Northern Alberta is no stranger to the music industry. Carolyn Dawn Johnson, from Deadwood, won 4 Canadian Country Music Awards in 2004, and Duane Steele, hailing from Hines Creek, was chosen the 2001 Independent Male Artist of the Year. Emerson Drive, a band from the Grande Prairie area, is one of country music's newest sensations. Northern Alberta is also on the tour circuit for some of the largest names in the music industry.

Community concerts and events evidence our love of celebrations. Fort McMurray is a mecca for touring bands from Atlantic Canada.

During the summer solstice, over 5000 visitors flock to Driftpile by the shores of Lesser Slave Lake for the North Country Fair, long hailed as the ultimate community festival in Canada for showcasing.

The celebration continues in July as Peace River kicks off its annual Peace Fest. Here you'll be treated to a headliner who is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Athabasca's Magnificent River Rats Canada Day Festival is billed as rural western Canada's largest celebration.

And don't forget Grande Prairie's Crystal Centre, a modern entertainment centre built to accommodate thousands of fans, which has been host to some of the biggest names in the music industry.

If you want to glimpse into the life of real ranchers and farmers, be sure to check out the local agricultural fairs. These events are the highlight of the harvest season as ranchers and farmers show off their wares and their rodeo talents. If you're into  horses, attend the parade of champions at the many equestrian events as riders compete for coveted placings and recognition.

Now that's Northern Alberta!