It’s time once again for Lacombe Days.
From July 18-21, folks are encouraged to come see what Lacombe has to offer.
Mark Visscher, chairman of Lacombe Days, said that the celebrations are a time-honoured tradition that has expanded significantly over the years.
“When I grew up here, it was traditionally a baseball tournament,” said Visscher. “It has grown through the years.”
Visscher added that Lacombe Days has existed for quite a while. So long in fact that he can’t quite recall the original details of the festival.
However, some things have been consistent for a number of years. One such example is the Rose and Lily Show which has been part of Lacombe Days for as long as Visscher can remember.
Other aspects, like car racing and baseball tournaments, have varied from year to year, Visscher said.
Today, “Lacombe Days is an all ages event showcasing what Lacombe has to offer,” said Visscher.
While there are too many events all over the City during Lacombe Days to list here, Visscher said the highlights include the parade on Saturday morning, and the show n’ shine and the fireworks which are set for Friday night, all of which are always well attended.
Of course, the parade is the biggest highlight that everyone looks forward to during Lacombe Days.
Visscher said he is expecting 100 floats and possibly well over that number to enter in the parade depending on the weather.
An addition to this year’s Lacombe Days is the Jumping Jack Carnival, a feature specifically for the kids.
The carnival consists of a number of inflatable play structures set up for youngsters to enjoy at Michener Park.
Lacombe Days will also be showcasing the different areas and buildings of Lacombe. With events being held at Michener Park, Lacombe Memorial Centre, English Estates and ME Global Athletic Park, anyone taking advantage of Lacombe Days is sure to experience what all sectors of the City have to offer.
“It is a beautiful City,” said Visscher.
Lacombe Days isn’t just for Lacombians either.
Visscher said that the events typically draw out people from Blackfalds, Lacombe County and elsewhere as well.
For those who want to be part of the community, Visscher said Lacombe Days is a great way to participate.
“Why not?” said Visscher. “It’s everyone’s community. You should be involved in what’s going on.”
Lacombe Days kicks off with a barbecue on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside the new Sunny 94 building.
Things really get going on Saturday with the pancake breakfast and parade in the morning with tons of other fun-filled activities throughout the rest of the weekend.
For more information on Lacombe Days, such as a full list of events, event details, the parade route and event times, visit the Lacombe Days web site at www.lacombedays.ca.
Meanwhile, volunteers are still needed to help out with the organizing and running of Lacombe Days, said Visscher.
The parade in particular is in need of a few more hands. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the Lacombe Days committee through the web site at www.lacombedays.ca.