Signature Events in the Mighty Peace

The Mighty Peace offers an exciting blend of culture, adventure, and community spirit, which is showcased through a variety of signature events that are known to captivate locals and visitors from near and far.

From the rhythmic beating of drums and the vibrant display of traditional regalia at Pow Wows to the adrenaline-pumping excitement of rodeos and jet boat racing, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences to be had. 

Join us as we explore the diverse and exhilarating signature events that make the Mighty Peace a destination like no other.

Peace River Pow Wow, May 30 – 31, 2026 

Presented by the Peace River Aboriginal Interagency Committee, this two-day cultural extravaganza unfolds at the Baytex Energy Centre in Peace River, serving as the perfect summer kickoff. Prepare to delve into a world of traditional dances, melodious songs, spirited fiddling and jigging contests, and adrenaline inducing hand game competitions.

You’ll be able to keep hunger at bay by indulging in bannock, as well as other traditional and neo-traditional treats. In between taking in the activities and enjoying delicious food, you will be able to browse through the Indigenous Artist Vendors, who offer unique and authentic goods for you to commemorate your day with.

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in excitement, entertainment, and the Indigenous culture, then you must add the Peace River Pow Wow to your summer itinerary!

 

Fairview SOS Party, June 12, 2026 

Celebrate the arrival of summer in Fairview with a day full of fun, music, and community spirit! The Start of Summer Festival features a vibrant parade, live music, and exciting activities for kids, making it the perfect event for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food from local vendors, take in the festive atmosphere, and kick off the summer with friends and family. Don’t miss this exciting community celebration, see you in Fairview!

 

Falher Honey Fest, June 12-14, 2026

Each June, Falher, Alberta, comes alive with the Falher Honey Festival, a weekend packed with excitement and community spirit! From bouncy castles and carnival rides to baseball and beach volleyball tournaments, there’s fun for all ages.

Enjoy live music, beer gardens, axe throwing, and a lively parade, or dive into unique experiences like candle making with Simoneau Honey and bee beard demonstrations. Food lovers can feast on a pancake breakfast, chili and rib cook-off, and Sunday brunch, while others can cool off at the foam party and slip-and-slide.

With a car show, mini market, and farm safety demos, this festival truly has something for everyone. Don’t miss this buzzing celebration of community and local honey!

 

Peace River Gold Cup, June 19-21, 2026 

Feel the thunder of roaring engines and the rush of pure adrenaline as jet boats tear through the waters in the Town of Peace River. This high-octane event will see elite teams competing in Peace River challenging each other at speeds of up to 160 mph.

But the excitement doesn’t stop on the water! This event offers something for everyone, including beer gardens, food vendors, farmers’ markets, show & shines, and fun-filled activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for an unforgettable summer experience, this event has it all.

Cheer on teams from Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and New Zealand as they battle for victory, and pick the perfect vantage point along the riverbanks to witness the action up close. Between races, soak in the festival atmosphere—grab a bite from a food truck, sip a cold brew, and explore the local markets.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind summer spectacle! Mark your calendar and be part of the most exhilarating event on the water.

Wanham Plowing Match, June 19-21, 2026

Grab your hat and boots and add the Wanham Plowing Match to your calendar this year! Starting in 1971, this iconic event in the Mighty Peace puts a spotlight on historical agricultural activities and is the perfect attraction for people of all ages to enjoy. Organized by the COCO Wanham Plowing Match and Ag Society, you’ll be able to experience everything from a pancake breakfast, baseball tournament and bouncy castles to tractor pulls, horse plowing, a car show, and more. 

Rich in history, this well attended occasion is the perfect way to learn more about the rural heritage and traditions of the area and spend a weekend outdoors with family and friends. 

Wanham Plowing Match

 

Hines Creek Race Days, June 20, 2026 

Hines Creek Race Days is a high-energy summer event in Hines Creek, Alberta just outside Fairview bringing together community spirit, family fun, and friendly competition in support of the Stollery Children’s Hospital.

Watch the crowd-favourite Rolling Races, Inflatable Costume Race, and Lawn Mower Races, or explore the open-air market and classic Show & Shine. From downhill thrills to local vendors and laughter around every corner, it’s a full day of small-town fun with big energy.

Hines Creek Race Days is a can’t-miss Mighty Peace event where creativity, competition, and community come together.

