Bonanza Days set to run in Milk River

This year’s celebration will commemorate 51 years of Bonanza Day weekends in Milk River.

This year’s theme is “Under the Neon Lights, Milk River Shines Bright... It's Magical.”

Milk River is named after the Milk River which flows immediately to its south. Every year the community and surrounding area celebrate Bonanza Days on the August long weekend.

“Milk River's Bonanza Days have been taking place since 1967,” said Rey Richards, Bonanza Day Committee Member.

“In those 51 years, it has grown in size with many different events such as the parade, street market, kids activities, flower and grain show, quilting show, pancake breakfast and this year we'll be having a lit up evening parade which will roll into a fireworks display. When talking about the importance of Bonanza Days with neighbours, the one sentiment that comes through is when everyone returns home and does the family visit, but also get to see old friends while taking in the many events going on. This year, we are kicking Bonanza Days off with a Family Dance on Friday.”

The weekend kicks off Friday with a concert by the Mark Hall Band at the Civic Centre. Throughout the weekend, the swimming pool will be offering free swimming. On Saturday, a pancake breakfast will be hosted with music by Johnny & Faye as well as five and 10 km runs.

The following events and activities will take place over the weekend: separate morning and evening parades, fireworks, public market, teen scavenger hunt, poker derby run, car show, face painting, robotics, Lego, pictures, bouncy castles, flower show, quilt show, culinary show, photo contest, slow pitch, plays and more.

On Sunday, Riverside Golf is hosting a Bonanza Day Mixed Tournament.

The committee expects 800 to 1,000 people to be in attendance. For more information, go to the Bonanza Day in Milk River Facebook Page.