Lacombe Region - City of Lacombe
Transcription
Lacombe Region - City of Lacombe
Find your way to new favourite memories Lacombe Region 2016 Visitor’s Guide (City of Lacombe and Lacombe County) Maps & Information Local Attractions lacombetourism.com Events & Festivals 1 Discover the Lacombe Region Find your way to new favourite memories Centrally located on the Hwy 2 corridor, the Lacombe Region is just over an hour’s drive away from Calgary and Edmonton. Whether through a historic guided tour, tasting local food, attending a festival or discovering our beaches and countryside attractions, visitors to the region will find many ways to make new favourite memories. The Lacombe Region is rich in culture and heritage and home to vibrant communities with a strong sense of their past. Landmarks such as the Michener House, the Flatiron Building, the Lacombe Blacksmith Shop and the Pico House are permanent highlights for their history, local importance and architecture. Our Farmers’ Markets are great places to discover the many different foods grown and raised in the Lacombe Region. From May to October, pick up locally grown produce, freerange organic and/or hormone-free meats, natural honey, baked goods, artisanal gifts, and woodwork at one of our markets in Blackfalds, Lacombe or Bentley. Can’t make it to the market? Discover Brown Eggs and Lamb, a farm store open year round, or go online to Central Alberta’s online local food market, the Green Pantry. Delicious, home-made food can also be enjoyed at the many local and familyowned cafés and eateries in the area. 2 Festivals and events showcase our lively arts & culture scene and celebrate the agricultural heritage of our region. Major annual events in the region include: The Encore Art Show and Sale, The Vintage Tractor Pull and Show, The Eckville Rodeo, Canada Day, Lacombe Days, Bentley Fair and Rodeo Days, AB Open Farm Days, the Lacombe Culture & Harvest Festival and Light Up the Night. On a beautiful Alberta day, go for a drive on scenic Hwy 12. Head west to discover the natural beauty of Alberta’s first Provincial Park - Aspen Beach Provincial Park, and let your toes touch the sand at Gull Lake. Keep going west and discover the vibrant communities of Bentley and Eckville. Heading east from Lacombe on Hwy 12, stop for lunch the Ellis Bird Farm or make it a daytrip to the communities of Alix and Mirror and discover the area of Buffalo Lake. All across the region you will find great camping options and a variety of places to stay for every budget! You will be charmed by this beautiful part of Alberta that has so much to see and do. We warmly invite you to discover and explore our region. lacombetourism.com Content Discover the Lacombe Region 2 Find your way to new favourite memories 2 Messages from the Mayor and Reeve 4 Tourism Information for the Lacombe Region 5 Lacombe Regional Tourism Office Visitor Information Centre Plan your visit to the Region 5 5 5 6 Our Communities 8 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 History 16 Museums 18 Museums in the City of Lacombe Museums in Lacombe County 18 19 Murals & Walking Tours 20 Local Food 22 Markets Online Local Food Market Farm Store Restaurants Bed and Breakfast Hotels Campgrounds See & Do Calendar of Events Lacombe County Alix Bently Blackfalds Clive Eckville Lacombe Accomodations 22 22 22 23 Shopping 24 Services 25 Experience Lacombe County Summer Days at Gull Lake Lacombe’s Country Stores A Birder’s Paradise Play All Day Festivals and Rodeos with that Small Town & Country Charm Fall/Winter Fun Countryside Attractions Nature, Trails and Beaches Horseback Riding Golfing Nursery and Greenhouse Fishing Recreational Parks Skiing On The Ice Cinema Sporting Facilities Indoor Play Centre Town Offices Alix Bentley Blackfalds Clive Eckville Gull Lake Lacombe Lacombe County Morningside Tees Maps Insurance Real Estate Art & Gallery Exhibits/Info Community Groups/Organizations Vehicle Care & Accessories 25 25 25 25 25 City of Lacombe Lacombe County 26 26 26 27 29 29 29 32 32 34 36 37 38 38 39 39 39 40 40 41 41 41 41 41 42 4442 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 44 44 46 3 Messages from the Mayor and Reeve Top 10 Things to Do in Lacombe County 1. Discover Ellis Bird Farm–a conservation site and farm Stroll the trails, enjoy the beautiful gardens, see the world’s largest outdoor collection of bluebird nest boxes. 2. Explore our Historic Downtowns There are 5 different museum to explore in Lacombe county. The Michener House Museum, the Flatiron Museum, and The Blacksmith Shop in Lacombe, The Wagon Wheel Museum in Alix, the The Bentley Museum in Bentley and The Mirror Museum in Mirror. 3. Visit a Farmers’ Market, U-pick, local restaurantor farm store! Try some local fresh foods – Bison, lamb, and fresh farm products can be purchased at Brown Eggs and Lamb located on Woody Nook Road just south of Hwy 12. “On behalf of Council and residents, thank you for taking an interest in Lacombe, Alberta’s newest city! We hope that you will discover many opportunities for camping, fishing, golfing, hiking, bird watching, and sightseeing in our beautiful and welcoming community. Participate in the many festivals and cultural events we host year-round, and browse through the unique shops in our historic downtown. We invite you to share in the warmth and hospitality that the people of Lacombe have to offer.” City of Lacombe Mayor, Steve Christie 4. Build a Castle in the Sand Spend the day on a sandy beach at Gull Lake – located between Lacombe and Bentley. Aspen Beach Provincial Park has a beautiful beach and Day Use Area with a concession, boat launch, change rooms, cooking shelters, and fire pits. 5. Enjoy Hike or Bike Natural and Paved Trails the paved trails from Bentley to Gull Lake or Lacombe to Blackfalds, start at the Federal Research Station in Lacombe and end at the new Abbey Centre in Blackfalds! J.J. Collett Natural Area is a great place for a nature hike Continued on page 27... “Welcome to Lacombe County - A place where recreation opportunities are abundant, where petrochemical industries blend with farming, and friendly people are all around. Come visit and experience the taste of country as you enjoy our beautiful landscapes.” Lacombe County Reeve, Paula Law 4 Tourism Information for the Lacombe Region Stop in to visit us in person at: Lacombe Regional Tourism Office Located in the Flatiron Museum #100, 5005 - 50 Avenue (Main Street/Hwy 12), Lacombe (403) 755-6935 lacombetourism.com Regular Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9 am–5 pm (closed 12-1) Summer Hours: 7 days a week, 9 am–5 pm (closed 12-1) Visitor Information Centre Located in the Lacombe Chamber of Commerce Building 6005 - 50 Avenue (Main Street/Hwy 12), Lacombe Located just off of Hwy 2 at Exit 422 (403) 782-4300 lacombechamber.ca Regular Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am–4:30 pm (closed for lunch) Summer Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am–4:30 pm (closed for lunch) Saturday and Sunday 8:30 am–1 pm Plan your visit to the Region Find your way to attractions, events, local food, shopping and accommodations at lacombetourism.com Visit our Blog section for day trip ideas and itineraries to plan your stay in the region. 5 Calendar of Events Upcoming festivals, happenings and events: April June (continued) July (continued) Lacombe Trade Show April 8 & 9, 2016 lacombechamber.ca Lacombe Fly-In/Drive-In Pancake Breakfast June 5, 2016 lacombeairport.ca 4H Rodeo in Tees July 9–10, 2016 northernhorse.com/tees Encore: Lacombe Annual Art Exhibit & Sale April 15 & 16, 2016 lacombetourism.com May Alix Bull-A-Rama May 6, 2016 villageofalix.ca Alix Spring Market May 7, 2016 villageofalix.ca Eckville Bullarena May 7, 2016 eckville.com Clive Fun Fest June 17–19, 2016 clive.ca Vintage Tractor Pull, Parade and Show June 18–19, 2016 lacombetourism.ca July Canada Day Celebrations Alix, Bentley, Blackfalds, Gull Lake, Lacombe, Mirror July 1, 2016 lacombetourism.com Alix Movie in the Park July 15, 2016 villageofalix.ca Lacombe Days July 21–24, 2016 lacombedays.ca Annual Tees Rodeo July 29–31, 2016 northernhorse.com/tees Tail Creek Raceway WORR Mid-Sumer Mayhem July 30–31, 2016 facebook.com/tailcreekraceway August Music in the Park-LMC June 1–August 31, 2016 lacombetourism.com/music-in-the-park Bluebird Festival July 1, 2016 ellisbirdfarm.ca 3rd Annual Meston Invitational Steer Riding & Barrel Racing Fundraiser for Alberta Children’s Hospital Rotary Flames House August 1, 2016 northernhorse.com/tees Eckville Rodeo June 3–5, 