Welcome
Welcome to the official website of the Summer Village of Val Quentin, Alberta, and the enduring charm of Val Quentin: A Lakeside Summer Village with a Rich History and Tight-Knit Community
Nestled on the southeastern shore of the historic Lac Ste. Anne, the Summer Village of Val Quentin offers a unique blend of tranquil lakeside living, a strong sense of community, and a deep connection to the rich history of the region. While sharing the beauty of the lake with its neighboring communities, Val Quentin distinguishes itself through its small, close-knit population, a calendar of cherished local events, and a governance model that fosters a palpable sense of shared ownership among its residents.
Established as a summer village on June 1, 1960, Val Quentin evolved from the early 20th-century trend of urban dwellers seeking seasonal refuge along Alberta’s picturesque lakeshores. Today, it is home to a mix of both seasonal and permanent residents who are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The village’s modest size, with a population that fluctuates seasonally, is central to its character, fostering an environment where neighbors know one another and a spirit of volunteerism thrives.
A hallmark of life in Val Quentin is its calendar of community-centric events, most notably the annual “Picnic in the Park.” This annual gathering, held at Cantin Park the 2nd Saturday in July, embodies the community’s friendly and informal nature, bringing residents together for food, games, and socializing. These events, are organized collaboratively by resident volunteers and Val Quentin Council and contribute to fostering the village’s strong social fabric.
The governance of Val Quentin, like other Alberta summer villages, is uniquely local. An elected council of residents makes decisions that directly impact the community, from managing local amenities to overseeing land use. This grassroots approach to governance ensures that the summer village’s development aligns with the values of its residents, prioritizing the preservation of its quiet, residential character. This is reflected in the careful management of its amenities, which include multiple lakeside parks, a gazebo, and a basketball court, all maintained for the enjoyment of the community.
Beyond its immediate borders, Val Quentin’s identity is deeply intertwined with the broader history and significance of Lac Ste. Anne. The lake itself is a place of profound historical and cultural importance, particularly for the Métis people and as the site of the annual Lac Ste. Anne Pilgrimage, a tradition that dates back to 1889 and draws thousands of visitors each year. While the summer village itself is a more recent development, this historical context lends a unique depth to the local landscape.
Furthermore, Val Quentin maintains a collaborative relationship with its neighboring municipalities, such as Alberta Beach and Sunset Point. A prime example of this cooperation is the Tri-Village Sewage System, a shared initiative that demonstrates a practical approach to providing essential services in a region of small communities. This spirit of cooperation allows Val Quentin to enjoy the benefits of shared resources while maintaining its distinct identity.
In essence, the unique character of the Summer Village of Val Quentin lies not in any single attribute but in the confluence of its intimate scale, its active and engaged community, its cherished local traditions, and its setting within a landscape steeped in history and natural beauty. It is a place where the charm of a traditional summer cottage community endures, fostering a lifestyle that is both relaxed and deeply connected to its surroundings and its people.
We are located approximately 75 km northwest of Edmonton, Alberta on the southeast shores of Lac Ste. Anne, Alberta. Our village borders the Village of Alberta Beach to the east and Lac Ste. Anne County to the west and south. The Summer Village of Val Quentin covers 22 hectares and had a permanent population of 74 usual residents living in 160 dwellings in the 2021 Federal Census.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to enjoy a quality of life centered on community activities and the opportunities that proximity to the lake affords.
To learn more about our community, we invite you to explore this website.
Val Quentin: A Year-Round Community