CONVENTION HUB The world-class Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre opened last year, just minutes from downtown Lethbridge, with the capacity to host national and international events. The state-of-the-art, $76-million facility offers 268,000 sq. ft. of multi- functional space, including a convention centre, trade hall, meeting rooms, a banquet salon and lounge and patio space. A 950,000-sq.-ft. lawn with a built-in amphitheatre accommodates up to 10,000 attendees for outdoor events, concerts or festivals. agrifoodhub.ca AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES Lethbridge is just a short drive to no less than four UNESCO World Heritage sites—Dinosaur Provincial Park, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. From delving into more than 6,000 years of Indigenous culture to exploring one of the earth’s best-preserved dinosaur fossil beds, visiting at least one of these sacred sites is a must. COUNTRY CHARM A reconstructed timber frame barn with origins dating back to Chicago in the 1900s, the charming Countryside Barn is an exclusive event venue just outside the city. An expansive space, with 32-ft. ceilings, a 3,600-sq.-ft. main level, a 1,800-sq.-ft. mezzanine, and the convenience of full-service, on-site catering, gatherings for up to 250 guests are effortless. countrysidebarn.ca STATELY EVENTS Built in 1910, The Norland Historic Estate is an elegant landmark set in a private, picturesque setting. Boasting Southern colonial charm, there are several elegant event spaces in the mansion, including a stunning ballroom that accommodates receptions for up to 300 guests, and an outdoor patio space that is perfect for cocktails. Catering is available onsite, as are accommodations for up to 10, making it an ideal spot for an AGM or executive meeting. thenorland.com CULTURAL FUSION The tranquility and beauty of Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden reflects the merging of Japanese and Canadian cultures by harmonizing southern Alberta’s distinctive landscape with traditional Japanese philosophy and symbols. The on-site Bunka Centre offers several fully-equipped event spaces, the largest of which accommodates up to 100 attendees theatre-style. Between meetings, guests can meander along the garden paths surrounding Henderson Lake, or enhance the experience with a group tour and cultural activity. nikkayuko.com PHOTO: TOURISM LETHBRIDGE PHOTO: TRAVEL ALBERTA / ROTH & RAMBERG PHOTO: KRISTYN HARDER PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO: TANYA PLONKA Spring 2024 | Ignitemag.ca | 47
