tons more!

The world’s largests Mallard Duck!

38 In & Around Vegreville 2016

Hamlet of Bruce Bruce, Alberta is a hamlet located South of Vegreville on AB-857 S. According to the 2009 Beaver County Census, Bruce had a population of 71 people. The Bruce Hotel/ Restaurant is one attraction that is popular with both out-of-towners and locals alike. Make a reservation if you want to experience the legendary Bruce Hotel steak nights on Fridays, it fills up fast. Canadian country/

blues singer Samantha King lived in Bruce when she was young. She received notoriety at the age of 13 when she was the youngest person ever to win the ‘Country Vocal Spotlight’ at the 1998 Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton, Alberta. Bruce also boasts one of the oldest one day rodeos in Canada – the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association’s (CPRA) Bruce Stampede.

Bruce Stampede The oldest & largest one day rodeo in Canada!

Pro rodeo action comes to Bruce for the 103rd annual Stampede this year. July 29 will see the local action happening as riders from around the country make their way to the tiny hamlet with lots of flavour! The Bruce Stampede will feature action for everyone with the following events: Mutton Busting, Stick Horse Barrel Race, Greased Pig Scramble, Calf Scramble, Bloomer Race, Wild Cow Milking, Wild Cow Race, Calf Tying, Open Cow Riding, Kids Wild Pony Race, PeeWee Barrels Kicking off the excitement Friday with a new Barrel Racing Jackpot with $1,000 up for grabs. Later that evening is a western dance at the Recreation Centre, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with musical acts Tim Hus, Eli Barsi and Duane Steele. Starting Friday at 4 p.m. catch, the nail-biting chariot and chuckwagon races, happening again at 11 a.m. Saturday. After a Saturday of rodeo action, wake up to a pancake breakfast Sunday morning and Christian Cowboys Gospel Service from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. at the Rodeo Grounds. The parade gets underway at 10 a.m.

At 4:00 p.m. on Sunday July 26. A barbecue will be held on the grounds, rain-or-shine. Bring your appetite! Parking for RVs and automobiles is free, so come early, bring the whole family and prepare for a memorable weekend. Bruce is located 35 km south of Vegreville on secondary highway 857.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Village of Chipman - Coyote Country Come visit our beautiful Village office anytime and take a step back in time as you view the history of our village depicted on the walls of the office in picture form and in the Mural painted on the walls of the Board Room. Take a relaxing moment and meander around our wonderful front garden with its flowers and trees and shrubs. Come join the fun at Coyote Run motorcycle poker rally on June 6, the annual Chipman

Car Crafters Show and Shine on June 5, or the Chipman Country Blues Festival on August 26 – 27. To get to Chipman head West on Highway 16 from Vegreville, then North on AB-15W/AB 855 N towards Mundare/Chipman/Lamont/ Andrew. Chipman, Alberta is roughly a 40 minute drive from Vegreville.

Chipman Show n’ Shine Take a Sunday afternoon off and join the many friends that will be attending the 16th Anniversary Chipman Show n’ Shine, just 25 minutes west of Vegreville on Highway 15. This event is always exciting and the admission kept low to promote attendance. For just one toonie you will see Muscle Cars, Hot Rods, Classic Cars, Antique Cars, Remote Control Car Show, Cool Trucks and many Vintage

40 In & Around Vegreville 2016

vehicles. It all starts at 11:00 a.m. and runs to 4:00 p.m. The Show n’ Shine is sponsored by the Chipman Car Crafters Car Club and is held on Sunday, June 5th, 2016. The day kicks off with a pancake breakfast at 9:00 a.m. with the proceeds going to the Chipman Golden Seniors. The Chipman Historical Foundation will be hosting a Ukrainian plate in the Chipman National Hall starting at noon. The Chipman Volunteer Fire Department is running the all day concession with the proceeds going to support the Fire Department. There will be live entertainment all day long included in your admission and just a reminder to the kids, bring your remote control car and enter the contest taking place during the Show n’ Shine. Lamont County is also the Church Capitol of North America and will be hosting their annual Church tours on this weekend as well. The Church doors are open across the county.

Hamlet of Hairy Hill Hairy Hill is located where the buffalo used to roam. Its unique name is rooted in history because of this. Herds of buffalo often sunned themselves on the picturesque hills of the area and had rubbing wallows where large amounts of their hair accumulated. In the 1900’s when the CPR laid its tracks they found all the buffalo’s hair on the large hills and named the hamlet Hairy Hill. The origi-

nal hamlet site was located two miles south of its present location, but was relocated to be closer to the railway. You can get to the hamlet of Hairy Hill by heading north from Vegreville on AB-857 for about 35 kilometers. Hairy Hill is in close proximity to one of Northern Alberta’s largest feedlots, Highland Feeders and Spring Creek Ranch.