2016 eckville.com Trail Creek Raceways Mudfest July 1–3, 2016 facebook.com/tailcreekraceway Bentley Fair and Rodeo Days August 4–7, 2016 bentleyagsociety.com June 6 Blackfalds Days June 17–19, 2016 blackfalds.ca August (continued) September (continued) December Bug Jamboree August 6, 2016 ellisbirdfarm.ca Lacombe Culture & Harvest Festival In celebration of Alberta Culture Days September 22–25, 2016 lacombetourism.com Christmas Markets and Events Various locations around Lacombe County until Christmas lacombetourism.com October Alix Christmas Market, Parade of Lights and Toy Run December 3, 2016 villageofalix.ca Alix Days and Rodeo August 6–7, 2016 villageofalix.ca Tail Creek Raceways Grudge Match August 6–7, 2016 facebook.com/tailcreekraceway Ourfest—Alberta’s Own Tail Creek Raceways 40+ Bands, 4 Days August 9–10, 2016 albertasown.ca Alberta Open Farm Days August 20–21, 2016 albertafarmdays.ca September Gull Lake Show & Shine Pancake Breakfast September 4, 2016 summervillageofgulllake.com Clive Village-Wide Garage Sale September 10, 2016 clive.ca Tail Creek Punisher Event September 17–18, 2016 facebook.com/tailcreekraceway Bill Nielsen Trail Run October 1, 2016 billstrailrun.com Alix Octoberfest October 7, 2016 villageofalix.ca Roctoberfest Gem and Mineral Show October 13–23, 2016 silvercove.biz Tees Halloween Spooktacular Party & Dance October 29, 2016 northernhorse.com/tees November Light Up the Night Festival in Lacombe November 24–27, 2016 lacombetourism.com Twinkle Tours, Lacombe Flying Club November 24–27, 2016, then every Fri, Sat, Sun until Dec. 18, 2016 lacombeairport.ca Light Up Blackfalds blackfalds.com Tees Community Christmas Concert December 8, 2016 northernhorse.com/tees Alix Community Christmas December 9, 2016 villageofalix.ca January 72nd Annual Farmers & Farmerettes Bonspiel January 9–14, 2017 lacombecurling.com February Blackfalds Winterfest February 20, 2017 (Family Day) blackfalds.com March Spring Gem & Mineral Show March 2–12, 2017 silvercove.biz 7 Lacombe County, RR3 Lacombe, AB T4L 2N3 (403) 782-6601 info@lacombecounty.com Situated in the heart of Central Alberta, Lacombe County is a diverse municipality with many agricultural operations and small businesses, as well as a vibrant petrochemical and oil and gas industry. Lacombe County and its urban recreational attractions, from lakes and rivers to ski resorts, campgrounds and golf courses. www.lacombecounty.com 8 Our Communities The Village of Alix is located in the heart of Central Alberta’s Parkland 45km east of Hwy 2 on Highway 12 and has a wealth of recreational activities for all seasons. In the summer enjoy Alix’s Campground at Alix Lake. Both waterskiers and wakeboarders are welcome on the lake and there’s a 6.3 km Alix Nature Trail which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the winter we have our arena, a toboggan hill, and the lake which is perfect for cross country skiing. Just minutes away is Haunted Lakes Golf Course, which features a 9 hole grass greens course, Alix has many amenities such as a skateboard park, playgrounds, community hall, drop-in senior center, drop-in youth center, public library, museum and Ag grounds. Alix is the home of Moonwalkers Play Center, Alberta’s premiere family entertainment center, a 3,500 square foot indoor Play Center equipped with slides, a zip line and many tunnels for the kids to explore. Alix provides visitors with a unique experience and year round special events. Highlights include Bull-A-Rama May 6, Canada Day Celebrations July 1, Movie in the Park July 15, and Alix Days and Rodeo August 6 & 7, to name a few. villageofalix.ca Alix Facts • Look out for the Alix-Gator, our Mascot. He’s featured all over the the town. Can you spot him? • Did you know the Village of Alix was originally named Toddsville. By June 1907, the village had incorporated, and was renamed after Alexia Westhead, the community’s first woman settler • Dr. Irene Parlby, one of the “Famous Five”, called the VIllage of Alix home. moonwalkers.ca 9 Our Communities Lacombe County Facts • Lacombe county is home to Alberta’s first provincial park. Aspen Beach Provincial Park was founded in 1932. It’s home to the sandy beaches on the south shore of Gull Lake • Lacombe became Alberta’s 17th city September 5, 2010 • One of Lacombe's most famous residents was Roland Michener, Governor General of Canada from 1967 to 1974. • Lacombe County has a rich history of Agricultural research. In fact there’s a variety of Hog, with characteristics suitable for the harsh prairie environment, named after the region. Gull Lake Homesteaders first settled the region south and west of Gull Lake in about 1895. The Summer Village of Gull Lake is located on the south shore and is the oldest Summer Village in Alberta. It was incorporated in March 1913. Traditionally, Summer Villages were formed from 'Summer Resort' areas. Their residents were predominately summer residents or "cottagers". A number of today's cottagers in the Summer Village are descendants of the first owners. There are stories and memories from the early days of the Summer Village about the men and women who built the hotels, who managed the first stores, who provided the ice and the wood, and those who went up and down the back lane to sell milk, butter, vegetables, chickens, and home baking. 10 1 0 Overlooking the beautiful Blindman Valley and situated between Gull Lake & Sylvan Lake, Bentley has lots to offer visitors. Our Farmer’s Market, held every Saturday afternoon, from May 21 to September 3, is one of the best and a favorite in Central Alberta. Gull Lake is a 5 minute drive or a short walk on the paved walking path that connects Bentley to Gull Lake and Sylvan Lake is a quick 15 minute drive away. Our quiet, picturesque and popular campground offers 34 (un-serviced) sites, a shower building, playground with water & RV dumpsite available. Call the Town Office at 403-748-4044 to reserve a site. Bentley is a full service community offering several excellent restaurants, grocery store, service station, amazing antique shop and several other unique stores offering clothing, jewelry, housewares & decor you won’t find anywhere else. Join us for our Canada Day Celebration with birthday cake, barbecue and entertainment. Don’t miss our Fair and Rodeo August 4–7, with a ton of activities starting with a Parade on August 4, a Rodeo, Show & Shine, pancake breakfasts, community supper, fireworks & more. The weekend is guaranteed to be packed full of activities, entertainment, food & drinks. Check our Facebook page and website for information and updates. Enjoy your visit to our friendly, safe, caring community and learn more about what we are all about... you may decide you want to stay. Town of Bentley Box 179, 4918 - 50 Avenue Bentley, AB T0C 0J0 Phone: (403) 748-4044 Fax: (403) 748-3213 townofbentley.ca Our Communities Town of Blackfalds Just minutes north of Red Deer, the Town of Blackfalds is a vibrant, youthful and progressive community. You will enjoy the advantages of the family-friendly atmosphere and award winning recreational amenities that have made the community one of the fastest growing ones in Canada. The Abbey Centre is a cultural and recreational gem that serves as a community gathering place. Guests of the Abbey are treated to: t TUBUFPGUIFBSUöUOFTTDFOUSF t NFUSFMBOFJOEPPSSVOOJOHUSBDL t PVUEPPSBRVBUJDDFOUSFXJUI+S0MZNQJDTJ[FQPPMXBUFSTMJEFTTQMBTIQBSL BOEQFSTPOIPUUVC t TUPSZJOEPPSQMBZDFOUSF t SFOUBMTQBDFGPSQBSUJFTBOENFFUJOHT t TRVBSFGPPUöFMEIPVTFHZNOBTJVNGPSUPVSOBNFOUT and drop in activities Trail enthusiasts will appreciate that the Abbey is the only place in Canada where the Trans Canada Trail travels indoors before then continuing past UIFPVUEPPSQMBZHSPVOEöUOFTTBSFBBNQIJUIFBUSFBOEQJDOJDBSFB While in town, take some time to have fun at some of the other local amenities such as: t .VMUJ1MFYXJUIJOEPPS]PVUEPPSJDFBSFOBTTLBUFCPBSEQBSLBOECBORVFU]NFFUJOHSPPNT t 5BZMFT8BUFS4QSBZ1BSLXJUIQMBZHSPVOEBOEQJDOJDBSFBT t "MM4UBS1BSLXJUIöSTUSBUFCBMMEJBNPOETTPDDFSöFMETDPODFTTJPOBOEDBNQHSPVOE #FQBSUPGUIFNBOZFYDJUJOHBOOVBMFWFOUTMJLF8JOUFSGFTUPO'BNJMZ%BZ#MBDLGBMET%BZTPOUIFSEXFFLFOEJO+VOF $BOBEB%BZDFMFCSBUJPOTXJUIöSFXPSLTTVNNFSTMPQJUDIUPVSOBNFOUTBOEDVMUVSBMQFSGPSNBODFT BOE-JHIU6Q#MBDLGBMETBOE#SFBLGBTUXJUI4BOUBJOMBUF/PWFNCFS 8JUITPNVDIUPTFFBOEEPJO#MBDLGBMETBOETVSSPVOEJOHBSFBJODMVEJOHHPMöOHöTIJOHCJSEXBUDIJOH PSBEBZBUUIFTQBXFIPQFZPVMMDIPPTFUPTUBZBXIJMF&YQFSJFODFiIPNFBXBZGSPNIPNFw EVSJOHZPVSWJTJUBUUIF#MBDLGBMET8ZOEIBN*OO4VJUFTBOEFOKPZUIFIPTQJUBMJUZBOE FYDFQUJPOBMTFSWJDFBUMPDBMSFTUBVSBOUTBOENFSDIBOUT 