Info Edmonton June/July/August/September 2024

Family Fun IN THE SUN

Edmonton INFO

JUN/JUL/AUG/SEP 2024

EDITOR

Tracy Cooper-Posey

ART DIRECTOR

Dawn Cumby-Dallin

EDITORIAL INTERN

Akosua Dufie Adasi

CONTRIBUTORS

Tamara Aschenbrenner, Natasha Chiam

PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR OF SALES

Greg Davis

ADMINISTRATION & CIRCULATION

Marie Tanner

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EMAIL info@tanneryoung.com

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Tracy Cooper-Posey (she/her)

Editor@InfoEdmonton.com

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Editor’s Note

Editor's Note ANNIVERSARIES ABOUND

This is my first Info Edmonton edition, although I edited and reported on Edmonton’s events and affairs in its previous iteration, WHERE Edmonton . It’s wonderful to be back!

Edmonton, I’ve learned, is busier than ever. We bring you a jammed edition full of festivals, attractions, and events to coax you to step out and enjoy summer in the city. Plus we discuss hats and ice cream, how to picnic in style, and the best highlights of the River Valley. There’s a guide to fun and adventures for the whole family, and insights into what’s happening in your neighbourhood, where to find some amazing patios, and more.

So many attractions, festivals and destinations are celebrating significant milestones this year that we created a dedicated page for them. We also zoom in on the Taste of Edmonton festival, which is enjoying its 40th year.

Or you can head out on the road and escape the city heat altogether with a road trip or two. There’s lots to do, this summer!

WE ASKED:

1) What is you and your family’s favourite way to enjoy Edmonton summers? 2) What is your preferred picnic or barbecue location?

1) Enjoying all the local festivals and summer experiences in Edmonton is a blast! Edmonton's summer scene is incredible, offering a wide range of activities, including stepping back in time at Fort Edmonton Park.

2) I've enjoyed family picnics at Gold Bar Park, Borden Park, and Hermitage Park, which has the bonus trout pond! This year, I'm aiming to include Rundle Park in the mix. It’s a stunning park with tons of activities to enjoy.

Neesha Esmail, Marketing, Sales, Growth and Development at Fort Edmonton Park. Fort Edmonton Park turns 50!

1) By attending Edmonton's amazing festivals. From food to arts and culture, there is something for everyone. And of course Taste of Edmonton.

2) In a backyard with friends and family! Nothing better than sitting around breaking bread on warm summer nights. Everyone brings a dish, play games, share laughs and make new memories. Donovan Vienneau, General Manager at Taste of Edmonton (see pg. 23). Taste turns 40!

1) When we’re not enjoying an Elks game at Commonwealth Stadium, we enjoy biking, finding a new playground, and especially getting a treat at one of Edmonton’s great ice cream shops (White Rabbit and Kind are two favourites!)

2) With a young family, we love heading down to Kinsmen Park. The central location, outdoor pool, and playground—all nestled in the heart of the river valley—make it a great place to spend the day.

Evan Daum, Vice President, Marketing and Fan Engagement at the Edmonton Elks (see pg. 11). Elks turn 75!

NEESHA

DONOVAN

EVAN

16 <

1 JUN

GREASE IS THE WORD!

Enjoy this iconic ‘50s themed musical at Mayfield Dinner Theatre. Immerse yourself in pin-curls and letter jackets with the Senior Class of Rydell High as they take you on a rocking journey of self-discovery. MayfieldTheatre.ca

7 JUN 8 &

JAMES HORNER: A VOYAGE OF IMMERSIVE FILM SCORES

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra conducted by Robert Bernhardt, explore famous film soundtracks by the Oscar Award-winning composer. WinspearCentre.com

21 JUN

4 JUN

QUEEN: IT'S A KINDA MAGIC

Returning by popular demand! See the rock spectacular that everyone raved about. WinspearCentre.com

13 JUN

NICK LOWE AND RON SEXSMITH – THE GREAT INDOORS

Songwriters Nick Lowe and Ron Sexsmith hit the road for a five city Canadian tour. FestivalPlace.ca

CRIS DERKSEN | INDIGENOUS SERIES

16 JUN

MICHAEL FLATLEY’S LORD OF THE DANCE

The king of Irish dance will charm and dazzle with witty storytelling and dance performed to original music. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to experience the lord of the dance. RiverCreeResort.com