 

Cash & Cans Barrel Race, July 3 & 4, 2026 

Check out Lac Cardinal Recreation Area on July 3 & 4 for two action-packed days of barrel racing excitement. Watch riders of all ages push speed and precision in the arena, including a featured Men’s Barrel Race highlight you won’t want to miss.

The fun continues Saturday night with a family-friendly dance right in the arena, plus food trucks, local vendors, and a lively community atmosphere that brings everyone together.

With free admission, it’s the perfect summer weekend to bring the family, cheer on the competitors, and enjoy fast-paced rodeo action in the Mighty Peace.

 

Blue Sky Music Festival, July 10 & 11, 2026 

Experience the sound of the Northwest at the Blue Sky Community Park during the Blue Sky Music Festival two unforgettable days of live music, community, and summer vibes.

This family-friendly festival showcases an incredible lineup of local and regional indie artists, with everything from relaxed acoustic sets to high-energy performances. Beyond the music, enjoy food trucks, a beer garden for 18+, artisan vendors, children’s activities, and door prizes throughout the weekend.

Bring your friends and family and soak up the atmosphere where great music meets small-town charm—one of the Mighty Peace’s signature summer celebrations.

 

Peace Mud Bogs, July 11 & 12, 2026 

Hosted by the Peace River Agricultural Society on the AG grounds, this is one of the most thrilling off-road events in the Mighty Peace.

Watch as trucks, jeeps, and custom-built rigs battle their way through deep, unforgiving mud pits—testing power, traction, and driver skill in a race to the finish (or the next stuck moment). Spectators can get up close to the machines, check out the impressive modifications, and catch all the action as competitors push their vehicles to the limit.

Bring a lawn chair, settle in near the pits, and enjoy two days of mud-slinging excitement, driver prizes, and nonstop entertainment. The Peace Mud Bogs & Fair is a true showcase of grit, horsepower, and Peace Country pride.

 

 

Bonanza Agricultural Fair & Mud Bogs, July 17 & 18, 2026

If you’re looking for a good old-fashioned time, then the Bonanza Agricultural Fair and Mud Bogs are for you. This annual event has been in motion for the past 44 years and every year it gets bigger and better. Watch the mud fly as vehicles of all shapes and sizes race through the water logged track, cheer on your favourite riders and fast horses at the gymkhana event, indulge in the pancake breakfast and on site concession, take in the thrilling demolition derby, have fun at the children’s games, or kick up your boots at the evening dance – either way, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable weekend in Bonanza.

With so many sights and activities to experience, camping is suggested for those who don’t want to miss out on a single thing. This family friendly event is highly recommended!

 

Battle River Rodeo, July 17-29, 2026 

The 74th Annual Battle River Rodeo returns July 17–19, 2026 for an action-packed weekend celebrating one of Alberta’s oldest and largest amateur rodeos, first established in 1947.
This exciting three-day event features thrilling rodeo competitions, an All Pro Canadian Chuckwagon Association event, a kick-off BBQ, live music and dancing, a community parade, kids activities, beer gardens, seniors bingo, and a Sunday Demolition Derby. A beloved summer tradition, the rodeo continues to bring together competitors, families, and visitors from across the region for an unforgettable weekend of western heritage, entertainment, and community spirit.

Fairview Amateur Rodeo, July 17-19, 2026

Get ready to experience the heart-pounding thrill and wild-west excitement of a rodeo like never before! Fairview Amateur Rodeo is known as one of the best local and Amateur rodeos in the Mighty Peace and provides a fun weekend that the whole family can enjoy. Between watching bucking bulls, fast ropers, incredible trick riders, and gritty barrel racers, you will be able to indulge in delicious barbecue and smoked meats from the many food booths, browse the vendor market, and dance the night away with live, local entertainment.

Whether you’re a seasoned cowboy, or a first-time spectator, this rodeo is sure to have you on the edge of your seat and loving every single second of the adrenaline-fueled action. Add it to your summer to do list today!

 

Race The 8, July 24-26, 2026

Every July, Rycroft’s Race the 8 brings a celebration of Western heritage and family fun!  From chuckwagons and bull riding to mutton bustin’ and bronc riding, this event is packed with excitement for all ages.

Enjoy a pancake breakfast, steak supper, cowboy market, food trucks, beer gardens, and live entertainment, then dance the night away under the stars. Kids can join in the fun with wild pony races, a calf scramble, and a dedicated kids’ zone.

Mark your calendar and experience this unforgettable summer tradition in Rycroft!

