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Parks Canada Centennial
Come celebrate the centennial of the world’s first
national parks service!
Schedule of Events
In 2011, Parks Canada is celebrating its 100th birthday and its establishment in 1911 as the
world’s first national parks service. To recognize this occasion, Parks Canada is inviting
Canadians to come celebrate at its places across the country. The Parks Canada Centennial
builds on the 2010 events marking the 125th anniversary of national parks in Canada and the
125th birthday of Canada’s first national park, Banff.
Until November 2011, special programs, activities and events will celebrate this significant
100th centennial. Discover unforgettable experiences to add to your history.
– ALL EVENTS ARE FREE OF CHARGE, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED –
RE-OCCURING EVENTS
JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER
Xplorers Club for Kids
In July 2011, Parks Canada will launch a new kids program encouraging discovery of
the park through fun activities, programs and events. Kids, aged 6 to 11 can pick-up
their free Xplorers Booklet at the Banff Information Centre or the Banff Park Museum
and complete a number of experiences in the park to receive a certificate and a souvenir
token.
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MAY 2011
May 19
Centennial Launch: Banff Park Museum and Rocky Mountain House
National Historic Site
May 19, 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of the world's first national park service, now
called Parks Canada. Celebrate with us at the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site
and get to know the wild and wonderful flora and fauna of Banff National Park.
May 19
Annual Research Updates Speakers Series: A Century of Parks Canada, 7 –
9 p.m.
To celebrate the 100th birthday of the world's first national parks service, Dr. Claire
Campbell, historian and author, will introduce her recently released book, A Century of
Parks Canada, along with Parks Canada historian Lyle Dick. This speaker series is held
at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.
May 21
Guided Bioblitz Walk – Cave and Basin Marsh, 8 – 10 a.m.
Explore biodiversity at the Cave and Basin Marsh, where garter snakes, blue herons,
least chipmunks, mosquito fish, spring violets, microbial mats and the Banff Springs
Snail all share a connection with the sulphur-rich thermal waters. Join a Parks Canada
interpreter for a free guided tour of the area surrounding the Cave and Basin National
Historic Site, and see for yourself why this place has captured the interest of the
scientific community and has inspired countless generations. Meet at the east end of the
Cave and Basin NHS parking lot at 8 a.m. For more information call 403-762-1558.
May 21
Guided Bioblitz Walk – Johnson Lake, 1 – 4 p.m.
Come to Johnson Lake and learn about the local wildlife and see the wildflowers in
bloom.
May 21
Time Traveller’s Stargazing Program, 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.
Explore the night skies! Meet at Harkin Hall, named after the “father of national parks”,
J.B. Harkin, in the Park Administration Building for a special presentation, before
heading out into the night. Telescopes and flashlights will be provided. Dress warmly.
Parks Canada is proud to collaborate with Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in
hosting this event. http://calgary.rasc.ca/calendar2011.htm. For more information
visit or call The Parks Canada Information Centre at 403.762.1550.
JUNE
June 17
Sanson’s Centennial Stroll, 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Follow in the footsteps of naturalist and original curator of the Banff Park Museum
National Historic Site, Norman Bethune Sanson, to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Guided by Parks Canada Heritage Ambassadors, this moderately challenging hike will
take you to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site, and end at
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the Banff Park Museum NHS sipping iced tea and exploring the museum as Sanson
would have known it more than a century ago. Recommended for participants ages 10
and up. Register at the Banff Information Centre. Meet at Upper Hot Springs Parking
Lot at the top of Mountain Avenue, Banff, Alberta. For more information, please call
403-762-1550.
June 25
Performance in the Park, 4 p.m. All Tickets $35 Children (12 and under) $10
(quantity limited)
Park visitors and residence are invited to the Cascade Gardens around the Park
Administration Building to celebrate Parks Canada’s 100th anniversary for this outdoor
event. Enjoy a truly Canadian performance by Great Big Sea. Call The Banff Centre Box
Office 403-762-6301 or 1-800-413-8368 or visit Banffcentre.ca or ticketmaster.ca
JULY
July 1 & 16 Sanson’s Centennial Stroll, 9:30 am – 12 p.m.
