Our Story – Why We Exist

Heritage Park is more than a museum; it is a cherished cultural institution deeply woven into the fabric of our community. For over 60 years, Heritage Park has connected generations through immersive storytelling and authentic experiences. With 180 historic buildings, 50,500 artifacts, and over 640,000 annual visitors, we create spaces where people of all ages can discover, connect, and shape core memories that last a lifetime.

Our vision, “To Be Canada’s Premier Family Destination Where History Comes Alive,” drives us to inspire curiosity, build community, and celebrate the stories that define western Canada. From the pioneering spirit of settlers to the wisdom of Indigenous traditions, we highlight resilience, innovation, and the shared humanity that binds us together. As a non-profit, we rely on the generosity of donors to preserve our heritage and ensure these transformative experiences remain accessible to all. Understanding where we have come from helps us shape a better future.

Our Impact – What We Do

Heritage Park fosters connections that transcend generations, creating core memories and meaningful experiences. In 2024, we:

• Welcomed 646,809 visitors to step into the stories of our shared past.
• Engaged 65,000 youth in interactive educational programs that ignite curiosity and inspire learning.
• Preserved 180 historic buildings and 50,500 artifacts, safeguarding history for future generations.
• Benefited from 47,737 volunteer hours, reflecting the unwavering dedication of our community.

Heritage Park is a place where families, friends, and individuals come together to celebrate the past, learn from it, and envision a brighter future.

How We Do It

Heritage Park’s mission is brought to life through four key pillars that shape the heart of our work:

• Preservation: By authentically restoring and maintaining historic buildings and artifacts, we create living connections to Alberta’s past. Visitors step into history and leave with a deeper understanding of their heritage.
• Education: Our hands-on programs, from school workshops to family-friendly experiences, connect youth and adults to Indigenous knowledge, settler resilience, and groundbreaking innovations that shaped our province. A 2009 study (Rahman & Spafford) showed that almost 97% of students who had participated in an educational field trip agreed or strongly agreed that it had helped to increase their knowledge base. These experiences empower young minds and foster lifelong learning.
• Agriculture: Through our agriculture programs, visitors explore the origins of our food systems, witness sustainable farming practices, and foster a connection to the land. These experiences celebrate the ingenuity of Alberta’s farmers while inspiring a sense of stewardship.
• Community Events: Signature events like Alberta Day, which united over 20,000 attendees in 2024, and Once Upon a Christmas bring families together to celebrate tradition, culture, and togetherness, creating cherished memories for all who attend.

What You Can Do

As a charity, your support allows Heritage Park to continue shaping lives and creating core memories. Together, we can:

Preserve Alberta’s history for future generations to experience and learn from.
Expand educational programming that sparks curiosity and fosters lifelong learning.
Host inclusive events that bring people of all backgrounds together to celebrate community.
Join us in making history come alive. Visit Heritage Park to make a donation or explore sponsorship opportunities. With your help, we can continue to be a place where stories are celebrated, memories are made, and futures are inspired.

Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us preserve the stories that define who we are.