WDM Moose Jaw Turns 50 On Friday With Special Day

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The Western Development Museum (WDM) Moose Jaw is inviting the community to celebrate a major milestone on Friday, June 26, 2026, marking the 50th anniversary of the Museum's opening day.

The WDM Moose Jaw officially opened to the public on June 26, 1976. To commemorate five decades of preserving and sharing Saskatchewan's stories, the Museum will host a special anniversary celebration featuring no charge admission, family-friendly activities, refreshments and opportunities to explore the Museum's history. Visitors can enjoy:

• No charge admission all day; donations gratefully accepted

• A short anniversary program and refreshments at 1:00 p.m.

• "The Original '76" Seek & Find featuring artifacts and exhibits that were part of the Museum's opening

• A static fashion show displaying a number of far out fashions from the 1970s

• Hands-on activities and button making

• 1970s-themed selfie stations

• Special displays highlighting the Museum's early years, including original exhibit planning models and archival photographs

"Fifty years ago, community leaders, volunteers and supporters came together with a vision to create a museum dedicated to Saskatchewan's history," said Karla Rasmussen, Operations Manager at WDM Moose Jaw.

“We're excited to celebrate that legacy and welcome visitors to help us mark this important anniversary."

The Museum will also be screening a selection of classic National Film Board shorts from the 1970s throughout the day, offering another nostalgic look back at the decade when the Museum first opened.

The WDM had originally planned to continue the celebrations with Built in '76: A Groovy Night at the Museum on June 27. Due to the busy summer season and scheduling challenges for many potential attendees, the evening event has been postponed and will be rescheduled for later this year. A new date will be announced once finalized.

"We remain very excited about the concept and the strong support we've received from sponsors, donors, performers and community partners," said Rasmussen. "Postponing will allow us to bring the event to life at a time when more people can join us."

The come and go anniversary event on June 26 will proceed as planned and all are welcome to attend.

For more information, visit www.wdm.ca/moose-jaw or follow the Western Development Museum Moose Jaw on social media.