Destination Edmonton 2013

Destination

Let Festival City Make Your Next Meeting, Convention or Event Unforgettable!

WWW.EDMONTON.COM

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Dept. DP2013, 3rd Floor, World Trade Centre Edmonton 9990 Jasper Ave., Edmonton, Alberta Canada T5J 1P7 E gateway@‌edmonton.com W www.edmonton.com VISITOR INFORMATION T 780-496-8400 (in Edmonton) or TF 1-800-463-4667 (Canada/USA) Travel Trade or Convention/Destination Planning T 780-426-4715 F 780-425-5283

Contents Discover Edmonton ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 6 Special Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11 Visitor Information �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������14 Accommodations & Meeting Spaces ���������������������������������������������������� 17 Festivals & Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������20

Distributor: Edmonton Tourism

Attractions ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 22

Editorial assistance provided by Edmonton Tourism

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Designed & Published by

Greater Edmonton & Beyond �������������������������������������������������������������������� 27 Connect With Us ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������30

#1, 9301-50 St., Edmonton, Alberta Canada T6B 2L5 T 780-465-3362 F 780-448-0424 E askus@‌infoedmonton.com Publisher: R.H. (Rob) Tanner Editor: Lindsay Shapka Art Director: Adam Still Graphic Designers: Zuzana Benesova, Tyson Dueck Traffic Coordinator: Cheryl Lindquist Listings & Web Coordinator: Breanna Mroczek Traffic Assistant: Kendra Mah Accounting: Fossina Crytes Production Manager: Marie Tanner Operations Manager: Dean Langille Advertising Sales: Gerry Leibel, Doug Stirrett, Meghann Tanner, Wendy Wharton Internet Manager: Mike Treloar ©2013 Tanner Young Publishing Group No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written authorization.

Edmonton at Your Fingertips!

The Official 2013 Greater Edmonton Destination Planner is the most comprehensive and extensive resource tool dedicated exclusively to promoting Edmonton and area as a prime meeting, conventions or group tour destination. Inside you will find detailed information covering accommodation and meeting facilities, major trade show and special event venues, attractions, golf courses, transportation companies, sample tours, restaurants and suppliers.

Available online at www.edmonton.com/destinationplanner or free for iPad on the App Store.

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Experience More with the

EAP AD U-Pick

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Add a U-Pick Pass to make your next meeting, convention or event simply unforgettable!

Visit EdmontonAttractions.com 4

DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

for information on commissionable packages

Welcome to Edmonton!

Offering a diverse blend of urban sophistication and rustic nature in the heart of the city, Edmonton delivers contemporary conference facilities mixed with a stunning river valley, unique shopping, dining and entertainment. Meet in Edmonton — there is no better way to get to know Alberta’s capital city.

Whether it is Western Canada’s largest exhibition space, the spectacular art gallery’s northern lights-inspired architecture or the breathtaking 270-degree view of North America’s largest urban parkland out your window, your attendees will enjoy world-class facilities and amenities. If you are looking for intimate or eclectic we have that too — from Canada’s largest living history museum to botanical gardens set amid climate-controlled glass pyramids.

Want options? Edmonton offers over 13,000 hotel rooms ranging from major hotel brands, suite hotels and theme hotels to trendy boutique hotels. A cosmopolitan variety of restaurants and fine cuisine awaits you — representing more than 50 ethnic groups, many of which feature organic and regionally inspired and sourced menus.

Shoppers will delight in the varied array of boutique stores and unique shopping districts as well as over 800 shops and services offered by West Edmonton Mall. No matter when you hold your event in Edmonton, you will be surrounded by one of the 30 major festivals that celebrate the arts, film, music, sports, theatre and winter.

Attending Canada’s largest folk music festival or North America’s largest and longest-running Fringe Theatre Festival first-hand will leave you with an experience like no other.

“Edmonton, Canada’s Festival City, pulled out all the stops to ensure that the Canadian Library Association experienced one of their best and most successful conferences ever!”

- Wendy Walton, Professional Development Officer Canadian Library Association

PHOTO: EDMONTON TOURISM

Edmonton Tourism is ready to help you incorporate Edmonton experiences into your event through pre and post-event programs featuring world-class attractions providing fun, historical, educational and natural insight into our region. Create a truly made-in-Edmonton experience by integrating social and environmental stewardship and vibrant festival elements that will leave your delegates raving.

Our outstanding hospitality, down-to-earth attitude and genuine desire to exceed expectations are waiting for you in Edmonton — Canada’s Festival City!