Hairy Hill Annual Rodeo The 28th Annual Hairy Hill Rodeo rides into this small community on July 8 - 9, 2016. It is widely anticipated by spectators and participants alike. Crowds can get warmed up with the Friday Afternoon Heavy Horse Pull starting at 2 p.m. followed by the Rodeo Kids Wild Pony Race, the Wild Horse Race, Wild Cow Milking, and silent auction all starting up at 6 p.m. The dance begins at 9 p.m., the perfect chance for a young cowpoke to find out how lucky he really is! On Saturday morning, be sure to enjoy the pancake breakfast starting at 8:00am before taking in the rest of the show. There is free parking and camping, but please bring your lawn chairs. Events on Saturday will include the Rodeo Kids Wild Pony Race, Sheep Riding, Wild Horse Racing, Wild Cow Milking and another silent auction fol-

lowed by a Saturdya night dance. Located 17 miles north of Vegreville on Secondary Highway 857 and five and a half miles east on Township Road 552, the Hairy Hill Rodeo is a “must-see” event packed with thrills and excitement for the whole family.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Village of Holden The Village of Holden derived its name from the late Mr. J. B. Holden, the first MLA in the constituency for the Province and a former Mayor of Vegreville. Holden was incorporated as a village in 1909. Holden boasts an excellent Museum with a 1911-era town model and family research archives. It is open from May to Labour Day on weekends, or any time by appointment. Holden is an active and creative community with a local Library, Community Hall, Art Gallery, and Theatre (movies and performing arts). Sports and special event facilities include ball diamonds, campground, spray

Farmer’s Day

The Farmer’s Day celebration has been part of Holden for many years. It’s a bang-up weekend with something for all ages. Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 11, 2016 and head on down to enjoy the Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Live Entertainment, Market, Children’s Activities, Supper, Fireworks and much more. Activities run from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

42 In & Around Vegreville 2016

park, arena, and playgrounds. A K-6 school is located in Holden; with grades 7-12 attending in Ryley (10 minutes west). Historic buildings and the iconic 1923 Cenotaph have been designated as historic resources, showing pride in the heritage and culture of this region. We invite you to share the charm of country living and our friendly atmosphere any time of the year. Holden has a population of roughly 400 people and can be reached by heading south from Vegreville on AB-857, west on AB-626 and then south on AB-855. Driving to Holden from Vegreville takes roughly 30 minutes.

Town of Lamont “City Living, Country” Style, is Lamont’s motto. Located Northwest of Vegreville on Hwy. 15, Lamont is a great destination if you are wishing to head out for weekend or short trips. The Mohyla, located just north of Lamont, was constructed in 1991 and it marks the centenary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada. The exceptional murals on the north wall of Lamont High school and in the Lamont Health Care Centre are another must see. Happening this year in June on the 18th is the Lamont Community Fair and the 2nd annual Perogy Festival which will have all

the great elements of country fairs from the past, including a pancake breakfast, parade, Lord Strathcona Musical Ride, Tractor Pull, Market and more! The hit-event of the summer in Lamont is always the Summer Sizzler. This year it’s happening from July 23 - 25, 2016 and the highlights include Bench Shows, Children`s Events, Beer Gardens, Rodeo/Bull-a-rama, and Market Garden. Saturday will feature a rodeo dance with special guests Sweet Tequila.

Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo & Fair

This three day Rodeo and Demo Derby scheduled for July 22-24, 2016 has it all! Saturday features the always anticipated Parade & Pancake Brunch and the dynamic action doesn’t stop there. The Rodeo Events and the Demolition Derby are absolute thrillers for all. Not quite as exciting but just as fun are the Bench Show and Market Square, and maybe, just maybe, a Chili Cook-off sure to “sizzle” your taste buds. Enjoy your afternoon in the Beer Gardens and end your day with the delicious Steak BBQ Supper and a Saturday night Ro-

deo Dance with special guests Sweet Tequila! The day’s events are wheelchair accessible. The Lamont Agricultural Society sponsors the Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo in late July.The June 18th Fair hosts Fire Works, Rodeo/Bulla-Rama, Market Square, Bench Show, Demo Derby, Horticulture Events, Children`s Events and much more. There is fun for everyone in Lamont! Come to the Recreation Grounds in Lamont for a great time at the Rodeo & Fair.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Village of Innisfree Wapasu Recreation Conservancy Park

Wapasu Recreation/Conservancy Park is located just a few kilometers southwest of Innisfree, just off Highway 16. The Wapasu Recreation/Conservancy Park was developed in partnership with Ducks Unlimited, Parks and Wildlife Canada and the County of Minburn as a millennium project with funding provided by the Federal Government. Land for the project was acquired in 1999 from the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians and the park was officially opened the following year. The park is for

44 In & Around Vegreville 2016

day use only for cottage owners, locals, or those who wish to stop off who are travelling along the highway. There is a large area for family reunions and the park also features a recreation area for sports, a cookhouse and washrooms. Wapasu Lake, which the park is situation beside, is a shallow, spring-fed lake perfect for surface paddling. For a quiet, out of the way spot to relax and enjoy the scenery, look for the Wapasu Park signs along Highway 16, and get back in touch with Mother Nature.