4UBZVQUPEBUFPOXIBUTIBQQFOJOHJO#MBDLGBMETBUCMBDLGBMETDPNPSPO'BDFCPPLPS5XJUUFS 4UBSUQMBOOJOHZPVSWJTJUOPX 11 Our Communities Town of Eckville “Community of Choice” Welcome To Eckville Eckville is proud to be considered the “Community of Choice” in Central Alberta. The Town is only a short drive to urban centres and the Rocky Mountains, but also has many local amenities. Eckville has much to offer residents and visitors – a senior’s facility, 2 private gyms, numerous parks and playgrounds, an Elementary School and a High School. There is a local Recreation Board that offers numerous programs and activities for families. Other recreational organizations include a children’s playgroup, dance, minor baseball, figure skating programs, and organized hockey. In 2014, Eckville focused on recreational growth – adding a Walking Trail and Spray Park. The 1.2 km paved Walking Trail is the first phase of Eckville’s Pedestrian Trail Network. The Spray Park also opened in the summer of 2014, offering a family-friendly activity to stay cool in the hot summer months. The Town of Eckville also has a modern arena and curling rink, newly-renovated Community Centre, well-stocked Public Library, centrally located Lion’s Campground and a vibrant business community. The residential community is also growing with our newest subdivision, McDonald Heights, offering affordable lots for sale. Residents of McDonald Heights have easy access to the newly developed Walking Trail which leads to the downtown core. Local Events: The Town holds many local sporting events such as ball and hockey tournaments and curling bonspiels. There are also special annual events such as the Ice Carnival, Municipal Breakfast, Bullarena, Eckville Rodeo & Parade and Canada Day Celebrations— be sure to check out the Town of Eckville website for more information! Town of Eckville 12 Box 578, Eckville, AB, T0M 0X0 Phone: (403) 746-2171 Fax: (403) 746-2900 eckville.com Our Communities Universal Truth #23 A tight knit community is always in season. The City of Lacombe is a friendly and warm community of nearly 13,000 residents. We are simply a beautiful city with abundant trees, numerous ponds and rolling hills. We are proud of our unique downtown, which features Edwardian architecture that is literally the envy of the country. Our main street was recently named the best by the Great Places in Canada competition. We are more than happy to have you come and see what all the fuss is about! Lacombe is optimally situated by nearby Gull Lake and Aspen Lake Provincial Park, as well as number of memorable attractions. Lacombe also features an array of unique shopping and dining experiences. The City plays host to a number of wonderful community events throughout the year. Please join us for: • • • • • Encore April 15-16, 2016 Canada Day July 1, 2016 Lacombe Days July 21-24, 2016 Culture & Harvest Festival September 22-25, 2016 Light Up the Night November 23-27, 2016 Lacombe- Live a beautiful life. www.facebook.com/cityoflacombe @cityoflacombe 5432 56th Ave, Lacombe, AB, T4L 1E9 | 403-782-6666 www.lacombe.ca 13 Make a SPLASH at the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre 5429 53rd Street The Lacombe Sports and Leisure Complex is home to the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre (KAC). Join us and cool off on those hot and sunny days, or take the kids for a swim on those dreary wet days! The Kinsmen Aquatic Centre offers a climbing wall, slide, rope and many special events. The Splash park is FREE to the public and open from June 1 to September 5, weather dependent. For more information on the KAC schedule call 403.782.1277 or visit www.lacombe.ca/pool. Let’s Talk Trails! The City of Lacombe has an extensive trail system including natural, gravel and paved paths. There are many ways to take advantage of the trails within the city including some of our major trail attractions: - Cranna Lake Paved Trail with fitness equipment - Elizabeth Lake Natural Trail with fitness equipment - Henner’s Park Paved Trail - Barnett Lake Natural Trail - Downtown Mural Walking Tour For more information on trails and how getting outdoors can enhance the quality of your life, visit www.lacombe.ca/trails or pick up a Trails Brochure from one of the many kiosks throughout Lacombe. 14 Lacombe Public Art Collection Sip and See ... Lacombe Memorial Centre 5214 50th Avenue The Lacombe Public Art Collection graces the walls of the Lacombe Memorial Centre (LMC). Enjoy a specialty coffee from Anna Maria’s Cafe and walk the walls to discover Lacombe’s art collection of over 200 pieces! This collection grows each year and can be seen on the ground floor and second level of the LMC. The creativity of a diverse range of artists includes: - vibrant acrylic and oil paintings - delicate watercolours - raku pottery - etched glass - wood carvings and more Tatanka by Wanda Whaley For more information on the City of Lacombe’s Public Art Collection, visit www.lacombe.ca/artcollection. Because sometimes you have to see it to believe it Take a stroll in the alleyways of Lacombe’s downtown core, yes ... the alleyways! The City of Lacombe hosts stunningly beautiful murals that paint the downtown with history and life; our murals are the envy of the country. Experience them all through a self-guided walking tour. Pick up a brochure at the Chamber of Commerce, City Hall or Flatiron Museum and Interpretive Centre and walk in amazement at the beautiful artwork that graces our community. For more information visit www.lacombe.ca/murals or call 403-782-1258. 15 History The history of the Lacombe Region is intricately tied to its rural roots and agricultural heritage as it is home to communities established by pioneers, homesteaders and farmers. The history of the region has been influenced by its central location halfway between Calgary and Edmonton - first, as a necessary resting place when it took days to travel on horse and buggy, then later as a centre for trade and transportation with the arrival of the railway. 1904 Boards of Trade are established to advertise the district and attract prospective settlers to the area 1907 1900 The Lacombe Experimental Farm (Federal Research Station) is founded Two rival newspapers are established and the Lacombe Police Service is founded 1904 1891 1902 The arrival of the train enabled settlers to move to the area The Town of Lacombe is established 16 The Village of Blackfalds is established In 1902, Lacombe was the first town established in the area and within the next twenty years the communities of Blackfalds, Alix, Clive, Mirror, Gull Lake, Bentley and Eckville were all established. Since its establishment in 1912, the Summer Village of Gull Lake has been a popular vacation destination with its sandy beaches, summer camps, and cottages. Today, the lake and surrounding farmland continue to offer a charming natural retreat to vacationers. The year 2015, marks the centennial of the town of Bentley, a charming community home to quaint shops and boutiques lining its traditional Alberta-style Main Street. Experience our local culture and learn about the region’s history by visiting our Museums, exploring the countryside, and attending a local Festival. 1908 2010 Canadian Union College is established The Town of Lacombe becomes a City (now Canadian University College) 1912 The Village of Mirror is established 1907 1913 The Village of Alix is established The Summer Village of Gull Lake is established 1912 The Village of Clive is established 1921 1966 The Village of Eckville is established The Village of Eckville becomes a Town 17 Museums Museums in the City of Lacombe Experience Lacombe’s unique architecture and visit three museums located in our historic Edwardian downtown. Flatiron Museum & Interpretive Centre 5005 - 50 Street, Lacombe (403) 755-6935 mhma3.blogspot.ca Summer Hours: 7 days a week 9 am–5 pm (closed 12–1) Winter Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 9 am–5 pm (closed 12–1) Admission is free, Donations gratefully accepted Call to book a group tour of the Museum or guided walking tour The Flatiron building in Lacombe is the first of two flatirons to have been be built in the province of Alberta. This beautiful Edwardian building built in 1904 was home to the Merchants Bank of Canada, Lacombe’s first bank. Today, the main floor and basement of this architectural landmark is home to the Flatiron Museum & Interpretive Centre showcasing permanent and temporary displays. Michener House Museum & Archives 5036 - 51 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-3933 mhma3.blogspot.ca Summer Hours: 7 days a week 9 am–5 pm (closed 12–1) Winter Hours: Friday to Saturday 9 am–5 pm (closed 12–1) Admission is free, Donations gratefully accepted Call to book a group tour of the Museum or walking tour Founded in 1984, the Michener House Museum is located in the oldest surviving home in Lacombe dating back to 1894. Threatened with demolition in 1971, the house was the first conservation effort of a heritage building in Lacombe and was saved due to its history as the first Manse built in the community and for being the birthplace of Roland Michener, Canada’s 20th Governor General from 1967–1974. The museum showcases items relating to the Michener Family as well as local artifacts dating from the beginning of the 20th century and that reflect the period when the house was a Manse. The Archives preserve the Michener legacy as well as documents, photographs, and artifacts significant to the Lacombe region and its history. 