Coaldale Summer Fest returns August 8–10: “Proudly Canadian – Locally Driven”

Posted on August 7, 2025 by admin

Town of Coaldale

The Town of Coaldale is thrilled to announce the return of Coaldale Summer Fest, taking place from August 8 to 10, with this year’s theme, “Proudly Canadian – Locally Driven.” The 2025 celebration promises to be one of the most exciting and community-driven events this year, bringing together residents and visitors for three days of music, food, family fun, and hometown pride.

From its inception, Coaldale Summer Fest has served as a vibrant showcase of the town’s community spirit, and this year’s theme reflects that tradition while adding a patriotic twist. “Proudly Canadian – Locally Driven” celebrates Canada’s cultural richness while spotlighting the people, businesses, and organizations that make Coaldale one of the best places to live, work, and play in Alberta.

“Summer Fest is about more than just having fun—though there will be plenty of that,” said Town of Coaldale Mayor, Jack Van Rijn. “It’s a time to celebrate our identity as Canadians while honouring the hard work, creativity, and community spirit that thrive right here in Coaldale. From the parade and food trucks to the music and local vendors, every part of Summer Fest is a reflection of our pride in where we live.”

Feature Events

Movie in the Park (Friday, August 8)

• Presented by the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, 94.1 CJOC and 98.1 The Ranch, Summer Fest will kick off with an outdoor movie screening where residents can help choose the featured film. The event starts at 7 p.m. at Millenium Park by The Hub (2107 13th Street) in Coaldale. The movie will start at approximately 8 p.m. 

• The Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast (Saturday, August 9)

• Guests can start their Saturday with a hearty community breakfast served in the Civic Square parking lot from 8 – 10 a.m., with proceeds supporting local charitable initiatives.

• Candy Parade (Saturday, August 9)

• Presented by McCain, the long-standing tradition of the Coaldale Candy Parade will return Saturday, August 9. The parade kicks off this year at 11 a.m. The Honourable Rick Casson and his wife Jeanene are this year’s Honourary Parade Marshalls. A parade route map is available on the Coaldale Summer Fest website.

• Coaldale Custom Cruisers’ Show N’ Shine (Saturday, August 9)

• Visit Coaldale’s Main Street between Noon and 4 p.m. to take in a variety of unique modern and antique rides at the Coaldale Custom Cruisers’ Show N’ Shine.

• Family Zones (Saturday, August 9)

• There will be 4 family zones this year with a variety of family-friendly activities. For a complete list of activities, please visit the Coaldale Summer Fest website.

• Free Swim (Saturday, August 9)

• Summer Fest attendees can cool off with a complimentary free swim at the Coaldale Pool from 1 – 5 p.m. sponsored by the Coaldale United Church Thrift Shop and KCL Cattle.

• Coaldale Food Bank BBQ Lunch (Saturday, August 9)

• A casual and delicious BBQ lunch will be served to raise funds for the Coaldale Food Bank, giving residents a chance to support a meaningful local cause. Located in the Civic Square Parking Lot, the Food Bank BBQ will run from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• Live Entertainment / The Road Hammers
Concert \& Ride for Dad Fundraiser (Saturday, August 9)

• This all-day fundraising concert presented by College Ford Lincoln, Evans Trucking, Pro \& HD, Dennis’ Dirtworx and 98.1 The Ranch, in support of prostate cancer awareness, features a lineup of Canadian talent and local bands, headlined by Canadian country rock act The Road Hammers. The concert will take place in

Civic Square Parking lot from Noon to 10 p.m.

• Fireworks (Saturday, August 9)

• Presented by the Coaldale Chamber of Commerce, the same team as last year will return to Coaldale Summer Fest for a dazzling Fireworks display, set to begin at approximately 10:20 p.m. There will be a pedestrian-only (no vehicles) spectator area along the canal bank and in the Northwest Soccer Field in the Quads.

Arts, Vendors & Attractions

• Domesticated Divas Market (Saturday, August 9)

• This artisan market at Civic Plaza will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and showcase handmade goods, boutique items, and one-of-a-kind finds from local makers and entrepreneurs.

• Food Trucks (All Weekend)

• An assortment of food trucks will be on-site throughout the weekend, offering a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages to satisfy every craving.

• Main Street Scavenger Hunt (Saturday, August 9)

• Organized by the Gem of the West Museum, festivalgoers of all ages can participate in a scavenger hunt along Coaldale’s Main Street, exploring local landmarks and businesses for prizes and fun. Stop by the Gem of the West Museum’s booth in Civic Square Atrium between Noon and 3:30 p.m. to find out which businesses are participating. Collect history cards at each participating business and return to the Museum’s booth before 3:30 p.m. to be entered into their prize draw. The draw will be at 4:30 p.m.

Social & Community Spaces

• Coaldale Kinsmen Beer Garden
(Saturday, August 9)

• All ages are welcome in the Kinsmen Beer Garden which will be conveniently located in the Civic Square Parking lot alongside the Civic Square Stage / Live Entertainment and will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Civic Square and John Davidson
Entertainment (Saturday, August 9)

• Two entertainment hubs will host a continuous schedule of live entertainment featuring local performers, cultural acts, and musical talent from across the region.

• Local Business Promotions (All
Weekend)

• Many Coaldale businesses will participate in Summer Fest by offering special sales, discounts, or giveaways throughout the weekend.

• Family Faith Fellowship Gathering (Sunday, August 10)

• Beginning at 3 p.m., the festival will conclude with a community faith service, bringing residents together for a moment of reflection and gratitude to end the weekend.

To stay up to date on festival details, including schedules, applications, and vendor information, visit the official Summer Fest website (www.coaldalesummerfest.ca).