Take a well deserved break from your travels along the Yellowhead Highway at Innisfree. Stretch your legs,enjoy some scenery,or explore the hidden village.The Village of Innisfree is roughly a 20 minute drive East of Vegreville. The spectacular Birch Lake, located just one kilometer south of Innisfree, is especially suitable for bird watching. While there, enjoy the day-use facilities for a picnic or camp overnight. This beautiful, modern campground features over 50 sites (including pull-through and powered), a group camp with heated shelter and an attractive shower/administration building. The picturesque view from the viewpoint located just south of the highway is a welcome sight for travelers eager to get out and stretch their legs. Just a five minute drive west of the viewpoint is a nature conservatory based on the spring fed Wapasu Lake. It is developed as a multi-use public recreation day-use facility including swimming and a bed and breakfast facility.

A five minute drive west on Highway 16 is the Innisfree Fish and Game Trout Pond,stocked for your fishing enjoyment. On the north side of the highway,venture into our hidden village- Innisfree. Established in 1908,Innisfree’s history stems back to a visit by the President of the Canadian Bank of Commerce, who said that he would build a bank in the village if the name of the village would be changed from Delnorte to Innisfree. Yeats poem“The Lake Isle of Innisfree”was his inspiration for our romantic name as nearby Birch Lake reminded the banker of his summer home in Ireland. As they say, the rest is history. Visit the tourist information center in the historic old Bank of Commerce building on mainstreet which is open Tuesday to Sunday 9:00am to 12:00pm in the summer and by appointment by contacting the Village Office. You can take in a meal or coffee in one of two cafes,or simply absorb the pleasant company and well-kept appearance of the village.

Innisfree Fair

August is the month when the people of the area gather to relax and enjoy the company of friends and neighbors. The Innisfree Fair takes place on August 10, 2016 and begins with a pancake breakfast on East Main Street. A parade commences in the morning and slowly winds its way through the village. Getting underway at noon at the Recreation Center is the bench show. The afternoon also consists of family activities, including numerous activities at the park and a children’s soap box derby on 51st street. Finish off the day at the Recreation Center with supper and entertainment. A visit to Innisfree Fair is a fun and relaxing way to spend a lazy summer day and a great opportunity to experience the spirit of Innisfree and its people.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Town of Mundare - Small Town, Big Heart East of Edmonton on Highway 16 is the charming town of Mundare. With the Main Street rehabilitation now completed, the results are fabulous. The new sidewalks, street lights and elm trees that were planted create a beautiful setting for the friendly town’s guests and residents alike. You can experience the history of the Ukrainian settlement and the Basilian Father’s mission in Canada. The Basilian Father’s Museum is a world class facility of very unique design and an intriguing collection of artifacts and history. Adjacent to the museum is the beautiful Ukraina Park recreation area. The park provides camping stalls with electrical hookups, shower facilities, a picnic shelter, large fire pit and many other amenities. This site is home to exciting ball tournaments during the summer,so bring the team and have fun! The small town is bursting with comforts and leisure options such as an 18-hole championship golf course, a hockey arena, curling rink, numerous ball diamonds, a water spray park, bowling alley and a public library.

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The Basilian Fathers Museum

Since arriving from Ukraine in 1902, the Basillian Fathers have taken a special interest in the rich Ukrainian patrimony brought to Canada by Ukrainian settlers since 1891. Over the years an extensive collection of religious and folk artifacts textiles, photographs, books and other material has

been accumulated and are now displayed in a modern museum in the heart of early Ukrainian Canadian settlement, Mundare. This small community is only an hour’s drive east of Edmonton at the junction of Highways 15 and 16.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Town of Mundare Mundare Agri-Daze A huge event for families to attend is Mundare Agri-Daze, happening this year August 20 – 21. Attractions include an agricultural show, a slow pitch tournament, quilt show, steak supper, beer gardens and dance for a full weekend of fun and frolic. The Agri-Daze parade is always a great time for the kids as the streets fill with sweets. It’s a small town parade though, complete with live horses – be sure not to pick up an apple if it’s steaming! Check out the parade, pancake breakfast and Sunday brunch as well. The events are held at Mundare’s picturesque Ukraina Park in August each year.Visit the tourist information booth or call the town office for more information.

