Heritage Day

Heritage Day (AB) History

Heritage Day in Alberta is a day of celebration focused on recognizing and honouring the varied cultural heritage of Alberta's citizens and residents. As an important observance in the province’s annual calendar, it is designed to foster a greater appreciation and understanding of the diverse historical, cultural, and ethnic richness that makes up Alberta. The day seeks to promote public awareness of the dynamic and kaleidoscopic patterns of culture, history, faith, customs, and traditions that characterize this Canadian province.

The inception of Heritage Day in Alberta dates back to 1974 when it was first declared by the province's Honourable Doctor Horace A. Krywko, the then minister of culture. The observance of this day was intended to provide opportunities for Albertans to reflect on, understand and enjoy their cultural heritage, history, and significant contributions to the society. The day also underscores Alberta’s crucial role as the crossroads of several Native American, French, British, and other global cultures, thus symbolizing the multicultural vibrancy integral to Canadian identity.

Heritage Day in Alberta is observed with a variety of celebrations which can include special ceremonies, multicultural events, local fairs, historical exhibits, and family-oriented activities. It is a time when people of Alberta and visitors alike immerse themselves in a cultural experience that often encompasses performance arts, traditional music, culinary delicacies, and craft demonstrations reflecting the province's diverse heritage. Notably, Heritage Day in Alberta is marked on the first Monday of August each year, paving the way for a long weekend of commemorative activities and vibrant multicultural exhibitions.

Top facts about Heritage Day

• Heritage Day was officially declared in Alberta in 1974 by the Minister of Culture Dr. Horst A. Schmid. Schmid designated it an annual holiday to be celebrated on the first Monday in August. The aim was to recognize and celebrate the cultural heritage of all Albertans.
• Canadian heritage takes pride in its national symbols, including the maple leaf, which appears on the Canadian flag, and the beaver, which is often used as a symbol of perseverance and resourcefulness.
• There are more than 970 national historic sites throughout Canada. Only 171 of them are managed and administered by Parks Canada.
• The celebration of Heritage Day was based on the Indigenous tradition of gathering at the summer solstice to celebrate their community and culture
• Canada is a bilingual country with both English and French as official languages.

In the News and Trending for Heritage Day

Top things to do for Heritage Day

• Visit the Edmonton Heritage Festival at Hawrelak Park in Edmonton's River Valley. This festival is a three day celebration of multiculturalism that is fun for everyone.
• Visit one of Canada's many historic sites.
• Watch the 2020 Edmonton Heritage Festival if you missed it.
• Visit indigenous communities to learn about their traditions and culture.
• Attend cultural events and festivals in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver that celebrate Canada's diverse heritage.