18 Blacksmith Shop Museum 5020 - 49 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-3933 mhma3.blogspot.ca Open to public: Saturdays in July & August from 10 am–4 pm. Canada Day, Lacombe Days, Lacombe Culture & Harvest Festival and other community events. Tours available by appointment during the summer and fall months. Call to book a group tour. Admission is free, Donations gratefully accepted Built in 1902, the Blacksmith Shop Museum is the oldest operational Blacksmith Shop in Alberta today. While some additions and alterations have been made over the course of its hundred year old existence, the shop’s original forge continues to be used in blacksmithing demonstrations taking place today. Museums Museums in Lacombe County Alix Wagon Wheel Museum 4810 - 4812 50 Street, Alix (403) 747-2584 or (403) 788-2218 alixwagonwheelmuseum.wordpress.com July & August, Tuesday to Saturday 10 am–5 pm Otherwise please call to set up time for a visit. When Joseph and Cynthia Todd left the U.S. in a Wagon Train in 1899, they little knew that stories of gold being panned in Tail Creek would lead them to homestead in the area of today’s Village of Alix. You can see pictures of the white bullock they drove and the hub of their wagon wheel, along with their story and photos at the Alix Wagon Wheel Museum. The artifacts of several early settlers’ families, including those of Walter and Irene Parlby, and of C.C. McDermand are on display along with a collection of taxidermied birds, tools made and used by settlers, sports team memorabilia going back to the early days, a war memorial room, pioneer kitchen, and much more. Bentley Museum & Bentley Visitor Information 4929 - 51 Avenue, Bentley (403) 748-2455 unlockthepast.ca Summer Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 9 am–5 pm Open on Holidays. Winter Hours: Wednesday 9 am–12 pm and by appointment. The Bentley Museum is housed in the historic Pico House, a 1924 farmhouse, with additional buildings on the property. Exhibits depict the early way of life of settlers in the area from 1898 onwards. Walking tours of historical Bentley and general visitor information are available at the Museum. Mirror & District Museum 4910 - 53 Street, Mirror (403) 788-3625 or (403) 788-3902 unlockthepast.ca Summer Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10 am–5:30 pm, Sunday 1 pm–4 pm Other times by appointment. The Mirror & District Museum collection is comprised mainly of Pioneer settlers and Railway articles and photos. Most of our artifacts have been donated over thirty years. WELCOME FROM MLA RON ORR LACOMBE-PONOKA Welcome tourists to Lacombe and area! As you visit our beautiful community we hope that you will take the time to look around and enjoy the many unique and picturesque attractions that the City has to offer. As you take a walk through our rich historical downtown, I know you will enjoy the many shops and restaurants that offer a unique culinary or shopping experience. Take a drive through our industrial area where you will find unique businesses as well as our new microbrewery. I hope your visit to Lacombe is memorable and I’d like to wish you a very safe and happy holiday and remember to come and visit us again real soon! Ron Orr, MLA Lacombe-Ponoka 19 Murals & Walking Tours Murals Did you know that Lacombe is Alberta’s Mural Capital? Proud of its roots, Lacombe has literally ‘painted the town’ with images showcasing its history. Murals by artist Tim Giles adorn the sides and backs of buildings throughout the historic downtown area and depict local street scenes drawn from archival photographs. Learn more about the mural project at lacombe.ca or take a guided walking tour of the murals provided by interpreters from the Flatiron Museum. Visitors also have the option of picking up a brochure at one of the local Museums and take a self-guided tour of the murals. Walking Tours Hear stories of the past on a Guided Walking Tour of the Murals and Lacombe’s beautiful Historic downtown. Guided tours are offered by interpreters at the Flatiron Museum. Visitors can 20 pick up a Historic Walking Tour Book ($10/each) at one of the Museums as a keepsake or to take a self-guided tour. Lacombe’s historic downtown boasts six Designated Provincial Historic Buildings and the most intact concentration of Edwardian Buildings in the Province. For more information about the walking tour visit the Museum’s website at mhma3.blogspot.ca Lacombe Loves Heritage Lacombe is home to many historic homes, buildings and sites. Visit Lacombe Heritage on Facebook to learn more! UHDOHVWDWHFHQWUDODOEHUWD /$&20%(2)),&( 6WUHHW ZZZUHPD[ODFRPEHFRP %DVHGRQFORVHG WUDQVDFWLRQV 6RXUFH &5($5(0$; 285 $JULFXOWXUDO$FUHDJHV &RWWDJHV/DNHVLGH 5HVLGHQWLDO&RPPHUFLDO 5($/7256DUH&RPPXQLW\0HPEHUV 9ROXQWHHUV<RXU1HLJKERXUV 21 Local Food Markets Restaurants Lacombe Community Market Wednesdays 4:30 pm–8:30 pm June 1 to August 31 LMC 5214 - 50 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 848-1367 Watch website for special market days throughout the year lacombecommunitymarket.ca Morrison House Café 5331 - 51 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 789-1234 morrisonhouse.ca Tuesday to Saturday 11 am to 3:30 pm Farmers' Markets are open mid-May–October and host special indoor markets for Easter and Christmas. Blackfalds Farmers’ Market Mondays 4 pm–7:30 pm Blackfalds Community Hall 4810 Womacks Road, Blackfalds (403) 392-0546 Lacombe Farmers’ Market Fridays 9 am–1 pm Lacombe Arena & Parking Lot 5429 - 53 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-4772 or (403) 877-1280 Bentley Farmer’s Market Saturdays 1:30 pm–4 pm Bentley Curling Rink & Parking Lot 5218 - 50 Street, Bentley Online Local Food Market The Green Pantry thegreenpantry.ca Currently serving Lacombe, Red Deer, Sylvan Lake Ponoka, Rocky Mountain House, Camrose and Stettler Please see website for pick-up and delivery information Farm Store Brown Eggs and Lamb 40323 Woody Nook Road (at Hwy 12) (403) 782-4095 browneggsandlamb.com Open mid-May–September: daily 12–7 pm And 12–6 pm Tuesday to Saturday the rest of the year 22 Cilantro and Chive 5021 - 50 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-2882 cilantroandchive.ca Tim Horton’s 4924 - 46 Street, Lacombe 6017 Parkwood Road, Blackfalds (403) 782-0893 Local Food 23 Shopping Oh My Garden #2, 4842 - 46 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-6100 facebook.com/omglacombe Monday to Saturday 10 am–6 pm, open late Thur. to 9 pm, Sunday 12 pm–5 pm The Vintagebelle’s Antiques and Boutique 5014 - 50 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-2341 thevintagebelle.com Tuesday to Friday 10 am–5 pm, Saturday 10 am–4:30 pm Queen Bea Clothing Marketplace 5011 - 50 Avenue, Bentley (403) 658-8545 lacombetourism.com/queen-bea-clothing-marketplace Tuesday to Saturday 10:30 am–5 pm 24 Services Insurance Sims & Associates Insurance Services 5020 - 51 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-3049 simsinsurance.ca Monday to Friday 9 am–5 pm Real Estate Remax Central Alberta #1, 5265 45 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-4301 remaxlacombe.com Art & Gallery Exhibits/Info Alberta Artography—A Travelers Guide Art and Artists of Alberta albertaartography.com Community Groups/ Organizations Lacombe Generals Hockey Senior AAA Men’s Hockey generalshockey.ca The Lacombe Flying Club Lacombe Airport lacombeairport.ca Vehicle Care & Accessories Soapy’s Car & RV Wash #2 4876 - 46 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-6268 soapys.ca Open daily from 7 am–9 pm 25 Accommodations Bed and Breakfast /DFRPEH,QQ6XLWHV 