see you here! 2012 summer getaway guide enter to win a
Sizzling Summer Experience
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Photo courtesy of Travel Alberta
Contents 100 cool things to see and do around Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 reliving history . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 family fun for everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 thriving festivals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 outdoor adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 artful entertainment and attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 serious shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 sporting scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 extremely wild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 after dark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 gateway to the north and canadian rockies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 calendar of events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 websites and resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Live all year, Edmonton, Canada’s Festival City, is home to over 30 annual festivals. Celebrating sports, culture, music, visual arts and theatre, Edmonton’s summer sizzles with its internationally renowned folk, fringe and street performers festivals plus Capital EX—the city’s oldest festival featuring midway rides and games to world-class shows, musical entertainment and trade displays. Edmonton offers all of this and more at affordable prices. From the magnificent green ribbon of the river valley to North America’s largest indoor shopping experience, Edmonton is a magical destination. Some call it the world’s best kept secret as this surprising metropolis combines urban excellence with the perfect dose of small-town friendliness. The fun starts with Edmonton’s crown jewel, its river valley park system, an area 22 times larger than New York’s Central Park, beckoning with trails and sights to explore! Then there’s Canada’s largest living history museum, Fort Edmonton Park, displaying four different eras in time including a historical reproduction of a 1920s midway and exhibition. Named one of Canada’s top five shopping districts, Old Strathcona—the city’s historical hub dating back to 1891— is a revitalized neighbourhood with unique shops, heritage buildings and a thriving entertainment scene. West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre, comes with more than 800 stores, 100-plus dining options and 10 attractions. Another part of Edmonton’s sizzling summer scene is the Edmonton Indy®. From July 20 to 22, the Indy® brings in race car drivers from around the world. Edmonton is also proud of its professional sports heritage with the Edmonton Oilers, the Edmonton Eskimos, Edmonton Rush lacrosse team as well as the Edmonton Oil Kings junior hockey team. Want more? There are more than 84 golf courses within an hour of downtown Edmonton— including Northern Bear, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course.
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2012 summer getaway guide
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Partners City of St. Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-459-1500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.stalbert.ca IN THE PICTURE Justin Piercy catches the iconic pyramids of the Muttart Conservatory. An oncoming storm serves as the backdrop.
Or head to the Downtown Arts District in the city’s core where Edmonton’s cultural centre bustles with world-class venues such as the Francis Winspear Centre for Music, the Citadel Theatre and the breathtaking Art Gallery of Alberta. As Alberta’s capital city, the Alberta Legislature Building is an architectural treasure. Built from 1907 to 1912, the province’s foremost historic structure is set amidst beautiful gardens and fountains. You can stroll down tree-lined boulevards in one of Edmonton’s most distinctive neighbourhoods, 124th Street, which offers an eclectic blend of one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries and fine restaurants plus the Gallery Walk—the first of its kind in Canada, with over nine galleries within a 12-block radius. Hungry? World-renowned Alberta beef can be found in a cross-section of Edmonton steak and chop houses, but Edmonton’s cuisine scene is much more than great steaks and great steakhouses. Greater Edmonton offers more than 3,500 eating establishments serving every type of international flavour imaginable and often featuring regional cuisine.
Devonian Botanical Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . 780-987-3054 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ales.ualberta.ca/devonian Edmonton Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-866-714-5903 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonattractions.com Edmonton Festival City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-426-4715 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com/festivalcity Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-448-9000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fringetheatreadventures.ca Edmonton International Street Performers Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-425-5162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonstreetfest.com Legislative Assembly of Alberta . . . . . . . . . 780-427-7362 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.assembly.ab.ca Northlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-471-7210 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.northlands.com TELUS World of Science – Edmonton . . . . . . 780-452-9100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonscience.com
Take a scenic drive just outside the city limits where there are many exciting and informative attractions such as Elk Island National Park, Kalyna Country (Canada’s largest eco-museum), Devonian Botanic Garden, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and the Canadian Petroleum Interpretive Centre.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village . . . . . . . 780-662-3640 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ukrainianvillage.ca
Just a few hours’ drive from Edmonton are the majestic Canadian Rockies. Jasper offers shimmering glaciers, abundant wildlife, crystal clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, deep canyons and evergreen forests surrounded by towering, rugged mountain peaks! Be sure to visit Maligne Lake, along with the pristine natural beauty of Spirit Island, which is not only the oldest attraction in Jasper National Park but also the largest lake in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
For a complete listing of our Destination Marketing Hotels, please refer to websites and resources on pages 48 - 50.
Edmontonians are encouraged to invite family and friends to visit Edmonton for a chance to win a $500 West Edmonton Mall shopping spree . . . visit www.edmonton.com/invitefamilyandfriends. Choose an e-postcard and invite family and friends to the region. You have the chance to win a $500 West Edmonton Mall shopping spree and so does your family or friend! Plus, if you’re a resident who has hosted out-oftown friends or relatives please enter our Thank You Edmonton contest for monthly prizes—www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere.
West Edmonton Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-661-8890 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.wem.ca
The Edmonton See You Here Summer Getaway Guide is 100% funded by advertisers and partners. The participation of these fine companies allows us to provide this comprehensive guide free of charge. To ensure the continued success of this guide please support our advertisers. Thank you.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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100 coolto see things g and do
1. Star Wars™ Identities the Exhibition at TELUS World of Science opens October 27. One of only two cities in North America to host. 2. Ride the High Level Streetcar and enjoy a trip from the top deck of the world’s highest streetcar bridge. 3. The Race is on! Take in the 2,256 mile 13 turn circuit at the Edmonton Indy July 20 - 22. Will Power won the race in 2011. 4. Plant yourself at the Devonian Botanic Garden. 5. Cheer on the Edmonton Eskimos at a home game in the refurbished Commonwealth Stadium. It’s the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Football League. 6. Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. August 16 - 26. Equal parts indoor theatre, street performance and party, the continent’s largest, and oldest, fringe takes over Old Strathcona. 7. Take a brisk stroll down 124th Street and wander through the many shops and galleries on the city’s gallery walk. 8. Horse around at the Northlands Spectrum racetrack. 9. Enjoy the rides, and play the midway games at Edmonton’s Capital EX, July 20 - 29, Edmonton’s oldest festival. 10. Experience the past; see historical trains at the Alberta Railway Museum. 11. See some of the greatest street acts from around the globe at the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival. July 6 - 15.
12. S plash around the Alberta Legislature or City Hall pool and fountains. 13. Take a dive into adventure and challenge yourself on a three-level ropes course! At West Edmonton Mall. 14. Save big bucks on discounted rates to 15 of Edmonton’s finest attractions with the Edmonton Attractions Pass. www.edmontonattractions.com
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around edmonton 15. Go to The Works Art & Design Festival. June 21 - July 3. Art takes over downtown, with 50 exhibits and 200 events in foyers, parks and galleries. 16. Watch wildlife at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre. 17. Book the kids into a fun summer camp. Choose from a variety of camps including sports, arts, computers, photography and much, much more. 18. Dance in the streets at Cariwest – Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival. August 10 - 12. 19. Escape hot summer nights by having a sleep in an igloo at the Fantasyland Hotel. 20. Get crafty at Western Canada’s largest outdoor farmers’ market. The St. Albert Farmers’ Market features over 250 vendors and a variety of home baked, home grown, and homemade products. 21. Have lunch at one of the numerous country tea houses. 22. Pedal a bike on 255km of scenic bike trails. 23. Shop till you drop at West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre. 24. See the original Leduc #1 Oil Derrick at Gateway Park. 25. Go to the Whyte Avenue Art Walk. July 13 - 15. One of the largest street celebrations of the visual arts in Canada. 26. Tee off at one of 84-plus regional golf courses.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
see you here! 27. Enjoy the opera at Vocal Arts Festival. May 25 - July 1. Canada’s only summer opera festival. 28. Check out the great vacation packages offered by Edmonton hotels. www.edmontondestinationhotels.com 29. E njoy the ballet or symphony. 30. C elebrate the Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival, August 17 - 19. 31. G rab a latte and walk down trendy Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona— voted one of Canada’s Top 10 coolest neighbourhoods. 32. L earn how to read animal tracks at the John Janzen Nature Centre. 33. R ev up your engine at the drag races. 34. Take an eerie walk through Old Strathcona to hear true stories of ghosts, hauntings and the unknown with Edmonton Ghost Tours. 35. V olunteer your time at one of the many summer festivals. 36. C atch the opera this summer. 37. Relive the days of the dinosaurs as they roar to life in Jurassic Forest, a 40-acre prehistoric preserve minutes from Edmonton. 38. E xperience pioneer life at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 39. Enjoy some of Edmonton’s finest cuisine at A Taste of Edmonton Festival, July 20 - 29. 40. Work on your stand-up routine at Improvaganza, which hosts upwards of 30 improvisers, sketch comedians, stand-ups and musicians from across Canada, North America and beyond. 41. Explore, experience and discover one of the 22 municipalities in Edmonton’s countryside. 42. S ink into a chair and enjoy alternative film at the Garneau Theatre, which is an official historic landmark. 43. Celebrate Edmonton’s diversity at the Edmonton Pride Festival. June 8 - 17.
52. Explore Edmonton’s wealth of visual art on display in over 60 galleries and public exhibits including the Gallery Walk, the first of its kind in Canada. 53. Romance your sweetie at a revolving restaurant. 54. See exhibits of vintage vehicles and agricultural equipment at the Reynolds-Alberta Museum. 55. Visit Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, open every Saturday, which offers local and regional ingredients and some great shopping. 56. Explore the River Valley in a completely unique style: on a Segway. 57. Take in a concert at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre, where the Davis Concert Organ, the largest concert organ in Canada, calls home. 58. Challenge your friends to a game of laser tag at Laser Quest. 59. Enjoy some of the world’s best blues acts in the great outdoors at the Labatt Blues Festival, Aug 24 - 26. 60. Take an adventure into the wild at the Valley Zoo. 61. Study some art at the Stony Plain and Legal murals. 62. Walk along the North Saskatchewan River on one of our numerous parks trails, and take in nature at its finest. 63. Wing it at the Alberta Aviation Museum. 64. Witness the epic Calgary vs Edmonton CFL football rivalry first hand. 65. Canoe, kayak or jet boat the North Saskatchewan River and watch for beavers. 66. Stay at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald and enjoy the beautiful gardens overlooking the North Saskatchewan River while sipping tea on the patio. 67. Discover Old Strathcona, a designated Provincial Historic District— voted one of Canada’s top five shopping districts. 68. Experience Aboriginal culture while tipi camping at Elk Island Retreat.
44. Explore the history of telecommunications over the last 100 years at the Telephone Historical Centre. 45. Be a kid at the International Children’s Festival in St. Albert. May 29 - June 2. 46. B e silly at the Silly Summer Parade. 47. Check out the oversized sausages and eggs, massive mallards, UFO landing pads, and enjoy the pioneer history in Kalyna Country— Canada’s largest eco-museum. 48. See the herds of free roaming plains bison, wood bison, moose, deer, and elk at Elk Island National Park, which has the second-highest density of hoofed mammals per square kilometre in the world! 49. T ake in some great music at Edmonton’s newest music festival— Interstellar Rodeo. July 27 - 29. 50. Gaze up at the night sky and look for Northern Lights. 51. Get down in nearby Stony Plain at the annual Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Festival. August 3 - 5.
IN THE PICTURE Capital EX may be Edmonton’s oldest festival, but the fun and excitement it brings never fades.
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see you here! 100 cool things continued
IN THE PICTURE The Edmonton Folk Music Festival is a four-day outdoor music extravaganza that attracts more than 80,000 music lovers.
IN THE PICTURE Fort Edmonton Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. Stop by and find out what these period characters are chatting about.
69. E xperience an IMAX® film at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton.
85. Get a panoramic view of Edmonton on a scenic hot air balloon flight.
70. Get hooked on a fishing tour with ‘Get Hooked Fishing Adventures’.
86. Pamper yourself at one of Edmonton’s great hotels and spas.
71. Get picky at U-pick berry farms.
87. Check out Alberta’s oldest building—Father Lacombe Chapel.
72. Have some innocent fun paintballing with your friends and family.
88. Take a free guided tour of Alberta’s premier architectural attraction, the Alberta Legislature.
73. Hike the Blackfoot and Cooking Lake Recreation Areas, which includes 170km of trails. 74. Photograph feathery friends while bird watching. 75. Plan a trip to see the Muttart Conservatory. 76. Roll a ball in the lion’s mouth for luck at the Chinatown Gate. 77. Take your picture with Wayne Gretzky (the statue). 78. T o be, or not to be, at Freewill Shakespeare Festival. June 26 - July 22. Performances at the gorgeous Hawrelak Park Amphitheatre. 79. Time travel at the John Walter Museum, displaying the three original homes of John Walter, entrepreneur and one of Edmonton’s first millionaires.
89. Visit the West Edmonton Mall Sea Lions. 90. Watch a flying dragon blow fire at Scotiabank Theatre in West Edmonton Mall. 91. Challenge yourself to try new flavours at the Servus Heritage Festival, where over 60 distinctive cultures showcase song and dance, arts and crafts, costumes and cuisine. This is a festival that celebrates multicultualism. August 4 - 6. 92. Enjoy music for any taste: country, blues, folk or jazz music are just a few types that are present at Edmonton’s many summer festivals. 93. Fall in love with classical music at the Symphony Under the Sky. August 31 - September 3.
