It’s going to be the Best. Year. Ever! Heritage Park is celebrating 60 years of bringing Calgary’s history to life and for the first time, they are opening a day early! On Friday, May 17, 2024, help them kick off an amazing summer of exploration and discovery. This year will wow you like never before, whether you’re a new visitor or you always purchase an annual membership. (Keep reading for special membership pricing!) It’s time to create unforgettable memories and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Heritage Park!
Heritage Park Historical Village is a living history museum with something for everyone and one of Calgary’s top attractions. They are open daily during the summer, from Victoria Day Weekend until Labour Day Weekend, and then open weekends until Thanksgiving. The Park’s mission is to preserve the early West’s history and educate and entertain guests of all ages, so there’s always something to discover at Heritage Park, whether you want to pack your day or just relax.
Be a part of history in 2024, as Heritage Park opens a day early! On May 17, 2024, the Friday of the May long weekend, the 60th anniversary celebrations will begin! Opening day will be packed full of family fun, with special performances, live music, and exciting exhibits. Be sure to arrive in time for the opening ceremony, and you might discover a fun surprise! This is the year to become a member … Heritage Park has introduced special anniversary pricing, offering you a whole year of magic for only $60. Put your daily admission towards an annual membership for only an extra $25 and enjoy the Best. Year. Ever.
Excited about the 2024 season? Us, too! Check out how you can experience history at Heritage Park this summer.
- More to do: Start your visit riding to the Park gates on the historic streetcar. Hit the rails on the authentic steam train or find open water on the S.S. Moyie – Calgary’s only steam-driven paddle wheeler. Stop by the antique midway for a ride, play games throughout the park, and visit the First Nations Encampment. Peek into the history of how Western settlers lived on the prairies, from a tiny sod dwelling to the Burnside Ranch House to the luxurious Prince House. Grab a drink at Drew’s Saloon, ride in the horse-drawn wagon, and watch the blacksmith at work.
- More to see: The Park features nearly 200 exhibits and attractions that showcase the history and culture of Western Canada, including historic buildings, vintage vehicles, and artifacts. Visit the agricultural area, with lots of animals. Step aside as vintage vehicles trundle past, catch the street theatre production, or watch a show in the Canmore Opera House.
- More to touch: Visitors can interact with the exhibits and activities, getting a real sense of what life was like in the past. Play an Indigenous game, mail a letter, or churn butter. Gently pat the horse’s nose, do your sums on a slate, or pan for gold. This is living history!
- More to smell: The park’s authentic historical village and demonstrations engage all the senses, including the smells that will carry you back in time. The sharp smell of printer ink at the Strathmore Standard and the wood smoke from the blacksmith’s shop remind you of everyday work. The freshly baked bread from the bakery and the delicious aroma of traditional foods cooking over an open flame or cookstove will delight you.
- More to taste: Heritage Park is filled with treats we love, including ice cream and milkshakes at Harvey’s in Heritage Square. Your taste buds will love the special treats, from delicious sausage rolls to deep-fried banana caramel cheesecake. Yum!
Heritage Park offers family entertainment all year long. But when the Historical Village opens, it’s a celebration of history and family fun as you explore the nooks and crannies of history together. We just can’t wait to celebrate, so it’s time to throw the doors open a day early for the 60th anniversary season at Heritage Park Historical Village!
We’ll see you there!
Heritage Park Historical Village Opening Weekend:
When: May 17 – 20, 2024
Time: Friday, 12 – 5 pm, Saturday – Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: Heritage Park
Address: 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary AB
Phone: 403-268-8500
Website: www.heritagepark.ca