Join two-spirit Juno Award–nominated Cree cellist Cris Derksen to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day and Indigenous Peoples Month. MacLabCentre.com

3 < 28 JUL AUG

QUALICO PATIO SEASON

Enjoy two music shows every Wednesday at the Qualico lakeside patio, ranging across pop, jazz, world, Celtic, folk, blues and country. Grab your season passes! FestivalPlace.ca

13 JUL 1 AUG

MONSTER JAM

5 < 4 JUL AUG

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Glimpse behind the scenes of staging a play. A 1920s murder mystery with more twists and turns than a maze, and guaranteed laughter. CitadelTheatre.com

Experience big-time family fun. The most unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable motorsports experience in the world. World champions and their 12,000pound trucks tear up the dirt in competitions of speed and skill. RogersPlace.com

10 JUL 20 <

VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE

An unforgettable, hilarious tale about aging siblings and their toxic relationship. Written by Christopher Durang and directed by Lauren Tamke, this play will have you in stitches. WalterdaleTheatre.com

THE COWBOY GATHERING

A presentation of historical and contemporary cowboy story tellin’, music and poetry. StonyPlainCowboyGathering.com

16 AUG

OPERA AL FRESCO

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and music in the lush scenery of the Botanic Garden. EdmontonOpera.com

21 AUG

SYMPHONY UNDER THE SKY AT SNOW VALLEY

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and conductor Robert Bernhardt present an evening of Mozart, Haydn and Rossini. WinspearCentre.com

METALLICA M72 WORLD TOUR

Join the rock and roll legends for their No Repeat Weekend show.

Rock out to old favourites, plus their phenomenal opening acts including Pantera, and Five Finger Death Punch! Edmonton.ca/Commonwealth Stadium

Superstar P!nk will be joined by Sheryl Crow, The Script, and more, in one of only two Canadian performances. Edmonton.ca/Commonwealth Stadium

CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS

A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see country stars in one place. Join the Country Music Week’s ultimate celebration. RogersPlace.com

The eight-time Grammy-nominated icon performs her biggest songs from her record-smashing catalog. RogersPlace.com

< 23 AUG 25 < 20 SEP 22 31 AUG 2 SEP 16 SEP 14 SEP 21 < 13 SEP OCT

EDMONTON EXPO

Three days of fan-filled fun. If you're into comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, or gaming, you’ll feel right at home. EdmontonExpoCentre.com

KINGS OF LEON

Join the Grammy award-winning band on their Can We Please Have Fun Tour. You will not be disappointed. RogersPlace.com

Watch the heat build between iconic Blanche, Stella, and Stanley, in the classic Tennessee Williams play. CitadelTheatre.com

Anniversary Edmonton Elks! Go Elks!

SLAM DUNK SPORTS!

Elite athletes will be showing their agility and expertise all summer long. Here’s a round-up of home games, festivals and events where the spectacles sparkle.

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Watch the most successful franchise of the CFL modern era throughout their 2024 season.

GET TICKETS: GoElks.com

Home Games, June to September

June 8 vs Saskatchewan Roughriders

June 14

vs Montreal Alouettes

July 14 vs Ottawa Redblacks

July 28 vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats

August 11 vs BC Lions

September 7 vs Calgary Stampeders

September 21 vs Winnipeg Blue Bombers

CANADIAN ELITE BASKETBALL LEAGUE

Edmonton’s pro basketball team, the Stingers, compete for the CEBL trophy. GET TICKETS: TheStingers.ca

Home Games, Balance of 2024 Season

June 2

vs Saskatchewan Rattlers

June 4

vs Vancouver Bandits

June 9

vs Niagara River Lions

June 20

vs Ottawa Blackjacks

June 23 vs Calgary Surge

July 1 vs Saskatchewan Rattlers

July 5 vs Vancouver Bandits

July 7 vs Brampton Honey Badgers

July 9 vs Calgary Surge

July 29 vs Winnipeg Sea Bears

WEST COAST LEAGUE

The West’s premier summer collegiate baseball league, encompassing Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Alberta’s Riverhawks, at RE/MAX Field.

