The 2019 design of the Lethbridge Corn Maze. (Supplied by Theo Slingerland)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge Corn Maze now open, honours 75th anniversary of Juno Beach D-Day

Aug 2, 2019 | 6:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge Corn Maze owner and operator Theo Slingerland says he felt truly inspired to come up with this year’s design.

He and his family took a trip to Holland this spring, and while he did not get to go to Juno Beach, they went to the Vimy Ridge Memorial and saw the engraved names of 11,285 Canadian soldiers who were presumed dead or posted missing.

“When you see it in person, it gives you an incredible appreciation of what those people have done. Young people too, like we went to the gravesides too and we saw people from 16 to the age of 35 that were buried there and gave their lives. It’s just a great sacrifice that they did so we can have freedom, even today.”

The corn maze features the words “Juno” and “LEST WE FORGET”, while displaying the Vimy Ridge Memorial and two poppies.

This year, Canadian veterans can go to the Corn Maze for free by showing their ID.

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As well as being a historic year for WWII history, 2019 is also a special occasion for the Lethbridge Corn Maze itself.

LNN asked Slingerland how he feels knowing that this is the 20th corn maze they have done.

“I guess I’m starting to feel old, but yeah, 20 years is a long time and it’s going very well, so we’re very appreciative for all the people who do come out and we’ll continue to do this as long as people come and enjoy it.”

While every single corn maze has a special place in his heart, he says the 2004 spiderweb design might be his favourite.

2004 Lethbridge Corn Maze. (Supplied by Theo Slingerland)

The Lethbridge Corn Maze is open until October 26th.