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Historic Provincial Capital — Having celebrated its centennial in 2012, fans of architecture will enjoy a visit to the Alberta Legislature, a Beaux Arts edifice that overlooks the North Saskatchewan River. A new Federal Building and Boulevard to mark the centennial are set for completion in 2013. Beneath its scenic grounds lies the Legislature Pedway, a government mall with a gift shop that offers a wide selection of arts and crafts created by Alberta artisans, as well as an interpretive centre, which highlights the history and traditions of the Legislature.

DISCOVER

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DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

EDMONTON Discover the friendliness of Alberta’s capital where bigcity sophistication — like the stunning swirl of glass, steel and zinc that is the Art Gallery of Alberta — excellent value and warm hospitality blend with a wide range of shopping, dining and entertainment des-

PHOTOS: WINTERFORCEMEDIA; EDMONTON TOURISM

tinations. Experience our unique personality in areas steeped in history, worldfamous shopping districts

Beautiful City Hall — A steel and glass pyramid distinguishes Edmonton’s City Hall, set in the heart of the downtown Arts District. An inviting destination, its outdoor plaza refreshes with a wading pool and fountain in the summer — ranked as one of the Top 40 in the world by Hospitality Management Schools — and converts to a skating rink in winter. Its plaza and adjacent Sir Winston Churchill Square provide a friendly home for many of Edmonton’s internationallyacclaimed festivals.

Old Strathcona — Voted one of Canada’s five-best shopping districts, Whyte Avenue is a bohemian stroll just south of downtown in Old Strathcona.

Designated a provincial historic area and arts district, this area plays host to the popular yearround Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, eclectic shopping, eight theatre companies in four venues, early 1900s architecture and a thriving nightlife.

and our stunning river valley situated in the heart of the city. Edmonton truly has something for everyone!

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WHERE Edmonton magazine is the premier guide for travellers looking for timely information on where to eat, shop, go and stay in Edmonton.

You can find the magazine in hotels, at attractions, and in shopping and dining venues across the city!

Visit where.ca/ edmonton for complete listings

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DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

OR

follow us on @whereedmonton

DISCOVER EDMONTON

124th Street & Area — West of downtown, the charming area of 124th Street is home to plenty of art galleries, specialty and antique stores, fashion boutiques and fabulous eateries. Twice a year, this district hosts the Gallery Walk, the first of its kind in Canada, which features eight galleries that showcase Canadian artists.

PHOTOS: WEST EDMONTON MALL; WINTERFORCEMEDIA

Nearby, the fascinating Royal Alberta Museum plays host to travelling exhibits as well as its permanent displays, including the Syncrude Gallery of Aboriginal Culture — one of North America’s most expansive exhibitions on Aboriginal peoples — and the captivating wildlife exhibit, Wild Alberta.

West Edmonton Mall — Needless to say, shopping, dining and entertainment are the name of the game at the world famous West Edmonton Mall — Alberta’s top tourist attraction with more than 30 million visitors a year. WEM features over 800 stores and services, upwards of 100 dining establishments as well as 10 world-class attractions that include the world’s largest indoor wave pool, an indoor amusement park, an 18-hole miniature golf course and a casino. All this action resides under one roof that spans the equivalent of 48 city blocks.

University of Alberta — If you’re a fan of sports, science, nature or history, then head south of the river to the University of Alberta. Established in 1908, this sprawling centre of advanced education has garnered international acclaim for its advances in the fields of science and medicine. It’s also home to the new Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, the first of its kind in Canada, as well as the National Institute for Nanotechnology, Canada’s centre for cutting edge micro systems and nanotechnology research.

Accessible River Valley — Nature lovers can walk, jog or bike along the scenic North Saskatchewan River Valley — the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America — with its many golf courses and its extensive network of trails. Edmonton’s Valley Zoo, located in the valley’s west end, houses more than 100 exotic, endangered and native species and offers educational programs and family adventures. If your passion is plants and flowers, the Muttart Conservatory is a horticultural haven with some 700 species of temperate and tropical plants in four glass pyramids.

Celebrating Past and Future — Canada’s largest living history museum, Fort Edmonton Park, affords glimpses of early life in Edmonton during the fur trading and pioneer eras, while the TELUS World of Science fascinates with hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations of leadingedge science and technology.

Just a short drive outside the city, the multi-award winning Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, with its authentic buildings and costumed characters, is an immersive experience that takes you back to the time of the pioneers.

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So close, the experience practically comes to you.

Everything your delegates care about are all within steps of each other when you host your conference in Edmonton’s vibrant downtown.

Accommodations that cater to any budget. Inspiring facilities.

