As Alberta celebrates its rich cultural tapestry this month, the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (MAG) is stepping into the spotlight with an engaging lineup of events for Alberta Culture Days. The provincial celebration, running throughout September, offers communities across Alberta opportunities to explore arts, heritage, and diverse cultural expressions through free and accessible programming.
The MAG’s contribution to this year’s festivities includes two standout events designed to connect residents with both historical perspectives and contemporary artistic expressions. On September 21, visitors can participate in “Orange Shirt Day Dialogue,” a meaningful engagement with Indigenous history and reconciliation efforts. The following weekend, on September 28, the museum will transform into a hub of creativity with its “Family Art Saturday” event.
“These events represent our commitment to creating spaces where culture can be experienced, discussed, and celebrated by everyone in our community,” explains Karli Kendall, Marketing and Communications Coordinator at the MAG. “Alberta Culture Days gives us a wonderful platform to highlight both the challenging aspects of our shared history and the vibrant artistic expressions that enrich our present.”
The Orange Shirt Day programming arrives in advance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, offering participants a deeper understanding of residential school history through guided discussions and reflective activities. This initiative aligns with broader Canadian efforts to address historical injustices and foster reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
Meanwhile, the Family Art Saturday event will focus on hands-on creativity, inviting participants of all ages to engage with art-making in accessible ways. The museum has designed activities that require no previous artistic experience, making cultural participation available to everyone regardless of background or skill level.
“What makes these events particularly valuable is their ability to bring together different generations and cultural backgrounds in shared experiences,” notes Kendall. “We’re seeing grandparents bringing grandchildren, newcomers to Canada exploring local heritage, and longtime residents discovering new perspectives.”
The MAG’s participation in Alberta Culture Days coincides with its ongoing exhibition program, allowing visitors to extend their cultural experience by exploring current installations. The museum continues to serve as a cultural anchor in Red Deer’s arts community, preserving historical artifacts while simultaneously creating space for contemporary creative expression.
As communities across Alberta engage with similar cultural programming throughout September, questions emerge about the role such institutions play in shaping local identity and fostering social cohesion. In an increasingly digital world, how do physical spaces like the MAG create meaningful connections between people and their shared cultural heritage? The answer may lie in the conversations and creative experiences that unfold during events like Alberta Culture Days.
For complete details on the MAG’s Alberta Culture Days programming, residents can visit the museum’s website or contact the facility directly.
