The McDougall Stoney Mission Society has a full weekend of activities planned in conjunction with Historic Calgary Week that includes family fun and a celebration of the bison.

Family Games Day - Saturday, July 27 1 to 3:30 p.m.

On your mark, get set, go!

This Saturday, July 27, the society is welcoming families to enjoy some old-fashioned family fun at the McDougall Memorial Church, 26 km west of Cochrane on Hwy. 1A.

Young and old alike can come to enjoy nostalgic games like egg and spoon, sack races, three-legged races and horseshoes.

Because fun is the theme of Calgary Historic Week, society president Brenda McQueen says this was a perfect fit.

"We've just taken it to a different level of let's not have a formal talk or a walk, let's just invite people to have fun playing some games," says McQueen.

The response has been positive.

"I can't get over the excitement we've heard from some people about coming out to throw horseshoes or playing egg on a spoon."

"The Stoney elders I've spoken to are quite enthused about coming out and playing games with the kids and bringing their children and grandchildren, so I'm hoping that it's a nice day and that we have a good mix of people coming and going and just having fun at the site."

Some food and refreshments will be available but people are also welcome to bring a picnic.

"People are more than welcome to put a blanket out and enjoy a family picnic and play games and meet new friends. It's something different than we've ever done before."

Buffalo (Ta tãga) Belong - Sunday, July 28 11:30 to 3:30 p.m.

(Courtesy Parks Canada)The historical importance of buffalo will be discussed during Buffalo Belong on Sunday, July 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

It begins with a special opening circle and prayers at 11:30 a.m. followed by stories about the bison and the serving of bison chili.

Bill Snow is among the presenters.

From 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. there will be several speakers.  Harvey Locke and Bill Snow will talk about the bison's cultural significance to the Ĩyãħé Nakoda people. An update on the Banff National Park bison herd will be provided by Marie-Eve Marchand, who recently hiked into the backcountry to see them. McQueen will also be providing an update on the future of the McDougall Stoney Mission site.

Both these events are open to all ages. Please bring lawn chairs and dress appropriately for the weather.