Downtown workers and residents in Red Deer can once again enjoy a free outdoor lunch series at Gary W. Harris Celebration Plaza this summer. The City of Red Deer is bringing back Picnic on the Plaza, with events happening every second Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The first gathering is set for July 29, followed by August 12, August 26, September 9, and September 23. Each event will feature a food truck where people can buy a meal, or they can simply bring their own lunch.
Along with eating, the plaza will offer free activities like chess, cornhole on artificial turf, and art projects. Organizers say it is a chance for people working in and around downtown to step away from their desks and connect with others.
The City is running the series after the Downtown Business Association wrapped up operations at the end of 2025. Now the municipality handles downtown events and business support. The plaza itself sits at the west entrance of the historic Intermediate School building at 5205 48 Avenue, created as part of the 2019 Canada Winter Games legacy.
All events depend on the weather. More details are available on the City of Red Deer website.