And yes, even theatre. m

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PHOTOS: TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE; WEST EDMONTON MALL; CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Diana: A Celebration Princess Diana’s charm, unassuming beauty and effortless grace touched people worldwide during her short and complex life. In this stunning exhibit, on display in West Edmonton Mall from February 9 – June 9, visitors will explore nine galleries full of family heirlooms, paintings, 28 designer dresses — including the royal wedding gown, priceless jewels, personal photos and more. Follow her fairytale transition from school girl to royal bride, and devoted mother to charity advocate. wem.ca

EVENTS

SPECIAL

Body Worlds: The Cycle of Life

Cirque du Soleil: Amaluna

Making its Canadian debut from May 18 – October 13 at the TELUS World of Science Edmonton, The Cycle of Life shows the skeleton, muscles, nerves and organs of the human body in real life poses like never seen before! The goal of this extraordinary show is to educate audiences about the “interior face” of the human body and to recognize the anatomical beauty inside all of us. telusworldofscience.com

With an almost all-female cast of 50 artists, hailing from 15 different countries, Amaluna is a tribute to the mesmerizing work and voice of women. From May 29 – June 16, audiences will gather under the 19 metre tall Le Grand Chapiteau (Big Top Tent) and be taken on a journey to a mysterious island. Let yourself be immersed in the dazzling fusion of music, dance, acrobatics and pure fantasy. cirquedusoleil.com

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SPECIAL EVENTS 2013 CN Canadian Women’s Open Join golf fans from August 19–25 at the Royal Mayfair Golf Club as the best players from the LPGA tour battle for the cup at the 2013 CN Canadian Women’s Open. With a $2 million purse on the line, you can bet that these talented women will bring intense focus and their best game to the links. This annual competition raises support for the care of sick children in the communities in which they are hosted. To date they have raised more than $8.25 million! cncanadianwomensopen.com

Edmonton International Track Classic On June 29, witness some of the fastest, strongest and most impressive athletes in the world as Edmonton hosts the largest event on the National Track League’s tour circuit. Formally known as the Donovan Bailey Invitational, this exhilarating competition will showcase Canada’s best track and field athletes, and will be the last chance to check out the Canadian National Team before they head to the IAAF Moscow World Championships in Athletics. athleticsfestival.com/ edmonton-international-track-classic

This is the event that every country music fan from the Pacific to the Atlantic has been waiting for — throw on a cowboy hat and get ready to celebrate all things country!

Edmonton is the proud host of this year’s annual CCMA Awards on September 8 that will feature appearances and performances from some of Canada’s biggest country superstars. Join the celebration, as the hottest local, domestic and international country talent is recognized at Country Music Week. ccma.org 12

DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

PHOTOS: EITC; LPGA; DEAN BRODY

Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards

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Visitor Information Edmonton Tourism is pleased to supply a variety of information and promotional materials pertinent to tour planning. Edmonton Tourism can also provide assistance in contacting hotels and step-on tour guides for tour groups. Call 780-426-4715 (tour planners), 780-496-8400 (visitor information) or visit www.edmonton.com/tourism.

Handy Facts BANKS Typical banking hours are Monday to Friday, 9:30 am – 4 pm, with some branches open evenings and weekends.

CLIMATE Edmonton enjoys four distinct seasons lending to a host of indoor and outdoor activities all year round.

Temperatures generally range from as low as –20ºC in winter to as high as +25ºC in summer.

CURRENCY Canadian currency should be used and can be exchanged at any bank, trust company, credit union or currency exchange centre. The major credit cards Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club/enRoute and American Express are accepted almost everywhere.

INSURANCE All charter services operating in Alberta must carry proof of insurance.

Visiting motorists must be able to produce evidence of financial responsibility should they be involved in an accident.

LANGUAGE English and French are Canada’s two official languages. While English is predominant in Alberta, many services, shops and hotels have multilingual employees.

LIQUOR LAWS The legal age for the consumption of alcoholic beverages in Alberta is 18. It is unlawful to consume liquor in a public place, or any place other than a residence or licensed premises.

TAX Edmonton has no PST (Provincial Sales Tax) but there is a four per cent tourism tax on accommodations. GST (Goods and Services Tax) is five per cent.

TIME ZONE Edmonton is in the Mountain Time Zone — one hour ahead of Pacific Time and one hour behind Central Time.

TIPPING Diners should be advised that a 15 to 20 per cent tip is considered standard, though dining establishments may include gratuities in the cost of the meal for large groups.

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DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

Be sure to pick up your complimentary copy of WHERE Edmonton Magazine, the premier guide on where to eat, shop, go and stay in the city!

