Low attendance at most events marked the inaugural Stettler edition of Alberta Culture Days last weekend.
Despite small crowds, community spirit and diversity were evident during a variety of activities in Stettler.
With more than 25 events, participants enjoyed the mix of culture and heritage that was presented at various venues, even though community support was lower than organizers had expected.
“We want to build on the successes of this year and make some changes where necessary,” said Aubrey Brown, the executive director of the Stettler Regional Board of Trade, which led the organizational effort.
“Where there was a cultural interest, participants and residents attended, as socializing, local music, local dancers and good food proved to be important and directly affected the attendance.
“Hopefully, we can build on those areas in 2013.”
Activities that drew the biggest crowds were a pancake breakfast at P&H Elevator, with about 170 people, a family concert Friday night at the Stettler Recreation Centre, a cultural café Saturday night and a Gospel concert Sunday afternoon, with about 110 people each.
Also drawing respectable crowds were a farmers’ market and a downtown “flash dance” Saturday.
The Culture Days celebration gave Stettler an opportunity to participate in a developing national and provincial annual cultural event, Brown said.
Although patrons were scattered at competing events, there was positive feedback, too.
“For being the first year, I thought it was great,” said Stettler Mayor Dick Richards.
“It’s a shame there weren’t more people who attended the activities — the product was excellent.”
While the crowds were generally lower than organizers anticipated, the mayor said Culture Days can grow and become “a great event” for those who participate.
“You can’t quantify the success of an event just by the number of people who attend,” Richards said.
“Stettler is still a vibrant cultural community. We need to share with the community how fun it was and get ready for next year.
“It could become a huge event for Stettler.”
The organizing committee plans to meet today to debrief and make notes and plans for 2013.
Anyone with suggestions or comments is invited to share ideas by calling the board of trade office at 403-742-3181, or by writing a letter to this newspaper: editor@stettlerindependent.com.