Unwrap free winter fun at Alberta heritage sites

Posted on December 18, 2025 by Sunny South News

Southern Alberta Newspapers

From fossils to artifacts, Alberta’s world-class heritage sites and museums share the stories that shaped our province. This winter, Alberta’s government will once again participate in the Canada Strong Pass program, making it easier for more people to explore Alberta’s rich history and vibrant culture.

As part of Alberta’s participation, general admission to provincial museums and historic sites will be free for children and teens aged 17 and under, and half-price for young adults aged 18 to 24. Through this program, Alberta’s government is making it easier than ever for families and youth to discover the province’s heritage through engaging, hands-on experiences.

“Our government is proud to make our incredible museums and historic sites more accessible to Albertans. These experiences spark curiosity, support learning and help share Alberta’s unique story while boosting visitation and strengthening local economies across the province,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women.

Alberta’s heritage sites and museums are bursting with unique events and experiences, and this opportunity will attract new visitors to experience and learn about everything our provincial sites and museums have to offer.

“As we wrap up our 40th anniversary year with record-breaking attendance, we’re excited to participate in the Canada Strong Pass this holiday season. More Albertans will have the opportunity to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, explore our Breakthroughs exhibit, and connect with the fossils that shape our province’s unique prehistoric past,” said Lisa Making, executive director, Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Status of Women.

Discounted admission is available to all eligible Albertans and out-of-province visitors, with no limit to the number of times a visitor can take advantage of the offer from today until January 15. The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical or digital pass – benefits are automatically applied to all eligible guests within the specified age groups during the program period.

“The Canada Strong Pass helps families explore Canada, save money and enjoy what makes our country special. After its success this summer, it’s back for the holidays, giving Canadians the chance to create unforgettable memories with loved ones across the country,” said Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.

For a full list of participating provincial museums and historic sites, and more information on Alberta’s involvement in the Canada Strong Pass, visit ExploreAlbertaHistory.com.

• With Alberta’s participation in the Canada Strong Pass, a family of four with children under 17 can save up to $20 per visit.

• The eight sites offering free general admission are:

– Royal Alberta Museum, Edmonton

– Royal Tyrrell Museum, Drumheller

– Reynolds Museum, Wetaskiwin

– Remington Carriage Museum,
Cardston

– Oil Sands Discovery Centre, Fort McMurray

– Rutherford House, Edmonton

– Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, Crowsnest Pass

– Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Fort MacLeod

• The following provincial sites are always free: Provincial Archives of Alberta, Leitch Collieries Historic Site, Okotoks Erratic and Brooks Aqueduct.

• Seasonal historic sites are closed over the winter season.

• The Canada Strong Pass is also applicable in Alberta for free admission at Jasper National Park, Elk Island National Park, Banff National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park, Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, Banff Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, Cave and Basin National Historic Site, and Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site.