Sylvan Lake Archives

08/04/2026

Happy August everyone!
We thought that since summer is well under way, we would share what we have been able to find on the history of Sylvan Lake Farmers' Market!

While markets themselves have an extensive history throughout the world, it is believed that Sylvan Lake's first began in the early 1990's (or at least the market as we know it today). Managed by Crystal Loewen since 2004, after moving from various locations over the years, including across from what is today the Nexsource Centre, by 2019, the Market had moved into its current location at the site of Wild Rapids Waterslides (5104 Lakeshore Drive). In the (about) three years leading up to Loewen taking over the management, Christie Forget managed the market. Alberta has a province wide not-for-profit society called the Alberta Farmer's Market Association. The AFMA was founded in 1994 to assist in communicating with and about, implementing, educating on and supporting Alberta's Farmer's Markets.

What are some of your favourite vendors the Market has had over the years? Do you have a favourite memory, story or photo? Share them down below! What are some of your favourite Market moments? Was it a first date? Taking your kid(s) or grandkid(s) for the first time? Do you remember markets happening before the 1990s? Let us know down below or come visit us at the Archives to tell us your story!

07/28/2026

Did you know...
You can visit the Sylvan Lake Archives EVERY Tuesday AND Thursday from 12 noon to 4:00 PM!
Come hang out with our absolutely lovely (and hardworking) volunteers and research your Sylvan Lake (and family!) history! (Or receive help with your questions!)
We have photos galore (see our website - https://sylvanlakearchives.andornot.net/ - for those) And we're always looking for more to add!
Ask us how!
You can find us at the Lower Level in Town Hall (Municipal Government Building) at 5012 - 48 Ave., Sylvan Lake! You can also call us at 403-887-1185 ext. 262 or email at [email protected]!

07/07/2026

We thought that with summer finally having arrived, we would bring back *in picture form that is*, Sylvan's own Wild Rapid Waterslides! The Waterslides were built and opened in 1982 by Dave and Ria Dubeta. It was one of Sylvan’s largest tourist draws until it was demolished in 2017. At the time of opening, the waterslides were the first of its kind in the world and indeed, was the first tower-style water park. When Wild Rapids opened, the other waterslides had previously been built into hillsides. Before the waterslides, the area was as Sandy Cove Campground. The name “Wild Rapids” was chosen by competition. It consisted (at the time of opening) of four main tower slides, three smaller slides and a large hot pool. For the entire duration of its operations, the water was pulled from the lake. During the Dubeta’s ownership, Dave patented numerous technologies including the “Flash Flood” which served to allow water to build up and release and cause riders to go faster on the slides. He also created the Sidewinder slide and patented that as well. The couple sold Wild Rapids in 2002 to Bert Messier and the Bear Developments Corp.

What are some of your favourite memories at Wild Rapids?! Do you have any standout stories?! What do the Waterslides mean to you and your family and friends?!

07/06/2026

I'm sure that anyone living in the cottage area or early Sylvan Lake, has a story about a skunk. We had a dog who never learned her lesson and a brother who had a surprise encounter that didn't end well. 😄🦨 Below is a great story by former teacher and Town Councillor Helen McLean.
What's your skunk story? We would love to see any photos you might have. Town of Sylvan Lake Lake Nation

07/01/2026

06/16/2026

Sharing a great story about Sylvan Lake's early years of tourism. The cottage on the corner and white gates mentioned are long gone.

06/09/2026

Does anyone have photos of snakes at Jarvis Bay and the sandstone cliffs?

06/04/2026

Bryan Cramer and Delores Anderson Bird I can't get into my messages, can you please email [email protected] Thank you!

05/28/2026

The lake levels have certainly gone up and down over the years, our vast beach is nothing new. Yes, there are no tents in sight but let's not go there! We love our Town and have so much to be grateful for. Over a million people a year come to visit, but we get to stay.
Let's hear some fantastic summer fun stories!! What did your family day on the beach look like? Go

Video shared from Red Deer Archives
Town of Sylvan Lake
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1441401240999188

05/13/2026

Sylvan Lake Archives would like to give huge thanks to John Paul at Tim Hortons Sylvan Lake. You are a great supporter of our community! THANK YOU!!! Lake Nation 👏👏👏