Alberta museums and galleries are readying to receive the public again now that the provincial government has lifted shutdown orders imposed more than two months ago. Edmonton’s Royal Alberta Museum will reopen on Saturday, May 16, while the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller will unlock the doors to its renowned paleontological collection on Friday, May 22. Thus far, Calgary’s Glenbow Museum has not announced its reopening day.

“We know Albertans are craving those regular activities, like going out to museums, and we understand how important it is for people to safely get back to their everyday lives,” says Alberta’s Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, Leela Sharon Aheer. “Our museums are following cleaning guidelines and capacity limits, as well as informing visitors how they can participate so we can make this a successful relaunch.”

“Normal might not look very normal these days. However, perhaps the little things like a visit to your favourite exhibit might make your day feel a little less strange,” the Royal Alberta Museum’s website suggests.

Entries will be limited to no more than 100 visitors at a time at the Royal Alberta and no more than 150 at the Royal Tyrrell, and both museums will be closing interactive areas that normally invite hands-on experiences. Instead, museum goers will be reminded to look, but not touch any of the available exhibits.

Tickets must be purchased online and for a specific time. Both museums will also be offering a 20 per cent discount until June 30.

The cultural institutions are on a longer list of businesses and services that have been okayed to resume operations, albeit on a somewhat varied schedule depending on where they are located in the province. That includes retailers, restaurants, hair stylists, daycares, places of worship and funeral homes. All are instructed to follow social distancing protocol and stringent cleaning regimens.