Ukraina Park Campground Just down the street from The Basilian Fathers Museum is Ukraina Park recreation area. *Concession Building for special events *26+ Camping Stalls for RVs, Trailers, & Tents *Electrical Hookups *Washrooms & Showers *Public Phones *Picnic Table at each site *Picnic Shelter *Playground *Three (3) Ball Diamonds *Group Fire Pit Area.

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Hamlet of Ranfurly Ranfurly, Alberta is a small hamlet located 20 minutes East of Vegreville on Highway 16. Despite only having one post office, one church and an Agricultural Society, Ranfurly is quite an active community. The first people to hunt and occupy the Ranfurly area were the prairie division of the Plain’s Cree. It is these hunting parties, or similar bands, that are likely responsible for the buffalo skeletons found in the Ranfurly area. After the buffalo were destroyed, the Plains Cree were obliged to settle on reserves. One of the original reserves and the one closest to Ranfurly is that at Saddle Lake. The area where Ranfurly is located was formed from a large number of smaller units of land dating back to the 1900’s. Ranfurly sprung up, along with other nearby towns, when a new

railway line came into use in 1906. The Ranfurly Ag. Society is very active in the community, by hosting monthly meetings at the old school, monthly Steak Suppers on the last Tuesday of every month and by hosting the annual fair. The Ag Society is also very active in the Curling club which holds a handful of bonspiels each year, in the Ranfurly curling rink which uses only natural ice. The Ag Society also has a Seniors Club that is active in the community since 1984. How did Ranfurly get its name? It was as simple as picking from a name from a hat of British Earls, Dukes, and Lords. Lord Ranfurly was the fifteenth governor of New Zealand. The Ranfurly Shield is a New Zealand rugby trophy memorial to Lord Ranfurly, who had no Canadian or local connection.

Ranfurly Fair

Just down the road from the busy nexus of Hwy’s 16 and 36 lies the quiet Hamlet of Ranfurly. Although small in population, it is quaint in scenery with a popular Recreational and Agricultural Centre as the hub of the community. Its used heavily by the community throughout the year, including popular Ranfurly Ag Society Steak Fries planned on the last Tuesday of June, August, and October. Also happening are the Senior’s Pot Luck Suppers once a month. There are also yearly bingos in the spring and fall. Don’t forget to

check out the Ranfurly Museum, located in a former classroom and filled with artifacts and treasures. On August 7, 2016 plan to attend the annual Ranfurly Agricultural Fair. It features a morning parade that is “twice as nice” as to give spectators a better view the second time around. Ranfurly fair day also includes a well attended horse show for young and old, a judged bench show, other entertainment, children’s games and an evening BBQ.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Town of Two Hills

A small community nestled in the heart of Northeastern Alberta, Two Hills offers the serenity of country living in a small town setting. Situated close enough to Edmonton to enjoy the conveniences and benefits the city has to offer, but far enough away from the big city problems. Two Hills is the ideal location to raise a family, retire or start a business. A neat and tidy community with tree-lined streets, sidewalks and full services, Two Hills prides itself on being friendly and community minded. John Weaver’s handcrafted statues of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Dowhaniuk, located in Heritage Park, pay tribute to the Dowhaniuk family and all of the pioneers of Two Hills. Diefenbaker Avenue, named after former Canadian Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, leads you past the school, the

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park and into the quaint downtown area. The tranquility of Two Hills, with its scenic and challenging nine-hole golf course, fully stocked trout pond, and a swimming pool, offers the perfect location to “Build Your Own Dream Home.” Lots are available in the Golf Course Subdivision. The motto “Small Town with a Big Future” is one that Two Hills’ Town Council and Administration have committed themselves to, providing the residents of the community with the opportunity to live in a healthy, viable town. Two Hills, with its many benefits and services, is a community with unlimited potential. It is a great place to visit or call home. Two Hills is located approximately 40 km northeast of Vegreville at the junction of Highways 36 and 45.

Two Hills Ag. Society Rodeo The Two Hills Agricultural Society holds one of the many rodeos that cowboy and cowgirls make a stop at along the rodeo trail. This year’s rodeo action will be spectacular and it’s all happening August 13 – 14 in Two Hills. At this rodeo you will be able to cheer on your favourite cowboys and cowgirls in the following events: bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, team roping and ladies barrel racing. On the Saturday you can also check out the horse show, bench show and beer gardens, while on Sunday you can enjoy the parade, bench show and beer gardens.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Town of Tofield Located just 45 minutes southwest of Vegreville, the Town of Tofield has a wonderful variety of activities for everyone! Although once known to the Snow Goose Festival – celebrating the migration of waterfowl each spring – the drought conditions caused the Lake to dry completely. Although there are still many species of migratory birds to be seen, the numbers that once were noted, are migrating through areas to the east. But there is much more to be experienced in the Town of Tofield. Perhaps a less formal visit to Tofield this year might include a visit to the Tofield Museum,

a visit to the Tofield Farmer’s Market, or stop at some of the unique businesses in Tofield – eg. James Built Saddlery, Mom’s Ice Cream, or Snow Goose Quilting – to name just a few. Enjoy a day on the Golf Course, a walk along the paved trail system in Tofield, or a picnic lunch in one of the many parks in Town. Happening this August 03, the Tofield Lions Club will host the Heritage Classic Car Show, complete with a parade, pancake breakfast, gymkhana, fireworks and family fun!