Follow in the footsteps of naturalist and original curator of the Banff Park Museum
National Historic Site, Norman Bethune Sanson, to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Guided by Parks Canada Heritage Ambassadors, this moderately challenging hike will
take you to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site, and end at
the Banff Park Museum NHS sipping iced tea and exploring the museum as Sanson
would have known it more than a century ago. Recommended for participants ages 10
and up. Register at the Banff Information Centre. Meet at Upper Hot Springs Parking
Lot at the top of Mountain Avenue in Banff. For information call 403-762-1550.
July 1
Canada Day (free entry to national parks, pick up your complimentary pass
at Banff Park East Gate)
Parks Day on July 16 is an opportunity for Canadians to participate in unique, fun
learning events across Canada. This year, Parks Canada is celebrating the 100th birthday
of a national system that features 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four
national marine conservation areas. Come enjoy an outdoor festival of music, theatre,
exhibits, birthday cake and more. Special Centennial activities will take place at the
Banff Park Museum National Historic Site between 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. For more
information contact the Banff Information Centre.
July 16
Parks Day (free entry to the national park, pick up your complimentary
pass at Banff Park East Gate)
First celebrated in 1990, Parks Day is an opportunity for Canadians to participate in
unique, fun learning events taking place in Canada’s first national park – where Parks
Canada’s system of 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national
marine conservation areas began. Come enjoy an outdoor festival of music, theatre,
exhibits, birthday cake and more. Special Centennial activities will take place at the
Banff Park Museum National Historic Site between 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
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July 16
Time Traveller’s Centennial Stargazing Program, 8:30 p.m. to midnight
Explore Banff’s night skies. Access to telescopes and flashlights will be provided
following a special presentation. Dress warmly. Presented by Parks Canada and the
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. http://calgary.rasc.ca/calendar2011.htm. For
more information visit the Parks Canada Information Centre or call 403.762.1550
AUGUST
August 5
& 19
Sanson’s Centennial Stroll, 9:30 am – 12 p.m.
Follow in the footsteps of naturalist and original curator of the Banff Park Museum
National Historic Site, Norman Bethune Sanson, to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Guided by Parks Canada Heritage Ambassadors, this moderately challenging hike will
take you to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site, and end at
the Banff Park Museum NHS sipping iced tea and exploring the museum as Sanson
would have known it more than a century ago. Recommended for participants ages 10
and up. Sign up at the Banff Information Centre to participate. Meet at Upper Hot
Springs Parking Lot at the top of Mountain Avenue in Banff. For information call 403762-1550.
August 5 –7 Banff Culture Weekend
Explore the cultural side of Banff as art galleries, museums and historic sites offer a
variety of special events. Parks Canada’s events for Banff Culture Weekend are
described below.
August 5 – 6 Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site Métis Camp comes to the
Banff Park Museum, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Quench your thirst for mountain culture past and present with a drink of Labrador tea
and fresh bannock. Enjoy enchanting live music, Métis interpreters from Rocky
Mountain House National historic Site, trapper’s tents, and hands on cultural activities.
August 5
Moving History Outdoor Cinema, Dusk - 11 p.m.
A selection of movies highlighting the people, places and events that have shaped
Canada will be shown in the Cascades of Time Gardens, beside the Park Administration
Building. (In case of rain, the event will move to Harkin Hall, inside the Park
Administration Building).
August 6
Banff Culture Walk, All Day
Explore the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site as a stop along the Banff Culture
Walk and participate in interactive programs for all ages. For more information visit
www.banffculturewalk.com.
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August 6
Stoney Nakoda Family Camp
The Stoney Nakoda welcomes the public to join them for a day of traditional children's
game and family entertainment at the Banff Indian Grounds, on the outskirts of Town.
Youth Event: 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Features traditional First Nations foot races, games and gruelling three-legged races –
prizes!
White Grass Race: 1 – 2 p.m.
Traditional First Nations’ activity for all ages, anyone can win.
Mini Pow Wow: 8 p.m.