80. Take a spin on the spinning coaster, Galaxy Orbiter, at West Edmonton Mall.
94. Go for a picnic at one of the hundreds of city parks.
81. Jump out of a perfectly good airplane! Visit the Edmonton Skydive Centre and begin your adventure.
96. Putter around at mini-golf—indoors or out.
82. Watch Movies on the Square—Canada’s largest three-storey tall inflatable movie screen. 83. Become a critic at Visualeyez . . . A Festival of Performance Art. September 11 - 16. 84. Visit Fort Edmonton Park, where several scenes for The Assassination of Jesse James, starring Brad Pitt, were filmed.
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95. Lay back and stargaze with the Royal Astronomical Society. 97. Splash around in the Caribbean Cove at the waterpark in West Edmonton Mall. 98. Watch a great play at the regal Citadel Theatre. 99. Have a Sunday brunch with your family. 100. Invite your friends and relatives to visit us in Edmonton. www.edmonton.com/invitefamilyandfriends.
relivingg historyy Major Stops You’ll want to spend half a day or more at these significant sites, where interpreters take you on a journey back in time. • Alberta Legislature Building. Alberta’s architectural treasure, this beautiful building was completed in 1912 on one of the original Fort Edmonton sites. The Legislative Assembly Interpretive Centre highlights the building’s history and the political process. Daily guided tours are available. 10800 - 97 Ave. 780-427-7362, www.assembly.ab.ca • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Head east on the Yellowhead Hwy and back to the early 1900s, when east central Alberta was home to the largest settlement of Ukrainian pioneers in Canada. Have some fun and interact with the costumed interpreters, they’re ‘real’ characters! 780-662-3640, www.ukrainianvillage.ca • Fort Edmonton Park. Join the costumed historical players and live life as it was at the 1846 Hudson’s Bay fur trade fort and on the streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920. Take a ride on the 1919 steam train or ride the streetcar to the 1920s midway. There are lots of hands-on activities— the adventure changes daily. Fox Dr. & Whitemud Dr. 780-442-5311, www.fortedmontonpark.ca • The Royal Alberta Museum. One of Canada’s premier museums! The museum’s galleries include the internationally acclaimed Syncrude Gallery of Aboriginal Culture, Wild Alberta, Natural History and Fossils. 12845 - 102 Ave. 780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca
Our city also has some wonderful historic churches and cultural museums. At such venues, I can learn about Edmonton’s fur trading, aviation, transportation, arts, people, and history. - Denise. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
History Speaks There is so much to learn and explore with a variety of museums and local attractions. • Old Strathcona. Look for plaques identifying landmark buildings from South Edmonton’s 1891 beginnings, including the CP Rail Station, Edmonton House Hotel (now Strathcona Hotel) and the Fire Hall (now Walterdale Theatre). Ask about group tours. 780-437-4182, www.oldstrathcona.ca • Rutherford House. Freshly baked scones and costumed interpreters beckon you into this restored Edwardian mansion, home of Alberta’s first Premier Alexander Cameron Rutherford. 11153 Saskatchewan Dr. 780-422-2697, www.rutherfordhouse.ca • John Walter Museum. Three houses on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River depict stages in the life of John Walter, who arrived in 1870 to build York boats for the Hudson’s Bay Company and became one of Edmonton’s early millionaires. Free, old-fashioned fun. Open every Sunday, 1pm to 5pm. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/johnwalter continued on page 7
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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reliving history continued
IN THE PICTURE Grain elevators used to dominate the Alberta skyline. These majestic monuments demand attention in St. Albert.
• Musee Heritage Museum. Artifacts tell the story of St. Albert in this museum. 5 St. Anne St., St. Albert. 780-459-1528, www.artsheritage.ca/museum • The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum. A large collection specific to the history of the Regiment but also important to the military history of Alberta and Canada spans the years from the late-nineteenth century to the present and includes extensive artefact and archival holdings. 10440 - 108 Ave Edmonton. 780-421-9943, www.lermuseum.org • Strathcona County Museum and Archives. View new exhibits portraying the county’s natural, first nations and pioneer history. Walk Sherwood Parks Heritage Mile to view monuments depicting the early 20th century. 913 Ash St., Sherwood Park. 780-467-8189, www.strathconacountymuseum.ca • Edmonton Public Schools Archives and Museum. Explore this interesting chapter of our city’s school history, located at 10425 - 99 Ave. 780-422-1970, archives.epsb.net • Namao Museum. Recall days gone by in a quaint little house in the Hamlet of Namao just north of Edmonton. 780-973-3777, www.edmontonscountryside.com • Reynolds-Alberta Museum. Check out the history and mechanics of the aviation/automotive world through perfectly preserved and restored models. Wetaskiwin. 780-361-1351, www.reynoldsalbertamuseum.com • Fort Saskatchewan Museum and Historic Site. Learn about the city’s history and heritage through eight buildings and a collection focusing on the North West Mounted Police and the settlement area. 10006 - 100 Ave., Fort Saskatchewan. 780-998-1783, www.fortsask.ca • Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions. Offering excursions by a vintage steam powered locomotive train. Tours vary from 5 - 6 hours and include entertainment and dinner. Stettler. 403-742-2811, www.absteamtrain.com
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• High Level Bridge Streetcar. Ride a refurbished 1921 streetcar across the river. 780-437-7721, www.edmonton-radial-railway.ab.ca/highlevelbridge
Industry Recalled Take some time to discover some of the great industries that have contributed to Alberta’s growth as a province. • St. Albert Grain Elevator Park. Home to two of Alberta’s provincially designated Grain Elevators. Built in 1906 and 1929, they are a reminder of the city’s agricultural past and symbols of our heritage. 780-419-7354, www.stalbert.ca • Canadian Petroleum Discovery Centre. Explore Leduc #1, the oil well whose 1947 strike forever changed Alberta. Features include interactive displays, games, oil patch veterans as guides, a working drilling rig and an RV campground. South beyond Devon. 1-866-987-4323, www.leducnumber1.com • The Alberta Railway Museum. Ride the rails at this unique, industrial, iron horse venue located on the northeast edge of Edmonton. This collection focuses on railway equipment from the Canadian National Railway and Northern Alberta Railways. Journey back in time on ‘Locomotive 1392’. 24215 - 34 St. 780-472-6229, www.albertarailwaymuseum.com • Alberta Aviation Museum. Visit vintage planes dating from the 1920s, restored aircraft and the aviation gift shop. 11410 Kingsway Ave. 780-451-1175, www.albertaaviationmuseum.com • Andrew Elevator. Picture the heritage of the community of Andrew through its grain. While there, explore the CP Station/Museum. 780-365-3687 • Telephone Historical Centre. Boasts an extensive collection of antique telephones and telecommunications technology. Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre, 10440 - 108 Ave. NW. 780-433-1010, www.telephonehistoricalcentre.com
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
see you here! Mural Wanders Sprouting in various communities, historic murals are deep rooted here. • Stony Plain. Drive west on Hwy 16A to see over 27 life-size outdoor murals. Ask for a mural guide at the Multicultural Heritage Centre. 780-963-2777, or view a virtual tour at www.stonyplain.com • L egal. Head north on Hwy 2 to see over 28 murals that welcome visitors to this bilingual town. 1-866-546-7783, www.town.legal.ab.ca •O ld Strathcona. Over 40 murals on electric boxes. The murals were painted as a 2004 centennial project to celebrate this historical community. 780-437-4182, www.oldstrathcona.ca
Kalyna Country Three dozen traditional and open air museums preserve the rich heritage of a vast region just north east of Edmonton. Rather than displaying artifacts in one central location, this eco-museum invites visitors to experience history and nature in their original settings while enjoying the communities created today. 1-888-452-5962, www.kalynacountry.com • Victoria Trail. Drive through picturesque farmland, catch panoramic vistas of the North Saskatchewan River and finish up at the Victoria Settlement Provincial Historical Site on this self-guided tour. www.kalynacountry.com/Victoria-Trail • I ron Horse Trail. Almost 300km of multi-use trails in a historic recreational corridor. Along the trail you can experience views of the North Saskatchewan River, boreal forest, parkland wetlands and historical attractions. www.ironhorsetrail.ca
• Wild Rose Trail. Open by appointment year round. Follow the trail to visit local artists, antique shops, restaurants and more. 780-875-5717, www.kalynacountry.com/Wild-Rose-Trail
Religious Sites From onion-domed Byzantine style churches to Catholic missions, you’ll find signs of early settlers’ devout faith throughout the region. • Lamont County. Emerging as the church capital of North America with 47 sites, Lamont County offers a self-guided church tour booklet. 780-895-2233, www.lamontcounty.ca • Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto (Skaro Shrine). Built in 1919 by local parishioners, this replica of the grotto of Lourdes in France attracts up to 3,000 pilgrims each August. Lamont County, Junction of SH 831 & Hwy 45. • Basilian Fathers Museum and Monastery. This museum showcases over 100 years of the Basilian Fathers’ mission through an extensive collection of photographs and artifacts, plus a nearby Grotto is still used to celebrate Divine Liturgies. 5419 Sawchuk St., Mundare. 780-764-3887, www.basilianmuseum.org • Historic Mission Hill. Visit St. Albert’s 1861 Father Lacombe Chapel, Alberta’s oldest standing log structure. Don’t miss the Father Lacombe Statue, as well as a crypt, historic grotto and cemetery. Open through September. St. Vital Ave., St. Albert. 780-459-7663
IN THE PICTURE The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Villages is a multi-award-winning IN THE PICTURE Experience Edmonton’s scenic river valley from the world’s highest provincial historic site that showcases Ukrainian settlement in East streetcar bridge. Central Alberta (1892 - 1930).
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family fun y for everyone In Edmonton, the young (and young at heart) find fun around every corner. There are so many exciting things to do that choosing can be tough. So here’s the plan, kids: circle the things you really want to do, and chances are the whole family will thank you for it. Oh—and be sure to include a few wild and crazy outings for the entire family to enjoy (pages 31 & 32).
Make a Splash Choose from a delightful variety of indoor/outdoor waterslides, and fun wave pools. 780-496-SWIM • World Waterpark, West Edmonton Mall. This tropical paradise boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool and tallest indoor permanent bungee tower, as well as more than 17 unique waterslides, ranging from beginner and intermediate to advanced and extreme, and play features. 780-444-5313, www.wem.ca • Kinsmen Leisure Centre. Features family waterslide, kid’s pool, spiral fountains and a seasonal outdoor water park. Sherwood Park. 2001 Oak St. 780-464-2112, www.strathcona.ca • Servus Credit Union Place. Water Play Centre has over 25 spray and water features, including a river ride and two giant waterslides. St. Albert. 400 Campbell Rd. 780-418-6088, www.servusplace.ca • Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre. Includes a wave pool with spray features, tot pool, and a variety of indoor fitness opportunities. 2051 Leger Road. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca IN THE PICTURE The West Edmonton Mall World Waterpark boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool.
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The Alberta Legislature O P E N
F O R
Y O U
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June 2 Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee Garden Party • Mill Woods Recreation Centre. This centre features a large wave pool, fitness centre and outdoor activity opportunities. 7207 - 28 Ave. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca • TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre. Includes a leisure pool with play structure and water features, an indoor waterslide and children’s area. Spruce Grove. 221 Jennifer Heil Way. 780-960-5080, www.trileisure.com
D I S C O V E R
FREE guided building tours 362 days/year Wading pools and gardens
July 1 Canada Day September 2 Alberta Legislature Building Centennial
•C ommonwealth Community Recreation Centre. The city’s newest recreation facility features leisure pool with spray features, waterslide and aquatic climbing wall. 11000 Stadium Rd. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca •M illenium Place. There is something for all ages and abilities including a wave pool, lap pool, and water playground. Sherwood Park. 2000 Premier Way, just off Broadmoor Blvd. 780-416-3300, www.strathcona.ca
Outdoor Pools • Mill Creek. Just of Whyte Ave in Mill Creek Ravine. Home of the Swim Run Race Series, a 750m swim, followed by a 5km run through the ravine. 10315 - 119 St. • Oliver. This centrally located outdoor pool includes a deep water slide, sundeck and picnic tables, concession, complimentary wallet lockers, and a neighbouring playground. 10315 - 119 St. • Fred Broadstock. A children’s teach pool with spray features, and a six‑lane 25m with 1m and 3m diving. 10515 - 158 St. • Queen Elizabeth. Located in Kinsmen Park. Amenities include a 6-lane, 25m pool, a children’s spray park, sun deck, concession, and universal change room. 9100 Walterdale Hill.
VISITOR SERVICES 10820 - 98 Ave Edmonton, AB
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Summer is Here!
• Borden Park. Adjacent to Northlands Park, Borden Park also features picnic sites, walking paths, a playground, tennis courts, a ball diamond, and a bandshell. 11200 - 74 St.