Tofield Sodbuster Rodeo Scheduled for June 3 – 5, 2016. This rodeo is co-sanctioned with the Lakeland Rodeo Association (LRA) and the Wildrose Rodeo Association (WRA) – this an-

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nual event draws nearly 400 contestants annually. It is the largest entry in the LRA. Event details will be available in May.

Town of Viking The Town of Viking is located Southeast of Vegreville. Head east on Highway 16 and then south on Highway 36 and you will come across the charming town of Viking, Alberta. Viking museum is one of the best in the area. It is a 1921 hospital which has been completely redone so that ever room is a different time period. Another historical element

of the Viking area is the Ribstones. They are native carvings in stone from more than 1,000 years ago. If you would like more of a recreational element, Viking has that too! A nine-hole golf course with grass green can be used for your liking, or you can use the facilities that Viking has for baseball and soccer.

Cloverlodge Stampede The Cloverlodge Stampede will be hosting their 36th Annual Stampede on June 25th and 26th, 2016 The rodeo is both Lakeland Rodeo Association and Wildrose and Foothills approved and all major events include: bareback, novice horse, saddle bronc, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding as well as pee wee, junior and ladies barrel racing. Family events will include a petting zoo, a children’s money pit and fireworks on Sat-

urday night! Come on to Viking to enjoy the cowboys/girls and the outstanding livestock from Scott Miller. Bounce house, petting zoo and money in the sand pile for the kids. Outstanding rodeo entertainment for everyone else! Events all weekend long! The Cloverlodge Stampede grounds are located in the Northeast corner of the Town of Viking, just north of the Golf Course. There is lots of room for free camping.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Village of Willingdon The Village of Willingdon is located north of Vegreville off of AB-857, on Hwy 45 just east of Whitford Lake. Willingdon has a population of roughly 300 people and was largely settled by Ukrainian and Romanian farmers. Five kilometres east of the town is the Historic Boian District, featuring St. Mary’s Romanian Orthodox Church and a museum dedicated to local Romanian pioneers.

Stop by the Willingdon Tourist Park along Hwy 45 where you can find the World’s Largest Lapel Pin and a camping facility with full hook-ups and showers. Willingdon Fish & Game welcomes visitors to their stocked fish pond and park located on 53 Ave. & 49 St.

Willingdon Agricultural Fair

The 72nd year of the Willingdon Fair takes place on August 6, 2016. On Saturday there is also a pancake breakfast, with the parade starting at 10am. Perogy lunch, penning, kids pony races, wild cow milking, magician for the kids, kids events, beer gardens during the day, concession all day long, steak supper and outdoor dance with karaoke. Don’t forget to grab your spot when the fireworks start!

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To enjoy the finest of entertainment and small town feel, make Willingdon Fair a part of your family’s summer fun! Don’t miss out on the 5th annual Willingdon Gospel Jamboree Weekend! Music to soothe the soul, August 12, 13, and 14. Come out and join us at the Willingdon Campground for a weekend of rejoicing! Overnight camping available for both events!

Village of Ryley

Mainstreet is home to niche businesses such as Ryley Sausage and the working museum of George’s Harness and Saddlery with its antique harness making equipment from all over North America. Ryley is also home to the only indoor swimming pool in Beaver County and now have a climbing wall and new hot tub. The monthly Village Market and many other programs and events are held at the Community Centre all year long. On the 3rd weekend in June the village hosts the Summer Bust Out festival featuring a free pancake breakfast, parade, market, baseball, family events, a dinner, dance and fireworks. Cheer on your favorite team in the Ry/Tof Annual Slo-pitch Tournament held September long weekend. In early December come out for the lighting of our 46 foot Christmas tree, hot chocolate, carols and free skate at the outdoor skating rink. With a great variety of facilities, the Ryley

Sports Grounds are an active place year round. Enjoy phase one of the skate/BMX Park, active curling rink, outdoor skating rink, three slo-pitch and one hardball shale diamonds, two parks and a concession. You can also spend a weekend at the campground and visit the Ryley & District Museum, which is housed in two country schools joined together.