Traditional drumming and dancing for all.
August 7
Doors Open Banff, 1 – 4 p.m.
Guided centennial-themed tours will be offered through the Park Administration
Building and the historic Cascades of Time Gardens that surround the building. A
display of historical images and artwork housed within the building will be set up for
public viewing in Harkin Hall.
August 20
Time Traveller’s Centennial Stargazing Program, 9 - 11:30 p.m.
Explore Banff’s night skies. Access to telescopes and flashlights will be provided
following a special presentation. Dress warmly. Presented by Parks Canada and the
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. http://calgary.rasc.ca/calendar2011.htm For
more information visit or call The Parks Canada Information Centre at 403.762.1550.
SEPTEMBER
Sept 1 Oct 29
Lake Louise Fall Festival
Autumn in Banff National Park is a magical time of year. Golden larches pierce the
otherwise evergreen landscape, their colour complementing the dazzling blue waters of
the lakes they surround. This festival commemorates the changing seasons with a series
of new events and activities geared towards helping you explore the history and
wonders of this stunning area.
Sept 2,
16 & 30
Sanson’s Centennial Stroll, 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Follow in the footsteps of naturalist and original curator of the Banff Park Museum
National Historic Site, Norman Bethune Sanson, to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Guided by Parks Canada Heritage Ambassadors, this moderately challenging hike will
take you to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site, and end at
the Banff Park Museum NHS sipping hot chocolate and exploring the museum as
Sanson would have known it more than a century ago. Recommended for participants
ages 10 and up. Sign up at the Banff Information Centre to participate. Meet at Upper
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Hot Springs Parking Lot at the top of Mountain Avenue, Banff, Alberta. Call 403-7621550.
Sept. 10
Time Traveller’s Centennial Stargazing Program, 8 – 11:30 p.m.
Explore Banff’s night skies – location to TBD. Access to telescopes and flashlights will
be provided following a special presentation. Dress warmly. Presented by Parks
Canada and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.
http://calgary.rasc.ca/calendar2011.htm
Sept. 30 –
Oct. 2
Banff Culture Days
Parks Canada, The Banff Centre, and local art galleries and cultural organizations invite
you to get involved and inspired during three exciting days of hands on workshops,
performances, film screenings, music, dance and art.
Sept. 30
Drawn to Nature (Part 1 of 4)
7 – 9 p.m.
In partnership with The Banff Centre’s Walter Phillips Gallery, Parks Canada presents
"Drawn to Nature", four monthly drawing sessions held at the Banff Park Museum
National Historic Site. Participants of all ages and levels of experience will be welcomed
into the museum after hours, to explore various still-life sketching techniques in an
informal drawing session inspired by the rich history of the museum's collection.
Advance registration is required through the Walter Phillips Gallery. Call 403.762.6281.
All materials will be provided.
OCTOBER
Oct. 2
Doors Open – Banff National Park Administration Building, 1 – 4 p.m.
Guided tours will be offered through the Park Administration Building.
Oct. 14
“Steeped in History”, Senior and Youth Centennial Tea Party, 2 - 5 p.m.
Banff Seniors and school children are invited to celebrate Parks Canada’s 100th
anniversary at the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site. Transportation to the
site, tea, treats and special guided tours of the museum will be provided.
Oct. 26 –
30
“Olde Time Fright Night”, 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. start times
Award-winning Parks Canada theatre troupe, Mountain WHIT, transforms the nooks
and crannies of the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site into spooky places where
the secrets of the past 100 years come to life. Not recommended for children under 12
years of age. Space is limited; preregister at the Banff Park Museum National Historic
Site.
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Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
May 19
Parks Canada 100th Anniversary Celebration Launch
5 – 9 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of sharing, socializing and, of course, a massive birthday cake! Be the
first to see our brand new murals commemorating women in the fur trade, new exhibits
and a schedule of new events and activities for the whole family. For information call
403-845-2412. Free!
June 11
River Safety Clinic
Play safely this summer. The Rocky Canoe Club presents a one-day clinic for voyageurs
of all ages. Call 403-845-2412. Free!