4751 63 Street Lacombe, AB Elizabeth View Bed and Breakfast 37 Wildrose Street, Lacombe (403) 782-3407 elizabethview.ca Lacombe’s Lakeside Getaway Hotels Best Western Plus Lacombe Inn & Suites 4751 - 63 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-3535 or 1-800-780-7234 bestwesternlacombe.com Enjoy the various amenities Phone: 403-782-3535 Toll Free: 1-844-782-3535 www.bestwesternlacombe.com x x x 26 2 story waterslide, pool & hot tub 24 hour fitness center Easy access off of QE #2 & Hwy 12 x x x Full complimentary hot breakfast 3 banquet and meeting spaces Free Wi-Fi and Parking Greenway Inn 5402 - Hwy 2A, Lacombe (403) 782-7826 or 1-877-889-8877 greenwayinn.ab.ca Your home away from home Accommodations Campgrounds Aspen Beach Provincial Park Brewers and Lakeview overnight camping Hwy 12, Gull Lake (877) 537-2757 albertaparks.ca Burbank Park Campground 1km S of Blackfalds on Hwy 2A, 1km E on Hwy 597, S on Burbank Rd 3km (403) 885-5335 Top 10 Things to Do in Lacombe County (continued from page 4) 6. It’sKraay Family Farm – Lacombe Corn Maze fun to get lost when you’re at the Farm and Corn Maze! Lots of activities for all ages! Eckville Lion’s Campground 5211- 52 Street, Eckville (403) 746-2171 Gilby Hall & Campground 23 km W of Bentley on Hwy 12 N on Range Road 3.4-5, Eckville (403) 746-3402 Michener Park Campground Highway 12, Lacombe (403) 782-1250 lacombe.ca Summerland Leisure Park 12 km West of Lacombe on Hwy 12 at 40325 RR282 (403) 748-4855 summerlandleisurepark.com Sunset Legion Campground Hwy 12 W to Hwy 20N then Hwy 771 N (403) 748-2200 The Narrows Provincial Campground and Park On Buffalo Lake near Mirror 403-742-4338 albertaparks.ca Prices: 2 & under: Free Kids and Kids at Heart: $12.50 Season passes: $30.00. There’s also group rate discounts available. 7. Splash Around – Spray Parks and Swimming Pools The Lacombe Sports and Leisure Complex has both a Spray Park (free admission) and Indoor swimming facility that includes a 25m six lane pool, a leisure pool, and large hot tub in a bright inviting atmosphere. 8. Map a Course – Golf Courses, Mini Golf and Driving Ranges Summerland Leisure Park has a 18 hole Mini Golf which is fun challenge for young and old and Driving Range a great place to practice your swing. Golf courses are plentiful in this area and serious golfers will be pleasantly surprised with the quality of the greens. 9. Moonwalkers – Alberta’s largest Indoor Play Center Perfect for those rainy days when the kids just want to play. Make a day of it by visiting the charming village of Alix. 10. Music in the Park and Lacombe Community Market Join us this summer at the Lacombe Community Market and Music in the Park. Every Wednesday from 4:30-8:30 (music program runs from 6:30-8:00pm) starting June 3 through August 26. Admission is free. 27 28 See & Do From east to west find your way to incredible scenery and outdoor adventure in the Lacombe Region Experience Lacombe County Summer Days at Gull Lake Camp, Play and Eat Ice Cream Aspen Beach was the first provincial park in Alberta and has one of the best beaches around. The day use area has a boat launch and trailer parking, long white sandy beach with shallow swimming area great for kids and Ripples concession serving your favourite foods. No wonder it’s packed with families during the hot summer. Camp at Aspen Beach The Brewer’s campground is located close to the day use beach, has a huge playground and lovely non-power sites among the trees. Lakeview campground is a little further along the lake with its own less-crowded beach, RV sites, most with power hook-up and a small boat launch for fishing on the lake. Gull Lake is full of northern pike and walleye, so plan ahead and bring your fishing license. An interpretive walkway connects the two campgrounds and winds through a nearby marsh, so you can explore the wetlands and search for water striders, frogs and beaver lodges. 29 30 See & Do Park Your Ride at Summerland The Summerland Leisure Park is located adjacent to the Summer Village of Gull Lake, 2 km from the beach and accessible to a safe 6km bike path into the town of Bentley. This family-oriented RV Park has a new colourful playground, 18 hole mini-golf course and driving range. The well-spaced full-service camp spots are big enough to accommodate any size RV and have fire pits, picnic tables and free Wi-Fi. The park hosts birthday parties, corporate events and stags/stagettes and for your next big family gathering, you might park yourselves here and rent the Gull Lake community hall. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE MOBILE APP TODAY Shop and Eat in Bentley The town of Bentley is nestled among green fields of the Blindman Valley and on a clear day you can see the Rockies just peeking up on the western horizon. The town boasts an annual summer fair and rodeo, a variety of boutique shops and a large pioneer museum which includes a heritage farmhouse. Don’t miss the renowned Bentley Farmer’s Market and shop for farmfresh food and hand-made crafts. The market runs every Saturday from 1:30–4 pm from May to the September long weekend. Golf by the Lake Work on your short game at the Gull Lake Golf Course, a 9 hole par 3 course located 15 minutes north of Bentley on the northwest corner of the lake. The course takes less than two hours to complete which leaves lots of time for lunch at the licensed clubhouse. Since you can see the entire hole from every tee, this short course is ideal for beginners; you’ll learn how to play across contoured fairways, rolling greens and out of sand bunkers. Advanced golfers can glory in brag-worthy birdies among lovely lakeside views and a relaxed vibe. Free GPS Book Tee Times Keep Score Live Leaderboards Share Rounds on Facebook SEARCH FOR LACOMBE GOLF IN THE APPLE APP STORE OR ANDROID MARKET General Information: (403) 782-3956 Tee Times: (403) 782-1200 golflacombe.com 31 See & Do Lacombe’s Country Stores Harvest Time in the Country Take a drive in the country to gather the fruits of our good farmers’ hard work. Here are a few of the country stores in and around Lacombe where you can buy farm fresh food. Billyco Junction U-Pick, Farm Store and B&B Billyco Junction is a working farm, wedding and family picnic venue and year-round B&B 10 minutes SE of Lacombe. The farm’s Community Shared Agriculture program delivers fresh, seasonal produce to Edmonton, Red Deer and the Calgary region and their summer u-pick grows chemical-free berries, rhubarb and apples. Right now, in their country farm store you can stock up on jams, jellies, syrup, honey, pickles and relish. milled flour, yogurt, honey and goat’s milk. They also sell locally-raised meats including Canadian Rangeland Elk & Bison products, free-range chickens, and pork. Stock Your Pantry at Green Pantry The Green Pantry is Central Alberta’s Online Local Food Market and specializes in sustainably produced groceries and 90% of their food is grown locally, much of it spray-free. If you live in Lacombe, Ponoka, Blackfalds, Stettler, Red Deer, Camrose, Rocky Mountain House or Sylvan Lake – you can take advantage of weekly and bi-weekly deliveries. Please see website for local drop off and delivery schedules. A Birder’s Paradise Of course, if you are staying in the Honeyberry Inn right on the farm, you can wake up to a home-cooked breakfast, coffee and your pick of scratch-made jelly on toast from your perch on the sundeck; before a soothing bath in the suite’s deep soaker tub. Greenhouse Vegetables at Pik-N-Pak Pik-N-Pak is a distributor for several of the region’s familyowned greenhouse growers. They sell wholesale to your local grocery stores but you can also visit their self-serve corner store year-round for fresh peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes. The Pik-N-Pak facility and store is located in Gull Lake, less than 15 minutes west of Lacombe along Hwy 12. Local and Farm Fresh Year-Round The country store at the Brown Eggs and Lamb farm is open year-round with a mission to connect food eaters to food producers. Shop their farm store just south of Gull Lake, for brown eggs and Alberta lamb, plus home-ground stone- 32 A Home for Mountain Bluebirds—20 Minutes SE of Lacombe The Ellis Bird Farm is a working farm and bird sanctuary for tree swallows, mountain bluebirds and native cavity nesters. Kids love the bird and bug themed festivals, running the trail then snacking on delicious treats in the Ellis Café. Admission to the farm is by donation. 