Get Sprayed Enjoy the sunshine and tons of laughs with the kids as you refresh yourself at any outdoor water spray park. Some of the best spots (popular with the locals) are FREE. www.edmonton.ca • Legislature Grounds. Just north of the river at 109 St. • Woodlands Water Park. St. Albert. 165 Sturgeon Rd. 780-459-1553 • Borden Park. 112 Ave. & 74 St. • City Hall Plaza. 1 Sir Winston Churchill Square. • Four Seasons Park. Beaumont. 5417 - 43 Ave. 780-929-8782
Awaken Your Senses
at the University of Alberta Devonian Botanic Garden. 190 acres of gardens, indoor showhouses, natural areas and hiking trails, 15 minutes from west Edmonton. Tram Tours - Special Events - Group Packages Gift Shop - Patio Concession
• Mill Woods Spray Park. 2730 - 66 St. • G. Edmund Kelly Spray Park. 15005 - 79 St. • Kinsmen Leisure Centre Splash Park. Sherwood Park. 2001 Oak St. 780-464-2112
Open daily May 1 to Thanksgiving
•K insmen Park. 9100 Walterdale Hill. •G lengarry Spray Park. 133 Ave. & 88 St.
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780-987-3054 | devonian.ualberta.ca Located in Parkland County, 5 kms north of Devon on Hwy 60, only minutes from West Edmonton
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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see you here! Family Fun For Everyone continued
IN THE PICTURE Explore marine life at Sea Life Caverns—an underground aquarium that is home to more than 100 species of fish, sharks, sea turtles, penguins, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
Spots for Tots There are plenty of fun and educational things to do when travelling with tots. Here are a few ideas to help them enjoy the trip. • TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. The new early childhood development gallery, Discoveryland, engage and excite visitors. With five themed interactive galleries, there’s so much to see, hear, touch, taste and do! Designed for children under 8 years of age. 11211 - 142 St. 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com
• John Janzen Nature Centre. The new Tegler Discovery Zone is an indoor play area that recreates local wildlife habitat. Crawling and climbing structures are designed for children up to age 10. Discover the natural wonders of Edmonton with interactive displays, interpretive programs and self-guided tours. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/johnjanzen
• Devonian Botanic Garden. Beautiful outdoor gardens and indoor display of succulents, tropical butterflies, and orchids. Children and family courses. Hwy 60, 5km north of Devon. 780-987-3054, www.devonian.ualberta.ca • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Costumed role players in historic buildings including one room schoolhouse, general store, churches, houses and wagon rides. Hwy 16 near Elk Island National Park. 780-662-3640, www.history.alberta.ca/ukrainianvillage • West Edmonton Mall. Play at Galaxyland Amusement Park, Galaxy Kids Playpark, World Waterpark and Caribbean Cove. There’s a play area for toddlers and parents to enjoy together. Visit Sea Lions’ Rock, home to three California sea lions, or go ice skating in the middle of summer. 8882 - 170 St. 780-444-5330, www.wem.ca • Art Gallery of Alberta. The World of Creativity is an interactive, hands-on space where children and their grown-ups can explore their creativity. Also check out Tours for Tots specifically designed for children ages 3 - 5. 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-422-6223, www.youraga.ca • Jurassic Forest. 2km of wooded walkways with numerous robotic, life-size dinosaurs that move and make sounds. Located in 40 acres of natural, old growth forest, and small interpretive centre and displays. For families with children under 12. North of Edmonton near Gibbons. 780-470-2446, www.jurassicforest.com
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IN THE PICTURE The world’s largest indoor amusement park features more than 24 spectacular rides and play areas for all ages.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
• Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm. Good old-fashioned family fun things to do. Magical themed festivals and events, u-pick strawberries and vegetables, petting zoo, and kids playing area. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org
Edmonton Area Corn Mazes Come share in this unique outdoor adventure. • Edmonton Corn Maze. 780-554-4540, www.edmontoncornmaze.ca • Great Prairie Corn Maze at Prairie Gardens & Greenhouses. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org •A mazing Field Maze. 780-986-9034, www.amazingcornmaze.ca
Edmonton’s Countryside Enjoy country cuisine, a country soul stroll, or a countryside drive. To find family activities including the popular animal and farm experiences visit www.edmontonscountryside.com or ask a regional visitor information centre for the Visiting Edmonton’s Countryside brochure.
r u o y e t a Cultiv sity curio
IN THE PICTURE Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm is an award-winning 35-acre adventure farm, there are over 50 fun family activities including award-winning mindbender corn mazes.
Curious about what St. Albert has to offer?
Come check us out! We’ve got amazing restaurants, shopping, Heritage Sites, art, and a massive weekly Farmers’ Market here waiting for you to explore!
www.visitstalbert.com www.facebook.com/statourism
2012 summer getaway guide
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West Edmonton Mall Why you should visit West Edmonton Mall this summer West Edmonton Mall is the perfect getaway for both locals and tourists alike. No matter one’s age or interests, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the reasons why West Edmonton Mall should be your holiday destination.
You can enjoy a temperature of 28˚ C every day and defy gravity at World Waterpark. Summer is about sunshine, warmth, water, and adventure . . . and World Waterpark offers it all! Located within West Edmonton Mall, World Waterpark is a five-acre tropical paradise not just during the summer but every day of the year. Thrill seekers will love the park’s newest slides— especially Cyclone, a one-of-a-kind waterslide featuring an electronic launch system and near-vertical loop. If you’re not an adrenaline junkie, don’t worry. World Waterpark boasts more than 17 unique waterslides and attractions, including the world’s largest indoor wave pool.
You can shop at more than 800 stores and services. As North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre continues to freshen its appearance inside and out, bringing a chic, modern design to all 5.3 million square feet, West Edmonton Mall also continues to enhance its offerings, further establishing itself as Canada’s most complete shopping destination. The recent additions of True Religion and Kiehl’s, and the imminent arrival of J.Crew, Simons, Pottery Barn and Williams-Sonoma, along with Camper, Dr. Martens, Lolë, and The North Face, to an already dynamic mix of coveted and exclusive brands ensures a shopping experience like no other.
You can swim with a sea lion and become a trainer for the day. Alberta might be a landlocked province and Edmonton a prairie city, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get into salt water with a sea lion or spend a day learning about and interacting with penguins, sting rays, sea turtles, reptiles, and other animals. West Edmonton Mall Marine Life offers both Swim with a Sea Lion and Trainer for the Day programs, both guaranteed to be rewarding, one-of-a-kind experiences. Marine Life also offers group activities and staff members are always in Sea Life Caverns giving presentations about the animals that call West Edmonton Mall home.
You can see or participate in exciting and unique events and maybe see a celebrity. West Edmonton Mall is an entertainment venue. With stages, large common areas, an Ice Palace that does double-time as a field or gymnasium and concert hall—and the world’s largest parking lot —there is always something happening. It could be a school or community band performance, an international taekwondo championship or dance competition, hockey tournament, celebrity autograph signing or major mini concert . . . West Edmonton Mall has hosted them all. Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, the stars of Twilight, Gordon Ramsay, and Selena Gomez are among celebrities that have interacted with Mall guests. And there are others who have stopped here while in Edmonton, such as Justin Bieber, Steven Tyler, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie . . .
2012 summer getaway guide
For more information and to plan your perfect summer getaway at West Edmonton Mall, visit westedmontonmall.com
thrivingg festivals Edmonton Festival City thrives on outdoor live entertainment in the summer time and all year round. The fun spills into the parks and streets of the city and surrounding communities. Check out www.edmonton.com/festivalcity for a comprehensive listing of festivals in Greater Edmonton. It’s the experiences that I have with my community that I cherish and remember for the rest of my life. - Lucien. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
Theatre and Film The festivals listed build synergy with local theatre companies that produce and import stellar work all year long. • International Children’s Festival. May 29 - June 2. Fabulous acts from around the world are presented in a festival of theatre, music, dance, storytelling and puppetry. St. Albert. 780-459-1542, www.childfest.com • Improvaganza. June 13 - 23. Rapid Fire Theatre hosts upwards of 30 improvisers, sketch comedians, stand-ups and musicians from across Canada, North America and beyond. 780-448-0695, www.rapidfiretheatre.com • Freewill Shakespeare Festival. June 26 - July 22. Enjoy Shakespeare under the sky at Hawrelak Park, in the gorgeous surroundings of Edmonton’s river valley. 780-425-8086, www.freewillshakespeare.com
• Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. August 16 - 26. Equal parts indoor theatre, street performance and party, the continent’s largest fringe takes over Old Strathcona. 780-448-9000, www.fringetheatreadventures.ca • Edmonton International Film Festival. September 21 - 29. Come enjoy this festival of fantastic, independent films from around the world. 780-423-0844, www.edmontonfilmfest.com
Visual and Mixed Arts Art comes to life in festivals that take galleries to the people. • Nextfest: Epcor Next Generation Arts Festival. June 7 - 17. Inventive works by 250 emerging artists. Roxy Theatre, 10708 - 124 St. 780-453-2440, www.nextfest.ca • The Works Art & Design Festival. June 21 - July 3. Art takes over downtown, with 50 exhibits and 200 events in foyers, parks and galleries. 780-426-2122, www.theworks.ab.ca • feats Festival of Dance. June 27 - July 8. Produced by the Alberta Dance Alliance it is a multi-disciplinary dance festival which includes performances, special events and educational programming. 780-422-8107, www.abdancealliance.ab.ca • Whyte Avenue Art Walk. July 13 - 15. The Art Walk Festival and Marketplace is one of the largest street celebrations of the visual arts in Canada. More than 130 artists paint, sculpt, exhibit and sell their work on the sidewalks of Old Strathcona. www.art-walk.ca • Visualeyez . . . A Festival of Performance Art. September 11 - 16. www.latitude53.org/visualeyez
• Edmonton International Street Performers Festival. July 6 - 15. Laugh ’till you cry at pass-the-hat magicians, clowns, jugglers, mime artists, musicians and comics. Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-425-5162, www.edmontonstreetfest.com continued on page 17
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see you here! thriving festivals continued
Music Choose your style and soak up the sounds. • Vocal Arts Festival. May 25 - July 1. Canada’s only summer opera festival. www.vocalartsfestival.com • Edmonton International Jazz Festival. June 22 - July 1. Features top jazz concerts, workshops, club dates and free outdoor events for the entire family. 780-990-0222, wwvw.edmontonjazz.com • Open Sky Music Festival. June 8 - 10. Canada’s premier surf rock, reggae and roots music festival in the gorgeous Heritage Amphitheatre. • Big Valley Jamboree. August 2 - 5. Performers include Toby Keith, Rascall Flatts and many more, plus street performers, family stage and fireworks. Camrose, South via Hwy 2. 1-888-404-1234, www.bigvalleyjamboree.com • Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Society Festival. August 3 - 5. Western Canada’s biggest bluegrass fest. Stony Plain, west on Hwy 16A. 780-922-4973, www.blueberrybluegrass.com • Edmonton Folk Music Festival. August 9 - 12. North America’s premier celebration of blues, Celtic, singer-songwriters, bluegrass, gospel and world music. Gallagher Park, with a downtown backdrop. 780-429-1899, www.edmontonfolkfest.org • Edmonton’s Labatt Blues Festival. August 24 - 26. Top blues acts, from funk to zydeco. Hawrelak Park. www.bluesinternationalltd.com • Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest. August 26. Showcase of Alberta’s finest Ukrainian folk musicians, plus traditional food and fun for children. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, east on Hwy 16. 780-662-3640, www.ukrainianvillage.ca • Sobey’s Symphony Under the Sky. August 31 - September 3. Extravaganza of classical music and children’s entertainment. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at Hawrelak Park. 780-428-1414, 1-800-563-5081, www.edmontonsymphony.com
Heritage Join us in celebrating Greater Edmonton’s multicultural roots. • Canada Day. July 1. Activities in Edmonton and several communities in the region. www.edmonton.com • Edmonton & Northern Alberta Historic Festival. July 3 - 8. www.historicedmonton.ca • Fête Au Village. July 28 - 29. Saluting the French culture of Legal’s pioneers. North via Hwy 2. 780-961-3773, www.town.legal.ab.ca • Servus Heritage Festival. August 4 - 6. Over 60 distinctive cultures showcase song and dance, arts and crafts, costumes and cuisine. Hawrelak Park. 780-488-3378, www.heritage-festival.com • Cariwest – Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival. August 10 - 12. Gala parade, calypso competition and dance. 780-421-7800, www.cariwestfestival.com • Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival. August 17 - 19. Races in Louise McKinney Park, below the Shaw Conference Centre. 780-493-8158, www.edbfa.com
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Photographed by Emily Cooper.
IN THE PICTURE Vanessa Sabourin performs in Catalyst Theatre’s Nevermore.
Fair & Fare • St. Albert Kinsmen Rainmaker Rodeo & Exhibition. May 25 - 27. Three days of fun that includes exciting rodeo action, mud races, live entertainment and a midway in St. Albert. 1-888-459-1725, www.rainmaker.ab.ca • A Taste of Edmonton Festival. July 20 - 29. Ten days of delectable food sampling presented by some of Edmonton’s best restaurants. Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-423-2822, www.eventsedmonton.ca • Edmonton’s Capital EX. July 20 - 29. Thrilling midway rides, international entertainment, exciting feature attractions, food from every part of the globe, colourful parades. 1-888-800-PARK, www.capitalex.ca • Edmonton Indy®. July 20 - 22. Auto racing fans can expect to see the best in open wheel racing. www.edmontonindy.com • Farmfair International. November 2 - 11. Canada’s premier livestock showcase includes a wagonload of western fun. 1-888-800-PARK, www.farmfairinternational.com • Canadian Finals Rodeo. November 7 - 11. The country’s top professionals wrestle steers, barrel race, rope cattle, battle bucking broncos and bulls to become Canadian Champions. 1-888-800-PARK, www.canadianfinalsrodeo.ca • Race Week Edmonton. July 14 - 22. Offers full speed fun! Edmonton’s raciest street festival coincides with the Edmonton Indy®. Live music, dinner parties, family activities and much more! www.raceweekedmonton.com
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
outdoor adventure Scenic parks and wilderness await you in the Edmonton region, made all the more dramatic by the prairie’s expansive clear blue sky.