GET TICKETS: RiverhawksBaseball.com

Home Games, Balance of 2024 Season

June 10, 11, 12 vs Kelowna Rockets

June 14, 15, 16 vs Victoria Royals

June 25, 26, 27 vs Bellingham Bells

June 29, 30 vs Port Angeles Lefties

July 1 vs Port Angeles Lefties

July 5, 6, 7 vs Kamloops Northpaws

July 19, 20, 21 vs Springfield Cardinals

July 22, 23, 24 vs Nanaimo NightOwls

July 26, 27, 28 vs Wenatchee AppleSox

PLAY ON! STREET HOCKEY FESTIVAL

September 1: Held in the popular ICE District, location of Rogers Place, the home of the Edmonton Oilers, and the ideal location for a celebration of hockey and community. PlayOn.ca

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY AND HISTORY MONTH

LEARNING TO APPRECIATE THE INDIGENOUS CULTURES.

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada.

Edmonton boasts the second largest Indigenous population in Canada, full of talented performers, artisans, musicians and entrepreneurs. The city is located within Treaty 6 Territory, which is home to many nations including the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People.

The traditional name of Edmonton is Amiskwaciy Waskahikan, meaning Beaver Hills House.

Not only is June National Indigenous History Month, but June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day.

There are many special events happening to celebrate the observance, which provide great opportunities to learn and appreciate the Indigenous cultures and people.

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS HISTORY MONTH 2024 WEEKLY THEMES

The Canadian Government has separated June into weekly themes to help with exploring aspects of Indigenous People. They encourage everyone to take time to learn more about First Nations, Inuit and Métis People.

June 1-9: Environment, traditional knowledge and territory

June 10-16: Children and youth

TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE

TelusWorldOfScienceEdmonton.ca

In 2023, TWOS hosted a staggering number of events and activities showcasing the Indigenous cultures. This year’s events will be similar and include tipi raising and trapper tent building, a smudge ceremony and opening prayer, a Lighting of the Qulliq (traditional Inuit oil lamp), a market featuring Indigenous vendors, storytelling, singers and dancers. You can learn beadwork, and ribbon work, and learn about Indigenous legends.

For the day, Indigenous people can enjoy free admission to the centre.

FORT EDMONTON PARK

FortEdmontonPark.ca

June 17-23: Languages, cultures and arts

June 24-30: Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

Also, to observe National Indigenous People’s Day, the Fort will be hosting Jaynine and Connie McCrae, a mother and daughter duo who will demonstrate tools and artifacts, plus Drumming and Dancing performances. Tim Marusiak, a proud member of the Metis Nation of Alberta, will also be available to share his knowledge of tipis and tipi pole teachings. Tim will demonstrate how tipi poles go from raw logs into the shaved and formed poles that you see used when a tipi is raised.

Over the weekend, programming includes Bannock Making, Stuffy Trapline, Indigenous Suffrage and a Bison Bone Hunt.

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM

RoyalAlbertaMuseum.ca

Last year, the RAM ran a full day of programming and events, including a Crafting Circle, Film Screenings, an Activity Corner for the whole family, Story Time and craft demonstrations. Check the website closer to June 21st for full details for this year’s event.

Fort Edmonton has a new, award-winning feature, the Indigenous Peoples Experience. Visitors to the attractive installation can hear stories, and see art, plus learn about the Indigenuous experience from local Indigenous peoples, including representatives from Cree, Dene, Anishinaabe, Nakota, Blackfoot, and Michif.

RIVER CREE RESORT

RiverCreeResort.com

To round off your day of Indigenous experiences, be sure to stop by the River Cree Resort. Their Night Market showcases First Nation & local artisans, vendors, food trucks, and more. Plus, at dusk, there will be fireworks to mark the day.

National Indigendous Peoples Day

Fort Edmonton IPE

APPRECIATION, not APPROPRIATION

CONNECTING THROUGH STORIES AT I.A.M COLLECTIVE

By Akosua Dufie Adasi

S

haring stories is how the Edmonton-founded Indigenous group, I.A.M Collective, showcases creative possibilities for a more inclusive future. Stories present an opportunity to work through difficult conversations and connect with different communities. “A lot of our artists are day school and residential school survivors and a lot of them have walked the road of being homeless or in addictions. They have stories to share and some understanding can be had about some of the challenges that we are facing as a community,” says Lorrie Lawrence, a founding member and Executive Director of I.A.M Collective.

