Spruce Grove turns 40 next month

SPRUCE GROVE -- The City of Spruce Grove will host a community party on March 1 as it officially turns 40 years old.

The free event will be held at Heavy Metal place and will include music, public skating in the Thompson Family Arena, and heritage displays to highlight Spruce Grove's history. Attendees can also expect a birthday cake and a fireworks show, depending on the weather. The city has also planned giveaway items for the event.

Mayor Jeff Acker provided a statement to 88.1 The One regarding the major milestone.

"Forty years ago, on March 1, 1986, Spruce Grove was officially incorporated as a city. Our population was just under 12,000 at that time, and looking back it’s amazing to see how much has changed and just how far we’ve come. We’ve seen new neighbourhoods and parks pop up, new schools and recreation facilities, and new businesses take root and thrive in Spruce Grove. We’re now well over 40,000 people strong and yet the sense of community and belonging that makes Spruce Grove feel like home has never changed. This anniversary is a time to reflect on the people, families, and values that helped shape our community and to think about the future we’re building together.

 I encourage everyone to join us on Sunday, March 1 at Heavy Metal Place for our 40^th anniversary celebration. We have a full afternoon of fun activities and entertainment planned, including live music, skating, heritage displays, birthday cake, and we’ll top it all off with a colourful fireworks show high above Heavy Metal Place. It’s going to be a great opportunity to come together and connect as a community, celebrate our history, and look forward to Spruce Grove’s next chapter," said Mayor Acker.

Residents are encouraged to use the free Park & Ride shuttles as part of the Heavy Metal Place parking lot will be closed for outdoor activities. The shuttle service will run between Fuhr Sports Park and Heavy Metal Place all afternoon on the day of the event, starting at 2:30 p.m.

The event will start at 3 PM and conclude at 7:30 PM.