The Red Deer International Folk Festival Society was formed in 1969. The Society organized the first Folk Festival Celebration in Western Canada, known as Canada Day. This celebration has since become a Red Deer and area tradition. In 1996, the Red Deer International Folk Festival Society changed its name to the Red Deer Cultural Heritage Society to better represent its member groups and include many of Red Deer's ethno-cultural Societies. In 1988 the Society leased the Memorial Centre gymnasium from the City of Red Deer. After many renovations and changes to the interior design, this now well-known community facility became Festival Hall. Since its formation the Society has sponsored and provided entertainment for many local, national and international events. With such participation, operation of the Cronquist House, Festival Hall and the production of Canada Day, the Society has made significant contributions towards the preservation of Central Alberta's rich cultural heritage. more... See more text