Fort Edmonton Park Kicks Off 51st Season with Community Day

Fort Edmonton Park Kicks Off 51st Season with Community Day

Fort Edmonton Park launched its 51st season with a Community Day event, welcoming hundreds of children to the grounds. Organized by the Fort Edmonton Foundation, this event is anticipated to become an annual tradition.

Event Highlights

  • Approximately 1,500 children attended the free activities offered at the park.
  • The event provided a preview of what visitors can expect this year.

Focus on Underrepresented Narratives

Laura Nichol, core programs manager at Fort Edmonton Park, emphasized the staff’s efforts to elevate underrepresented narratives within the community. The park features a variety of cultures and exhibits that highlight different aspects of history, including:

  • Indigenous Peoples: Their long-standing presence along the North Saskatchewan River valley.
  • Early European Settlers: Contributions and experiences of those who settled in the region.
  • Chinese Immigrants: Their arrival during the gold rushes in British Columbia.
  • Japanese Canadians: Experiences of internment during World War II.
  • Ukrainian Pioneers: Settlers who fled war-torn Ukraine.
  • African-Canadian Contributions: Including influences on jazz music and Black History Month.
  • Asian Canadian Culture: Highlighting Indian immigration, which began over a century ago with Sikh farmers seeking land.

The park also features exhibits on Islam’s historical presence, dating back to when Muslim traders first visited what would eventually become Alberta.

Interactive Experiences

Visitors can engage with these cultures through various interactive experiences, such as:

  • Crafts
  • Games
  • Food tastings
  • Storytelling sessions

Looking Ahead

Lori Farquharson Persaud, executive director of the Fort Edmonton Foundation, expressed her excitement about this new initiative, stating, "This is expected to become an annual tradition going forward."

Fort Edmonton Park offers something for everyone with its diverse range of exhibits and activities. Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a fun day out with family or friends, there’s something for everyone at this iconic Canadian landmark!

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