Watch a show, read a book for inaugural Alberta Arts Day

The government of Alberta has declared Sept. 6 as a special day to showcase the province's artists, performers and writers and community events.

The first-ever Alberta Arts Day is a challenge to Albertans to participate in an arts activity or celebration, said Lindsay Blackett, minister of culture and community spirit, on Thursday in Red Deer.

For example, Blackett suggested that Albertans read a book by or about Albertans and thenleave it in random places for someone else in a "BookCrossing challenge." The book can be labelled, then registered onthe Arts Daywebsite so its movements can be tracked.

The site also features other suggestions on what to do for Alberta Arts Day.

A free, family-friendly event is scheduled all day at Calgary's Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, featuring a hip hop choreography session and a new media presentation.

In the evening, Alberta performers will hit the stage for an evening gala and awards ceremony. Tickets, which will cost $15 or $7.50 each for groups larger than 10, will be available beginning July 30, said the province.