In & Around Vegreville 2016

s n o i t c a r t t A & s k r Pa Elk Island National Park ................Pg 57 Ukrainian Cultural Village .............Pg 60 Kalyna Country Ecomuseum .........Pg 62

Elk Island National Park Just 55 km west of Vegreville on Highway 16 this 194 sq km national park, together with its neighbours and adjacent provincial lands protects a core area of 900 sq km known as the Beaver Hills, underlain by the Cooking Lake Moraine. The moraine is a plateau of wetland, mixed wood forest and grassland that sits twenty meters above the surrounding plains. Elk Island protects a representative portion of the Southern Boreal Plains and Plateau Natural Region and is one of the largest remaining aspen-dominated lower boreal mixed wood forests in south-central Canada. On March 28, 1906 Canada‘s first wildlife sanctuary was established as Elk Park. Beginning a long history of conservation efforts in Elk Island, five local men signed a $5,000 bond with the Dominion Government of Canada to protect one of the last remaining herds of elk in the country in a 41 sq km fenced enclosure around

Astotin Lake. Plains bison from Montana then arrived in 1907, ultimately destined for Buffalo National Park at Wainwright; 48 animals eluded capture and their offspring remain in

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Elk Island National Park Home to over 250 species of birds!

the park to this day. In 1965, a small herd of wood bison from Wood Buffalo National Park was brought to Elk Island to establish a disease-free herd for future recovery initiatives. Trumpeter swans were reintroduced in 1987 after an absence of over 100 years and are once again firmly established in the park and region. Elk Island continues its proud history over the past century, supporting Parks Canada‘s identity as a leader in conservation. Elk Island National Park offers a variety of activities for all ages and interests. The park contains 11 hiking, cross country ski and snow shoeing trails that vary in length from

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300 meters to 16.5 kilometres. The park is a bird watcher’s paradise boasting over 250 species of birds. Astotin Lake provides visitors with great photography spots, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, canoeing, kayaking, and a great view of the starry night sky. Choose your camping experience in the Sandy Beach Campground from tenting, RV and Tee Pee sites by reserving online at www.pccamping. ca. Group camping and day picnic sites are available throughout the park as well. Participate in an evening interpretive program at the Astotin Theatre or take in a round of golf at the 9-hole Elk Island Golf Course surrounded by the scenic beaver hills landscape.

Wildlife Viewing Tips Watching wildlife be wild is one of the most unique experiences one can have while visiting any national park. Elk Island is home to many species of wildlife typical of the southern boreal plains and plateaux natural region. Watch plains bison, woods bison, moose, elk and deer graze in their natural habitats. Spring Spring is calving time in Elk Island. Cow elk hide their calves for 10 days or more after birth. Orange coloured bison calves are easy to spot on the landscape at this time of year. Animals can be more aggressive during the calving season; extra caution should be taken to give wildlife plenty of room. Summer Summer is breeding season for the bison. The “roaring” of the bull bison can be heard day and night, as bulls challenge each other in rutting ritual. Opportunities to view plains bison, moose, elk and deer are best at dusk and dawn as animals feed before bedding down. Beavers are also busiest at dusk and dawn. Autumn Autumn is the breeding season for members of the deer family. Elk are highly vocal animals; when alarmed, cows give sharp barks to warn the rest of the group. The whistling bugle of rutting bull elk is a spine-tingling sound and an experience unto itself on a frosty autumn morning. Enjoy the sounds of Astotin Lake; many species of birds use Astotin Lake as a staging area before they fly south for the winter. Winter Winter is an excellent time to watch for elk and moose. Wary, elusive elk are easier to spot as they spend more daylight hours foraging for food. Year Round Scenic Wildlife Viewing Drives There is something new to see with each season. Tune in to FM 93.3 seasonal information on what is happening in Elk Island. Yellowhead Highway (Hwy 16) bisects Elk Island National Park for 10km. As you travel on the highway, watch for wood bison to the south and plains bison to the north.