Parks for the Picking No matter where you are in Greater Edmonton, a lush field of grass and a tree to relax beneath is not far away. Stop at a playground, skip a few stones, rest in the shade, roast a marshmallow, or take to the paths by foot, bicycle or rollerblades.
Prime pickings: • Edmonton River Valley Park. It is 22 times larger than New York’s Central Park, and eight times larger than Vancouver’s Stanley Park. It includes 150kms of multi-use trails, playgrounds, picnic sites, golf courses, off-leash areas and more. For a map call 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton or visit www.edmonton.ca • Edmonton Queen Riverboat. One of the most picturesque ways to view the scenic river valley is aboard the 315-passenger paddlewheeler, Edmonton Queen. Board at Rafters Landing, across the river from the downtown core. Inquiries: call 780-424-BOAT or visit www.edmontonqueen.com • F ort Edmonton Park. Enjoy Edmonton’s history at the 1846 fur trade fort or on the streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920 before settling in at one of the many picnic sites in the park. 780-442-5311, www.fortedmontonpark.ca
• Heritage Trail. Retrace the steps of the pioneers beginning at the Alberta Legislature. This self-guided tour offers a beautiful view of the river valley. 780-427-7362 • Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Explore 550 acres of parkland with 12km of interpretive trails, spruce bog boardwalk, camping and picnic sites plus enrichment programs at the Wilderness Centre. 20 minutes east of Sherwood Park on Township Road 530 and Range Road 212. Call 780-922-3939 or visit www.strathcona.ab.ca • Fort Saskatchewan. Check out the sheep ‘mowing’ municipal lawns around town Thursdays through Sundays. Across the street at the CN Station visit the farmers’ market on Thursday from 4:30 to 7:30pm. 780-998-1783, www.fortsask.ca • Spruce Grove’s Heritage Grove Park. Fifty acres of natural wooded area in the heart of Spruce Grove are linked by 30km of all-weather trails. Also, check out Central Park for skateboarding, water-play and more. 780-962-2611 • St. Albert Red Willow Trail System. 34km of multi-use, paved trails run along the Sturgeon River and beyond. Check out Woodlands Water-Play Park for water-play, skateboarding and volleyball (780-459-1500). Or head north to Cardiff Regional Park (780-939-4321) and toss a line into one of the area’s many fishing holes. The kids can also enjoy nearby playgrounds.
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see you here! outdoor adventure continued • Trails at Stony Plain. Over 14km of pathways link the entire community. Stop at Shikaoi Park to experience the Japanese-inspired friendship garden or relax at the Rotary Park pond and feed ducks and geese. 780-963-2151
Tennis Anyone?
For more information on campgrounds visit www.travelalberta.com.
Kalyna Country
For a full listing of parks please visit edmonton.ca/attractions-and-recreation.
Three times the size of Prince Edward Island, the unique historic, cultural and natural area just east and north of Edmonton offers eco-fun for everyone. Home to more than 40 designated or informal natural areas, it’s sure to put rewarding views at the end of your binoculars or camera. (For more on Kalyna’s historic side, see page 8) 1-888-452-5962, www.kalynacountry.com
Skateboard Parks • Castle Downs Recreation Centre. 117 St. & 153 Ave. • Clareview Recreation Centre. 3804 - 139 Ave. • Kaskitayo Youth Park. 111 St. & 19 Ave.
• Elk Island National Park. Second only to Africa’s famed Serengeti for wildlife viewing opportunities, with hundreds of bison, elk, moose and deer. Hike, picnic, camp, bird watch, golf and more. 780-992-5790, www.pc.gc.ca
• Mill Woods Recreation Centre. 7207 - 28 Ave. • Woodlands Park, St. Albert. 165 Sturgeon Road. • West Edmonton Skatepark at Callingwood. 177 St. & 69 Ave.
• Watchable Wildlife Tours. Observe wildlife in its natural habitat including deer, moose, elk, bison, beaver, porcupine and a wide variety of bird species. 780-405-4880, www.birdsandbackcountry.com
For additional locations visit www.edmonton.ca.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Come visit this award-winning outdoor living history museum telling the story of Ukrainian settlement in Alberta (1892-1930). Be a time traveler and interact with costumed role players portraying real-life Ukrainian pioneers.
Summer Exhibit
Kurelek from the Community featuring artwork by famed Canadian artist William Kurelek. ph. 780 662 3640 www.ukrainianvillage.ca 25 minutes east of Edmonton on Hwy. 16
2012 Special Events May 21 July 1 August 12 August 26 September 9
Celebration of Dance Canada Day Ukrainian Day Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Food Fest
Living History - Up Close and Personal 19
2012 summer getaway guide
• Beaverhill Lake. Join the serious bird watchers who flock to this protected habitat. Watch over 270 species of birds, hike the Nature’s Marsh and learn at the interactive Nature Centre. Tofield. 780-662-3191, www.tofieldalberta.ca • E lk Island Retreat. Sleep in a teepee explore hiking trails, and learn about Aboriginal culture. 780-998-0708, www.elkislandretreat.com •C ooking Lake – Blackfoot Recreation Area. Hike, mountain bike, canoe or ride horseback through 97 sq. km. of backcountry which includes 170km of trails running over rolling hills and past ponds, bogs, small lakes and wildlife. Interpretive Centre and four staging areas with picnic facilities. 780-922-3293, www.dotheblackfoot.ca •S trathcona Wilderness Centre. Hike and picnic along 12km of trails. Enjoy views of Bennett Lake or explore a black spruce bog. Rent canoes, take a learn-to-canoe lesson, watch wildlife, and stay in a tent at a walk-in campsite. 780-922-3939, www.strathcona.ab.ca •W askahegan Trail Association. Join a Sunday hike on the Waskahegan Trail looping through Kalyna Country. Walking schedules at www.waskahegantrail.ca. •V egreville. Visit the world’s largest Ukrainian Easter Egg at the Elks Kinsmen Community Park in Vegreville, or take in some Ukrainian culture at the annual Pysanka Festival, July 3 - 5. www.vegreville.com
Visit Edmonton’s Countryside • Country Soul Stroll. July 18 - 19. The Country Soul Stroll U-Drive Tour is a six-week self-guided driving adventure of summer surprises— farms, gardens, crafts, museums, greenhouses, historical sites and more. 780-986-0063, www.edmontonscountryside.ca
Stargazing • TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. Get a free telescopic view of the magnificence above us—constellations, stars, sun spots and the northern lights can all be observed on the southeast grounds of TELUS World of Science – Edmonton, weather permitting. Call for times and details. 11211 - 142 St. 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com
Garden Delights Amid the region’s many beautiful, serene sanctuaries, a few standouts deserve particular mention. • Devonian Botanic Garden. Whether you are a plant enthusiast, nature-lover, or someone seeking to spend a few hours in beautiful natural surroundings this garden is for you. It features 80 acres of display gardens, 110 additional acres of natural areas and ecological preserves, indoor show houses, a butterfly house, Kurimoto Japanese Garden and much more. Guided tram tours are available. Located north of Devon on Highway 60, call 780-987-3054 or visit www.devonian.ualberta.ca
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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see you here! outdoor adventure continued • Alberta Legislature. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds and free guided tours of the majestic Legislature Building in downtown Edmonton. 97 Ave. & 107 St. 780-427-7362, www.assembly.ab.ca • The Royal Alberta Museum. Wander through the gardens and sculpture park at the Museum and Government House. Stop by the Museum Café and pick up a picnic lunch. 12845 - 102 Ave. 780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca • Aqualine Aquatic Plants & Waterfeatures. Many beautiful water garden displays set in a natural setting, ranging in size from a large natural pond, to a small pondless waterfall. Sherwood Park. 780-467-3450, www.aqualinewaterfeatures.com • Fort Edmonton Park. Heritage Gardens include many traditional flowers and herbs. Fox Dr. & Whitemud Dr. 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton, www.fortedmontonpark.ca • Muttart Conservatory. Edmonton’s premier horticultural attraction, featuring four beautiful glass pyramids filled with rare and wonderful plants from all over the world, with educational programs for all ages as well as an easily accessible gift shop and cafeteria. 9626 - 96A St. Call 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton, www.muttartconservatory.ca
IN THE PICTURE With 190 acres to explore, the Devonian Botanic Garden has something to appeal to anyone seeking to spend a few idyllic hours in beautiful natural surroundings.
• Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. Enjoy the beautiful gardens overlooking the North Saskatchewan River while sipping tea on the patio. 780-424-5181, www.fairmont.com/macdonald • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Tour the gardens and find out why the village received top honours in the “Communities in Bloom” program. Register for the historical garden tour program. 780-662-3640, ukrainianvillage.ca • The Enjoy Centre. Endless varieties of plants and colourful show gardens. Located in the Enjoy Centre at 101 Riel Dr. in St. Albert. 780-419-6800, www.holesonline.com • Sherwood Park Greenhouses. Spend the afternoon viewing show gardens, plant displays and water fountains at Salisbury Greenhouse. 780-467-5743, www.salisburygreenhouse.com. Or stop by Greenland Garden Centre for a diverse selection of home and garden décor, and jewelry. 780-467-7557, www.greenlandgarden.com • Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm. Bring the kids for hours of fun with a great line-up of on-farm festivals, a corn maze, u-pick gardens, petting farm, and fabulous gardens. 56311 Lily Lake Rd. Bon Accord. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org • Multicultural Heritage Centre Gardens. Walk the grounds or enjoy a cup of tea on the patio while taking in the wonderful flowers, peaceful fountain and magnificent trees surrounding this historic building in Stony Plain. 780-963-2777, www.multicentre.org Other areas in the Edmonton region offer their own opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visit or call any visitor information centre for a “Visit Edmonton’s Countryside” brochure with all the details you need to travel informed. www.edmontonscountryside.com
IN THE PICTURE The Enjoy Centre, in St. Albert, is a unique destination that supports local entrepreneurial businesses including a massive greenhouse, full-service floral studio, bakery and spa/wellness centre.
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
artful entertainment and attractions
Edmonton is known as Canada’s Festival City for its vibrant and diverse arts and cultural community which includes the downtown arts district, Old Strathcona theatre and gallery walk.
Downtown Arts District • Francis Winspear Centre for Music. Warm acoustics and stylish architecture set the stage for a vast array of fine performances from around the world, including the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra with concerts ranging from great classical masterworks to pops and children’s concerts. Book tickets at 780-428-1414 or 1-800-563-5081, www.winspearcentre.com • Citadel Theatre. Located in the central downtown arts district this five-theatre multi-purpose complex is the country’s largest and busiest regional theatre with a mix of live performances that are certain to entertain. 780-425-1820, www.citadeltheatre.com • Art Gallery of Alberta. A centre of excellence for the visual arts in Western Canada, focused on the development and presentation of original exhibitions of contemporary and historical art from Alberta, Canada and around the world. The AGA also offers a full-range of art education and public programs. The gallery is located at 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-422-6223, www.youraga.com • City Hall. Listen for the 23-bell carillon, enjoy a meal at Kids in the Hall restaurant, and relax at the wading pool. For group tours call 780-944-7740, www.edmonton.ca
Photographed by Rober Lemermeyer
IN THE PICTURE The Art Gallery of Alberta, designed by Randall Stout, is a focal point of Edmonton’s Downtown Arts District.
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artful entertainment continued
IN THE PICTURE Sample al fresco some of Edmonton’s finest cuisine highlighting locally-sourced ingredients.
IN THE PICTURE No matter your taste buds, downtown has something for all palettes.
