Spruce Grove marked its 40th anniversary as a city with a vibrant celebration on Sunday. The community, originally settled by French and Scottish families in 1891, achieved town status in 1971 and elevated to city status in 1986.

Reflections on the City Transition

Former mayor George Cuff recalled the debates surrounding the shift to city status during the event. “There were a lot of discussions that went into it,” Cuff stated. “Residents were opposed because you’re going to lose the town image, the town sense. We said no – we’re going to keep a small community, but we’re going to have to start growing.”

Anniversary Ceremony Highlights

The commemoration took place inside Heavy Metal Place, featuring an Indigenous hoop dance performance, horse-drawn carriage rides, and various family-friendly activities.

Population Growth and Community Spirit

Spruce Grove’s population has surged more than 14 percent over the past five years. Current mayor Jeff Acker emphasized the enduring charm of the area. “We still have that tight-knit community, that small-town feel,” Acker said. “People say hi to you in this community.”

By 2024, the city’s population exceeded 44,000 residents, ranking it as the 12th largest in Alberta. Located approximately 25 kilometers west of Edmonton, Spruce Grove balances growth with its welcoming atmosphere.