Over the past month I was able to attend a number of events across Western Canada and will offer a recap of the best of July for those individuals who might be planning their 2004 summer vacations….

 

Calgary Stampede - Even with slightly lower attendance figures this year the Calgary Stampede is still the best annual party in Western Canada. The involvement of the entire city; from neighbourhood pancake breakfasts to the packed stands each night at the Stampede, makes this event the quinsential summer festival. With the full support of the Calgary business community who let their employees relax and enjoy the activities during the 10 days, you will find a festive and fun atmosphere in every corner of the city.

 

Stage 13 - This event has become the number one camping and party weekend for the under 25 group. Although this year's musical lineup did not include a major act like the Tragically Hip or Nickleback, the fans did not seem to care, as the campsite and beer gardens are the main focus. Despite some late night thunderstorms during the weekend the entire event was well organized with plenty of food stands, hot showers, $5.00 breakfasts, and an option of loud or quiet camping sections. Compared to the outdoor events I attended back in the 1970's and 80's like Alberta Jam, this event was light years ahead.

 

Telus Open Golf Tournament - The Windermere golf course was the site of this year's Telus Open and was in great shape. Golfer Stuart Anderson from Fort McMurray and I shared a beer after the tournament and he was telling me that the Edmonton stop is one of the favourite events of the Canadian Tour for the competitors. The volunteers, course conditions, and appreciative golf fans in the Edmonton area make the event one that they look forward to each year.

 

Taste of Edmonton - The decision to hold this event over the ten days of Klondike Days and the great summer weather has made this event one of the top summer festivals in Edmonton. The nightly entertainment was an added bonus with bands like Chillawack and __________________ performing in front of the beer gardens made me think that this type of event should be held every Friday and Saturday night during the summer in the revamped Churchill Square. There are a number of major bands that tour through Alberta in the summer who could be booked to play on the stage and would give Downtown Edmonton a much needed boost on weekends.

 

Vancouver Molson Indy - Under perfect weekend weather and over 70,000 fans in attendance, this is my favourite summer festival. Local officials estimate that $25 Million is pumped into the local economy each year during the Indy weekend and every hotel, bar, restaurant, and taxi is maximized. If Vancouver ever has to give up the race due to the encroaching condo development on False Creek, Edmonton needs to be ready to step up to hold the race here. If cities like Portland, Lexington, and Cleveland can hold an annual Indy race, there is no reason that Edmonton could not hold a successful race at either the Municipal airport or through Downtown Edmonton.