Thousands gather for Alberta's centennial party

A host of politicians and dignitaries saluted Alberta Thursday as the province celebrated its 100th birthday.

Addressing a crowd outside the legislature in Edmonton, Governor General Adrienne Clarkson, whose term ends this month, toasted the "vigour and optimism" of the province's residents.

Prime Minister Paul Martin applauded Albertans for embracing the credo, "In Alberta, there's space enough for big dreams, and for those dreams to come true."

Though he said the province has known bad times as well as good, Martin was clearly aware times are now very good for the province. The coffers are full thanks to royalties from the highest oil prices in history.

"Alberta's success it is to be celebrated not only by Albertans but by all Canadians," he said, "because a strong Alberta makes Canada stronger."

Premier Ralph Klein said "for this incredible province the best is yet to come."

The event was hosted by figure skater Kurt Browning.

Earlier on Thursday, hundreds of people enjoyed a free pancake breakfast in downtown Edmonton. They stood in line as provincial cabinet ministers and community volunteers flipped flapjacks.

Star-studded parties were to take place in 10 communities -- from Grande Prairie and Fort McMurray in the north to Lethbridge and Medicine Hat in the south -- with carnivals, concerts and community barbecues.

Alberta's enviable financial health has allowed for the planning of more than 100 centennial legacy projects worth $400 million.

Among these are the refurbishing of the Edmonton and Calgary Jubilee auditoriums, a major expansion of the provincial museum and the fixing-up of libraries, parks and recreation centres.

Alberta was established as a district in the North-West Territories in 1882. Political representation increased in the North-West legislature along with the district's population and, after a long campaign for autonomy, Alberta was enlarged and given provincial status in 1905.

Saskatchewan is also marking its centennial this year, and celebrations across the province were planned for Labour Day.