Crazy Daze in downtown Stettler with the midway on Main Street was a big hit for families and attracted hundreds of people on June 18 and 19.
“Events such as Crazy Daze help get more people into our downtown stores,” said Andrea Hatch, president of Stettler Downtown Business Association that hosts the annual event.
Many stores were busy Friday and Saturday with various bargains and special promotions while the carnival midway returned to Main Street after a one-year absence.
“It was the best Crazy Daze ever,” said Bernie Jackson, who has owned Wells Furniture for 13 years.
“It was awesome.”
“While the children were in the carnival, parents were in the stores shopping and buying,” said Jackson.
She heard numerous comments that the midway helped enhance the festive downtown atmosphere.
“I heard many people say if felt more like a country fair,” said Jackson.
Other events such as Relay for Life for the Canadian Cancer Society and the Show an’ Shine on Saturday attracted many people to the downtown, she said.
Several businesses said the weekend was prosperous.
“We were happy with the business and volume of traffic in our store,” said Ryan Stratulate of John’s Men’s Wear, noting that the midway downtown was a bonus.
“More shoppers and people downtown is always good,” said Kurt Baker, owner of Wish Kitchen and Gift and secretary of the downtown business association.
Pfieffer House of Music owner Scott Pfeiffer said that Crazy Daze with the midway is just way to draw people downtown.
“We’re lucky that we have such a nice downtown.”
“Recently we had several visitors from central Alberta tell us how much the downtown is beautiful and clean and the people are so very friendly,” said Pfeiffer.
“The Town of Stettler certainly does a lot to help make the downtown beautiful and attractive.”
Wares Jewelers owner Derek Wade was one business owner who prefers the midway at the exhibition, since it takes up prime parking for the business.
“We definitely want the midway in Stettler,” said Wade, suggesting the rodeo is a better time and place for the carnival.
Carnival operators were delighted with the support of Stettler people.
“They made more money in two days than they normally do in three days,” said Hatch.
She admits that not all businesses equally benefit from Crazy Days and the carnival downtown.
“Some events work for some businesses and other events benefit others and hopefully we can strike a balance,” said Hatch.
Adding to the excitement, a bride and groom in full attire were photographed on the ferris wheel, said Hatch while the wedding party was on parade in the midway.
The business association plans to evaluate the event to better serve everyone next year.