This year’s Lacombe Days proved to be another major hit with the community, organizers say.

“We had record numbers,” said Jess Zylstra, festival coordinator. “I want to say we had around 10,000 people watching the parade. There were also a huge number of businesses in the parade as well, so that was great.

“The Lunchbox Theatre also had triple the amount that they had last year,” she said, adding that Lacombe Days is essentially planned and executed thanks to the dedicated efforts of a committee and volunteers.

The market also recorded a record amount of sales as well, she said.

“Essentially, it was a record-breaking weekend for everybody.”

Things kicked off on July 14 with the free AFSC pancake breakfast.

The FCSS-hosted and aforementioned Lunchbox Theatre and Family Expo ran on July 14 at the LMC as well.

Another Friday highlight was the Retro Jam Fest, put on by Journey Youth Creative.

On July 15th, the BrokerLink Parade ran throughout the downtown area.

Other Saturday highlights include a Show & Shine at the LMC throughout the day as well as a huge book sale.

The Lacombe Days Market was also held on July 15.

“We also had lots of music for music lovers – we had music at three different places on Saturday so that was great,” she said.

“There was really something for every age, and that was our plan. We wanted to make sure that everybody was included.”

The Blacksmith Shop Museum and the Flatiron Building Museum offered tours and demos throughout the day, and visitors also had the chance to check out the Epic Lacombe Cake which was prepared by Mission Cakes.

“The cake went off really well! It was so huge – I think they ended up cutting enough for 1,000 people to have a slice,” she said.

Another major highlight this year was the Weidner’s Hometown concert which featured Harlequin and Honeymoon Suite at the Gary Moe Sportsplex on the evening of July 15.

Zylstra said the concert attracted about 1,000 fans.

“It was great – so awesome. I loved seeing everyone out from the community having fun. It was just great all around.

“I am so happy with how everything went,” she said, adding that plans are already taking shape for next year’s edition of Lacombe Days.

“We are going to come back bigger and better than ever!”

In the meantime, she encourages anyone who would like to get involved with planning next year’s event to join the team.

“If there are people who are community-minded and have a heart for volunteering, or who might have ideas for next year, we would love for them to get in touch with us.”

Those interested in signing on to help can reach Zylstra at 403-392-2179.

Pictured here is Dr. Von Hooligans’ show where Arthur has audience member Ryan help him by locking him into his magic cuffs. Krista Hayes photo

Pictured here are several Alberta Harvest Centre Fendt tractors. Krista Hayes photo

Face Painting at the Kids Corral was sponsored by Wolf Creek Building Centre. Krista Hayes photo

Flashback Freddy entertains folks with his catchy collection of classic tunes. Krista Hayes photo

The Vanberg Cup and the Grey Cup were featured in the parade. Krista Hayes photo

Felix the baby goat was getting a whole lot of love at the petting zoo in the Kids’ Corral. Krista Hayes photo

Lacombe Days attendees enjoyed lots of tasty treats during the Firemen’s BBQ. Krista Hayes photo

The Show and Shine proved a successful part of Lacombe Days. Krista Hayes photo

Another scene from the popular Dr. Von Hooligan show. Krista Hayes photo