The Collective’s mission is not only to provide a space for people to experience Indigenous culture, but to remind them that their artistry is not stuck in a distant past. I.A.M Collective is made up of diverse groups. They strive to represent each by sharing their stories. “A lot of people still see Indigenous groups like how they see us in cartoons or the old black and white movies with the cowboys. They don't see us as present and I am trying to make sure they see us as present because we are present,” says Lorrie.

The I.A.M Collective started when Larissa Cruder, who is passionate about supporting Indigenous arts, entrepreneurs, and small businesses, had the opportunity to fund an Indigenous-focused project. “Larissa was always looking for funding and one day she found a pocket of seed funding. Then she came to me and another local artist and asked if we could help her find other artists. We hit the ground running and popped up at a local farmers market and shortly after that we took every chance to talk about appreciation not appropriation,” Lorrie recalls.

Currently, the Collective of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit artists continues its mission to increase awareness of Indigenous ingenuity through

authentic and contemporary art forms like storytelling. They provide market opportunities for Edmonton area artists. What began with just four founding artists in 2018 has blossomed into a hub with over 170 members. “Our membership includes entrepreneurs, entertainers, traditional knowledge holders, facilitators. So, we have quite the mixed bag of nuts,” says Lorrie. Lorrie is also a facilitator, and uses humour to connect with others.

Stories remain a vital lifeline between I.A.M Collective and their audience. “If you understand where people come from, you get a better understanding of where they are at now” says Lorrie. Stories ensure that people appreciate, rather than appropriate, Indigenous arts. Lorrie emphasizes, “Indigenous people, how we appreciate each other is we tell each other stories, that’s appreciation for us. We want people to appreciate contemporary works, Indigenous culture through sharing our stories as Indigenous people.” For example, learning the origins of skills such as beading and the making of goods. “Our oldest artist is 92 and she sits with people and will share Indigenous ways like beading. With that she doesn’t want you to go home and use this knowledge to make money for yourself, but to make things for yourself and your loved ones, so that you can appreciate how much time and skills goes into making Indigenous art,” says Lorrie.

I.A.M Collective shares their stories and goods with the Edmonton community at Fort Edmonton Park and at various pop-up markets, including their “A Very Indigenous Holiday Market” where patrons can buy unique, handcrafted items.

I.A.M. Collective can be found year-round at the Old Strathcona Farmers' Market | IAMCollective.ca

PICNICKING IN Style

THE RIVER VALLEY HAS GLAMOROUS LOCATIONS TO MATCH

The North Saskatchewan River within Alberta has been designated by the Canadian Government as a Canadian Heritage River.

The designation is intended to inspire communities to work together in caring for the river, to celebrate and support cultural connections of Indigenous Peoples, and protect it as a water resource for future generations.

Here’s an interesting way to appreciate one of the province’s greatest resources. Have you heard of glamping? Glam-orous Cam-ping is an on-line phenomenon that stirs sighs of envy. But glamping is out of financial and practical reach for most of us.

However, you can indulge in a touch of glamour with a luxury picnic, which requires very little equipment and no construction experience. To upscale your outdoor cuisine, consider these factors:

• Take your garbage home if you can’t fit it in a bin. Leave the park the way you found it.

• Combat the mosquitoes. Bring personal repellent and clothing with sleeves, plus citronella or other candles to place around the picnic area.

• Watch for where the sun will be, not just where it is now. Pick your spot accordingly.

• Keep food simple, with a touch of elegance. Plus keep it cold or hot as it should be. Serve finger food and items easy to lift from plate to mouth.

• Pick the perfect picnic blanket, or use layers against twigs and bumps. Use a tablecloth on tables.

• Consider a centerpiece for either your blanket or the table. A large bunch of wildflowers would be perfect, depending upon your theme.

• Pillows and cushions are essential for comfort. Floor chairs are a great option. Plus throws and Afghans in case it gets chilly.

• Upgrade your serving wear. Use glass, porcelain, and silverware, instead of plastic. This makes an astonishing difference to your picnic experience.