Visit where.ca/digitaleditions for the online version.

Getting Around PLANE Offering non-stop flights to more than 50 destinations across Canada, the US and overseas, the Edmonton International Airport (EIA) is one of Canada’s fastestgrowing airports, and served a recordbreaking 6.5 million passengers in 2012. EIA is located 30 km from downtown and serves international, national and regional airlines.

The bright, modern facility features a new US Departures Terminal, retail stores, food and beverage services, an observation deck, centralized pre-board screening, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, translation services and more. Taxi-fare from EIA to the city centre is about $48, fares to other locations are charged by a zone (not metered) rate. Sky Shuttle Bus services are available for $18 to or from downtown, the west end, or the University of Alberta and must be booked in advance. Visit flyeia.com for a complete airport guide or call 780-890-8382 for airport customer care.

TRAIN VIA Rail’s famous train, The Canadian® , operates six times per week (three trips each way) through Edmonton. Rail passengers can travel east to Saskatoon, Winnipeg and Toronto, or head west to Jasper, Kamloops and Vancouver. VIA’s depot is located at 12360-121 Street. For reservations call 1-888-842-7245 or visit www.viarail.ca.

PHOTOS: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM; TRAVEL ALBERTA

BUS Greyhound Bus Lines provides excellent service to Edmonton from anywhere in North America. Service to and from Calgary, Red Deer and Fort McMurray is also available from Red Arrow. Both lines offer express services between major centres.

TRANSIT Edmonton’s LRT serves the downtown core with a south-side line that crosses the North Saskatchewan River to the University of Alberta and extends southward to Southgate and Century Park. The north-side LRT line services Commonwealth Stadium, Rexall Place and Northlands, making it ideal transportation for games and special events.

Buses all converge on 20 major transit centres to facilitate easy transfers from one bus

route to another. Edmonton Transit also offers an express bus between West Edmonton Mall, the Shaw Conference Centre and many downtown hotels. Group charter services are also available.

Day passes, which provide unlimited access to LRT and Edmonton Transit routes, and Conference packages are also available to provide delegate access to Edmonton Transit services at a reasonable cost. Call 780-4961600 for information.

TAXIS Taxis are usually on hand at hotels, shopping centres and major venues. In areas without taxi stands, it’s usually quicker to phone for service rather than hail a cab.

CAR Edmonton’s location on the TransCanada Yellowhead Highway offers smooth driving access to cities and communities across Western Canada. Situated near the geographic centre of Alberta, Edmonton is 514 km north of the Canada/U.S. border with Montana; 294 km east of Jasper, and 404 km northeast of Banff. For periods of up to 12 months, the entry of vehicles and trailers into Alberta for touring purposes is generally a routine matter without any duty or fee. Your U.S. or international driver’s license is valid while driving in Alberta.

Frequently Called Numbers Police/Ambulance/Fire 911 Police Dispatch Line (non-emergency) 780-423-4567 or 377 (mobile phones only) Directory Assistance 411 Environment Canada Weather Service 780-468-4940 ETS BusLink 780-496-1600 Road Reports 511 Special Assistance (for persons with disabilities) 780-496-5822 WWW.EDMONTON.COM

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ALWAYS

MEETING EXPECTATIONS ALWAYS MEETING

EXPECTATIONS Offering square feetfeet of of Offeringover over100,000 100,000 square conference space, Edmonton’s Southside conference space, Edmonton’s Southside Destination provide youyou withwith the the DestinationHotels Hotels provide amenities, convenience and comfort to amenities, convenience and comfort to ensure successful connections.

ensure successful connections.

For more information on group tours, convention packages or meeting space, call 1-877-665-9931

experience it now at

stayedmontonsouth.com 16

DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

MOST ACCOMMODATING Edmonton showcases a remarkable collection of hotels with more than 13,000 guest rooms that offer deluxe amenities and technology-friendly conference facilities.

From the majestic Fairmont Hotel Macdonald — one of the city’s bestloved historical landmarks — to a host of suite

PHOTOS: MATRIX HOTEL; MARRIOTT

hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts, Greater Edmonton’s accommodations offer something for every taste and budget.

“Excellent venue, first-rate hotels and working with Edmonton Tourism... was especially beneficial!”

