Grande Prairians had their cake and ate it, too!

The City’s 50th Anniversary Homecoming festivities concluded Sunday with a re-enactment of the delivery of its charter 50 years ago, a Homecoming Heroes parade and an 8-foot cake enjoyed by hundreds of City residents and visitors, who also took in the Heritage Festival in Muskoseepi Park.

“This weekend’s events were a fabulous way to celebrate the City reaching its 50-year mark and its achievements while taking time to look ahead to a great future,” says Ald. Bill Given, Chair of the 50^th anniversary Committee. “We appreciate the efforts of everyone who helped make Homecoming a great success and the terrific response from residents and visitors.” 

The next milestone for the community is in 2014 when the municipality commemorate 100 years since incorporation.

The Grande Prairie Region Tourist Association topped things off with a pair of outdoor movies Sunday and Monday to add a nostalgic touch. On Sunday, the Royal Canadian Legion had a pancake breakfast. Saturday was highlighted by a sold-out Homecoming Barbecue and Dance at the Bowes Family Crystal Gardens. The Sensational Hot Rods had attendees bopping the night away with hit tunes from the late 1950s and early 1960s, as well as some original music.

Saturday afternoon featured a Heritage Tour and Tea at the Grande Prairie Museum and a golf tournament at the Grande Prairie Golf and Country Club. A welcome reception kicked the weekend off at Centre 2000.

See the Homecoming Photo Gallery for pictures of some of these events.