60 Years of Nature Conservancy In the early 1950s, Charlie Ellis – our Mr. Bluebird – started hanging nesting boxes on his family farm just outside Lacombe. Soon he and his sister Winnie had a collection of 300 boxes around the perimeter of the property and created a sanctuary for all kinds of local wildlife. Today the farm has the world’s largest outdoor collection of bluebird nest boxes – plus beaver ponds, beautiful butterfly gardens, baby goats and a nature trail. See & Do Special Days to Visit Come for the Bluebird Festival in July and eat lunch, listen to live music and shop at the market. You can probably guess that you’ll also learn all about the mountain bluebirds that live here and build your own nesting box to take home. The annual Bug Jamboree draws 300 nature lovers to listen to nature songs, learn about insects and spiders and build a nesting box of your very own. They also offer photography workshops; interpretive nature walks and kids day camps throughout the summer. Eat Local at the Ellis Café The Ellis Café serves home-cooked meals with a passion for fresh food and local ingredients; they work with local producers to bring this vision for tasty and beautiful food to Ellis Bird Farm. Planning a Birthday? Birthday party attendees at the farm will build a bird box, make tree cookies, see what’s in the pond, play games about nature, learn about bats and owls and check a bird box for babies. 33 See & Do Play All Day Play comes naturally to kids of all ages – give them space and they’ll just run – sometimes in circles until they’re dizzy. But as kids grow big, remind them of their love of play by taking them to safe, busy places like the Kraay Family Farm, home of the Lacombe Corn Maze and Moonwalkers, Alberta’s largest indoor play centre. 5. Meet new friends and critters Visit the petting zoo to meet Brownie the goat and her spring baby and Jackson, a pig who sits for treats – plus ducks, bunnies, chickens, sheep and a donkey. 6. Cheer and clap Kraay Family Farm Here are 10 different ways to play at the farm: Root for your favourite little curly-tail during the farm’s piggy races – twice a day in the summer. And settle down for just a couple of minutes to watch the animatronic chicken show. 1. 7. Ride trains Run, run, run The farm’s corn maze is 15 acres big and features a new design every year. It takes about an hour and a half to run the full corn maze – but if you have little ones, or need an ice cream break, there are a couple of exits at the beginning of each phase. Big kids can take on the twisty-turny maze after dark by flashlight or by the light of a full moon. 2. Jump The farm has two giant jumping pillows this year, so there’s plenty of room for all the kids who like to bounce – actually, that’s all of them. And yep – you’re allowed to bounce too, Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa. 3. Climb Climb up and over the rope spider web then scale prairie-style Mountains made out of giant tires. Climbers use muscles all over their body and practice their balance too. But mostly it’s just fun. 4. Drive Take a turn on the mini-John Deere tractors on a trail through the corn and steer your speedy pedal cart through a big metal tunnel on the dirt racetrack. 34 34 Attention junior engineers – trains are a big deal here at the farm too. Take the popular grain train around the corn maze, ride the barrel train. 8. Make stuff go BOOM! Aim and fire the corn blaster at a big old bus and completely annihilate an innocent wonky-shaped pumpkin with the pumpkin cannon in the fall. 9. Find a treasure Buy a bag in the store then head over to the gemstone mine and wash it in the bubbling rainwater sluice to reveal precious gemstones, golden nuggets and other fantastic treasures. 10. Eat All that playing is going to give you a good appetite. Luckily the farm sells ice cream, kettle popcorn, hot dogs and deep fried pickles, mini-donuts, cotton candy and fresh roasted nuts. Or you can bring a picnic, cook out over a fire pit or rent a BBQ. See & Do Moonwalkers With just a short drive east of Lacombe you can find a place where Kids can be Kids and Parents can relax. Moonwalkers is Alberta’s newest and largest Play Center. Perfect for those rainy days when the kids just want to play. Open 7 days a week, Moonwalkers also hosts birthday parties and team celebrations! Whether you are a kid, teen or adult, at Moonwalkers they take parties very seriously. Trained Fun Experts take care of everything to ensure that guests of honour get the royal treatment on their special day. Think of Moonwalkers as your preferred venue for your child’s birthday party, or teams’ celebration, in a clean, fun and exciting atmosphere! Discover Alix Make a day of your visit to Alix, and pack a picnic and head to Alix Lake for a walk around the Lake on the picturesque Alix Nature Trail. Spend the afternoon looking at local treasures at the Alix Wagon Wheel Museum, where volunteers and staff will tell you tales of Alix’s past and rich history. Did you know that Irene Parlby—one of the Famous 5—is from Alix? Stop at the Museum and learn about her incredible legacy! The Museum is open in July and August, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am–5 pm, and otherwise by appointment. Visiting with a group? Call the Museum to book a guided tour! 35 Festivals And Rodeos With That Small Town & Country Charm! Lacombe County hosts a variety of fun events for visitors to enjoy year-round. A Festival for Every Season The City of Lacombe’s historic downtown is the perfect backdrop for Festivals year round! In time for Christmas, the City of Lacombe hosts their annual Light Up the Night Festival November 24–27, 2016. Experience the Joy of the Holiday Season during this three day event that captures all of the tradition, heritage and charm of a good old fashioned Christmas Festival. Each year the festival is growing in size and scope, with fantastic activities including Ice sculptures, Twinkle Airplane Tours, Fireworks Display and free movies along with the Tim Horton’s Santa Claus Parade and a Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick off the holiday season. This spring, the City of Lacombe will be hosting the 17th Annual Encore Art Sale & Celebration April 15–16, 2016. This 2 day event features 50+ artists from around Alberta showcasing a diverse range of mixed media artworks including paintings, photographs, pottery, fibre and wood arts and music from Alberta artists, artisans and craftspeople. Check lacombetourism.com for schedule of events for these festivals as they become available. In summer, the City will be celebrating its annual Lacombe Days Festival July 21–24, 2016. This 4 day festival is jammedpacked with family friendly activities including a Penny Carnival, Live Music, Parade and so much more! Eckville Bull-Arena Come to nearby Eckville on May 7, 2016 for the Eckville Bull-arena and watch 30 professional bull-riders from all around western Canada and as far away as Mexico, Paraguay, New Zealand and Australia. After the top 6 short round competes, stay for the crazy Mexican Poker competition and a dance to follow. As the weather begins to cool, the City begins to celebrate the regions’ Harvest with the 5th Annual Lacombe Culture & Harvest Festival. This 4 day festival September 22–25, 2016, has over 35 events celebrating our Agricultural Heritage and showcases the Arts and Culture of our lively, vibrant, and diverse community. There will be fun for the whole family with plenty of feasting, merriment, and live performances. 