The RCMP Musical Ride is coming to Cold Lake on July 24 and the city is making it easier for families to attend by giving up to 1,000 free children’s tickets.
During the city council meeting, council approved a $5,000 budget to cover the tickets, to make the event more accessible and inclusive.
The original proposal, brought by Mayor Craig Copeland and city administration was to provide free tickets to municipal staff and members of the health care area. However after discussions, council shifted their focus to children in the community. CAO Kevin Nagoya estimated that 800 people would have qualified under the original plan including city staff, fire/rescue, and health professionals.
“I don’t feel comfortable giving it to one type of employee within the community,” said councillor Vicky Lefebvre. “But I have no problem sponsoring so many tickets, let’s say for children. I think if we provide the children with free entry and we cover that, I think that would be fair.”
Mayor Copeland supported the idea, suggesting a simple approach where the first 1,000 children would receive free entry. “It cleans it off easy,” added councillor Chris Vining. “If your kid gets a free ticket and we have up to a thousand of them available.”
Cold Lake Agricultural Society handles ticket tracking at the gate, with no registration required. The idea not only supports families but also fits with the event’s charitable purpose, as the proceeds from the RCMP Musical Ride benefits local non-profits.
The RCMP Musical Ride features a team of mounted officers performing choreographed drills to music, celebrating Canadian tradition and encouraging community engagement and recruitment. Tickets for the event are $5 for children aged 15 and under, $10 for adults, and $15 at the door. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Cold Lake Agricultural Society grounds.
Council approved the motion, ensuring that up to 1,000 local kids can enjoy the performance free of charge.