July 1
Canada Day
Happy Birthday Canada! Enjoy ceremonies, birthday cake, family entertainment and
activities along with an evening music concert and a spectacular fireworks display at
dusk. Save a hug for the Maple Leaf mascot. Free entry to the national historic site.
July 16 – 17 Legends & Legacies
Discover why people make the place! Live the stories of the past at Rocky Mountain
House National Historic Site. Visit the encampment with our special guests the
Edmonton House Brigade re-enactors.
July 29
Time Traveller’s Centennial Stargazing Program (Part 4 of 6)
8 - 11:30 p.m.
Explore the night skies – location TBA. Access to telescopes and flashlights will be
provided following a special presentation. Dress warmly. Presented by Parks Canada
and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Free!
Aug 20 – 21 Bastions & Bones
From fur trade heights to ghostly ruins - double the fun: this year we are celebrating the
national Famous Forts Weekend with our Bastions & Bones special event. Unearth the
amazing history of Rocky Mountain House that began over 200 years ago. From
towering bastions in its heyday, to the archaeological discoveries of today, you will
surely dig it!
Aug 16 -19 Archaeology in Action
&
The Rocky Mountain House Public Archaeology Program provides a unique
Aug 22 -25 opportunity for enthusiasts to join supervised digs at the Rocky Mountain House
National Historic Site of Canada. Unravel the mysteries of the past working side by side
with Parks Canada archaeologists and historians.
August
(daily)
“Canada's Story”: Centennial-themed guided interpretative program, 11
to 11:45 a.m.
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Join Parks Canada interpreters and explore some of the most amazing National
Historic sites across Canada. Go fishing at Mnjikaning Fish Weirs National Historic
Site and transform yourself into one of the great Vikings from L'Anse aux Meadows
National Historic Site who arrived 500 years before Columbus left Europe. Drop by
Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site to learn about the importance of fur
trade in Canadian history and renowned map-maker David Thompson. These are just
some of the incredible sites that connect Canada to the Canadian from coast to coast.
Free with site admission.
PARKS CANADA NATIONAL PROGRAMS
“My Parks Pass” Program - A partnering initiative with Nature Canada and The
Historica-Dominion Institute, that will allow over 400,000 grade eight students to
enter Parks Canada administered national parks and national historic sites for free for
12 months.
Parks Canada Commemorative Coins! - Parks Canada Centennial is featured on the
Royal Canadian Mint’s first collector coin of the year. Launched on January 4th, the
2011 Silver Dollar marks the centennial of Parks Canada, the world’s first national parks
service.
Canada’s National Parks: A Celebration - Parks Canada and Canopy are proud to
announce a beautiful new commemorative book, Canada’s National Parks: A
Celebration, to mark the 125th anniversary of national parks in Canada and the 2011
centennial of Parks Canada as the world’s first national parks service. Featuring more
than 200 pages of colour photographs, this impressive hardcover captures the essence
of each of Canada’s national parks – all 42 of them – bringing together in one volume
the work of some of the country’s most respected contemporary landscape
photographers, accompanied by locator maps, concise descriptions of each park, and
some memorable historic images of park visitors over the last century.
Geocaching Contest - To celebrate Canadian Environment Week this year and to
commemorate Parks Canada 100th Anniversary, Environment Canada and Parks
Canada have partnered to organize a Geocaching Contest throughout Canada.
The contest will run from April 30 to June 11, to coincide with Parks Canada's 100th
anniversary on May 19 and Canadian Environment Week, which is celebrated this year
from June 5-11. Canadian Environment Week's theme this year is Preserving our
forests, Protecting our future. This contest is a good way to encourage Canadians to
take the time to go out and enjoy Canada's beautiful National Parks, National Historic
Sites and National Wildlife Areas. Go to www.ec.gc.ca/environmentweek to find out
more about the contest.
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Please go to www.pc.gc.ca for more details.
Visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ParksCanada or
www.youtube.com/user/ParksCanadaAgency?gl=US&hl=ca
Calendar updated: May 5, 2011
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