36 Hot Summer Rodeos Experience the wild rodeo action, all the kid fun, beer gardens and the food in Eckville, Tees and Bentley! Eckville Rodeo This year, the friendly town’s annual indoor rodeo and parade is on June 3–5, 2016. Festivities during the CARA sanctioned Eckville Rodeo include a beef on a bun supper, parade, followed by a cabaret – that’s fancy-talk for a home-cooked Alberta beef dinner and live band! Park your RV for the weekend at the Eckville Lions campground or in the community centre parking lot to enjoy a weekend filled with bull riding, barrel racing and roping events. See & Do Tees Rodeo Every August long weekend, the hamlet of Tees—less than 20 minutes due east of Lacombe – kicks it up with their annual rodeo. The CARA sanctioned Tees Rodeo kicks off on Friday and runs all weekend. Enjoy free camping, covered beer gardens with live entertainment, stock horse and pony races and all your favourite rodeo events July 29–31, 2016. Bentley Fair and Rodeo Days Bentley is a charming little town–20 minutes west of Lacombe and next to popular Aspen Beach on Gull Lake. Visit Aug 4–7, 2016 for the Bentley Fair and CARA sanctioned Rodeo at the aggrounds and all over this busy sunny town. Festivities include a pancake breakfasts, a big parade, kids wool bustin, sheep riding, a bench show, face painting, family entertainment, and all the fun rodeo events like – racing, roping, riding, wild cow milking, a rodeo cabaret, beer gardens and fireworks. Fall/Winter Fun Enjoy a number of activities during the fall and winter! Check out these ideas for keeping active and join a group, organization or event! Kiteboarding Check out this dynamic sport that spans the seasons! Snow and water alike make this a fast paced challenge. For more information on events and great boarding locations follow this group on Facebook. facebook.com/AlbertaKiteboardingAssociation Snowmobiling Central Alberta boasts well-established trails that are perfect for destination touring. Rest stops and amenities are never far and several communities in Alberta Central permit the use of a snowmobile within town boundaries. snoriderswest.com altasnowmobile.ab.ca Skating Most communities have outdoor skating rinks or ponds/ lakes which are cleared for free community skating. Watch for signage on ice conditions. Lacombe Generals Hockey Come out and cheer on Lacombe’s AAA Men’s hockey team. Two time Allan Cup Champions, the Generals play fast paced exciting games against local teams from Stony Plain, Innisfail & Fort Saskatchewan. The winner of this division moves on to play in the Allan Cup against teams from across Canada. BTR Run Formerly known as the ‘Lacombe in Motion’ run, the Bill Nielsen Trail Run (named for its founder), is held the first weekend in October. On October 1st, will be the third year as the BTR. Over 300 runners from Lacombe and provincially, participate in 2k, 5k, 10k or Bill’s Special (10 Miler). Registration open on April 4th, 2016. Medicine Lodge Ski Ski Hill opened on Saturday and Sunday from 10–4 pm, 11 kms west of Bentley on Highway 12. Just under 500 vertical feet of skiing area, with a total of 13 runs ranging from beginner to advanced. Lacombe Cross Country Ski Club Lacombe Cross Country Ski Club is a member based organization creating groomed trails and maps for the avid skier. New in 2016 they are excited to increase their membership and provide great trails and events throughout the winter. Go to their website for more information on conditions and trails skilacombe.com. Ice Fishing Head out to Gull, Sylvan, Buffalo and Gabriel lakes and join the groups of fisherman in the sport of ice fishing. 37 See & Do Countryside Attractions Nature, Trails and Beaches Bird Farm Range Road 260 (Prentiss Road), Lacombe County Located between Hwy 12 and Hwy 597 Visitor Centre (403) 885-4477 ellisbirdfarm.ca Tues–Sun 11 am–5 pm, Holiday Mon 11 am–5 pm (reg Mon closed) Alix Lake Nature Trail 6km Trail around Alix Lake begins at South end of Main Street, Alix Kraay Family Farm Home of the Lacombe Corn Maze West on Hwy 12, Turn left onto RR 273 (403) 302-1709 kraayfamilyfarm.com Tail Creek Raceways 39231 Range Road 223, Nevis 6km east of Alix on Hwy 12, South on AB-21 N (403) 872-9696 tailcreek.ca 38 Aspen Beach Provincial Park and Day-Use Area Hwy 12 at Gull Lake (403) 748-4066 albertaparks.ca Bentley to Gull Lake Trail 7km paved trail along Hwy 12 From Aspen Beach Provincial Park To the Town of Bentley City of Lacombe Walking Trails A network of trails can be found throughout the City Such as at Cranna Lake, Elizabeth Lake, and Barnett Lake Pick up a Trail Map at the Visitor Information Centre Eckville Walking Trail 1.2 km paved trail begins at the Town Monument at the End of Main Street and ends at Emergency Services Bldg. J.J. Collett Natural Area Access from Hwy 2A at Twp Rd 420 Follow signs through Morningside Once on RR 261 turn right onto Twp Rd 414 jjcollett.com Parkland Beach at Gull Lake From Hwy 12 go north on Hwy 771, East on Parkland Beach Road Rochon Sands Provincial Park at Buffalo Lake From Alix go east on Hwy 601 for 21km, North on Hwy 835 (403) 742-4338 The Narrows Provincial Recreation Site at Buffalo Lake From Mirror go south on Hwy 201, east on Twp Rd 402, And north on Twp Rd 221 (403) 742-4338 TransCanada Trail - Lacombe to Blackfalds 9km paved trail begins as the Research Station Grounds Located at intersection of Hwy 2A and C&E Trail, Lacombe Trail ends at the Abbey Centre, 4500 Womacks Road, Blackfalds Wilson’s Beach at Gull Lake From Hwy 12 go north on Hwy 792, West on Twp Rd 412, right on RR 282 Horseback Riding Flying Cross Ranch 41129 Range Road 26-3, Lacombe County (403) 350-7368 flyingcrossranch.com Offering Lessons, Camps and Clinics from beginner to advanced Golfing Gull Lake Golf Course 2 Sunnyside Drive, right off Highway 771 (403) 843-3322 gull-lake-golf.ca Open daily April to October 8am to dusk Lacombe Golf and Country Club #1, 6Ffmar000 - 50 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-3956 golflacombe.com Open daily April to October The Nursery Golf and Country Club Located on the west side of Hwy 2 at Exit 431 41101 Range Road 270, Lacombe County (403) 782-5400 nurserygolf.com Open 7 days a week Summerland Leisure Park - 18 Hole Mini-Golf Course 40325 Range Road 282, Lacombe County (403) 748-4855 summerlandleisurepark.com Open daily 10 am - 9 pm Nursery and Greenhouse Wolf’s Botanical 40231 Range Road 260 (Prentiss Road), Lacombe County (403) 782-5729 wolfsbotanical.com Open 7 days a week May through August 39 See & Do Fishing Recreational Parks Blindman River West of Bentley Pike Gull Lake West of Lacombe Pike and Walleye Buffalo Lake East of Mirror Pike Len Thompson Trout Pond Len Thompson Drive, Lacombe Trout Gabriel Lake North of Eckville Walleye Medicine River East of Eckville Pike Ray’s Pond and Day-use area 5 Miles west of Sylvan Lake on Hwy 11 at Range Rd 3-0 Trout Tees Day-use area and Trout Pond 1 km north of Tees on Hwy 821 on the west side of the road Trout 40 All-Star Park 4800 Leung Road, Blackfalds Eckville Skate Park Two blocks west of 50 Avenue & Hwy 766 (48 Street) in Eckville Kinsmen Ball Park On Woodland Drive, Lacombe Located just off Highway 2A ME Global Athletic Park 5644 - 56 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-2224 lacombeathleticpark.ca Michener Park and Lacombe Skate Park Highway 12, Lacombe (403) 782-1250 recreation@lacombe.ca See & Do Skiing Medicine Lodge Ski Area Hwy 12 11 km west of Bentley (403) 748-2025 goskialberta.com On The Ice Medicine Lodge Ski Area Hwy 12 11 km west of Bentley (403) 748-2025 goskialberta.com Alix Arena 4931 - 52 Street, Alix (403) 747-2255 Bentley Arena & Curling Rink 5218 - 50 Street, Bentley (403) 748-3130 Blackfalds Arena in Blacksfalds Multi-Plex 5302 Broadway Avenue, Blackfalds (403) 885-6246 Clive Arena 5104 - 51 Avenue, Clive (403) 784-3580 Eckville Arena & Curling Rink 5312 - 51 Street, Eckville (403) 746-2033 Lacombe Arena & Curling Rink at the Lacombe Sports & Leisure Complex 5429 - 53 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-1284 lacombecurling.com Cinema Lacombe City Cinemas 4510 - 50 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-7852 lacombecitycinemas.ca Visit our website for show times Sporting Facilities Abbey Centre 4500 Womacks Road, Blackfalds (403) 885-4039 blackfalds.com Blackfalds Multi-Plex 5302 Broadway Avenue, Blackfalds (403) 885-6246 blackfalds.com Eckville Spray Park 4920 - 52 Avenue, Eckville Kinsmen Aquatic Centre & Spray Park 5429 - 53 Street, Lacombe (403) 782-1278 lacombe.ca Burman University (formerly CUC) Physical Education Centre 5602 Maple Dr/ 5415 College Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-2822 cauc.ca/pecentre Indoor Play Centre Moonwalkers – Where Fun meets Adventure 5008 - 50 Avenue, Alix (403) 747-2221 or 1-855-747-2221 moonwalkers.ca Sunday to Thursday 10 am–6 pm Friday & Saturday 10 am–8 pm 41 Town Offices, Community Centres and Halls Alix Alix Agricultural Grounds Bookings call Wanda McKendrick (403) 788-2274 Alix Community Hall 5008 - 49 Avenue, Alix Bookings call Home Hardware (403) 747-2414 Alix Youth Centre 4803 - 50 Street, Alix (403) 747-2495 Village of Alix 4849 Main Street, Alix (403) 747-2495 villageofalix.ca Bentley Blindman Valley (Bentley) Ag Centre 5201 - 51 Street, Bentley Hall: (403) 748-3066 Bookings: Krista Turner (403) 598-1275 bentleyagsociety.com Town of Bentley 4918 - 50 Avenue, Bentley (403) 748-4044 townofbentley.ca Blackfalds Blackfalds Community Centre 4810 Womacks Rd, Blackfalds (403) 885-6241 Town of Blackfalds 5018 Waghorn Street, Blackfalds (403) 885-4677 or (403) 885-4039 blackfalds.com Village of