• Shaw Conference Centre. Cascading down the river valley is Edmonton’s unique Shaw Conference Centre. Check out this awardwinning venue for concerts, meetings, conventions and trade shows. Visit the pARTnership Gallery to view hundreds of pieces of local student art. The Shaw Conference Centre is located a few steps from central downtown, home to several shops and hotels. 9797 Jasper Ave. 780-421-9797, www.shawconferencecentre.com
• Downtown. You’ll find mouthwatering fine dining at such spots as Hardware Grill, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Doan’s, The Blue Pear, Tres Carnales, Urban Diner, Madison’s Grill, The Creperie, Sorrentino’s and various other ethnic eateries. There is an abundance of aromatic coffee shops, as well as great spots for lunch. There’s also the rotating La Ronde revolving restaurant, take a front-row seat as the late-night summer sun sets over the river valley. www.edmontondowntown.com
• Metro Cinema. Come to the Metro for a cinematic experience. Enjoy year-round screenings of classic documentaries and an array of international independent films at the Garneau Theatre. 780-425-9212, www.metrocinema.org
• 124th Street. Stroll along tree lined streets and stop in for lunch or dinner at some great restaurants. 124th Street offers a wonderful variety in cuisine to choose from such as Café De Ville, Glenora Bistro, Duchess Bake Shop, or Cosmo’s Greek Taverna to name just a few. www.124street.ca
Dining
• Old Strathcona. If you can’t decide what type of food you would like for dinner then Old Strathcona is the place to visit. Restaurants in the area offer a huge ethnic mix such as Italian, Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cajun, Greek, Chinese, Continental European or Western fair; it’s all here. If you prefer pubs and clubs there are over 15 to choose from and lots of coffee houses to sit back and enjoy. Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, open every Saturday, offers local and regional ingredients and some great shopping. For a full listing of eateries in the area visit www.oldstrathcona.ca
Reflective of the region’s ethnic and cultural diversity, Edmonton offers a truly cosmopolitan variety of restaurants and fine cuisine. From traditional Canadian dishes to Ukrainian and Russian delicacies, French, Greek, Italian, or a full spectrum of Asian epicurean delights, you’ll find it here. And don’t forget Alberta’s worldwide renowned succulent beef! Try our regional cuisine from bison, locally raised lamb, wild boar, fresh picked vegetables and summer berries as local skilled chefs prepare an array of mouth watering dishes. Dine Alberta celebrates the harvest from field to table. www.dinealberta.ca Living in the 124 Street area, I have come to appreciate the culture and the talent that Edmontonians have to offer. - Amy. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
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2012 summer getaway guide
• Strathcona County. Check out Katie’s Crossing, five railway cars straddling a short stretch of track or enjoy fine dining at Joeys. www.strathcona.ca • Stony Plain. Homesteader’s Kitchen in the Multicultural Heritage Centre is known for fresh bread, homemade soup, and many varieties of pies made daily. Or combine antiquing with lunch or breakfast at Julie Keys Antique Café. www.stonyplain.com
see you here! Art Galleries Do you have an eye for good art? Stimulate and intrigue your visual senses at the Art Gallery of Alberta. This provincial gallery is a growing treasure and boasts an impressive collection of art. The Edmonton region is home to over 60 art galleries. Some galleries specialize in local art, Canadian artists, Native and Inuit art. For a more complete listing see the Arts and Culture section at www.edmonton.com. • 124 Street Area. Visit a variety of eclectic shops, galleries, fine restaurants and live theatre. The Gallery Walk, the first of its kind in Canada, was formed in 1981 to promote art and artists of merit, focusing especially on work by Canadian artists (Gallery Walk section below). www.124street.ca • Alberta Craft Council. You’ll find distinctive works crafted by more than 200 members at 10186 - 106 St. 780-488-6611, www.albertacraft.ab.ca • T he Dow Centennial Centre. Fort Saskatchewan is home to visual and performing arts and the Fort Saskatchewan Pottery Guild. This first-class, state-of-the-art facility includes the Sherritt Cultural Pavilion. 780-992-6400, www.fortsask.ca
• Catalyst Theatre. 8529 Gateway Blvd. 780-431-1750, www.catalysttheatre.ca • Die Nasty. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.die-nasty.com • Fringe Theatre Adventures. 10330 - 84 Ave. 780-448-9000, www.fringetheatreadventures.ca • Oh Susanna! 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.varsconatheatre.com • Rapid Fire Theatre. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-448-0695, www.rapidfiretheatre.com • Shadow Theatre. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-434-5564, www.shadowtheatre.org • Teatro La Quindicina. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.teatrolaquindicina.com • Walterdale Playhouse. 10322 - 83 Ave. 780-439-2845, www.walterdaleplayhouse.com
Independent Films
Also see www.culture.alberta.ca for a useful list that includes galleries in Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove and Stony Plain.
Two neighbourhood theatres, the Princess (10337 - 82 Ave., 780-433-0728) and the Garneau (8712 - 109 St., 780-425-9212) screen art and first-run movies.
Gallery Walk
For more information on theatres including the Citadel Theatre and dinner theatres, visit the Theatre and Performing Arts page in the Things to Do section of www.edmonton.com.
The Gallery Walk is located in a 12-block area just west of the downtown core in the 124 Street area. Formal self-guided Gallery Walks are organized twice a year; however, visitors and residents can conduct their own Gallery Walk anytime. 780-488-4892, www.gallery-walk.com • Agnes Bugera Gallery Inc. 12310 Jasper Ave. 780-482-2854, www.agnesbugeragallery.com •B earclaw Gallery. 10403 - 124 St. 780-482-1204, www.bearclawgallery.com •P eter Robertson Gallery. 12304 Jasper Ave. 780-455-7479, www.probertsongallery.com •S cott Gallery. 10411 - 124 St. 780-488-3619, www.scottgallery.com •S NAP (Society of Northern Alberta Print-Artists). 10123 - 121 St. 780-423-1492, www.snapartists.com •W est End Gallery. 12308 Jasper Ave. 780-488-4892, www.westendgalleryltd.com
Theatre District Onstage and on film, there are plenty of options in a region that boasts dozens of theatre companies ranging from alternative, collective, community-based, improvisation and dinner theatre. Historical Old Strathcona is home to eight theatre companies and is also where you will find the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival every August. Edmonton’s event is the largest and longestrunning Fringe in North America.
IN THE PICTURE Edmonton’s wealth of visual arts is displayed in over 60 galleries and public exhibits. The Gallery Walk on 124th Street is the first of its kind in Canada.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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serious shopping pp g Edmonton offers so many choices for shopping. Whether you are strolling through a large shopping centre like West Edmonton Mall, checking out the eclectic shops on Whyte Avenue, or wandering through a farmers’ market, Edmonton is a great place to patronize. We often forget that we have a world famous landmark that is the envy of half the modern world . . . We often take it for granted, or we assume that all malls are that amazing. We forget that we have something special. Something unique.
• Downtown. Jasper Avenue is the heart of Edmonton’s business district, and offers great shopping. The pedway system gives shoppers indoor access to Commerce Place, Manulife Place and Edmonton City Centre. Stroll up 104th Street to visit some exciting specialty stores. • Chinatown and the Avenue of Nations. (North of downtown) A mix of ethnic shops reflects the cultures of China, Japan, Italy, Latin America, Poland, Ukraine and Vietnam.
-Jacqueline. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
The Streets of Edmonton Many neighbourhoods still offer unique shopping experiences with a variety of specialty stores, arts and crafts, and ethnic shops. Street shopping is a great way to experience Edmonton and our charming communities. • Old Strathcona. Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona has been named one of Canada’s five best shopping neighbourhoods. Old Strathcona boasts over 600 businesses. Check out unique shops like the Bamboo Ballroom, The Avenue Clothing Company, and Etzio Craigmyle Clothing Co. Amid many historic buildings, the fare ranges from international to locally produced with a respect for arts and crafts, unique fashions and accessories, antiques, home accessories, books, gifts and collectables. www.oldstrathcona.ca
IN THE PICTURE Old Strathcona is both a Provincial Historic Area as well as an arts district with a popular, year-round farmers’ market.
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
see you here! • High Street/124 Street. All within 12 blocks, 124 Street is an attractive residential area, a specialty shopping district and a centre for the arts. Stroll down tree-lined streets with cobbled sidewalks while shopping at more than 125 shops, including unique antique and specialty boutiques, sporting goods, home décor, books and designer furniture. Check out Cloud Nine, Notables Stationers Inc., Shades of Grey Boutique, and many other unique shops. Don’t miss the many art galleries in this area. www.124street.ca
The Malls of Edmonton Edmonton is home to a variety of shopping venues from neighbourhood malls, large power centres, to one of the world’s largest malls. • West Edmonton Mall. North America’s largest entertainment and shopping centre which features over 800 stores and services. With more than 100 eating establishments and ten world-class attractions to enjoy while you shop. 170 St. & 87 - 90 Ave. 780-444-5200, www.wem.ca •K ingsway Garden Mall. Located conveniently in the centre of Edmonton at the intersection of two of Edmonton’s oldest streets, Princess Elizabeth Avenue & Kingsway Avenue. Kingsway features over 200 stores and services. 780-477-5756, www.kingswaymall.com • E dmonton City Centre Mall. In the heart of downtown, this four-storey mall is conveniently located near hotels and accessible through pedways. 780-426-8444, www.edmontoncitycentre.com •S outhgate Centre. The dominant shopping centre in south Edmonton, it is a modern, friendly and convenient one-stop shopping and fashion destination with 165 exciting stores and services. 780-435-3721, www.southgatecentre.com •M ayfield Common. A full service, box-style shopping centre located in the west end of the city. •S outh Edmonton Common. Canada’s largest retail power centre continues to grow with major retail outlets, check out the 320,000-square-foot IKEA® store, and renowned restaurants like Moxie’s and The Keg Steakhouse, as well as a 16-screen Cineplex Odeon Cinema. www.southedmontoncommon.com • L ondonderry Mall. Londonderry Mall is big on selection and you’ll discover great things to suit your image and the lifestyle you enjoy, whether it’s fashion, furnishings or sporting goods! The mall features over 150 stores and services. 780-475-9266, www.londonderrymall.com
The Communities of Greater Edmonton Looking for a shopping road trip with a difference? Edmonton’s region is rich with history and unique towns to visit. • Devon. Check out the unique shopping, adventure and attractions along the Devonian Way. 780-987-8306, www.devonianway.com • Fort Saskatchewan. Take in the history, trails and shopping. Watch the sheep graze in and around the city’s parks. 780-992-6200, www.fortsask.ca
• Leduc. Enjoy farmers’ markets, numerous stores, restaurants and services. 780-986-5454, www.leduc-chamber.com • Mundare. This flower-bedecked community is home to the Basilian Fathers Museum, and Stawnichy Meat Processing Plant whose Ukrainian sausage is famous. If you’re a quilter, be sure to stop by The Chicken Coop. 780-764-3929, www.mundare.ca • St. Albert. St. Albert has one of the largest outdoor farmers’ markets in the area every Saturday. Enjoy the specialty shops downtown or visit attractions like the Musee Heritage Museum and Father Lacombe Chapel. 780-459-1631, www.visitstalbert.com • Spruce Grove. Check out the art galleries, shops and services. 780-962-2611, www.sprucegrove.org • Stony Plain. Stroll downtown and visit the many unique shops on historic Main Street. 780-963-4545, www.stonyplain.com • Strathcona County. You’ll find a full range of shops in Sherwood Park, the county’s urban centre. With eight rural hamlets in the county there are lots of local artists and urban shops to discover. 780-464-8216, www.strathcona.ca
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sporting p g scene Edmonton offers a full spectrum of indoor and outdoor sports for all ages and abilities, from recreational to professional.
Edmonton Indy® July 20 - 22. The IZOD IndyCar® Series returns to the City Centre Airport in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in 2012 for the Edmonton Indy®. Joining the stars of the IndyCar® Series will be the Firestone Indy Lights Series, the Star MAZDA Championship and the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. The excitement is back—reborn, revamped and relaunched! This year promises to offer you the most exhilarating racing spectacle ever seen in Alberta’s Capital City. Bringing fans the best experience in professional motor sports is what it’s all about. www.edmontonindy.com
The Big Leagues It’s always a thrill to watch the city’s finest at play. • Edmonton Eskimos. CFL Football. Commonwealth Stadium. 86 St. & 111 Ave. 780-448-ESKS, www.esks.com • Edmonton Oilers. NHL Hockey. Rexall Place, 7427 - 118 Ave. 780-414-GOAL, www.edmontonoilers.com • Edmonton Oil Kings. WHL Hockey. Rexall Place, 7427 - 118 Ave. 780-414-GOAL, www.oilkings.ca • Edmonton Rush Lacrosse Club. National Lacrosse League. Rexall Place. 780-732-RUSH, www.edmontonrush.com IN THE PICTURE FC Edmonton members of the NASL moved to new digs at Clarke Stadium in 2012.
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2012 summer getaway guide
see you here! • Edmonton Energy. IBL Professional Basketball. 780-427-9044, www.edmontonnrg.com • F C Edmonton. North American Soccer League. 780-439-7529, www.fcedmonton.com •N orthlands Park. Enjoy live thoroughbred and harness racing as well as global simulcast racing, slot machines and gaming, and great dining at Northlands Spectrum. 780-471-7210, www.northlands.com This year I experienced A Taste of Edmonton, Capital Ex, an Oilers game, the Edmonton Indy, and several concerts. At each of these events I felt like a part of something bigger. These are the things that make Edmonton a great place to live and visit. - Amy. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
Edmonton is your golf destination With mid-summer daylight lasting 17 hours, it’s no wonder the Edmonton region boasts more than 84 courses. Choose from riverside urban to rolling rural golf courses. Pick up a Visitors Guide for a list of golf courses or go online www.edmonton.com • Golf Courses. RedTail Landing Golf Club, (780-890-7888) located north of the Edmonton International Airport. The Ranch Golf & Country Club located west of Edmonton (780-470-4700), Goose Hummock Golf Resort in Gibbons (780-921-2444), and the Northern Bear Golf Club a Jack Nicklaus signature course in Sherwood Park (780-922-2327). • Edmonton River Valley Golf Courses. Three public golf courses dot the river valley: the historic Victoria, the challenging Riverside and the relaxed Rundle. 780-496-4710, www.edmonton.ca/golf • Rundle Park Disc Golf. Save on green fees with a game at this free public nine-hole frisbee golf course. www.edmontondiscgolf.org
Do-It-Yourself Sports Venues offering sports and fitness with a shot of fun are so numerous we can’t list them all. Here are just a few: • Kinsmen Sports Centre. Two indoor tracks, badminton, squash, racquetball, wallyball, tennis (indoors and out), aquatic area, table tennis, basketball, weights, personal training, pitch and putt, large outdoor playground and fitness centre. 9100 Waterdale Hill. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/kinsmen • E dmonton Leisure Centres. More than a dozen civic facilities offer pools, hot tubs, saunas, fitness equipment, tracks, children’s areas and more. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca •O utdoor Pools. Edmonton pools offer fun in the sun: Borden Park, 11200 - 74 St.; Oliver, 10315 - 199 St.; Mill Creek, 9555 - 84 Ave. and Fred Broadstock 10515 158 St. Call 780-442-5311 for more information. In St. Albert, visit Grosvenor Park Outdoor Pool, 1 Grenfell Ave., 780-458-2002.
