First established as a Hamlet in 1979, La Crete

has seen a long and varied history.  Beginning

in the mid-1930's, Mennonites came to this

region looking for fertile farm land, fur and a

place to practice their religious and cultural

beliefs without government interference.

 

Industries

As in the past, agriculture continues to be one

of La Crete's main industries. Due to it's rich

soil and long daylight hours in the main

growing period, La Crete is particularly well

suited to growing canola, alfalfa and other

grains. However, other industries have sprung

up to make La Crete an important centre.

These include livestock production, logging

and other services. La Crete also boasts

many smaller businesses. There are restaurants,

grocery stores, two banks, a motel and

numerous other businesses to provide it's

residents with their needs.

 

Recreation

La Crete is also an important recreational

area. Within the town there is a bowling alley, an ice rink, and curling rink. For outdoor

enthusiasts, the area around La Crete

provides rich hunting and fishing as well

 as great snowmobiling and cross-country

skiing.  An RV park just outside of La Crete

provides an area for camping and recreation.

Bird watching is also popular and La Crete is well known for its owl, pelican and Sandhills crane populations.

 

Special Events

La Crete hosts many special events

throughout the year. In September, La Crete pays tribute to the hard work and endurance

of the early settlers with Pioneer Day. Starting with a parade, showcasing old buggies, cars and farm machinery, the celebration

continues onto the Museum grounds where traditional food is prepared and served.

As well, several demonstrations of farming, smithing, and flour making are done to give

a sense of the life of the pioneers in the area. Several original buildings and artifacts are on the site for visitors to experience and enjoy. Towards the end of winter, La Crete proudly hosts the Challenge Cup. This much

anticipated tournament brings hockey teams from all around to compete for the Challenge Cup. On the second Friday of June, Farmer's

Day celebrates the importance of farming

to the area. The day starts with a parade and continues with several events throughout the day including softball and horseshoe tournaments, post pounding, nail driving, bag tying, and bale stacking. Prizes for farm produce, crafts, quilts and animal care

are also judged throughout the day.

 

Climate/Remoteness
Despite its location, La Crete enjoys the same

climatic conditions as Edmonton. Though

temperatures have fallen below -40, the

beautiful scenery and clean, crisp air offset

these periods. In the fall, the colours of the

leaves make for breathtaking views. Located

800 km from Edmonton, La Crete is perceived

to be very remote. While this is in some cases

very true, La Crete also uses this remoteness as

an advantage. A strong sense of community and togetherness make this community a very

peaceful and strong community.
 

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