Canadian history is calling! Heritage Park’s Historical Village is re-opening for their 60th anniversary.
Step back into one of Calgary’s most historic and educational parks, the park opened one day early today (Friday, May 17), to celebrate their anniversary. Heritage Park hosts guests and events that offer more than ever before.
When looking back on six decades at Heritage Park, many contributions have been etched into the park’s history. According to Heritage Park CEO Lindsey Galloway, these events mean a lot for the park and the community.
“Because Heritage Park has always been a community-driven organization, community-supported organization, we have a thousand volunteers every year. Every year we’re one of the employers where young Calgarians have their first job,” Galloway said.
“So, it’s a special experience every single year to be in the heart of the city. But this is particularly special because it’s our 60th year, which is a milestone that allows us just to celebrate. This summer, it’s going to be all about celebrating the community.”
Heritage Park has become a park that has grown with Calgary, it has developed into a park that is full of rich history and sentimental value for not only the city but Canada all together, according to Strategic Communications Manager Dominic Terry.
“When we opened July 1st, 1964, there was only 20 buildings and the railway track. So, since that time we’ve kind of mirrored the growth of Calgary,” Terry said.
“So, from 20 buildings and the railway track, we’ve gotten to Canada’s largest collection of historical buildings in one place at 183, they hold 55,000 artifacts.”
This year, the park plans to increase its storytelling with new stories about Indigenous communities, Black Heritage, Chinese Canadian stories, and Jewish stories.
Heritage Park is also introducing 40 new types of food across the park, starting this weekend, as well as tripling the street theatre scene that was done at the park before.
The park admission fee for adults is $34.95, youth $22.95 and seniors (65 +) is $26.95.
As the park looks forward to its bright future, there appear to be lots of exciting prospects coming along the railway.
“We’ve had 60 great years, and we’re about to unveil a plan for the next 20,” Galloway said.
