City of Grande Prairie - Welcoming Week

Welcoming Week is observed internationally from September 8 -17, it is a celebration of newcomers and immigrants in our community. The City of Grande Prairie’s Local Immigration Partnership will be hosting activities from September 8 – 17 in recognition of this week. This week is designed to bring together new and long-term residents to create communities and spaces where everyone feels like they belong, no matter where they come from. While also showcasing supports, services, and amenities that are available to both. 

Residents are encouraged to spend the week finding ways to support their neighbours, new and longstanding, by introducing yourself, volunteering with local organizations that support immigration and settlement, or inviting new neighbours out to local events and activities around the community.

Plan your Week

For the week of September 8 to 17, there is a full calendar of events all community members are invited to check out, and a great opportunity to welcome new Grande Prairie residents out to including:

Friday, September 8

Amazing Race - International Literacy Day  | 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Grande Prairie Public Library | 9839 103 Ave
Embark on an exhilarating library adventure with their "Amazing Race"! Solve literary clues and enter for a chance to win fantastic prizes.
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free 

Saturday, September 9

Corn Festival ACFA - Alberta Culture Day | 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: École Nouvelle Frontière | 11201 Pinnacle Blvd
Corn Festival hosted by ACFA and École Nouvelle Frontière du CSNO will feature fresh corn, hotdogs and the 2nd annual Sugar Pie Contest. As well enjoy a  francophone music show & family activities.
Ages: Activities are open to all ages. 
Cost: Free for members, $10-20 for non-members

First Responders Appreciation Day | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location: Grande Prairie Legion | 9912 101 Ave
Come cheer on the police officers, paramedics, and firefighters who serve our community in the obstacle course competition. Join us for a free community BBQ, Canine Unit demonstrations, and a mock 911 scenario. 
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free 

Sunday, September 10

Welcome on Ice: Ice Skating & Lessons for Immigrant Families | 2:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Location: Design Works Centre | 6 Knowledge Way
Come to Design Works Centre for free ice skating. Helmets and skates are included with limited supply.  If you are interested in learning to ice skate, register for free skating lessons and rentals here. 
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free 

Wednesday, September 13

Thriving In The City | 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Northwestern Polytechnic | 10726 106 Ave
Hosted on the Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) Grande Prairie campus, Thriving In The City connects community, NWP students, and employers. This event provides an excellent opportunity to market services, recruit employees, and build relationships with the NWP student body. 
Ages: Activities are best for College Students
Cost: Free 

GP Grows: On Tour | 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Dalen
Location: Dalen Park | 76a Ave and 98 St
GP Grows is hitting the road, embarking on a captivating tour across our community to showcase a diverse range of solutions for your garden. Our exciting theme for this tour is "Tree Planting," where we will explore the beauty and benefits of planting trees in our surroundings. For more info click here.
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free 

Thursday, September 14

Canadian Work Culture Presentation | 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: The Work Place | #105, 9840 – 97 Ave
New to working in Canada? Attend the Canadian Work Culture presentation at The Work Place. Information will be provided on employer expectations, employment standards, body language, customs, language and international qualification assessment services. Bring your resume to receive a complimentary 15-minute resume review.  To register email info@gpworkplace.ca or phone Krupal Patel, 780-539-5477. 
Ages: 16+
Cost: Free 

Saturday, September 16

Harvest Festival | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
The City of Grande Prairie is throwing an autumn-inspired Harvest Festival to commemorate the season! Embrace the array of free activities planned, including live music, spirit & wine tasting, pie eating contest, fall-themed games and activities, cultural dancing, petting zoo and more! For full event details click here.
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free 

Sunday, September 17

Welcome on Ice: Ice Skating & Lessons for Immigrant Families | 2:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Location: Design Works Centre | 6 Knowledge Way
Come to Design Works Centre for free ice skating. Helmets and skates are included with limited supply.  If you are interested in learning to ice skate, register for free skating lessons and rentals here. 
Ages: Activities are open to all ages.   
Cost: Free