Organizers have announced the stops planned for the Tour of Alberta, a new six-day bike race around the province this fall.

The event will begin in Edmonton on Sept. 3 with a "prologue," described as individual time trials and point-to-point stage races.

Cyclists will start the actual race in Strathcona Country, cycling in stages until the 850-kilometre route finishes on Sept. 8, with a race from Okotoks to downtown Calgary. Organizers are expecting 120 professional cyclists from 20 countries to participate.

Some top European teams have already accepted the invitation, said Brian Jolly, chairman of the Alberta Peloton Association, the non-profit organization that is putting the event together.

"We'll get some of the top riders. Maybe not all, but we'll certainly get some very strong teams," he said.

"In addition to serving as either the start or finish of a specific stage, each community will also feature a festival experience with fitness and education displays, food, entertainment, and the chance for fans to meet and mingle with the athletes," said spokesperson Duane Vienneau in a statement.

"Every festival will also be unique in that it will showcase the character and attractions of the specific county, town or city, so each event will be a different experience."

A map showing the stops during the Tour of Alberta cycling race. (Tour of Alberta)