• Lastly: Pick your location for the view, the ambience, and facilities. And don’t forget to take photos of your lovely arrangements!

If over-the-top outdoor dining doesn’t appeal to you, a traditional bare-bones picnic or barbecue can still take advantage of the summer weather and the views.

Fifteen of Edmonton’s twenty River Valley parks have picnic facilities, plus enviable views and natural environments that perfectly suit a leisurely gathering. Check the City’s website or download their picnic site information sheet. [Edmonton.ca]

HERE’S THREE OF THE BEST:

Emily Murphy Park

On the south side of the river, this park has three sites you can reserve, and 26 sites for drop in diners. There are tables, canopies and rain shelters, and some sites are wheelchair accessible. Plus, there are many shade trees. Some sites have fire pits, others have gas grills (if you prefer to barbecue instead of picnicking).

Rundle Park

This is the jewel of parks along the river, with multiple amenities, including a disk golf course, an aquatic centre, power, canopies, tables, fire pits and more. There are ponds, lakes, even a paddling center where you can rent paddle boats. Then there is the fabulous view, for the park is on a gently rounded bend of the river.

Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park

Home to the Valley Zoo, multiple playgrounds, a boat launch, and the Edmonton Rowing Club. It has multiple picnic sites, with power to selected sites, canopies at many of them, and an enviable view anywhere along the extended riverside length.

The River Valley parks without picnic areas have other features that make them just as interesting, including lookout points, trails, footbridges, islands just offshore, and much more.

Explore each of them in turn and enjoy the natural beauty of the river valley.

FAMILY FUN THROUGHOUTSummer

Summer is chock full of family fun, from vacations and stay-cations to warm long weekends just begging to be filled with activity and laughter.

If you are searching for ways to fill your kids’ vacation days, or to bring the family together with some quality time that doesn’t involve screens and earbuds, look no further.

PICNICS & BARBECUES

Packing a basket and heading out to eat anywhere but at home opens up all sorts of possibilities. Add a frisbee or ball into the basket. Take binoculars to really study your surroundings. Plus, take photos and videos while you’re there.

Picnics and barbecues can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, and as short and quick or long and lazy as the mood dictates.

Check our story on “Picnicking in Style” on page 16 for more ideas on where to go and how to dine once you’re there.

SPRAY PARKS

Every town and neighbourhood in the Edmonton area has a spray park. They’re a great way to beat the heat and they’re enormous fun for children. Most parks provide seating areas for adults to relax and watch, too. Plus, spray parks help build community. You can’t help but laugh and chat with nearby adults while watching kids scream with laughter, while kicking and dancing in the water.

The City of Edmonton operates spray parks across the city, while towns in the Edmonton area usually have at least one spray park, too. See the Edmonton.ca site for city locations, and check the Info Edmonton site for updated information on spray parks everywhere. InfoEdmonton.com

LIVE SPORTS ACTION

All the major sports have live home games over the summer, except for hockey…but even hockey has the Oilers Hockey School (more, below). Watching any sporting event live is a great family experience,

completely different from watching a game at home. No matter what your family’s preferred sport might be—football, baseball, basketball—there are games you can attend for a great family outing.

Flip back to our “Slam Dunk Sports” on page 12, for a list of home games for the primary sports leagues in Edmonton.

CAMPS, WORKSHOPS, TRAINING

The Oilers Hockey School, mentioned above, is just one of a dozen different types of summer camps for kids. While camps are designed to keep kids occupied during work hours, listening to your children report on their day provides unique bonding opportunities. Here is a partial list that demonstrates the range of possible activities.

Sports and Physical Activity camps:

KidStrong, House of Wheels, Kiwanis Safety City, My Gym, Pedalheads Bike and Trail, Royal City Soccer Club, YMCA Summer Day Camps

Dance and Stage Camps:

J’Adore Dance, Celtic Ceilidh Dance Academy, Shumka Summer, Alberta Ballet, Citadel Theatre.

Education Camps:

A&D Tutoring, IDEA Lab Kids STEAM, Telus World of Science, Ukrainian Village Historical Children’s Program.

Occupational Camps:

Alberta Aviation Museum, YouthWrite Summer Camp.

