Okotoks Heritage & Culture

06/01/2026

Stay safe everyone. ☔️

🌧️ High Streamflow Advisory In Effect: A special weather statement has been issued from Environment Canada for central and south Alberta for strong winds, heavy rain and colder temperatures. Heavy rain is expected to continue through to Wednesday morning, with total amounts of 50-100 mm and a possible river flow rate of 65-150 m³/s.

As of today, the Town has activated stage one of our Emergency Management Plan in response to the high streamflow advisory currently in effect for the Sheep River. A high streamflow advisory occurs when stream levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly and no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

While there is no immediate threat to public safety, stage one reflects our commitment to preparedness. The emergency management team is actively monitoring conditions, coordinating with regional and provincial partners, and ensuring readiness in case the situation changes.

Heavy rainfall may also overwhelm storm drains and lead to overland flooding, especially in low-lying areas. As a precaution, residents are reminded to:

-Clear eavestroughs and downspouts.
-Direct water away from foundations.
-Watch for pooling water in low-lying areas of your property. If you’d like to add extra protection, free sandbags are available for pickup at the Okotoks Operations Centre parking lot (1118 N Railway St). Please be mindful and leave some for your neighbours.
-Stay away from riverbanks and fast-moving water, as riverbanks can become unstable and water conditions can change rapidly during high streamflow events.

Stay informed by following the Town’s social media channels and checking okotoks.ca for the latest news and updates.

05/30/2026

Looking to try something new?
Led by Shermayn Menicoche, this Indigenous Beading course will teach participants to make their very own fringe earrings! Ages 16+.

📆Thursday, June 11 from 6:00 to 9:00pm.
💲$50 per person. All supplies included.
📍Okotoks Art Gallery Studio (upstairs)

Register here: https://recreation.okotoks.ca/TWNOKO/public/booking/CourseDetails/26417

05/29/2026

So much to do this weekend!! 😍

05/29/2026

🚨 Artist Reminder 🚨

June 1 is the deadline for 2027 gallery submissions! 🎨✨

If you’ve been planning to apply, now’s the time to finalize your portfolio, polish your artist statement, and hit submit. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your work and be part of an exciting exhibition season.

📅 Submission Deadline: June 1
🖼️ 2027 Gallery Applications
⏳ Don’t wait until the last minute!

https://www.okotoks.ca/your-community/amenities/cultural-heritage-facilities/okotoks-art-gallery

05/28/2026

📰 This week in history:
May 28, 1926 - The weekly half holidays will start again next week [and] continue in June July and August. All places of business except those exempt from the operation of the bylaw like restaurants, etc., will close at 1 o’clock every Wednesday.

05/27/2026

Did you know
The Old Church Theatre on the corner of Elma Street and Centre Avenue has served as a central gathering place for our community for over a century. Originally built in 1906 as the Methodist Church for just $5,100, the beautiful brick building became the Okotoks United Church in 1917. For generations, it was a cherished space where residents gathered to worship, find inspiration, and fill the rafters with music.

By 2002, the growing congregation had outgrown the space, sparking a remarkable story of community preservation. Led by the Okotoks Arts Council (OAC) and the Town’s Cultural and Historical Services team, the community rallied together. Local non-profits, the Historical Society, the Rotary Club, the Dewdney Players, and multiple levels of government set out to renovate and structurally stabilize the beloved building.

This massive collaborative effort officially reopened its doors to the public in 2011 with a production of “Sorry Wrong Chimney” by the Dewdney Players. Known for over two decades as the Rotary Performing Arts Centre (RPAC), the building was renamed the Old Church Theatre in 2024, honouring both its roots and its modern role as a vibrant hub for local culture, celebration, and performance.

Learn more about its history at hermis.alberta.ca/ARHP/Details.aspx?DeptID=1&ObjectID=4664-0449

We’re sharing stories like this to help connect our community with the people and places that have shaped Okotoks over time. Tune in for another feature.

05/27/2026

🤔 Can you guess what this object is from the Okotoks Museum & Archives' artifact collection? The answer will be posted next Wednesday.
Last week’s object was a 1973 Polaroid camera. 📸

05/26/2026

We still have a few spots left for Mixed Media: Tools, Texture, and Technique on June 6th with Ashley Gaboury!
Only $65/person. Ages 16+. Class will take place at the Okotoks Art Gallery Studio (upstairs).

Register here: https://recreation.okotoks.ca/TWNOKO/public/booking/CourseDetails/26416

05/24/2026

🎶 It’s back! Thursday Nights @ the Plaza is here — with new music and a brand-new location. Join us for great vibes, live entertainment, and unforgettable summer nights. See you at the Arts & Learning Campus Plaza this summer! ✨

https://www.okotoks.ca/your-community/living-okotoks/community-event-calendar/thursday-nights-plaza

05/23/2026

We're all set for Art on the Lawn! The sun is shining bright and Eagle 100.9 is broadcasting live from the spot. Drop by and say hi.