Travel Canada: A Town In a Universe All Its Own
TO BOLDLY GO WHERE BLOOD IS GREEN AND EARS ARE POINTY
In 1966, the starship U. S. S. Enterprise launched, to explore new worlds and boldly go where no (hu)man has gone before. Most of the ship’s crew of 400+ is from Earth. Mr. Spock, however, is the exception. Spock (second name unpronouncable by humans) is from Vulcan. Although detached and unwaveringly logical in the manner of all Vulcans, Mr. Spock quickly became and remained a favourite character of Star Trek fans everywhere.
Who knew Vulcan is actually in Alberta, Canada?
A quaint little town, Vulcan, Alberta lies halfway between Calgary and Lethbridge. Its main attraction is the free Vulcan Tourism and Trek station, outside of which stands a model very much like the Enterprise. Within, one may enjoy the space-like setting, peruse Star Trek artifacts and memorabilia (including a bust of Mr. Spock and the original ears worn by Leonard Nimoy himself during the filming of the original series), and play a virtual reality game.
The townspeople are friendly and warm. And boy, do they love their Star Trek. All along the main street corridor, children’s art depicting spaceships and aliens decorate shop windows. A large mural of doctors from TOS, TNG, Voyager, DS9, and Enterprise welcomes visitors to the pharmacy. Pointy ears can be purchased at multiple locations. And what do you want to bet that every citizen can do the Vulcan salute and the famous Spock eyebrow.
Every June, Vulcan hosts Galaxyfest, a.k.a. Spock Days. The festival is held over three days and includes a community barbeque, opportunities to browse fanfiction exhibits, and fun family events throughout downtown.
When you’ve thoroughly experienced this space on Earth, roam on over to the Alberta Badlands and Dinosaur Park for a trip back in time, or head back to the big city to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Calgary.
See what you might want to bring with you.
Live long and happy travelling!
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