The Bighorn Stampede Association is hosting a dinner and live music fundraiser later this month in support of a new facility at the rodeo grounds near Caroline.

The event takes place Friday, Oct. 24, at the Caroline Community Hub. Doors open at 5 p.m., followed by a beef-on-a-bun dinner at 6 p.m. and a live show by Alberta folk group The Wardens starting at 7:30 p.m.

“This group is made up of actual park wardens,” said organizer Terry Pengelly. “They work through the summer in the parks, and then in the winter they tour the countryside and tell their tales through music, videos and pictures.”

Pengelly describes the music as a mix of bluegrass, folk and country, with stories drawn from real-life experiences in Canada’s national parks.

In addition to the show, the evening will include door prizes, a silent auction, dessert, a cash bar and what Pengelly calls “all the Western fixings.”

Proceeds from the event will support ongoing fundraising efforts for a new building at the Bighorn Stampede rodeo grounds. Pengelly said groundwork is already underway, and once complete, the structure will be used to support events like the rodeo’s beer gardens, dances and other community functions.

“It’ll help provide shelter from the weather and give renters a space for different types of gatherings,” he said. “We’re still working on quotes and building costs, but fundraiser is ongoing.”

Advance tickets only are being sold for $50 per person. No tickets will be available at the door to help organizers confirm catering numbers.

To reserve tickets, call 403-844-1118 or 403-638-7611. Payment can be made via e-transfer or credit card.

Pengelly encouraged local residents to come out, enjoy the food and entertainment, and support a long-term investment in the community.

“The Wardens are a great group — very entertaining — and people tend to follow them around wherever they go,” he said.

(Ricinus Wooler Community Association/provided)