- Sarah Pettenuzzo Canadian Public Health Association

TripAdvisor’s 7th Trendiest Hotel in Canada 2012: Matrix — This sleek, custom-designed boutique hotel is located in Edmonton’s downtown core, within walking distance of transit, the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, corporate office towers, boutiques, restaurants, entertainment and the iconic river valley. All guest rooms include exclusive amenities and over 790 square metres of meeting, business and special event space is available. www.matrixedmonton.com

NEW Renaissance Hotel at EIA — Scheduled to open in the summer of 2013 at the Edmonton International Airport (EIA), this will be the first Renaissance Hotel in Alberta. Visitors can take advantage of the Live Life to Discover program that places emphasis on local music, art and entertainment, as well as encouraging travellers to take the time to explore hidden gems in the community. The 213 spacious rooms — including a presidential suite — will feature modular solid walls and triple-glazed glass that will completely eliminate any aircraft noise. Functional public space, 1,858 square metres of meeting and special event space and superior wired and wireless Internet will also be available. renaissance-hotels.marriott.com

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Give Your Meeting Some

PIZZAZZ

Edmonton Expo Centre — The Edmonton Exposition and Conference Centre offers space of over 48,310 square metres and is unquestionably the premier venue in Western Canada and the largest west of Toronto. The Expo Centre integrates high-tech features with flexible, adaptable indoor space to make room for the biggest and best in trade and consumer shows, conferences and special events. It boasts four exhibit halls, a grand ballroom and world-class conference and catering services. The gallery spaces connect the halls and provide the most state-of-the-art technology and business services to ensure the best trade show experience and business environment. www.edmontonexpocentre.com The Art Gallery of Alberta — The Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) is a centre of excellence for the visual arts in Western Canada, connecting people, art and ideas. The AGA is focused on the development and presentation of original, contemporary and historical art from Alberta, Canada and around the world. The AGA also offers a full-range of art education and public programs.

With 7,897 square metres, this state-of-the-art facility can cater to a variety of intimate events, including corporate functions, lectures, theatre productions and weddings. www.youraga.ca

Shaw Conference Centre — The Shaw Conference Centre is dedicated to providing green solutions for you and your delegates. This eco-friendly, award-winning venue has 18,580 square metres of modern and versatile meeting and exhibit In one space. A total of 3,000 hotel guest rooms are located within walking e distance of the centre, many connected by an indoor pedestrian year alone, th its ed c walkway system. www.shawconferencecentre.com u Shaw red

ut by garbage outp 40 per cent!

Keep it Created in partnership with Edmonton Tourism and leading local hospitality organizations, FRESH addresses the changing needs in conference planning and assists those who want to add environmental and cultural components to their events.

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DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

According to the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency, the average conference delegate produces the equivalent of two large garbage bags of trash over a three-day event.

In Edmonton, this is no longer the case.

Our Eco Report Card allows organizers to accurately measure and compare the environmental impact of their events, and our Green Meeting Guide is full of eco-friendly itineraries.

Another key component to our FRESH way of thinking is to weave Edmonton’s rich and diverse range of cultural and entertainment options into your plans. Put nature on the program in our river valley, consider holding a session in the spectacular Art Gallery of Alberta or work with Edmonton Festival City in a Box planners to invite performers from one of the city’s marquee festivals to entertain your guests.

PHOTOS: EDMONTON EXPO CENTRE; OASIS CENTRE; EDMONTON TOURISM

Oasis Edmonton Conference Centre — Located in west Edmonton, this conference/educational facility has a magnificent marble interior and private grounds that bring stunning elegance and sophistication to your conference, presentation or event. It offers three-tiered and balcony seating for up to 855 people. www.oasiscentre.com

meet

EXPERIENCE THE DISTINCTIVE DESTINATIONS OF EDMONTON’S WEST END!

stay shop

play

West Edmonton Mall

The home of The Santa Maria All member hotels minutes from West Edmonton Mall

www.destinati

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PHOTOS: TRAVEL ALBERTA; EDMONTON TOURISM; ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

FESTIVALCITY

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As a practiced and pol-

Here’s a taste of what’s happening in 2013.

ished host to the world,

Visit edmonton.com/festivalcity to find out more!

each year Edmonton welcomes hundreds of

10th ANNUAL ICE ON WHYTE

K-DAYS

Jan 25-Feb 3

Jul 19-28

For the last 10 years, three semi loads of ice have been unloaded in Old Strathcona for this exciting, creative competition. Enjoy stunning sculptures, live music, delicious food and even a giant ice slide! iceonwhyte.ca

This action-packed extravaganza of carnival activities kicks off with a parade and follows with a non-stop week of live entertainment, midway games, thrilling rides, unique food, chuckwagon races and extravagant nightly fireworks. k-days.com

SERVUS HERITAGE FESTIVAL

much more. Edmonton is

25th FREEWILL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

Canada’s festival city —

Jun 25-Jul 21

where festivals are live all

The Freewill Players bring the comedy, romance and tragedy of Shakespeare’s iconic plays to life under the stars in the beautiful Hawrelak Park. freewillshakespeare.com

thousands of international guests to conferences and athletic events. The city has proudly hosted Universiade, World Figure Skating Championships, four Canadian Football League Grey Cups and

year with more than 30 major festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, visual arts, dance, performing arts, sports, film and more.

