Premier Smith celebrates Alberta's 121st birthday at Heritage Park with optimism on province's future

Alberta marked its 121st birthday on Sunday with celebrations across the province, including an address by Premier Danielle Smith at Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary.

The province hosted two main celebrations—one at the Alberta Legislature grounds in Edmonton and one at Heritage Park—while supporting festivities in 69 municipalities to commemorate the day Alberta joined Confederation on September 1, 1905. This marks the third year the event has been hosted at Heritage Park in partnership with the province.

Despite colder weather and rainfall earlier in the day, the park welcomed crowds. Following a flyover by two Royal Canadian Air Force helicopters, Smith addressed attendees. "Today, of course, is about celebrating the province, the many people and the many cultures who have helped build it and the future that we are creating together, and I believe that our future is brighter than ever," Smith said.

Smith highlighted the province's economic contributions. "The world needs what Alberta has to offer — our energy, our resources, our skills, and our expertise are in high demand. They are helping Canada's economy. This means more good jobs for Albertans and Canadians and new opportunities for families to achieve their dreams."

Smith emphasized the responsibility to future generations: "That means continuing to grow our economy and building the homes, roads, schools and the hospitals that our growing communities needs, and it means making sure that Alberta remains the home that we all know and love, which is a place that believes in freedom, honors our western roots, and always welcomes people who want to build something and take a risk and make their mark."

Maria Martiniello, director of food, beverage and events at Heritage Park, said the park welcomed diverse crowds. "We love seeing the crowds here, the kids, all the different cultures. We have so much programming here for everyone to enjoy."