News

Canada Day at Century Downs

Jul 01,2017 Krystle Frisky

This year is extremely special as we’re celebrating 150 years! Here at Century Downs we’re excited for our guests to enjoy the ultimate Canadian experience. Our guests will be able to enjoy live performances in our Event Tent, delicious food on the Apron, a special post time of 5:10 PM, as well as an extraordinary fireworks display to cap the night off at 10:45 PM.

Crystal McGrath

To start the evening off, enjoy the Canadian Anthem sung by our first performer of the night, Crystal McGrath. She is a singer/songwriter from Calgary, Alberta who will rock the stage with her pop-country sound. Performing in venues of all sizes worldwide, Crystal has developed into a true star. She has shared the stage with artists such as Lights, Ani Di Franco, David Usher, Wide Mouth Mason, Suzie McNiel, George Canyon, Aaron Pritchett and many other greats in the music industry.

Most recently she conquered a tour in Ontario/Quebec followed by a showcase during Canadian Country Music Week 2016 in London playing over 60 shows this past summer. If you’ve seen McGrath before, you know you’ll be in for a real treat. She will perform between our 10 races, and perform a quick set after the races.

Scenic Route to Alaska

Our headlining band is Scenic Route to Alaska. This indie-rock band is sure to bring cool vibes to the Apron. This Edmonton-based trio, Trevor Mann, Shea Connor and Murray Wood have played countless shows to adoring fans. They landed a WCMA nod for Pop Recording of the Year and were finalists in the inaugural edition of Alberta’s Peak Performance Project. Their latest album, Long Walk Home, will be available soon.

Canada Day Line Up

5:05 PM: Canadian Anthem sung by Crystal McGrath
5:10 PM: Special post time of 5:10 PM
5:10 PM – 8:30 PM: Live performance from Crystal
McGrath between races, and short set after races
9:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Live performance from Scenic Route to Alaska
10:45 PM: Fireworks Display


There is free admission to all shows and races. While you’re on the Apron, enjoy food selections from our food trailer, the Starting Gate, and local craft beer from our Apron bars.

250th Anniversary of Horse Racing in Canada

This day we’re also celebrating the 250th Anniversary of Horse Racing in Canada. On July 1, 1767, the first records of a race meet were held on what is today known as Canadian soil. At this time, we would like to thank Horse Racing Alberta, Standardbred Canada, the Alberta Standardbred Horse Association and many other organizations for everything they do for the horse racing industry in Canada! We are extremely grateful to be part of such a hard-working community. Here’s to another 250 years!

We’re excited to celebrate Canada Day with our racing fans and local community members.

Happy Canada Day from all of us at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino!