CALGARY -- The historical village at Heritage Park is now open for the season.
Prospect Ridge exhibits are reopening this weekend as park officials say it will bring the country’s energy industry stories to life.
Phase one of the two-part project sees revitalization to many old exhibits including Dingman No. 1 discovery well, coal mine, prospector’s tent cabin and water wheel.
Jade Jacobson enjoyed petting the horses and winding her way through the maze.
"I did the big one and the little one. I did the little one one time and I did the big one two times."
Her mother, Nikko Brar, says opening day has been a breath of fresh air following many restrictions in place.
"It's been really nice, we’ve got some good weather, I feel very safe, it’s pretty spread out, it's very expansive, there’s lots to see, there’s lots to do, so it's been a nice thing. Just something to do on this long weekend where we can’t really go anywhere and do too much."
Heritage Park is just as excited to welcome back guests.
"It brings a whole vibrancy that we haven’t seen and frankly it’s quite emotional for our staff, and our volunteers and our guests as well," said spokesperon Jeff Hodgson.
Guests will also experience a new exhibit called Prospect Ridge,, showcasing Alberta’s natural resources.
"From coal to oil to water to wind power and throughout the season we are going to be able to enhance and open up new experiences as guests return."
The park says it is following safety protocols with all programming outside, along with a timed ticketing system where you can only pre-purchase tickets.
The S.S. Moyie paddlewheeler and steam train are also back this year, operating with limited capacity. The ship will offer eight sailings daily.
Masks are recommended but not required outdoors if two metres of space can be maintained.