Art Camps:

Clay & Cupcakes, Strathcona County Summer Arts, AGA Art Break

If you are looking for a specific type of camp, search the websites of venues and organization operating in that field for camp information. Also, the City of Edmonton has dozens of registered day camps on their website. Edmonton.ca

EDMONTON CORN MAZE

This attraction deserves a special mention for its family-fun quotient. Starting in late July, and running into late fall, the maze is hilarious fun for everyone and is good exercise, too! A complex maze made out of an entire cornfield will keep you moving for hours. Take plenty of water with you! EdmontonCornMaze.ca

VIRTUAL REALITY PARTIES

While being high tech, which older kids will love, virtual reality games are usually played in groups or teams, which makes it fun for the entire family. There is a huge variety of games, from traditional shooting games, to locked room mysteries, escape rooms, and virtual sports that build hand-eye coordination. There are dozens of VR game locations in Edmonton. Check out FunnyVRGames, which is family oriented. FunnyVRGames.ca

24 AND 48 HOUR TOURS OF ALBERTA

Alberta is a big province with a startling number of attractions, events and interesting destinations just a few hours away. Twenty-four hour or 48-hour car tours can keep your family busy every weekend for years, not just this summer. Visit Info Edmonton’s sister site, Alberta48.com, to find sample 48-hour itineraries, and more.

EDMONTON IS FLOWING WITH FAMILY ACTIVITIES

There are many more events and attractions that will appeal to everyone in the family throughout this magazine and on our site. The ideas here are a starting point for planning your quality family time this year. InfoEdmonton.com

JUST AROUND THECorner

Not everything worthwhile happens in the downtown core. Deepen your appreciation for community living with one of these events.

JUNE

McCauley | Heart of the City Music and Arts Festival | June 8, 9

A free family-friendly festival in Giovanni Caboto Park, which promotes and supports original, local and emerging artists. HeartCityFest.com

Sherbrooke | Spring Scavenger Hunt | June 9

For children 5 to 12 years old. Explore the park with a scavenger hunt of local plants, animals and insects. EventBrite.ca

St. Albert | Soap Box Derby | June 14-15

Hundreds of kids and their families experience the thrills of Soap Box Derby participation. StAlbertSoapBoxDerby.ca

Laurier Heights | Pets in the Park | June 23

They’re ready to paw-ty. Celebrate the bond we have with pets and raise funds for the Edmonton Humane Society. Activities for everyone in the family. EdmontonHumaneSociety.com

JULY

Leduc | Drag & Drift Spectacular | July 4

Eastglen | Kids of Steel | June 15

A triathlon event for kids of all ages, including under 5! Swim, bike, run. Come and watch future triathletes master the course. DoNorthEvents.ca

Walterdale | Red Bull Soap Box Derby | June 22

The most fearless, fun-loving and foolhardy teams create the wackiest of rides. Watch the brave teams race down the course. RedBull.com

An adrenaline-fueled night of drag racing and drifting at the RAD Raceway. Back by popular demand, featuring a 1/8 mile Heavy Hitters lane, and the Spec-D Drifting Team will be tearing up the road course. RADRaceway.com

Queen Mary Park | Edmonton Jerk Festival | July 6

A family event celebrating the authentic Jamaican style. Food, drink, games, performances and more. Edmonton-Jerk-Festival.Square.Site

Elmwood Park | Muttstock | July 6

Bringing together the dog-loving community of Edmonton, to enjoy mutts and music. Live bands, food and drink and lots for dogs and families to do. Money raised goes to charity. Muttstock.com

Alberta

Avenue | Thousand Faces Festival | July 12-14

A sumptuous intercultural banquet of food & mythic art, dance, theatre, and more! The festival brings together artists and audiences from diverse cultures to weave enchantments from their worlds of myth. ThousandFaces.ca

Whyte Avenue | Whyte Avenue Art Walk | July 12-14

The streets of Old Strathcona will be filled with artists as this iconic Edmonton event returns for another year. Started in 1995, this art walk welcomes over 400 diverse artists to create the city’s largest outdoor art gallery. art-walk.ca

AUGUST

Summerside |August Beach Date Night 2024 | August 1

Grab a table by the beach and be served delicious food and beverages while having a romantic dinner. The perfect getaway for you and your significant other to escape close to home and enjoy each other's company while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Summerside! LakeSummerside.ca