Elk Island Parkway is the major roadway through the Park: 20km north and south. Plains bison, moose, elk, deer and coyotes may be seen. Bison herds gather during the mating season known as the rut (mid July to mid-August); elk herds are commonly seen during the winter. Take your time and enjoy the view! Tawayik Lake Picnic Area is located 1km off the Elk Island Parkway. The short drive takes you to a serene lakeshore picnic area with an accessible viewing platform and telescope. Shorebirds and waterfowl are abundant and bison often graze in the area. Traveling On The Parkway Be patient and careful as motorists may not be familiar with the Park and may stop suddenly. Animals may attempt to flee from a car by continuing to run alongside the vehicle. If safe to do so, pull over or slow down until the animals safely leave the road. Exhibits and Viewpoints Exhibits and viewpoints are located at most trailheads. Some of the most spectacular views can be seen on the shores of Astotin and Tawayik Lakes, especially at sunrise and sunset. When safe to do so, pull over to enjoy the wildlife and scenery; use a road pull off site, a trailhead parking lot, or watch for signs indicating viewpoints. From Dusk to Dawn Be extra careful at sunrise, sunset and at night, this is when animals are most likely to be on the road. Animals may panic when they see your headlights; slow down until you are well past them. To Increase Your Enjoyment While on the Trails - Travel with others, on established trails, during daylight hours - Dress in layers, carry sufficient water, insect repellent and sunscreen - Pick only trails suitable for your fitness level. Let someone know where you are going, and when you expect to be back - Be prepared for rapid changes in weather - Stay on the trail; retrace your steps if unsure of your route or if you encounter threatening wild life - Cell phone reception is unreliable

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Visit the ada’s home of Can n ﬁrst Ukrainia Immigrant, Ivan Pylypow

East Central Alberta was once home to the largest settlement of Ukrainian pioneers in Canada! The Ukrainian Cultural heritage Village is Alberta’s premiere Ukrainian-themed attraction highlighting the vital role these pioneers played in the province. See over 30 historic buildings, restored to their original

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condition, including three churches of Eastern Byzantine Rite. Visit costumed role players portraying original characters from 1892 to 1930. Ride in a horse drawn wagon, sample Ukrainian food and visit our gift shop. There are numerous special events to take in throughout the summer season.

2016 Celebration of Spring Special Event Monday, May 23, 2016 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Gates open at 9 a.m.) UCHV 2016 Spring Celebration Welcome the start of a new season at the Ukrainian Village with Celebration of Spring. Take in one of Alberta’s largest Ukrainian dance extravaganzas featuring numerous dance groups of all ages from across Alberta. Meanwhile, in the historical village, families can visit with costumed role players and celebrate spring on the farm with a full day of authentic activities. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair for seating. 2016 Vintage Day/Kalyna Voice Special Event Sunday, June 26, 2016 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Gates open at 9 a.m.) UCHV 2016 Vintage Day Step on the gas, drive back in time and enjoy a spectacular display of vintage vehicles at the Ukrainian Village. This family fun day includes Kalyna Voice singing competition, children’s activities, free horsedrawn wagon rides, exhibits, entertainers, historic activities, traditional Ukrainian food and a Village Market. Finalists will perform at our annual singing competition, recently renamed Kalyna Voice. Singers from across Alberta will sing “vintage” songs (pre 1970) and showcases the provinces best young singers; co-hosted by Kalyna Country Ecomuseum. 2016 Ukrainian Day Special Event Sunday, August 7, 2016 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Gates open at 8:30 a.m.) UCHV 2016 Ukrainian Day Celebrate the 125th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada at Ukrainian Day 2016. Witness history come alive as Alberta’s vibrant Ukrainian community commemorates the arrival of the first Ukraini-

ans to Canada. An afternoon concert featuring the best in Ukrainian dance and music will commence a year-long celebration by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Alberta Provincial Council. Other family fun includes a visit to the historical village, children’s activities, village market and the Ukrainian Village Food Festival. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair for seating. 2016 Friends Ukrainian Music Fest Special Event Sunday, August 21, 2016 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Gates open at 9 a.m.) UCHV 2016 Friends Ukrainian Music Festival Experience a live concert blending traditional and contemporary Ukrainian-Canadian music at the 31st annual Music Fest presented by the Friends of the Ukrainian Village Society. Bring a lawn chair and spend the afternoon with Steven Chwok of 840 CFCW Zabava Program and Alberta’s most popular bands and musicians. 2016 Harvest of the Past & Harvest Food Festival Special Event Sunday, September 11, 2016 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Gates open at 9 a.m.) UCHV 2016 Harvest of the Past Celebrate Alberta’s agricultural roots with a traditional harvest at the Ukrainian Village. See the Village one last time and witness an old-fashioned threshing bee complete with vintage farm equipment and grain deliveries to the historic elevator. The Harvest Food Festival offers a unique culinary experience for visitors to experience favourite fall foods from the region. Other historical activities include flower and herb drying, feather stripping, making kapusta (sour cabbage), grinding wheat, quilting, and canning of produce from the museum’s gardens. 2017 Iordan - Feast of Jordan Thursday, January 19, 2017

