Calgary Herald

Tons of family fun plus the world’s best show jumpers as Spruce Meadows’ summer season kicks off with the ‘National’, presented by Rolex, June 12-16

Ticket prices for this fantastic family event start at just $10

- ROBIN BRUNET,

A jam-packed summer of family fun kicks off at Spruce Meadows on June 12-16, with the ‘National’, presented by Rolex.

The show jumping event is far from exclusive to equestrian­s: it is also a weekend of fantastic family activities that will dazzle sport enthusiast­s, music lovers and kids alike.

“Existing fans, and anyone curious about the world of show jumping, will definitely want to be here, but there’s also loads more for the entire family to enjoy,” says Krista Poffenroth, manager of exhibits and business developmen­t at Spruce Meadows.

For starters, the ‘National’ will host the return of the Firefit Championsh­ip, based on firefighti­ng tasks commonly performed in emergency situations and involving firefighte­rs from across the country.

Saturday and Sunday of the ‘National’ will see, courtesy of Brookfield Residentia­l, George Canyon, Jess Moskaluke and Steven Lee Olsen perform on the brandnew Spruce Meadows Stage, in the middle of the upper and lower plaza.

That’s not all a general admission ticket buys: the ‘National’ will host first responders displays where guests can meet police officers, firefighte­rs, SWAT teams and others who risk their lives to keep everyone safe. “If you have kids who are obsessed with police cars, ambulances and

fire trucks, this is one for you,” Poffenroth says. “My personal favourite, the K-9 units from both the Calgary Police Service and RCMP, will be here showing off their unique skills.”

Poffenroth adds, “You also won’t want to miss our selection of unique local vendors with shops throughout the grounds.” This is in addition to the pony rides, face painting and bouncy castles for the Kids’ Zone, presented by CGI.

Guests looking for an elevated experience can book seats in the Starting Line at the stunning British House building, to enjoy a semi-private suite with catering, a cash bar and more.

But arguably the biggest surprise in store for ‘National’ attendees is the price of admission: tickets start at just $10, and half that for kids and seniors. “It’s one of the most affordable summer events you’ll find,” Poffenroth says. “If you haven’t explored Spruce Meadows before, this year is your chance to do so – and it’s easier than ever to get here now that Southwest Calgary Ring Road is completed.”

For more informatio­n about the ‘National’ and to purchase tickets, visit sprucemead­ows.com.

 ?? PHOTO BY SPRUCE MEADOWS MEDIA ?? Spruce Meadows kicks off the summer season with the ‘National’, presented by Rolex.
PHOTO BY SPRUCE MEADOWS MEDIA Spruce Meadows kicks off the summer season with the ‘National’, presented by Rolex.

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