IN THE PICTURE The Greater Edmonton region has 84 golf courses, including the oldest municipal course in Canada.
• Dow Centennial Centre. This centre in Fort Saskatchewan includes a soccer pitch, ice arena, gymnasium and theatre. 8700 - 84 St., Fort Saskatchewan. 780-992-6400, www.fortsask.ca • Strathcona County Millennium Place. Large complex features indoor wave pool, competition pool, ice arenas, leisure ice rink with skate rental, playground zone, soccer fields, gymnasium, running track, fitness centre and outdoor skateboard park. 2000 Premier Way, Sherwood Park. 780-416-3300, www.strathcona.ab.ca • Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre. This new state-ofthe-art facility contains an aquatics centre, fitness centre, children’s wing, arena, and commercial spaces. 2051 Leger Road, Edmonton. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca • TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre. Large recreational complex featuring water slide, kids water park, ice skating, hockey, soccer fields, running track, fitness centre, playground zone. 221 Jennifer Heil Way, Spruce Grove. 780-960-5080, www.trileisure.com • Servus Credit Union Place. Water play centre, leisure ice, arenas, fitness/wellness centre, indoor track, training centre and more. 400 Campbell Rd., St. Albert. 780-418-6088, www.servusplace.ca
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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Northlands
Capital EX 2012 Pumped up music and cranked up fun!
alike! The Nitro, our latest 335-metre track will take thrill riders through mind-bending twists, hairpin turns and steep drops as you dip and dive through the exhilarating ride of almost 120 seconds!
Join us for 10 full days of musical memories from July 20 - 29, 2012!
Play
Do you have the music in you? Join us at Edmonton’s hottest summer event, Capital EX, running from July 20 - 29, 2012. We’ve cranked up the music and pumped up the fun for this year’s music-themed exhibition! This year will feature a new and exciting Midway ride, delicious new food items, multicultural attractions and two stages showcasing worldclass entertainment. Come visit the Capital EX grounds to experience the return of the Fab Four: music, rides, food and shopping!
This year’s theme is MUSIC, so march to the beat of the steel drum band, or dance to the sounds of duelling pianos at Edmonton’s hottest summer playground! Don’t miss world-class entertainment, attractions, children’s’ programming and TELUS Stage performers that will put a bounce in your step.
Eat Foodies rejoice! This year’s fabulous fair food line-up will include traditional favourites and adventurous options. Capital EX will leave your taste buds crooning with exciting new dining choices at the Midway, Fusion 53 Lounge & Casino and The Grand—an exciting experience with unique shopping opportunities, music and art exhibits and international cuisine.
Shop Come and see what Capital EX has in store for you! Engage your shopping senses at Shop at The Grand, an experience with an extensive variety of popular and unique products. While you’re there, stop at Le Grand Café, a French style café with specialty coffees and enticing deserts! Unwind from the Midway while sipping on a cappuccino and enjoying Capital EX’s feature food item—The Cream Puff—fixed just the way you like it with a tempting array of topping choices!
Ride The Midway at Capital EX is bigger and better than ever! We’ve brought a new and spine-tingling ride for thrill-seekers and fun enthusiasts
We haven’t forgotten the adults! If you’ve got that swing, Fusion 53 and Lounge and Casino offers live music and trendy dining options for an elegant entertainment experience. Duelling pianos, jazz and dance favourites will keep the halls of Fusion 53 and Casino bumping! This 18-and-over entertainment zone is home to a fusion of live entertainment, food, drinks and Vegas-style casino gaming machines. Have your chance to play in Fusion 53 Lounge and Casino at Capital EX from July 20 - 29, 2012! For the mini music moguls, Family Fun Town offers interactive and sing-along attractions that will keep even the tiniest of rockers jamming! Check out fan favourites such as The Farm at Family Fun Town, the Construction Zone, Storybook Lane and more!
Stay Looking for a place to stay during a Capital EX? Look no further than one of our host hotels. Each host hotels knows that value is an important part of your visit to Edmonton; that’s why some are now offering yearround discount passwords. We encourage you to take advantage of these offers whenever you’re in town, and we thank each host hotels for their ongoing support of Northlands’ signature events. For a list of host hotels, please visit capitalex.ca For more information, visit capitalex.ca
2012 summer getaway guide
Turn your next visit to Edmonton into a major event
With something big always going on, Northlands can easily turn any trip to Edmonton into a major event. Enjoy blockbuster concerts and the adrenalin rush of the Canadian Finals Rodeo at Rexall Place, big family fun at the fair and major trade shows at the Edmonton EXPO Centre and the galloping thrills of horse racing at Northlands Park.
Discover the big things planned for your trip to Edmonton by visiting northlands.com.
Edmonton EXPO Centre | Rexall Place | Northlands Park
extremelyy wild Want to feel a surge of adrenaline? Experience new plateaus? Then you’re coming to the right place. Whether seeking terrain for a favoured pursuit or nose diving into a grand adventure, you’ll find excellent options here.
Live on the Edge Whether you’re braving your first jump or an experienced performer, you will capture the rush in the sky. • Skydiving at Eden North. Half-hour west. 780-489-9000, www.edennorth.com
Laser Tag Zap friends and foe with fun and safe brilliant laser beams. • Laser Quest. 11271 - 170 St. 780-424-2111 • Gateway Entertainment Centre. 3414 Gateway Blvd. 780-435-1922
• Edmonton Skydive Centre. Northwest at Westlock Airport. 780-444-5867, www.edmontonskydive.com • Centre of Gravity. West Edmonton Mall Waterpark. 780-489-4339, www.centerofgravitywem.com
Paintball Fun and competitive sport. Check out some of the many places to play: • Paintball Action Games. 780-469-0882 • Young Guns Paintball. Stony Plain. 780-963-4006
Take Flight Catch a bird’s-eye view of beautiful Edmonton or watch outstanding pilots strut their stuff. • Hot Air Balloon Rides. Windship Aviation. 780-438-0111, www.windshipaviation.com • Edmonton Soaring Club. East toward Chipman for glider rides. 780-363-3860, www.edmontonsoaringclub.com • E-Z Air Helicopter. 780-453-2085, www.e-zair.com IN THE PICTURE Edmonton has more bike paths and on-street facilities per capita than any other Canadian city.
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
see you here! Climb High Hit the wall and feel the reward of reaching the top on a number of Greater Edmonton area climbing walls. • Vertically Inclined Rock Gym. 8523 Argyll Rd. 780-496-9390, www.verticallyinclined.com •U niversity of Alberta Climbing Wall. Urban Uprising, Butterdome. 780-492-2767, www.physedandrec.ualberta.ca •R ock ‘n’ Wall. West Edmonton Mall Galaxyland. 780-444-5391, www.wem.ca •R opes Quest. West Edmonton Mall. 780-444-5300, www.wem.ca
• Edmonton International Raceway. South past Leduc. 780-467-9276, www.edmontonraceway.com • Speeders Indoor ProKart. Go-karts. 13145 - 149 St. 780-451-4377, www.speeders.ca • Stratotech Park International Raceway. Kart, formula and sport bike racing. Fort Saskatchewan. 780-998-9995, www.stratotech.ca • Whitemud Dr. Amusement Park. Go-karts. 780-465-1190, www.whitemudamusement.com
BMX Tracks • Edmonton. 780-485-BMX0, www.edmontonbmx.com
Run & Cycle
• Stony Plain. 780-977-4BMX, www.stonyplainbmx.com
Explore North America’s largest urban green space, the river valley. Parks and more are available through extensive and interconnected trails.
• St. Albert. 780-460-1BMX, www.stalbertbmx.com
• Segway Edmonton. Experience Edmonton’s River Valley like never before. Go gliding through North America’s largest urban parkland on this one-of-a-kind tour. 780-995-7347, www.segwayedmonton.com
Water Sports
• Edmonton Trails. Pick up a trail map free at most bike stores, Edmonton Tourism or call the Alberta Bicycle Association to find a club or ride matching your ability. Ask about upcoming competitions, including provincial championships. 780-427-6352 or 1-877-646-BIKE, www.albertabicycle.ab.ca • Running Room. Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert. Running Room also provides a listing of local charity runs, marathons and running groups. 780-439-3099, www.runningroom.com
On Your Mark, Get Set . . . GO
Catch daredevils in action—or challenge the waves yourself. • Waterski at Shalom Park. Alberta’s premier water ski site. 780-955-9428, www.shalompark.com • Klondike Jet Boats. 780-486-0896 • Black Gold River Tours. 780-987-0410, www.blackgoldrivertours.ca • Edmonton Canoe. 780-470-5352, www.edmontoncanoe.com • Canoe Heads. 780-481-6044, www.canoeheads.com • Get Hooked Fishing Adventures. Fishing thrills and challenges with experienced guides. Stony Plain. 780-963-4279, 1-866-963-1888, www.gethookedfishing.com • Reel Angling Adventures. 780-961-3726, 1-866-961-3425, www.reelangling.com
Choose your racing style and expect a spectacle.
• Go Sailing Edmonton. 780-499-4295, www.gosailing.info
• Castrol Raceway. Two kms west of Hwy 19, off Hwy 2. 780-468-FAST, 1-877-331-RACE, www.castrolraceway.com
• Red Coat Landing Boat Launch. Fort Saskatchewan. Launch on the North Saskatchewan River. 780-992-6200, www.fortsask.ca
IN THE PICTURE Race Week Edmonton roars into town July 18 - 21, offering Full Speed Fun through a family-focused festival that coincides with the Edmonton Indy.
IN THE PICTURE Get close to the North Saskatchewan River with guided or independent boat and fishing tours.
2012 summer getaway guide
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Adventure at TELUS World of Science
EY to Take a JOURN world the top of the
EXPLORE the world of robotics
\ \ \
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This summer, come experience the
A breath-taking display in the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre
Plus: Explore our 4 themed Exhibit Galleries, the all new Discoveryland for kids 8 and under, Science Demonstrations, Full-Dome Shows, and much more! For tickets and information visit www.edmontonscience.com or call 780.451.3344 ROBOTS™ characters, names and all related indicia are trademarks of Twentieth Century Fox Film CorporationŠ 2012.Global Experience Specialists is an authorized licensee.
TELUS World of Science – Edmonton
Summer Fun Down to a Science! Be greeted by robots, view outer space, make cryogenic ice cream, watch world premiere IMAX movies and discover the thrill of science at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton! Robots: An Interactive Exhibition runs through September 9, 2012. The excitement of 20th Century Fox’s animated film Robots combines for a fun, educational experience with 15 interactive areas offering adventures in the world of robotics, including:
Full-dome shows in the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre provide an immersive 360-degree experience and are include with general admission with hourly shows throughout the day. Now showing for Summer 2012 are: Experience the Aurora; Secret of the Cardboard Rocket; Tales of the Maya Skies and others. Five themed Exhibit Galleries are open for explorations daily at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. Space Place - Dedicated to the coolest of the hottest space subjects, Space Place is all about the thrill of exploring the Wild Black Yonder.
•C rosstown Express - climb aboard and experience Robot City,
The Body Fantastic - Large 3-dimensional models let you experience how bodies work, how brains make sense of the world and everything weird about our bodies in the Gallery of the Gross! RoboThespian is a life-sized, humanoid, interactive robot which is controlled by you.
• I ndustrial Robots - program a robotic arm and control various types of robots,
Mystery Avenue - Collect clues at the scene of the crime just like a CSI.
•B uild-a-Wonder-Bot - learn about the future of robotics and how they will reshape our world,
The Greens’ House - Explore the environment and learn what they are growing in the greenhouse or spot the birds that frequent the garden.
•R obot Round Up - control and handle many types of robots used in our daily lives, and
Discoveryland - A new interactive gallery designed to spark the curious minds of children ages 8 and under.
• F uture of Robots - view robotic machines that are shaping the future.
Don’t miss daily Science Demonstrations that bringing science to life. A variety of interpretive stations run daily during summer hours and help inspire, educate and entertain.
