Fort Macleod pulls out the stops every July 1 to celebrate Canada’s birthday.
Mounted riders in colourful uniforms, home-made ice cream and music are just a few of the treats in store for people who spend Canada Day in Fort Macleod.
Members of the community and visitors to Fort Macleod traditionally gather at The Fort — Museum of the North West Mounted Police for a celebration linked to the earliest days of the country.
The day starts with children’s games and crafts along with variety acts, including the Empress Theatre’s summer actors.
The debut of the Musical Ride takes place following an official ceremony at 11 a.m. Every year the Fort Museum assembles its own Mounted Patrol, made up of riders dressed in replica 1876 North West Mounted Police uniforms.
Following the Musical Ride there is a barbecue, birthday cake and a performance by country music entertainers.
In the afternoon there is story-telling and a puppet show in the Blackfoot Gallery.
A guided tour of the grave of legendary Mounted Police scout Jerry Potts and the original island site of the first Mounted Police fort is also offered.
A watermelon-eating contest is followed by a First Nations dancing demonstration.
The Musical Ride is performed at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.