Lethbridge hosted a community festival for the Tour of Alberta Thursday, which came complete with a host of activities from a kids zone to comedy acts.
If people brought their own bike to show their solidarity for the race, there was a bike valet on hand to park it for cyclists.
More than 40 vendors were at the festival in Galt Gardens.
“We have an international presence. We have spectators from all over the world and most of the vendors are local and it’s just a great way to showcase our city,” stage one Lethbridge committee chair Chris Witkowski said.
It’s the second time the Tour of Alberta has come to Lethbride. Organizers say part of the festival’s success is weather and the fact the city is the first stage.
“They have been here a few days in anticipation of the event. I think too, there is still that anticipation and excitement around it, you know the first leg there is lots going on and for the tour organizers themselves they are fresh they’re excited. So I think we are getting the best of everybody,” stage 1 Lethbridge committee co-chair Jillian Bracken said.
Although the focus is on the cyclists racing, the fun is had by everyone. One man came all the way from Flin Flon, Manitoba to enjoy the festivities.
“We can’t get to the Tour de France… might as well come to Lethbridge. It’s on the international stage… and it’s well worth it.”
As the tour winds through the province, stage two runs from Kananaskis to Olds Friday, with both centres holding festivals like this one.