Whoop-Up Days set to return September 2 to 5

Southern Albertans received some exciting news on Friday – Whoop-Up Days is set to return this summer. The celebrations and festivities are set to kick off Sept. 2 to 5. 

With the announcement of Whoop-Up Days returning to Lethbridge this summer, there are some changes to make note of. With the short notice schedule, Exhibition Park CEO, Mike Warkentin says a new date has been picked this year to help accommodate the midway.

The midway has switched from West Coast Amusements to Wild Rose shows. 

Unfortunately, the midway is expected to be smaller in size due to the on-going construction of the new Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre.

The popular Whoop-Up Days parade has also been cancelled this year due to cost, scheduling and construction. 

Unlike certain events taking place at the Calgary Stampede, at this time, you will not have to produce proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. 

Warkentin adds following a year of being in the pandemic, the Lethbridge & District Exhibition is waiving the cost of admission.

As well, parking will also be free, however, staff are encouraging people to plan ahead as parking will be limited. 

If you aren’t interested in riding the rides, there will be food trucks, a market place and live music, which is set to take the stage inside Heritage Hall.

As for the rodeo, it has been postponed until next year, however, the Rocky Mountain Turf Club has added to the festivities as it kicks off the Fall meet on Sept. 5.

This year’s Whoop-Up Days runs on Sept. 2 from 4 to 11 p.m. and Sept. 3 and 4 from noon to midnight.