STAY CONNECTED: Have the stories that matter most delivered every night to your email inbox. Subscribe to our daily local news wrap.
By Tanner Smith
36th annual

MLA Todd Lowen wishing Albertans a “Happy Parks Day”

Jul 17, 2026 | 10:15 AM

Central Peace-Notley MLA Todd Lowen, who also serves as Minister of Forestry and Parks has issued a statement for the 36th annual Alberta Parks Day, which is tomorrow (Saturday, July 18):

“Happy Parks Day, Alberta! I encourage all Albertans to take a little time to get outside, connect with nature, and enjoy the incredible provincial parks we’re lucky to have right here at home.

“Since Parks Day was first celebrated in 1990, Albertans have found new and exciting ways to enjoy public lands. Today, parks support a wider range of activities than ever before. As Alberta’s population continues to grow, more people are looking to our parks for recreation and new outdoor experiences. 

“As stewards of these remarkable landscapes, we must ensure our parks continue to be resilient and meet the needs of Albertans, today and into the future. Through our new Plan for Parks, conservation remains an important, necessary guiding priority, alongside recreation, access, education, visitor enjoyment and responsible land management. 

“Parks are for people, and these areas are meant to be experienced. They are places where families create lasting memories, where people can connect with nature and where Albertans can enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you visit Sundance Provincial Park for its amazing hoodoos and sandstone cliffs, stay in a yurt at Miquelon Lake and camp under the stars, or take a swim at Kinbrook Island and enjoy Lake Newell – Alberta’s parks have something for everyone to enjoy.

“As we celebrate Parks Day, I encourage Albertans to take the opportunity to explore somewhere new and discover all that Alberta’s parks have to offer. Here’s to celebrating the most beautiful landscapes on Earth!”

First recognized in 1990, the day was created as an “opportunity to celebrate the wonders and natural beauty that exists all around us,” and is held on the third Saturday of July each year.

Alberta is home to over 460 provincial parks and five national parks that residents are invited to visit to celebrate the holiday.

by Tanner Smith