Diverse local talent and a multitude of cultures highlighted the Heritage Day celebrations at the Cold Lake Museum.
Cold Lake and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), invited residents to celebrate the city's history and diversity on Saturday, Aug. 5.
Groups and organizations from across the area set-up booths to share their stories. Meanwhile, local acts entertained the crowd from start to finish.
“We're celebrating the history and culture of Cold Lake, but also present Cold Lake. There's good local talent that deserves to have a shot. We're giving them as much time as we can in the spotlight,” said Donna Benoit, community partnerships facilitator with FCSS.
The Kehewin Native Dance Theatre got the crowd moving with their vibrant dance routines. World champion hoop dancer Tony Duncan built on their performance, leaving audience members in awe.
“This is my first time here and I'm absolutely blown away. The talent is great, and the hard work put in by the volunteers who make this happen is just phenomenal,” said Cold Lake resident Gina Russell.
Ukrainian dancers kept the festivities going, before a Philippines-inspired fashion show. The brand new Grande Parlour Theatre debuted two short skits from their production.
For the music lovers in the crowd, two local bands played two sets each. Roots Revival slowed things down with their rhythm and blues, while Main Street delivered a wide-range of covers.
The bands were appreciative of the chance to share their art with the community, while also getting a first-hand look at other acts.
“It's nice to come play live music within the community. To be able to get out and see how much people enjoy local entertainment was great,” said Gabriel Hamel, lead vocalist of Main Street. “Everyone else is incredible, and very fun to watch. I thought it was great that a lot of youth came out too, because you don't see that very much anymore.”
Some attendees lounged in the shade, eyes glued to the stage, while others spent their time at the various booths in the heritage tent, eager to take in information.
The celebration was a rare opportunity for residents to really see the culture their city has to offer. The unique atmosphere of the event had Russell looking forward next year.
“Talking to people and visiting the different cultures, there's so much diversity,” said Russell. “It's wonderful to see because we're all human beings learning to live together, be kind to one another and respect each other. Ultimately that's the most important thing.”
