Feb. 19, 1990: Edmontonians flock to the malls on Alberta's first Family Day - Action News
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EdmontonFROM THE ARCHIVES

Feb. 19, 1990: Edmontonians flock to the malls on Alberta's first Family Day

Many Edmonton families spent Alberta's first Family Day holiday in shopping malls, hunting for a bargain or enjoying a meal.

It sort of defeats the purpose of Family Day that it eliminates your retail employee's ability to celebrate'

From the archives: People spend Family Day shopping

7 years ago
Duration 1:46
On Feb. 19, 1990, the province celebrated its first Family Day holiday, and many Edmontonians spent the day off shopping.

Many Edmonton families spent Alberta's first Family Day in 1990 in mallshunting for bargains or enjoying a meal.

Edmonton Centre brought in a small orchestra to entertain shoppers, and stores held Family Day sales as many people headed to the malls onthis additionalday off work.

In Edmonton, many stores had shortened hours, typically 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., however, some retail employees who worked on the holiday felt stores shouldn't have opened at all.

"It sort of defeats the purpose of Family Day that it eliminates your retail employee's ability to celebrate the holiday," one retail worker said.
Retailers used the new Family Day as a reason for a sale. (CBC)

The spirit of the holiday seemed to be reflected in how busy restaurants were, with many families gathering for a meal.

Then-premier Don Getty's intention in creating theholiday was so families could spend time together.

"You folks ought to really get into this and think positive, boyyou'll feel better," said Getty when facing reporters' concerns about Family Day.
Premier Don Getty hoped Albertans would get into the spirit of Family Day. (CBC)

After Alberta started observing Family Day in 1990, other provinces followed.

In the video CBC's Dana Lewis catches up with Albertansas they enjoyed the first Family Day in Edmonton's malls.