UCHV 2016 Iordan Feast of Jordan Experience one of the most important holy days of the Ukrainian church calendar. Iordan, also known as the Feast of the Epiphany, is observed annually at the end of the Ukrainian Christmas season to commemorate the baptism of Christ. Attend a water blessing ceremony at an ice cross following church services. Bring a glass jar and collect a small amount of holy water to take home after the blessing. Explore a number of historical buildings where costumed role players can demonstrate how Ukrainian pioneers celebrated this special day. 2017 Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival Saturday, February 11, 2017 UCHV 2016 Birkebeiner Ski Festival The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is a proud gold sponsor of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival with the 55 km and 31 km events starting on the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village grounds. Experience Canada’s largest classical format cross-country ski festival! Join thousands of skiers and replicate the 800-year-old legend of the rescue of Norway’s infant heir to the throne. Mykolaia Feast of Nicholas - May 22 Zeleni Sviata Pentecost - June 19 Ivana Feast of St. John the Baptist - July 7 Petra i Pavla Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul - July 12 Volodymyra Feast of St. Vladimir - July 28 Spasa Feast of Transfiguration - August 19 Bohorodytsia Feast of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary - August 28

In & Around Vegreville 2016

Kalyna Country Ecomuseum The Kalyna Country Ecomuseum is a 20,000 square kilometer heritage district between Edmonton and Saskatchewan border. A picturesque mix of classic prairie and parkland terrain, it embraces a territory that is more than four times the size of Prince Edward Island and includes such communities as Gibbons, Redwater, Thorhild, Smoky Lake, Vilna, Two Hills, Elk Point, Myrnam, Viking, Holden, Tofield, Lamont, Bruderheim, Cooking Lake and Josephburg. Vegreville is located near the centre of the ecomuseum, which takes its name from the highbush cranberry plant that is native to the region. Kalyna is the Ukrainian word for this large and distinctive bush, which produces clusters of white flowers and is also known as the GuelderRose and the “Snowball Tree”.In the fall, the plant yields generous bunches of red cranberries that are rich in vitamin C and can used for baking or to make juice, jelly, jam and syrup. The territory encompassed by Kalyna Country boasts numerous points of historical interest and other tourist attractions. The North Saskatchewan River valley, for instance, offers not only many scenic vistas, but a string of former trading posts and a famous trail that once linked Edmonton to Winnipeg. In the 18th-19th centuries a “Who’s Who” of Canadian historical figures traveled through Kalyna Country, among them Anthony Henday (fl 1750-1762), Peter Fidler (1769-1822), David Thompson (1770-1850), Paul Kane (1810-1871) Sir Sandford Fleming (18271915) and the legendary lawman, Sir Sam Steele (1849-1919). You can learn more about some of these colorful characters at Fort George/Buckingham House near Elk Point, and the Victoria Settlement, north of Andrew. Accompanying the first Europeans were Cree guides from the eastern prairies along with their Métis cousins, both of whom played a key role in opening up Alberta to subsequent settlement. Descendants of the Cree still live at the Saddle Lake, Goodfish Lake and Frog Lake First Nations reserves, while the Métis recently established a major cultural and educational centre known as Métis Crossing in south Smoky Lake County. Of course, one of the more obvious features of the Kalyna Country region is its unmistakably

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Slavic flavor – the legacy of the pioneer period that brought a huge influx of homesteaders into east central Alberta at the end of the 1800s. Although ethnic Ukrainians formed the largest single group to arrive from Eastern Europe, numerous Romanians, Poles, Germans and Jews who immigrated to Kalyna Country also began their trek from towns and villages in Ukrainian lands Among the museums that specifically document the Ukrainian pioneer experience are the spectacular Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village on Highway 16; the Basilian Fathers Museum in Mundare; and the Shandro Pioneer Village, north of Willingdon. The cradle of the oldest and largest Ukrainian agricultural colony in Canada can be found at Star, just north of Lamont, and more than one hundred Byzantine Rite churches still grace the Kalyna Country landscape with their familiar onion domes and quaint bell-towers. However, perhaps the most famous symbol of the Ukrainian contribution to Alberta’s growth and prosperity is the world’s largest pysanka, or Easter egg, located east of Vegreville’s town centre at the Elks/Kinsmen Park. In addition to its imposing monuments, impressive historic sites and remarkable natural areas like Elk Island National Park and Beaverhill Lake, the ecomuseum offers a wide variety of annual events that are ideally suited to family outings. From Vegreville’s Pysanka Festival to the Thorhild Rodeo, and from the Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fest to the Saddle Lake Pow Wow, the Kalyna Country calendar is full of activities that draw visitors year-round. The primary objective of the ecomuseum project, begun in 1992, is to promote greater public awareness and appreciation of Kalyna Country’s unique history and culture. Predicated on the assumption that the best way of encouraging the preservation of the past is to make it accessible and vibrant in the context of the present, the Kalyna Country Ecomuseum is committed to preserving local heritage resources and cultural traditions so that they can be enjoyed by present and future generations of Albertans.

In & Around Vegreville 2016