Clive 5115 - 50 Street, Clive clive.ca Westling Hall Milton Rd and Range Road 250 (403) 784-2574 Eckville Eckville Community Centre 5305 - 52 Street, Eckville (403) 746-3212 Bookings: (403) 746-2171 Lacombe Memorial Centre 5214 - 50 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-6668 YU-Turn Youth Centre Wolf Creek Youth Unlimited 5025 - 50 Street, Lacombe (403) 755-7825 cayu.ca Eckville Arena 5312 - 51 Street, Eckville (403) 746-2033 Lacombe County Town of Eckville 5023 - 51 Avenue, Eckville (403) 746 - 2171 eckville.com Lacombe County Office 40403 Range Road 274, Lacombe County at Junction of Hwy 12 and RR 274, 2km west of Hwy 2 (403) 782-6601 lacombecounty.com Gull Lake Gull Lake Community Hall 27 Lakeview Avenue, Gull Lake (403) 748-2966 Lincoln Hall Community Society Lincoln Road/Secondary Hwy 792 (403) 782-4194 Summer Village of Gull Lake 29 Lakeview Avenue, Bentley (403) 748-2666 summervillageofgulllake.com Lacombe Clive Burman University Facilities 5415 College Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-3381 cauc.ca Sargent Community Centre Corner of Lakeside Sargent Rd & Haynes (403) 784-3654 Kozy Korner Community Center 5024 - 53 Street, Lacombe (403) 784-3650 42 Lacombe City Hall 5432 - 56 Avenue, Lacombe (403) 782-1250 lacombe.ca Morningside Lacombe County Office 40403 Range Road 274, Lacombe County at Junction of Hwy 12 and RR 274, 2km west of Hwy 2 (403) 782-6601 lacombecounty.com Tees Tees Hall 24 McNabb Street, Tees Junction of Hwy 12 and Hwy 821 Michelle Robinson (403) 754-5678 Tees Rodeo Grounds Hwy 12 at junction Hwy 821, Tees Julie Dolan (403) 784-2384 43 44 45 R RR 272 RR 280 RR 272 RR 274 Lacombe 2A Lake R TWP RD 401 2 RR TWP RD400 RR 283A RR 275 C F C BLACKFAL RR 11 TWPRD 392 2 2A 11A S SYLVAN LAKE RR 32 TWP RD 402A 2 JARVIS BAY TWP RD 384 RR 271 RR 282 RR 282 RR 284 RR 283 RR 10 RR 11 RR 10 RR 15 TWP RD 392 = = ASPELUND ROAD BIRCHCLIFF 11A RR 273 RR 283 RR 12 RR 14 RR 20 RR 21 RR 22 RR 22 RR 23 RR 24 RR 25 RR 30 RR 31 RR 32 TWP RD394 HALF MOON BAY = NORGLENWOLD RR 32A RR 33 = RR 12 RR 23 RR 22A RR 24 RR 25 RR 30 RR 34 RR 34 RR 35 TWP RD 392 RR 11 RR 22 RR 24 LOCKHART ROAD RR 30 RR 31 RR 32 RR 34 RR 35 RR 35 RR 40 RR 40 = RR 14 RR 32 RR 34 RR 15 RR 20 RR 21 RR 40 RR 35 RR 40A 40 RR 41 RR 42 RR 43 RR 44 RR 41 766 R C SUNBREAKER COVE 2 * = 2 RC = 2 2 S RED DEER 11 x 20 x D 4 x 11 C TWP RD 402 Sylvan Lake S 2 = R TWP RD 394 * 2 TWPRD392 RAINY CREEK ROAD TWPRD394A ECKVILLE CC R TWP RD 402A x x C = = TWPRD410 x 1A RR 3 TWP RD 395A 12 GULL LAKE BENTLEY CC F WOODY NOOK ROAD TWP RD 402 TWP RD 395 x 4 R TWP RD 412 792 TWPRD410 TWPRD414 C 2 TWPRD411 20 Crooked Lake 2 Gabriel Lake x 12 = TWPRD412 TWP TWP RD414 2 D&M ROAD RR 3 4 B 766 771 Gull Lake SPRUCEVILLE ROAD TWP RD410 2 x RR 41 Blindman River TWPRD412A = TWPRD414 x C x TWPRD414 604 TWP RD415 4 TWPRD414 CENTREVIEW ROAD B 6 TWPRD420 4 A 5 S 2 7 1A TWPRD420 4 RR 271 = 3 x 2 4 1 2 Accommodations C10 B7 C2 B6 B12 B5 Alix Hotel Billyco Junction, U-pick Farm and Bed & Breakfast Eckville Hotel Elizabeth View Bed & Breakfast Old MacDonalds Resorts Reiky's Bed and Breakfast l 46 Campgrounds C10 B5 B4 B5 C6 C2 B2 A5 C11 B5 B10 B5 A4 B10 B11 C6 A5 Alix Lake Campground Aspen Beach Provincial Park Bentley Municipal Campground Brewer's Campground Burbank Park Campground Eckville Lion's Campground Gilby Hall & Campground Gull Lake Centre Haunted Lake Campground Lakeview Campground Morris Meadows Country Holidays and Seminars Summerland Leisure Park Sunset Legion Campground Tees Campground, Day-use area and Trout Pond The Narrows Provincial Campground and Park Watipi Campground Wilson's Beach Campground Countryside Attractions Countryside Attractions Community Facilities C10 C10 C10 C10 B4 C6 C6 B4 C6 B8 C2 C2 B8 A4 A10 B5 D9 Alix Agricultural Grounds Alix Arena Alix Community Hall Alix Youth Centre Bentley Arena & Curling Rink Blackfalds Community Centre Blackfalds Multi-Plex Blindman Valley (Bentley) Ag Centre Burbank Park & Hall Clive Arena Eckville Arena & Curling Rink Eckville Community Centre Eclipse Hall Forshee Hall Gadsby Lake Hall Gull Lake Community Hall Haynes Community Hall D2 B12 C7 A5 B11 B11 C10 A7 A9 C4 B11 A10 C9 B9 B8 A8 Hespero Hall Lake Bend Hall ll Lakeside Recreation Society Hall Lincoln Hall Community Society Mirror Hall Mirror Legion er Moonwalkers - Indoor Play Center Morningside Community Society Nebraska Hall Rainy Creek Hall Ripley Community Hall Rutherford Community Hall Sargent Community Centre tion Tees Hall Turville Hall Community Association Westling Hall B6 Alberta Downs Downs B6 Ammonite World B4 Alberta World B4 Aspen Greenhouses B5 Ammonite Aspen Greenhouses B5 B7 Billyco Junction Gardens, Honeyberry Junction Gardens, Honeyberry Inn Cafe B7 Billyco Inn Cafe and Store B5 BrownEggs Eggsand andLamb Lamb and and Farm Farm Store Store B5 Brown B10 CelestineFarms Farms B10 Celestine 44 Country CountryAcre AcreStables Stables A4 CumminsSawmill Sawmill A4 Cummins DocPots PotsCeramics Ceramics C3 Doc C3 EllisBird BirdFarm Farm C7 Ellis C7 GoldenWillow Willow Ranch Ranch B9 Golden B9 JimGadsby GadsbyCairn Cairn A10 Jim A10 KraayFamily FamilyFarm Farm Home Home of of the the Lacombe Cor B6 Kraay B6 Lacombe Corn Maze Club and Farm Museu Vintage Machinery B6 L.A. B6 Luymes L.A. Vintage Machinery Club Apiaries A6 and Farm Museum on Twelve B7 Market Luymes Apiaries A6 Patio Gardens B7 B7 Market on Twelve B7 Patio Gardens Bentley (Saturdays 1:30pm - 3:30pm) Blackfalds (Mondays 3:00 - 6:00pm) Lacombe (Fridays 9:00am - 1:00pm) Dark Horse Golf Course Gull Lake Golf Course Haunted Lakes Golf Club Summerland Leisure Park The Nursery Golf and Country Club Top O'The Hill Golf Course Wolf Creek Golf Resort Museums C10 B4 B11 B5 Alix Wagon Wheel Museum Bentley Museum & Bentley Visitor Information Mirror & District Museum Summer Village of Gull Lake Museum RR 224 RR 220 RR 213 RR 215 RR 221 RR 224 RR 221 RR 222 RR 220 RR 230 ALIX NORTH ROAD RR 222 RR 223 RR 225 R R 2 2 5A RR 232 RR 233 RR 224 RR 225 RR 232 RR 2 RR 230 B RR 234 RR 241 921 TWP RD392 21 TWPRD 391 TWP RD 390 RR 240 RR 242 921 TWPRD382 RR 244A 21 Recreational/Natural Areas C10 B5 C2 D2 A7 B6 B7 B3 B11 D3 B9 C3 B9 B11 RR 214 RR 231 RR 232 RR 233 RR 234 RR 235A RR 235 RR 240 RR 242 RR 243 RR 245 RR 250 RR 251 RR 245A n Maze m C2 A4 C10 B5 A7 D4 A7 601 RR 241 RR 251 RR 252 RR 253 RR 254A RR 255 FREEDOM ROAD RR 262 Farmers Markets B C B4 B C6 B6 HAYNES ROAD RR 244 RR 250 RR 252 RR 255 PRENTISS ROAD RR 254 TWP RD382 Golf Pik-N-Pak Produce Scholing's Produce T&S Lilies The Family Orchard The Farm Studio The Leather Loft The Saskatoon Orchard Wolf's Botanical Xtreme Raceways = TWP RD 390 11 TWPRD383 21 TWP RD 394 TWPRD392 TWPRD 382 e and Store RR 241 RR 242 RR 243 RR 252 RR 245 RR 262 OTTO ROAD RR 265 RR 270 RR 263 RR 261 x 4 TWPRD384 * S2 2 TWPRD 394 C Haunted Lakes * C TWP RD 401 32 RR 251 RR 243 RR 245 CLIVE NORTH ACCESS RR 261 RR 261 RR 263 TWPRD392 TWPRD384A B5 B7 A4 B9 C4 C4 B7 B7 C10 RR 235 RR 244 RR 250 RR 252 RR 254 RR 260 RR 262 RR 265 TR AIL C &E TWPRD 393 597 2 TWPRD 402 C CC C C TWP RD 395 Alix R Lake ALIX TWPRD400 Buffalo Lake R x = RR 264 C LAKESIDE/SARGENT ROAD 2 C MIRROR 4 C 815 50 12 A TWP R D 4 00 C R C TWPRD410 x 4 C = = TWPRD 402 * = Blackfalds LDS Lake 2 TWPRD412 Spotted Lake 4 = TWP RD 402 C R R C CLIVE C 12 = TWP RD410 TWPRD410 x x * R = LACOMBE F = = = C TWPRD410 =C MILTON/GADSBY LAKE ROAD 4 x = Gadsby Lake A C C TWPRD 413 21 TWP RD414 TWPRD 414 30 S TWPRD414 2 821 12 605 C RR 2 DUCKETT ROAD R TWPRD414A 11 x x RD415 10 4 x TWPRD420 SC 9 Chain Lakes x 8 2A 4 7 Alix Lake Recreational Area Aspen Beach Provincial Park Eckville Skatepark Hansen's Reservoir J.J. Collett Natural Area Lacombe Lake Day Use Area Len Thompson Trout Pond Medicine Lodge Skiing Area Mirror Reservoir Niemela Reservoir Parlby Reservoir Sylvan Lake Natural Area Tees Day-use area and Trout Pond The Narrows Provincial Recreation Site * 2 Accommodations Highway Campgrounds Secondary Highway C Community Facilities Significant Road = Countryside Attractions Range/Township Road Farmers Markets Area Boundary S Golf Water Museums Tree R Recreational/Natural Areas County Boundary F 47 days l l u f 3 ked pac un! with f 5 3 r e v O ! Events SEPTEMBER 22-25 Celebrate & Discover! Find your way to Lacombe for this annual festival celebrating our agricultural heritage and showcasing the arts and culture of our lively, vibrant and diverse community. Visit us on-line for a full list of event details www.lacombetourism.com ARTS & CULTURE ō HISTORY ō FOOD & FEASTS WAGON rides ō Music ō FAMILY Entertainment SPONSORED BY: 48 48