Medicine Hat’s Alcohol in Parks pilot nears end as city seeks feedback

Sep 29, 2026 | 9:22 AM

The City of Medicine Hat’s Alcohol in Parks pilot program wraps up Sept. 30.

It began July 2, allowing people 18 and older to responsibly consume alcohol while seated at designated picnic tables in Kin Coulee Park, Echo Dale Regional Park and Strathcona Island Park.

Designated picnic tables were labelled to identify where alcohol consumption was permitted with food present from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

As part of public engagement, the City has asked park users to complete surveys about how the program has impacted them and their enjoyment of the parks.

The surveys are part of a broader evaluation that includes feedback collected before, during and after the pilot period.

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The City previously said the initial survey intended to gauge residents’ views on park use, community concerns and overall support for the program.

When the survey launched, Acting Director of Parks and Recreation Scott Richter said public feedback is important for understanding community experiences and identifying potential concerns.

“Public feedback is essential to help the City better understand community experiences, identify potential concerns, and ensure a thorough, balanced evaluation of the pilot program,” Richter said in a June statement.

A post-program survey is scheduled for Oct. 1 through Oct. 15.

The City said the final pilot program summary report will include survey feedback.

Residents can learn more about the Alcohol in Parks pilot and complete the surveys through the City’s Shape Your City page.

by Jesse Gill

Medicine Hat’s Alcohol in Parks pilot nears end as city seeks feedback

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