• Robot Explorers - use a robotic probe to explore underwater, deep space or the surface of mars,
IMAX at TELUS World of Science features three different shows daily. Now playing is To The Arctic – a journey into the lives of a mother polar bear and her two seven-month old cubs as they navigate the changing Arctic wilderness they call home. Narrated by two-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep, the adventurous and intimate footage brings you up close and personal with immense glaciers, spectacular waterfalls and majestic snow-bound peaks. Also playing in IMAX are Born to be Wild and Rescue. ®
2012 summer getaway guide
For schedules and facility hours visit www.edmontonscience. com or phone 780-451-3344. There’s always more to explore at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton.
after dark Dancing and entertainment are just a few of the reasons why excitement abounds in this region. Given Edmonton’s long hours of summer sun, you may wish to begin your getaway even before night falls to take full advantage of these delights—and perhaps even catch a sunset in the act. Check the nightlife section of www.edmonton.com where you’ll find information on clubbing, live music, concerts, theatre and casinos. There is always something new to come and check out; this city is never boring, that’s for sure. - Sherry. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
Nightlife Old Strathcona Located close to the University of Alberta is Old Strathcona’s most popular avenue, 82nd Avenue, or “Whyte” as it is commonly referred to. It is a favourite destination of many late night entertainment seekers. Whyte Avenue comes to life with more than 100 fine pubs and eateries offering a variety of great music for dancing or lounging. Dance the night away or catch some live Celtic music . . . perhaps you’ll need another night to check out the award-winning Cook County Saloon—one of the best country clubs in Canada. Blues on Whyte offers billiards and jazz music in the historic Commercial Hotel building where big names are born. No matter where you go on this people-friendly street, you are sure to have an exciting evening. Nightclubs: • Blues on Whyte, 10329 - 82 Ave. • Cook County Saloon, 8010 Gateway Blvd. • Filthy McNasty’s, 10511 - 82 Ave. • Funky Buddha, 10341 - 82 Ave. • Funky Town, 10407 - 82 Ave. • Lucky 13, 10551 - 82 Ave. • Suite 69, 8232 Gateway Blvd. • The Billiards Club, 10505 - 82 Ave. • The Old Strathcona Rack, 10544 - 82 Ave. • The Pawn Shop, 10551 - 82 Ave. • Twist Ultra Lounge, 10324 - 82 Ave.
IN THE PICTURE The Edmonton Queen Riverboat offers a unique experience, a relaxing atmosphere, and one of the most picturesque views of the beautiful Edmonton river valley.
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2012 summer getaway guide
see you here! Lounges & Pubs: • The Black Dog, 10425 - 82 Ave. • Devlin’s Cocktail Lounge, 10507 - 82 Ave. • Elephant & Castle, 10314 - 82 Ave. • Hudsons Taphouse, 10307 - 82 Ave. • Kasbar, 10444 - 82 Ave. • O’Byrnes Irish Pub, 10616 - 82 Ave. • Red Square Vodka House, 10351 - 82 Ave. • Rosie’s Bar & Grill, 10475 - 80 Ave. • Squires, 10505 - 82 Ave. • The Pint, 8032 - 104 St. • Walkabout Pub, 10439 - 82 Ave.
Jasper Avenue Downtown’s busiest strip has an eclectic nightlife. Nightclubs bustle with young people dancing as the DJ spins the season’s hottest tracks. Enjoy a martini and good conversation in a mellow and sophisticated setting. Several pubs offer delicious food, good music and great ambience with their doors open into the early morning hours. Nightclubs & Live Music: • Halo, 10538 Jasper Ave. • Level 2 Lounge, 11607 Jasper Ave. • Play Nightclub, 10220 - 103 St. • Oil City Roadhouse, 10736 Jasper Ave. • Shade 105, 10148 - 105 St. • The Starlight Room, 10030 - 102 St. • Vinyl Retro Dance Lounge, 10740 Jasper Ave. (Above Oil City Roadhouse)
• The Rose and Crown, 10235 - 101 St. • The Common, 9910 - 109 St. • Elevation Room, 10349 Jasper Ave.
Casinos • Baccarat Casino, 10128 - 104 Ave. • Casino Yellowhead, 12464 - 153 St. • Century Casino, 13103 Fort Rd. • Apex Casino, 24 Boudreau Rd., St. Albert • Palace Casino, West Edmonton Mall • River Cree Resort & Casino, corner of Whitemud Dr. & Winterburn Rd.
• T he Treasury Vodka Bar and Eatery, 10004 Jasper Ave. Lounges & Pubs: • 4 th & Vine Wine Bar & Bistro, 11358 - 104 Ave. • F luid Lounge, 10888 Jasper Ave. •M oriarty’s Bistro & Wine Bar, 10154 - 100 St. •O vertime, 10335 - 111 St. • P ub 1905, 10525 Jasper Ave. • S herlock Holmes, 10012 - 101A Ave. • Suede Lounge, 11806 Jasper Ave. • T he Black Sheep, 11026 Jasper Ave. • T he Druid, 11606 Jasper Ave. • T he Public House, 10765 Jasper Ave.
Dinner Theatre Edmonton has several dinner theatres to choose from. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner while watching a play. • Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 16615 - 109 Ave., 780-483-4051 • Jubilations Dinner Theatre. West Edmonton Mall, 780-484-2424
West Edmonton Mall Known for its plethora of entertainment during regular store hours, West Edmonton Mall is home to ample nightlife as well. After dark many flock to “Bourbon Street”, reminiscent of Mardi Gras. This strip offers pubs and restaurants that satisfy all tastes as well as a comedy club to have you rolling in a fit of laughter. Come and see why the doors never close. www.wem.ca continued on page 37
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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see you here! after dark continued
Ghost Tours
Sunset Spots
Take an eerie walk through Old Strathcona to hear true stories of ghosts, hauntings and the unknown. www.edmontonghosttours.com
Catch a bite to eat and watch the sky with a loved one as the sun falls slowly into the horizon at La Ronde (10111 Bellamy Hill, 780-420-8366), Edmonton’s revolving restaurant with a queen’s view of our signature river valley. Or choose a rural scene, such as Elk Island National Park, where the sunset blushes and silhouettes against Astotin Lake.
Film Buffs While exploring the Glenora community, wander down the road to the Royal Alberta Museum (12845 - 102 Ave.), where the Edmonton Film Society presents classic movies on Monday nights (780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca). Or head to the Garneau, where Metro Cinema (780-425-9212) screens independent films (8712 - 109 St.). For more alternative films check out the Princess Theatre (780-433-0728). Prefer the giant screen? Take in an IMAX film at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton (11211 - 142 St., 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com) or at West Edmonton Mall’s Scotiabank Theatre (780-444-2400).
124 Street Delight Have a good night’s sleep and a pleasant morning at the Glenora Bed and Breakfast Inn. Located at 124 St. and 102 Ave. in a historic site built in 1912 as the luxurious Buena Vista Apartments. Home to many lively characters in its early years, the Glenora Bed and Breakfast Inn features uniquely furnished antiques in every room. There are also several restaurants nearby. 1-877-453-6672, www.glenorabnb.com
Hotel Selkirk If you are looking for a memorable dining or overnight experience try Hotel Selkirk. This 1920s elegant and fine cuisine hotel is located in the centre of historical Fort Edmonton Park, in the river valley. 780-496-7227, www.hotelselkirk.com
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Indulge by booking a room at this four diamond-rated luxury hotel. Historic and praised for its classic elegance, Hotel Macdonald has been perched on the north bank of the North Saskatchewan River since 1915. Choose a romance package and enjoy chocolates, flowers, champagne and breakfast in bed. 780-424-5181, www.fairmont.com/macdonald
Bed & Breakfasts Whether you are looking for the peace and tranquility of rural relaxation, a romantic spot, or to be near the city lights, a bed and breakfast is the perfect destination. Your hosts offer friendly, personal touches in a home-like atmosphere, ranging from historically renovated character homes to modern. For more information on bed and breakfasts, visit the Bed and Breakfast Association of Greater Edmonton website at www.bbedmonton.com IN THE PICTURE The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald has been standing high above the river valley since 1915.
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
edmonton gateway to the north
and the canadian rockies Jasper National Park Edmonton is the gateway to a land of majestic mountains, pristine lakes, historic rivers and northern adventures. Edmonton is located on the TransCanada Yellowhead Highway, a route that offers the easiest and most scenic drive across western Canada. The region is served by the Edmonton International Airport and VIA Rail’s “The Canadian”, one of the world’s most famous train rides. A scenic 3 ½ hour drive (366km) west of Edmonton via the TransCanada Yellowhead Highway, one of the easiest drives through the mountains, puts you at Jasper’s doorstep. Enjoy a scenic horseback ride, historic sites, white water rafting, hiking, wildlife viewing, a world-class golf course and much, much more. Take a cruise on Maligne Lake to world-famous Spirit Island, ride the tramway, or soak at Miette Hot Springs. Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain Park and is part of the Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site. Jasper has accommodation, dining and shopping for every taste and budget. www.pc.gc.ca
Alberta North Northern Alberta’s large lakes, mighty rivers, abundant wildlife and untapped wilderness are the place for the ultimate outdoor experience. Explore the beauty and wonder of Alberta by horseback, canoe/kayak, jet-boat, ATV or simply by foot. The long summer days are great for adventurers and golfers. You can also visit traditional small town museums, cities, historic sites or take an oilsands tour in Fort McMurray. With Edmonton’s convenient access to Alberta’s north and the Canadian Rockies, plan to start your tour here.
2012 summer getaway guide
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All events are in Greater Edmonton unless otherwise indicated. For more information on events in and around Edmonton call 1-800-463-4667, or visit Edmonton Tourism’s website at www.edmonton.com. Events and dates subject to change. Call to confirm.
Year-round May 4 - October 13 Live Thoroughbred Racing, Northlands Park. 780-471-7379 April - September FC Edmonton Soccer, Clark Stadium. 780-439-7529 June - November Edmonton Eskimos, Commonwealth Stadium. 780-448-ESKS July 17 - September 6 Country Soul Stroll. 780-761-0062
calendar of events June 2 Legacy Park Family Festival, Fort Saskatchewan. 780-992-6261 June 3 Japanese Spring Festival, Devonian Botanic Gardens. 780-987-3054 June 7 - 17 Nextfest: Next Generation Arts Festival, Roxy Theatre. 780-453-2440 June 7 - 10 Beaumont Town and Country Daze, Beaumont. 780-929-1364 June 8 - 17 Edmonton Pride Festival. www.edmontonpride.ca June 9 - 10 Sprouts Festival, New Play Festival for Kids, Stanley A. Milner Library. 780-439-3905
June
June 9 - 10 History Road: The Ultimate Car Show, Reynolds-Alberta Museum, Wetaskiwin. 780-361-1351
April 17 - June 17 Chicago, Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 1-877-529-7829
June 13 - 23 Rapid Fire Improvaganza, Varscona Theatre. 780-448-0695
May 25 - July 1 Vocal Arts Festival. 780-487-4844
June 15 - August 19 Jailhouse Rock, Jubilations Dinner Theatre. 780-484-2424
May 29 - June 2 International Children’s Festival, St. Albert. 780-459-1542
June 19 An Evening with Brian Adams, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
May 30 - June 2 Dreamspeakers International Aboriginal Film & Television Festival. 780-378-9609
June 21 - July 3 The Works Art & Design Festival. 780-426-2122
June 1 - 10 Little Elephants (Shadow Theatre), Varscona Theatre. 780-448-0695
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2012 summer getaway guide
June 17 Father’s Day Celebrations, Fort Edmonton Park. 780-442-5311 June 21 Russell Peters, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
see you here! June 22 - July 1 Edmonton International Jazz Festival, various venues. 780-990-0222 June 22 - August 19 Sylvia, Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 1-877-529-7829 June 25 Ronnie Dunn, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000 June 28 - July 8 feats – Festival of Dance. 780-422-8107 June 26 - July 22 Freewill Shakespeare Festival, Heritage Amphitheatre. 780-425-8086
July July 1 Canada Day at the Legislature. 780-427-7362 Canada Day Celebrations at the Garden, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 Canada Day at Ukrainian Village. 780-662-3640
Canada Day at the Canadian Petroleum Discovery Centre. 1-866-987-4323 Canada Day at Louise McKinney Riverfront Park. 780-423-2822 Silly Summer Parade, Old Strathcona. 780-433-5866 Dominion Day, Fort Edmonton Park. 780-442-5311 Canada Day, Muttart Conservatory. 780-442-5311 Canada Celebrations, Astotin Lake Area, Elk Island National Park. 780-922-5790 Canada Day, Leduc. 780-980-7177 Canada Day, Devon. 780-987-8300 Canada Day, Morinville. 780-939-4361 Canada Day at Broadmoor Lake Park, Sherwood Park. 780-464-8111 Canada Day, Spruce Grove. 780-962-2611 July 3 - 8 Edmonton and District Historic Festival, various locations. 780-439-2797 July 4 - 14 Walterdale Playhouse presents Nine. 780-439-2845
continued on page 41
See More, Save More! 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.
GREAT
VALUE! SAVE UP TO
60%!
EdmontonAttractions.com For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
40
see you here! calendar of events continued
IN THE PICTURE The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is Canada’s oldest celebration of street theatre.
July 6 Bill Maher, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000 July 6 - 8 Ukrainian Pysanka Festival, Vegreville. 780-632-2777 July 6 - 15 Edmonton International Street Performers Festival. 780-425-5162 July 7 - 8 Parade of Pond Tour, various locations. 780-433-6671 July 8 - 15 Choralies internationales 2012, various locations. 780-469-6486 July 13 - 15 Whyte Avenue ArtWalk, Old Strathcona. 780-432-0240 July 14 - 15 Celtic Gathering, Fort Edmonton Park. 780-442-5311 July 21 Canada’s Parks Day, Elk Island National Park. 780-992-5790
IN THE PICTURE Situated in the scenic river valley, the Edmonton Folk Festival is Canada’s largest folk music festival.
