Telling Alberta’s story

The Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) is inviting visitors to explore the care, expertise and thought behind Alberta’s heritage in its new temporary exhibition, Stories of Us: Building Alberta’s Collection. Opening Dec. 18, the exhibition runs until Feb. 7, 2027, and offers a rare glimpse into the decisions curators make when collecting and displaying artifacts that tell the story of the province and its people.

After nearly 60 years, RAM’s collection now includes more than five million objects that reflect Alberta’s rich and unique history. The exhibition features more than 100 items, including a Klondike Kate outfit worn during Klondike Days in 1970, a mammoth scapula discovered by a member of the public, and a historic phone booth from Obadiah Place in Amber Valley.

“The Royal Alberta Museum plays a vital role in protecting Alberta’s history and strengthening our shared provincial identity,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women. “Through this exhibition, Albertans will get a closer look at how expert curators ensure our stories are preserved with integrity and passed on for generations to come.”

Meaghan Patterson, RAM’s executive director, said the exhibition allows visitors to see the important work museums do to collect, protect and bring Alberta’s stories to life.

This winter, Albertans can take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass program, which offers free general admission for children and teens 17 and under and half-price admission for young adults aged 18 to 24, until Jan. 15, 2026. The initiative makes it easier for families and young people to experience exhibitions such as Stories of Us. More information is available at ExploreAlbertaHistory.com.