BIG VALLEY BULLETIN — The Big Valley community connected with the Hivernant Metis Cultural Society at their annual “Spring Fling” fundraiser this past Saturday, May 6. Supporters gathered in the village’s community hall to feast on delicious food, including traditional Metis stew and bannock, enjoy the live band and take the opportunity to bid on items donated for the silent auction.
Locals enthusiastically put their feet to the test when the band played that most famous Metis tune, the Red River Jig. A combination of Plains First Nations, Scottish, Irish and French-Canadian dance steps, the jig is thought to have emerged from the Red River in the early to mid-18th century. Though attendance may have been down, support for the society’s efforts is still significant, with locals recognizing how closely Metis history is entwined with the history of Big Valley. The Spring Fling is an annual fundraiser in support of the society’s Metis Hivernant Days scheduled for Aug. 4 to 6 in Big Valley.
Excitement is building as Big Valley gears up for the season opener of Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions. The first train of the season arrives in Big Valley on Saturday, May 13 at 4 p.m. and we’ve been warned that the Reynolds Raiders are likely pretty hungry after six months of ice and cold with no trains to rob. Preparations are well underway to organize the volunteers who offer information, answer questions and guide passengers to the highlights of our amazing little village.
Big Valley’s Community Hall will host their annual Mother’s Day breakfast on Sunday, May 14. Bring Mom out for some great food and community fellowship from 9 to 11 a.m.
Come on out to Big Valley for the annual Bust Out Rodeo on May 26 and 27. Rodeo action begins at 6 p.m. on Friday and 5 p.m. on Saturday. There will be wild pony racing for ages 12 and under and the rodeo winds up with a dance on Saturday night. For more information on this year’s event contact Tom Cassidy at 403-740-3488.
The Big Valley Elks Annual Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for Sunday, May 28 at the Big Valley golf course. Breakfast and registration begin at the Clubhouse at 8 a.m. with tee off at 10 a.m. The tournament will be the usual nine holes, Texas Scramble, followed by beef on a bun and some fun prizes. The Elks invite everyone to come join them.