July 20 - 29 Edmonton’s Capital EX, Northlands. 780-471-7210 A Taste of Edmonton Festival, Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-423-2822 July 22 Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000 July 24 - 29 Mary Poppins Broadway Across Canada, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-866-540-7469 July 27 Iron Maiden with Very Special Guest Coheed and Cambria, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000 July 27 - 28 Fete Au Village, Legal. 780-961-3773 July 28 Il Divo in Concert, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
July 15 Rose Day, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054
July 28 - August 9 World Women’s Baseball Championship, Telus Field and John Fry Park (St. Albert). www.ibaf.org
July 16 Neil Diamond, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
August
July 19 Edmonton’s Capital EX Parade, Downtown Edmonton. 780-471-7303
August 2 - 5 Big Valley Jamboree, Camrose. 780-672-0224
July 20 - 22 Edmonton Indy, City Centre Airport. 1-855-350-INDY (4639)
August 3 - 5 Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Festival, Stony Plain. 780-922-4973 Sesame Street Live! Elmo Makes Music! Edmonton Expo Centre. 1-855-985-5000 continued on page 43
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
AWESOME August 9-12 Folk Festival
July 20 - 22 Edmonton Indy速
summer offers!
August 16-26 Fringe Festival
Vibrant nightlife, live theatre, music and diverse shopping all define South Edmonton. Stay within reach of the best our city has to offer. Check our website and book your spectacular summer vacation now.
Check often for Special offers at STAYEDMONTONSOUTH.COM
see you here! calendar of events continued
IN THE PICTURE The Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival showcases over 60 dragon boat teams racing down the mighty North Saskatchewan River.
IN THE PICTURE Edmonton hosts the largest and longest-running Fringe Festival of its kind in North America.
August 4 - 6 Servus Heritage Festival. 780-488-3378
August 17 - 18 Metallica, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
August 7 Yanni, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000
August 17 - 19 Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival, Louise McKinney Park. 780-493-8158 Cowboy Poetry and Country Music Festival, Stony Plain. 780-668-5578
August 7 - 11 Rock’n August, St. Albert. 780-996-4230 August 8 - 12 Cirque du Soleil: Quidam, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000 August 9 - 12 Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Gallagher Park. 780-429-1899 August 10 - 12 CariWest – Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival. 780-421-7800 Animethon, Grant MacEwan City Centre. August 12 Ukrainian Day, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 780-662-3640 August 15 - September 2 Jersey Boys, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 780-643-7481 August 16 - 26 Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, Old Strathcona. 780-448-9000
August 17 - 25 Teatro at the Fringe, Teatro La Quindicina. 780-433-3399 August 19 Wild Mushroom Exposition, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 August 24 - 26 Edmonton’s Labatt Blues Festival, Hawrelak Park. 780-451-8000 August 24 - October 21 Ghostbusted, Jubilations Dinner Theatre. 780-484-2424 August 26 Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 780-662-3640 August 31 - September 2 Beaumont Blues Festival, Beaumont. 780-929-1364 August 31 - September 3 Symphony Under the Sky, Hawrelak Park. 780-428-1414 continued on page 45
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So close, the experience practically comes to you. You’ll tee off in style when you stay in one of downtown Edmonton’s superb hotels. Here you’ll find that classy facilities showcasing art, music, theatre and yes, even golf, are all within steps of each other in the dazzling downtown district.
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see you here! calendar of events continued
Photo courtesy of Kaleido Family Arts Festival.
IN THE PICTURE A dje African Drummers celebrate at the Kaleido Family Arts Festival. A free arts festival featuring music, dance, theatre, film, literary, and visual arts.
September September 2 Sonic Boom, Northlands. 1-855-985-5000 September 7 - 9 Kaleido Family Arts Festival, Alberta Avenue. 780-471-1580 September 9 Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Food Festival, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 780-662-3640 Fall Family Festival at the Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 ext. 2224
IN THE PICTURE C elebrate pumpkin harvest at the pumpkin patch at Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. Huge Halloween family fun featuring the infamous pumpkin cannon.
September 28 - 30 Accordion Extravaganza. 780-420-1757 September 30 Rush, Rexall Place. 1-888-800-7275 September 27 - October 6 Edmonton Chante – Edmonton Francophone Music Festival, Maurice Lavalee School. 780-469-4401
October
September 9 Roxette with special guest Glass Tiger, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
October 1 - 30 (Weekends) Haunted Pumpkin Festival, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
September 10 - 16 2012 Visualeyez . . . A Festival of Performance Art. 780-423-5353
October 11 - 21 Edmonton International LitFest. 780-498-2500
September 13 Big Time Rush with special guest Cody Simpson. 1-855-985-5000
October 12 - 14 Scarecrow Festival, Edmonton Expo Centre. 780-461-1223
September 22 John Fogerty, Rexall Place. 1-855-985-5000
October 17 - 21 ATB Financial Edmonton Comedy Festival. www.atbcomdey.com
September 22 - 30 (Weekends) Fall-O-Ween Harvest Festival, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
October 19, 21, 23, 25 Edmonton Opera: Aida, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 780-424-4040
September 28 - October 6 Edmonton International Film Festival, Old Strathcona. 780-423-0844
October 26 - January 26, 2013 NCIS, Jubilations Dinner Theatre. 780-484-2424
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continued on page 47
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
Experience the Excitement of West Edmonton! meet stay
West Edmonton Mall
shop
play
The home of World Waterpark All 18 member hotels minutes from the West Edmonton Mall
Check often for Special Hotel Offers!
www.destinationwestedmonton.com or call 1-866-493-7833
see you here! calendar of events continued
IN THE PICTURE National titles, bragging rights and $1.5 million are up for grabs at the Canadian Finals Rodeo.
IN THE PICTURE New Year’s Eve, Sir Winston Churchill Square.
November
December
November 2 - 11 Farmfair International, Northlands. 1-888-800-7275
December 2 Jingle On: Downtown Indoor Santa Claus Parade. 780-424-4085
November 6 - 11 Rock of Ages Broadway Across Canada, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-866-540-7469
December Christmas Reflections, Fort Edmonton Park. 780-442-5311
November 7 - 11 Canadian Finals Rodeo, Rexall Place. 1-888-800-7275 November 21 - 22 Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rexall Place 1-855-985-5000 November 24 Celtic Thunder, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000
December 9 A Christmas Past, Rutherford House. 780-427-3995 December 14 - 16 Alberta Ballet presents The Nutcracker. 780-428-6839 December 15 - 23 (Weekends) A Prairie Christmas, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
November 24 Christmas in the Park, Devon. 780-987-8332
December 28 Garry Dee: Life After Teaching, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-866-540-7469
November 30 - December 23 A Christmas Carol, Citadel Theatre. 780-425-1820
December 31 New Year’s Eve Downtown. 780-423-2822
November 29 - December 2 Festival of Trees. 780-407-2786
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For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
websites and resources Downtown Hotels Alberta Place Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-3982 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.albertaplace.com Canterra Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-421-1212 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.canterrasuites.com Coast Edmonton House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-663-1144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.coasthotels.com Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-663-1144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.coasthotels.com Courtyard by Marriott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-321-2211 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.marriott.com/yegcy Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-8801 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.chateaulacombe.com Days Inn - Edmonton Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-DAYSINN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.daysinn-downtownedmonton.com Delta Edmonton Centre Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-6655 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.deltaedmontoncentre.ca
Holiday Inn Express Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-423-4656 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiexdowntown.com Matrix Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.matrixedmonton.com Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-747-4114 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ramadaedmonton.com The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-257-7544 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fairmont.com/macdonald The Sutton Place Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-378-8866 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.suttonplace.com The Westin Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-WESTIN1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westin.com/edmonton Union Bank Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-423-3601 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.unionbankinn.com
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websites and resources continued
South Edmonton Hotels Campus Tower Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-709-1824 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.campustowersuitehotel.com Delta Edmonton South Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-814-7706 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.deltahotels.com Days Inn – Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-DAYSINN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.daysinn.com Four Points by Sheraton Edmonton South . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-368-7764 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fourpoints.com/edmonton Holiday Inn Conference Centre Edmonton . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-660-8550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.holidayinn.com Hampton Inn Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-HAMPTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonsouth.hamptoninnbyhilton.com Hotel Selkirk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-496-7227 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hotelselkirk.com Metterra Hotel on Whyte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.metterra.com Radisson Hotel Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-837-7223 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.radisson.com/edmontonca Sandman Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel:1-800-726-3626 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sandmanhotels.ca Sawridge Inn-Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel:1-888-729-7373 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sawridge.com Super 8 Hotel Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-468-8839 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.super8edmontonsouth.com
IN THE PICTURE Hotel Selkirk, Fort Edmonton Park.
Travelodge Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-578-7878 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.the.travelodge.com/edmonton09761 University of Alberta – Lister Centre . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-492-6056 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ualberta.ca/conferenceservices Varscona Hotel on Whyte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.varscona.com
West Edmonton Hotels Best Western Westwood Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-557-4767 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bestwesternwestwood.com Comfort Inn West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-4CHOICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.choicehotels.ca Continental Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-484-9660 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.continentalinn.ca Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-321-2211 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.marriott.com/yegew Days Inn & Suites West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-441-1441 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.daysinnwestedmonton.com Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-960-4913 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonmarriott.com Executive Royal Inn West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-388-EXEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.executivehotels.net Fantasyland Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-RESERVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fantasylandhotel.com Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton West . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-484-1648 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hamptoninn.com
Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-344-5866 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westedmonton.stayhgi.com Holiday Inn Express West Edmonton . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-483-4001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiewestedmonton.com Holiday Inn & Suites West Edmonton . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-444-3110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiedmonton.com Mayfield Inn & Suites Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-9804 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mayfieldinnedmonton.com Quality Inn West Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-6993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westharvest.ca Sandman Hotel West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-SANDMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sandmanhotels.com Travelodge Edmonton West . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-578-7878 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.travelodge.com West Edmonton Mall Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-RESERVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.weminn.com Wingate Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-228-1000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.wingateinnedmonton.com
Edmonton RV & Campground Sites Allan Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.allanbeach.com Elk Island Retreat Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.elkislandretreat.com Glowing Embers RV Park . . . . . . . . www.glowingembersrvpark.com Kacikewin RV Campgrounds & Cabins . . . . . . . . www.kacikewin.com Longriders RV Park & Horseback Riding . . . . . www.albertahorses.com
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Rainbow Valley Campground . . . . . . . . . www.rainbow-valley.com Shakers Acres RV Campground . . . . . . www.shakersacresrvpark.com Spring Lake Resort & RV Park . . . . . . . . www.springlakeresort.com Whitemud Creek Golf & RV Resort . . . . . . www.whitemudcreek.com
see you here! General Edmonton & Area Information Bed & Breakfast Association of Greater Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bbedmonton.com City of Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-442-5311 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.ca Edmonton Daily Newspapers . . . . . . . . www.edmontonjournal.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonsun.com Edmonton Eskimo Football Club (CFL) . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-448-ESKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.esks.com Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-414-GOAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonoilers.com
Edmonton Festivals . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com/festivalcity Edmonton Visitor Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.infoedmonton.com Visit Edmonton’s Countryside . . . . . www.edmontonscountryside.com Travel Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-ALBERTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.travelalberta.com Where Edmonton Magazine . . . . . . . . . www.where.ca/edmonton Edmonton Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-496-8400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-800-463-4667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com
Regional Visitor Information Centres Edmonton (Gateway Park) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-496-8400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . or Toll Free: 1-800-463-4667 Edmonton (Downtown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-401-7696 Beaumont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-929-8782 Bruderheim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-796-3731 Calmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-985-3604 Devon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-987-8300 Elk Island National Park of Canada . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-922-5790 Fort Saskatchewan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-998-1783 Kalyna Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-452-5962 La chambre économique de l’Alberta . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-424-6512 Lamont County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-895-2233 Leduc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-986-5454
Legal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-961-3665 Millet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-387-5558 Morinville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-939-4361 Parkland County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-968-8888 Sherwood Park/Strathcona County . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-464-0801 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . or Toll Free: 1-866-464-0801 Spruce Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-962-2561 St. Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-459-1724 Stony Plain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-963-4545 Sturgeon County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-939-4321
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere
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enter to win a
Sizzling Summer Experience Sizzling Summer Experience Grand Prize for Two Approx. Value: $1,500 Prize draw June 30
Sizzling Summer Experience Grand Prize for Four Approx. Value: $2,000 Prize draw August 31
Enter at www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere or fill out the entry form below. Enter to win one of two Sizzling Summer Experience*! Entrants are required to answer the trivia question on Greater Edmonton—to the right. The answer can be found within the Edmonton. See You Here summer getaway guide or may be found online at www.edmonton.com/seeyouhere.
Name: Address: City: Province:
Postal Code:
Phone: ( )
Email: Yes, I would like to be informed of any upcoming Edmonton Tourism contests and promotions. Please include me in your email updates. * Some restrictions apply. For full contest and prize details visit our website. No purchase necessary. We respect your privacy; information gathered is for internal Edmonton Tourism promotional purposes only.
Edmonton, Canada’s Festival City, is home to over 30 annual festivals celebrating sports, culture, music, visual arts and theatre. What is Edmonton’s oldest festival?
E dmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival Capital EX Edmonton International Street Performers Festival Enter online or complete your entry form and mail in a stamped envelope to: edmonton. live all year. c/o Edmonton Tourism, 9990 Jasper Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1P7