 

Woodland Cree First Nation Treaty Days, August 3-5, 2026

Prepare for an unforgettable event of cultural festivities, delicious cuisine, and exciting activities at the Woodland Cree First Nation Treaty Days! This complimentary family event will allow you to immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant Indigenous culture of the region and experience land games such as axe throwing, archery, canoe racing, and more.

Engage in cultural workshops guided by experienced Elders and discover the art of crafting ribbon skirts and other traditional items. Children can enjoy face painting and bouncy castles, while everyone can look forward to a talent show highlighting local performers, including jigging and air band performances.

This is bound to be a weekend you’ll remember for many years to come!

 

Peace River TriRiver Triathlon, August 9

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Peace River, this much-loved event brings together community spirit, athletic challenge, and the natural beauty of Northern Alberta in one unforgettable race day.

Athletes of all levels are invited to swim, bike, and run through a variety of race categories, including Sprint, Team Sprint, Try-a-Tri for beginners, and the Kids of Steel program designed to introduce young participants to multisport in a fun and supportive way.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or stepping into triathlon for the first time, this family-friendly event captures the welcoming spirit of the Peace Region. From cheering spectators to first-time racers, the TriRiver Triathlon is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of the return of a true community tradition.

 

Summers End Festival, August, 2026

Get ready for a festival like no other! The Summers End Festival in the “Heart of the Peace,” has an incredible lineup of performances by Kikbak, Snow Circus, Burnt River Band, Spandy Andy, Hula Hoop Circus, a street dance with TJ Ruckus, and the Peace Classic Wheels car show. But that’s just the beginning – immerse yourself in a world of fun with castle & moonwalk bouncers, axe throwing, a western shoot out, a 56-foot obstacle course, a portable rock wall climber, and engaging tug-of-war activities. Kids will love the interactive hula hoop station and Trinity Body Art’s face painting, glitter tattoos, and sparkle painting.

Don’t forget to explore the street vendors selling unique items and enjoy delicious bites from food trucks like the Dutch Wharf Concessions, SnoBiz Treats, Hawaiian Treats, and Bulldogs Gourmet Dogs. Kids and adults alike will have the time of their lives during one of Fairview’s biggest festivals!

Miserable Miles, September, 2026

Are you ready to push your limits and conquer Misery Mountain? Experience the ultimate thrill at Miserable Miles, a 5.5km obstacle race, where every step is a test of your strength and determination. Ascend 212 meters through breathtaking landscapes, overcoming challenging obstacles along the way. Located in the heart of Peace River, this event brings people to the area from far and wide. With a supportive cheering squad and beer gardens at the base of the hill, the fun doesn’t end when you cross the finish line. 

Test your strength, spend a day outdoors, and cheers to your accomplishments with friends and family – this highly anticipated occasion is good for the mind, body, and soul. 

Miserable Miles view

Harvest Moon Festival, September 11 & 12, 2026 

Picture this: Grimshaw’s Main Street is filled with bouncy castles, games, food booths, an open-air market, endless music, and beautiful string lights overhead. With daytime activities perfect for all ages, you will be able to browse the high-performance car show, local vendors, the pie and jam competition, local performers, and so much more. This amazing gathering brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the upcoming harvest season and spend an evening beneath the bright moon and twinkling stars. 

This entire day of events has something for everyone and is the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer and welcome in the next season ahead. Mark your calendars for this show stopping occasion and make incredible memories while you’re there! 

Moose on the Loose Fun Run, September

Join the herd for the 4th Annual Moose on the Loose Fun Run at the Manning Ski Club! This annual fall fundraiser for the ski hill is a great way to support the hill and also enjoy the beautiful autumn colors. Walkers as well as runners will love this family-friendly, un-timed run that is all about fresh air, community vibes, and moose-sized fun. Grab your shoes, bring a friend, and hit the trails!

Song Rise Music Conference 

Community Futures Peace Country is proud to present the 2026 SongRise Conference, a two-day celebration of songwriting, music performance, and the business of the music industry. Whether you’re a songwriter, singer, musician, or lyricist, and no matter your skill level or musical genre, this event is designed to inspire, educate, and connect you with fellow artists and industry professionals.

Join them for two full days of learning, networking, songwriting, performance, and fun as we spread the SongRise love throughout the Peace Country region! Then take in the concert that takes place on Saturday, October 3rd at the Athabasca Hall, doors open at 6:30 pm and the show starts at 7:00 pm.