Linda Stillinger Big Valley Bulletin
The tourist season is in full swing and everyone in Big Valley has been overwhelmed with the preparations for the big Rails and Tails exposition which begins in only one week. The kick-off day ceremony is on Wednesday, June 28 at 6:30 p.m. From June 30 to July 3, Big Valley will be bursting with activities showcasing the important role of the railways in the history of our village and all of Canada, the history and culture of the Métis of the Big Valley area and the pioneer way of life. The whole village has been working hard planning this event as a celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday.
During the exposition our local artists will be showcasing their work with an art show in the library beginning on June 28. Our local ukulele club will entertain us at the library Wi-Fi Park. Métis displays will include a tipi, trapper’s tent and a Red River cart and there will be fiddler and dance and beading demonstrations. Trains will run every day from June 28 to July 4 from Stettler to Big Valley.
As a tribute to our pioneers, Rails and Tales will be presenting displays of full-size equipment from personal collections and heritage preservation groups and all the equipment will be operated by volunteers.
During the exposition there will be a petting zoo, penny carnival, photo ops, face painting, parades and the Legion Color Guard will meet the train. Big Valley’s July 1st celebrations will include a parade which will roam through the village beginning at 11 a.m. and a community barbeque from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Purple Park, followed by a fireworks display at 10:30 p.m.
All in all, the week will be full, with activities too numerous to mention. Why not come on out, bring your whole family to explore everything this showcase event has to offer. We hope to see you all here.