Christmas in the Heartland:

Celebrating Rural Alberta!

Saturday November 28, members of the Heartland community will once again join forces to create the ultimate in rural holiday experiences. Christmas in the Heartland 2009 activities include shopping at Christmas markets/craft fairs (cash only), choosing and cutting your own Christmas tree, a local art exhibit, an ice carving demonstration, meeting miniature horses, a country bake sale, a nutcracker display, sleigh rides, adoptable animals from NASAP and SCARS, a Christmas nativity display featuring over 300 nativity scenes and a 60 ft. Christmas tree light up at the Heartland Hall tower.

"We are very excited this year as Christmas in the Heartland has expanded to include the Good Hope hall location," explains Jennifer Brosseau, Christmas in the Heartland spokesperson. This year's addition to Christmas in the Heartland brings a Nutcracker display, country bake sale, and a unique partnership with the Northern Alberta Society for Animal Protection (NASAP) and the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS). Rescued dogs from NASAP and SCARS will be onsite at the Good Hope hall location for those interested in adopting or learning more about adopting rescued animals.

"Many participants from last year had a wonderful time touring the Heartland with their friends and families. Christmas in the Heartland is not only a good time for families to spend time together, but it's a great chance to shop for wonderful gifts, precious holiday baked goods, preserves and sweets," continues Brosseau.

Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., participants will experience authentic Christmas activities at the seven locations in northern Strathcona County. At 5 p.m. everyone is invited to the Heartland Hall for the big Christmas tree tower light up.

Admission to Christmas in the Heartland is free. Holiday arts, crafts, baking and refreshments will be available for purchase (cash only) at the various locations.

In an effort to make the day more accessible for families, round trip bus transportation to the Heartland locations, departing from Sherwood Park is available. Adult - $20.00+GST, Children (under 14) $10.00+GST, Family (4 individuals) $50.00+GST. Tickets can be purchased at the Economic Development and Tourism office in Strathcona County Hall. For more information call 780-410-8511.

For those who wish to drive the route, a free driving map of the area is available at www.strathconacounty.com