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL STREET PERFORMERS FESTIVAL Jul 5-14 You never know who you’ll run into when roving artists take to the streets for a variety of shows, featuring magic, comedy, puppets, juggling, storytelling, music, fire and more! edmontonstreetfest.com

A TASTE OF EDMONTON Jul 18-27 Dozens of Edmonton’s finest chefs create special menus for this white-tented, 10-day affair held downtown in Sir Winston Churchill Square.

Sample a variety of delicious food, wine and beer while enjoying live music and street performers. eventsedmonton.ca/taste

Aug 3-5 Outdoor pavilions house ethnic music and dancing, arts and crafts displays, cultural demonstrations, traditional costumes and the exotic cuisines of over 75 cultures! heritage-festival.com

EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL Aug 8-11 Global stars of folk, blues, bluegrass and gospel genres from around the world come together for four blissful days at this open-air festival where the Gallagher Park hillside serves as a natural amphitheatre. edmontonfolkfest.org

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL Aug 15-25 This phenomenal alternative theatre fest is the largest and oldest of its kind in North America with over 1,200 shows and performances from over 200 theatre companies. Venues are located in the Old Strathcona area with roving street performers only adding to the festive spirit! fringetheatreadventures.ca

SYMPHONY UNDER THE SKY Aug 30-Sep 2 The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra is in top form during this five-day al fresco summer extravaganza of classical music, pop-culture favourites and famous film scores. edmontonsymphony.com

LITFEST: EDMONTON’S NONFICTION FESTIVAL Oct 17-27 Canada’s only festival of non-fiction literature combines lively readings and discussions, by talented local, national and international writers, with music, gourmet food and select wines. litfestalberta.org

CANADIAN FINALS RODEO (CFR) Nov 6-10 The most hardcore cowboys, cowgirls and animals of professional rodeo ride into Edmonton for five days of non-stop, heart-pounding competition! cfr.ca

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Explore Edmonton’s

TREASURES Edmonton’s world-class attractions let you feel the pulse of the city. From museums to theatres, gardens to galleries and roller coasters to waterslides — not to mention all-day shopping excursions and big-league sporting events — the heart of the city keeps a lively beat.

Ride a Segway — Edmonton’s river valley is North America’s largest urban parkland, criss-crossed with scenic trails, greenery, water and wildlife. What better way to experience its 160 km of trails than by gliding along on a Segway? Put your city visit on a roll with Segway Edmonton and their one-of-a-kind tours. www.segwayedmonton.com West Edmonton Mall — This mega-mall boasts over 800 retail stores, 100 eating establishments and 10 world-class theme park attractions. Covering 48 city blocks — that’s equivalent to 115 football fields — West Edmonton Mall thrills the millions of visitors who explore its shopping, dining and entertaining delights annually! www.wem.ca

Fort Edmonton Park — Take a journey back in time to Edmonton’s living history museum that boasts a replica of the 1846 fort, a beautiful re-creation of the original Capitol Theatre, a working steam locomotive and re-created historical streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920. www.fortedmontonpark.ca

Edmonton Attractions Pass With one convenient pass, you’ll gain admission to Edmonton’s must-see attractions that offer a fun variety of history, culture, nature, science, art and events. Choose the Ultimate Pass, which is good for one entry to each of the 16 participating attractions in a calendar year, or the U-Pick Pass that offers entry into any four participating attractions over a seven-day period. www.EdmontonAttractions.com 22

DESTINATION EDMONTON 2013

PHOTOS: GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA; EDMONTON TOURISM; CITY OF EDMONTON

Art Gallery of Alberta — This visually-alive swirl of glass, steel and zinc highlights the culture and class of the downtown Arts District. Thought-provoking exhibitions showcase Albertan, Canadian and international artists, and the venue hosts speakers and films regularly. www.youraga.ca

An experience

family fun

•

dinner cruises

780-424-2628 Reynolds-Alberta Museum presents May 18, 2013 - Oct 14, 2014

•

special events

9734 - 98 Ave Edmonton, AB

FABULOUS FIFTIES

THE

unlike any other...

www.edmontonqueen.com

crUISE THrOUgH THE FABULOUS FIFTIES wITH US See how post-war optimism took shape on four wheels: · Designer Influences: the People behind the Designs · Car Tunes · Drive-Ins · Only in Canada · Foreign Invasion · Chrome Dreams: Colour and Style · Aviation Influence - From Wings to Tail Fins Reynolds-Alberta Museum 6426-40 Ave. 2 km west of Wetaskiwin on Hwy 13.

