Cowboys & Western
Searching for an authentic western experience? You don’t have to settle for a Hollywood movie—in Alberta you’ll find the real thing. From high country ranch vacations to rodeos and fairs, museums, historic sites, western jamborees and even a cowboy poetry festival, make time to experience it all.
Canadian Rockies Ranch Vacations
For the ultimate western experience, spend your holiday at a working ranch. Learn how to handle a horse or rope a steer, or take part in a multi-day cattle drive. Enjoy the mountain scenery of our high ranch country on a nature hike or trail ride and then relax around a campfire after an Alberta cowboy cookout. Stay overnight in log cabins, tents or comfortable lodges. Visit Alberta Country Vacations Association to arrange your stay.Rodeos and Fairs
Edmonton
In November, Edmonton’s Canadian Finals Rodeo draws talent from the North American rodeo circuit that compete for big money in the Canadian Championship events. Visit the agricultural exhibitions and learn about how well we care for our show breeds. Enjoy the chili cook off, pancake breakfasts and international music stars.Around Alberta
You’ll find rodeos in all six of Alberta’s regions throughout the summer. For a complete list of rodeos start with Alberta Fairs, Exhibitions, Rodeos and check out Rodeo Canada. The rodeo events often include a parade, country dances, ranch style breakfasts and barbecues, live entertainment and camping facilities.Chuckwagon Races
Chuckwagon races are a big deal in Alberta. If you want to join in the excitement, begin with the detailed calendar at the World Professional Chuckwagon Association. Many of these events also include rodeo competitions, fairs and related entertainment.The Edmonton Chuckwagon Derby, held every July at has one of the richest purses in the chuckwagon racing circuit and attracts the sport's top talent.
Museums and Heritage Sites
Fort Edmonton Park: The Park represents four distinct time periods, exploring Edmonton's development from a fur trading post to a bustling city after the First World War. Costumed interpreters live the ways of the past in over 75 structures, many original.Royal Alberta Museum: While top-notch traveling exhibits keep this mammoth museum in Edmonton fresh, you'll still unearth something new in the permanent Syncrude Gallery that spans 11,000 years of western history.
