Celebrating 100 Years in Westlock

News Release

Government of Canada supports the Town of Westlock’s centennial celebrations

July 24, 2015 – Westlock, Alberta – Department of Canadian Heritage

The Town of Westlock will receive multi-year funding of $53,100 ($12,600 in 2015–16 and $40,500 in 2016–17) under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in support of its centennial celebrations in 2016.

The Town of Westlock will commemorate its centennial with a series of activities throughout 2016, including musical and dance performances, historical presentations, community art projects, theatrical presentations and art displays. The year-long festivities are expected to draw more than 5,000 participants and will showcase the work of more than 50 local artists and performers.

Brian Storseth, Member of Parliament (Westlock–St. Paul) made this announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Quick Facts

The Town of Westlock was incorporated on March 16, 1916, after the arrival of the railway in a town nearby. This led to large growth of the town and its subsequent incorporation. Today, Westlock is an agricultural community that is home to more than 4,800 residents.
Centennial celebrations will take place throughout the year from January 1 to December 4, 2016.
The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

Quotes

“Our Government is proud to support local commemorations and celebrations across Canada. Honouring our nation’s history and heritage is especially important as we move closer to the 150^th anniversary of Confederation in 2017. I offer my congratulations to the Town of Westlock on 100 years of growth and prosperity.”

—The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

“Supporting important anniversaries such as this reaffirms our Government’s commitment to honouring our past and celebrating our heritage here in Alberta. I am thrilled to see support for the Town of Westlock’s centennial and am looking forward to participating in the festivities.”

—Brian Storseth, Member of Parliament (Westlock–St. Paul)

“2016 will be an exciting year for our community as the Centennial Committee is busy planning events to celebrate the history of the Town of Westlock. It is Canadian Heritage’s funding that will allow us to host multiple events throughout the year and celebrate our community’s history and pride.”

—His Worship Ralph Leriger, Town of Westlock