Phone: 1.780.361.1351 Toll free: 1.800.661.4726

www.ReynoldsAlbertaMuseum.com Historic Sites and Museums, Alberta Culture WWW.EDMONTON.COM

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A World of Variety In a region with 3,500 dining establishments to choose from, Edmonton restaurateurs draw upon a world of variety to cook up anything you desire.

The diversity of dishes reaches far beyond Alberta’s borders from chefs who happily accommodate large groups, and can add a personal touch with custom menus that reflect special dietary needs such as vegan, gluten-free and organic. Many also offer private banquet facilities, entertainment and off-premise catering to turn your meeting or special event into a crowdpleaser.

Corso 32, offering a modern take on rustic Italian flavour, and Tres Carnales (below), featuring delicious authentic Mexican food, are both on the list of Top 50 Best Places to Eat in Canada!

Delicious Possibilities

PHOTOS: SIMON SMOTKOWICZ; CURTIS ROLF; STEFANE BERUBE

From quiet and business-like to energetic and casual, Edmonton restaurants offer a wide range of dining experiences with attentive, professional service. If live entertainment tops your agenda, many city restaurants also feature performers on select evenings. With such a delicious selection of possibilities, finding restaurants to accommodate you and your group will be easy. Narrowing the selection down to one will be the challenge.

Bon appĂŠtit!

Home-Grown Flavour Consider giving your gathering a tasty, distinctive flavour with entrées prepared from locally grown, farm-fresh favourites. Two-thirds of Alberta ranches raise cattle that have won a global following for their rich, flavourful, grain-fed meat. Central Alberta has grown into a hub for cheese makers and dairy farmers; market gardens harvest produce such as squash and potatoes; and rich fields to the south of Edmonton yield canola, wheat, corn and berries. All of the above come together as creative, satisfying entrées at restaurants proud to serve regional cuisine.

Get it fresh! Support local farmers and artisans at one of Edmonton’s popular farmers’ markets!

PHOTOS: GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA; CITY OF EDMONTON; 124 GRAND MARKET

Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market — This bustling year-round covered market offers an impressive array of local fresh produce, meats, baked goods, crafts and more! osfm.ca City Market — In the summer months, vendors, food trucks and street performers take over the 4th Street Promenade creating the feel of a weekly festival in the heart of the city. In the winter, you can find this market every Saturday in City Hall. city-market.ca 124 Grand Market — Edmonton’s newest market combines everything that we love about summer — trendy food trucks, live entertainment, artists, crafts, shopping, fresh and local foods every Thursday night from May to September in the ‘grand’ outdoors! 124grandmarket.com

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Histor y brought to Life

Come visit this outdoor living hist ory museum telling the story of Ukrainian settlement in Alberta (1892-1930) History brought to life with auth entic food and pioneer experiences at the Ukrainian Cul tural Heritage Village.

780.662.3640 | 25 minutes east of Edmonton on Hwy. 16

ukrainianvillage.ca Historic Sites and Museums, Alberta Culture

Parc natio n al

Government

Park l a n o i t a N d Elk Islan

Come outdoors & play!

45 minutes east of Edmonton

Venez jouer dehors avec nous!

45 minutes à l’est d’Edmonton

1.780.922.5790

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GREATER EDMONTON

Offers Options for Everyone Nurture your green thumb at the Devonian Botanic Garden (left), hit the links at a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course or take your pick of fresh produce, meats and goods at the St. Albert Farmers’ Market. Nearby communities also boast major performance facilities, such as Festival Place in Sherwood Park, The Arden Theatre in St. Albert, the Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove and the Shell Theatre in the Sherritt Cultural Pavilion in the Dow Centennial Centre in Fort Saskatchewan.

Elk Island National Park

PHOTOS: PAUL SWANSON; TRAVEL ALBERTA

Heritage Lives On The rich Alberta farmland east of Edmonton was largely homesteaded

by Ukrainian immigrant families whose toil and traditions transformed east central Alberta from 1892 to 1930. With costumed players and historic buildings, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an outdoor living museum that tells their compelling story of life in a new land. www.history.alberta.ca/ukrainianvillage

Located east of Edmonton on Hwy 16, Elk Island National Park is Canada’s first federal wildlife preserve and one of the nation’s smallest national parks at 194 square kilometres. Renowned for its wildlife and bird-watching opportunities, Elk Island is home to more than 250 species of birds and 40 species of mammals — including more than 1,000 plains and wood bison, elk, moose, deer, beaver and coyote. Elk Island is the sole remaining place in Alberta where all the grazing species of Canada’s aspen parkland ecosystem co-exist. Open yearround, Elk Island features more than 100 km of nature trails for hiking or cross-country skiing, picnic spots, camping and canoeing.

