Drape a flag or deck the family out in red and white, just be sure to take advantage of this glorious and free holiday by participating in the many activities in and around Calgary.
Best in Show: Canada One
One of the premier equestrian tournaments in North America, families will be wowed at the show jumping and enjoy strolling around the groomed grounds with awe-inspiring views.
Spruce Meadows; 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW; www.sprucemeadows.com
Best Place to Rock Out: Cochrane
Bring your lawn chairs and stay out a little later for a family concert featuring One More Girl and The A Cappella Fellas.
Tickets $10, Free/Under 12; Mitford Park, Cochrane; www.cochrane.ca
Best for History Buffs: Fort Calgary
Make it a full patriot day with free pancakes, pony rides, petting zoo and shuttle service to and from Prince’s Island Park.
Free Outdoor Activities; Inside $5-$11, Free/Under 2; 750 9 Ave. SE; www.fortcalgary.com
Best Urban Retreat: Prince’s Island Park
Performers on three stages keep families entertained, while the large playground keeps the youngsters happily occupied. Be sure to bring cash for the food vendors and roving balloon animal artists.
Free; www.calgary.ca
Best Small Town Celebration: High River
Escape the city and participate in a 5-15 km run before heading over to leafy George Lane Park for hayrides, a petting zoo and live entertainment. Hit the Hitchin’ Post for real milkshakes and HP burgers before heading out of town.
George Lane Park; 323 Macleod Trail, High River; www.highriver.ca
Best Mountain on Your Doorstep: Canmore
Everyone loves a parade and this small town gem is a winner, with candy tossed off the floats, umpteen marching bands and so many horses you’ll want to check the bottom of everyone’s shoes before getting back in the car.
Canmore Canada Day Parade; www.canmore.ca
Best Downtown Experience: Olympic Plaza
Downtown’s where it’s at for live entertainment, roving performers and the city’s fireworks display once night falls.
Free; 228 8 Ave. SE; www.calgary.ca
Best for Toddlers: DeWinton Station Garden Railway
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy an al fresco afternoon of great music, face painting and rides on Ol’ Smoky.
242 Avenue 48 St. W., DeWinton; www.dewintonstation.com
Best for Wannabe Cowboys: Bar U Ranch
Experience Canada Day cowboy style, at the most successful and infamous ranch in Western Canada. Mosey over to the fire for camp coffee and cake, take a horse-drawn wagon rides, or just wander through hundreds of acres of ranch lands at the base of the foothills.
$3.90-$7.80, Free/Under 6; Longview; www.pc.gc.ca
Best for Old Fashioned Fun: Heritage Park
Celebrate Dominion Day (as it’s known around here) the old fashioned way with potato sack races and a traditional circus. The first 2011 guests before 10:30am receive a free pancake breakfast.
$14.50-19.50; Free/Under 3; 1900 Heritage Dr. SW; www.heritagepark.ca
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