If time permits, play a round of golf on the park’s challenging nine-hole course.

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Edmonton is only the starting point. From here, you’re minutes away from nearby cities and towns, and only hours away from destinations that offer unique host site possibilities.

BEYOND EDMONTON

— Minutes Away From So Much More

Alberta’s North Nowhere does the legend of Alberta’s endless blue skies live up to its reputation better than in the north. Experience the energy of Fort McMurray with a tour of Alberta’s famous oil sands, a night sky viewing of the Aurora Borealis (northern lights), Aboriginal culture, dog-sledding and boreal wilderness adventures. With only five per cent of Alberta’s population, the magnificent north offers unpopulated expanses of parkland, forests and lakes — dotted with towns and dynamic young cities — all easily accessible by safe highways.

Situated in the majestic Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park lies four hours west of Edmonton. This all-season playground is a part of the Canadian Rocky Mountains UNESCO World Heritage Site. The United Nations protects World Heritage Sites, considered to be of outstanding universal value, for future generations.

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PHOTOS: TRAVEL ALBERTA

Jasper National Park

Devonian Botanic GarDen

aWaKen your SenSeS! 190 acres to delight the senses, just minutes west of Edmonton Open daily May to Thanksgiving

devonian.ualberta.ca | 780.987.3054 Located in Parkland county, 5 kms north of Devon on Hwy 60

LEDUC #1 ENERGY DISCOVERY CENTRE To Know Alberta is to Know the Oil Industry Featuring award-winning films, 200+ exhibits, drilling rigs in action and stories from the patch

leducnumber1.com / 780-987-4323 Located 2 km south of Devon on Hwy 60

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Connect With Us! 3rd Floor, 9990 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 1P7 780-426-4715 Toll-free: 1-877-917-7626

We’re Here To Help!

Edmonton Tourism (a division of Edmonton Economic Development Corporation) is a destination marketing organization (DMO) responsible for promoting travel to the Greater Edmonton Region. Edmonton Tourism’s team of experts is here to provide assistance, supplier contacts and collateral material on Edmonton and area for the development of group and independent tour programs, conferences, meetings and conventions.

“I can’t thank you enough for all you have done, this type of service is hard to find anymore!

I will be sure to recommend you to others.”

Meetings and Conventions — Edmonton offers diverse venues to meet all needs. Whether it is Western Canada’s largest exhibition space, a spectacular art gallery’s northern lights-inspired architecture, or the breathtaking 270-degree view of North America’s largest urban parkland out your window, your attendees will enjoy world-class facilities and amenities. We understand that every event is a big event and we want to partner with you to make your program the success you envision. Our creativity and local expertise is second-to-none.

Let us help you make your next event an experience!

Travel Trade — Edmonton, Canada's festival city welcomes visitors year-round with thriving arts and festivals including the internationally renowned folk, fringe and street performers’ festivals; natural beauty; eclectic neighbourhoods; and icon attractions. Want to know more? Let Edmonton Tourism assist by providing you with information about Edmonton, collateral materials and images, itinerary, familiarization tour and site visit assistance, as well as connect you with our 500 industry partners.

PHOTO: DESIGNPICS

- Bea Dennis Metalex Metal Buildings

Conference Services — Edmonton Tourism works in partnership with numerous venues, accommodations, attractions and local partners to optimize your success when planning a conference in Edmonton. Our expertise and connections within the city allows us to provide customized ideas for you and your delegates delivering support that is beyond the “cookie cutter” experience. Our Conference Services team looks forward to creating tailor-made solutions for your group.

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Your Comfort Zone Relax and deliver a Winning Presentation.

Event Staging Meetings & Conferences Webcasting & Videoconferencing Simultaneous Interpretation ... and more

Call for a consultation

1.800.587.4004 www.inlandAV.ca EDMONTON

CALGARY

REGINA

SASKATOON

WINNIPEG

EDMONTON TOURISM 3rd Floor, 9990 Jasper Avenue, World Trade Centre Edmonton, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T5J 1P7 1-800-463-4667 (Canada/USA) | 780-426-4715 (In Edmonton)

www.edmonton.com