Leduc | LEGO Camp | August 6-8

Serious LEGO fun! Enhance your LEGO creating abilities. All supplies are provided. Lego stations, challenges, team activities and more. Leduc-County.com

St. Albert | Rock’n August |August 6-10

Combining music and cars, plus funds raised support the Alberta Diabetes Foundation. See hundreds of cars on display. RocknAugust.com

Communities Across Edmonton | Lemonade Stand Day | August 25

By supporting a lemony event in your community you are contributing to the excellence of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. A fun program that gives kids the opportunity to run a business, learn about entrepreneurship, philanthropy, marketing and customer service at a young age. Simply Supper and sponsors provide all registered stands lemonade ingredients, cups, signage, t-shirts and training for kids to run their stands. LemonadeYEG.ca

SEPTEMBER

Leduc | Culture Days 2024 | September 1-30

Arts, culture, heritage, diversity and community spirit in Downtown Leduc. Events throughout the month, including an Arts & Culture Symposium on September 19. DowntownDistrictLeduc.squarespace.com

Strathcona County | Savour Strathcona | September 8

A festival featuring local restaurants, distilleries, and artists. Stroll around the Strathcona County Agora, listen to live music and take in the art show. Strathcona.ca

Griesbach | Party in the Park | September 7

A jam-packed party for all ages. Amazing art walk, bouncy castles, balloon artists, face painting and even a giant climbing wall. For the adults, there is a live band, beer gardens and food trucks. GriesbachCommunity.com

Alberta Avenue | Kaleido

Family Arts Festival | September 13-15

A joyous, exuberant, radically open arts festival that shares the love of the Alberta Avenue Arts District. Music, theatre, dance, street performances, food, artisans, art galleries, markets, and more in alleys, rooftops, parks and on Alberta Avenue. Kaleidofest.ca

A OF A FESTIVAL Gem

ITHE MUTI-FACETED TASTE OF EDMONTON CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF HELPING EDMONTONIANS

f you ask the average Edmontonian to name the best festivals of the year, Taste of Edmonton will be among them. Ask those same residents what the best part of Taste of Edmonton is, and they’ll roll their eyes because, of course, the best part is the food. And while the festival’s restaurant partners do their best to woo over 300,000 festival goers each year with delectable morsels that showcase the best their restaurant has to offer, that is just one of Taste of Edmonton’s charms.

A SIMPLE BEGINNING

Taste of Edmonton had a humble beginning. Said Donovan Vienneau, general manager of Events Edmonton and Taste of Edmonton, “Apollo Propane was with us the very first or second year. Mark Stephenson [owner of Apollo Propane] remembers when we were in the City Center Mall. We transitioned to Churchill Square, the Convention Center for a couple of years and then back. It’s moved around a lot. Churchill Square has always been the best space for us.”

Quick Facts

This year’s dates: July 18 to 28

Price to attend: Free

Food ticket sales begin: June 1

50/50 tickets: Starts July 16

Festival hours (July 18-27): 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Festival hours (July 28): 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Performance Stage: McLennan Ross Stage

Headliners: Glass Tiger, Classified, Court Jester Dueling Pianos

Location: Downtown’s Sir Winston Churchill Square

Expected attendance: 300,000+

Apollo Propane is a local family owned and operated business that has been supporting Taste of Edmonton from the beginning. The company supplies the propane every restaurant needs to run their booths.

They are not the only loyal partner. “Some folks have always been with us. Japanese Village joined us for the first year in 1984,” says Vienneau.

Many of the restaurants on the menu return year after year, just like Japanese Village.

Taste of Edmonton’s focus upon helping local businesses, charities and more engenders such loyalty.

A RAPID RISE

Taste of Edmonton has become Western Canada’s largest food festival. It is the best way to enjoy a wide variety of tasty offerings from dozens of Edmonton’s best chefs and restaurants.

Each restaurant partner has dishes available which cost two to five food tickets. You can select and buy a sample with your pre-purchased tickets. (Buying them ahead of the festival is cheaper.)

The festival offers 100% local cuisine from local participating restaurants, in sample servings so you can at least try to try them all.

But Taste of Edmonton has much more to offer. Says Vienneau, “We’re always looking to grow the festival; always trying to look and grow at the community level. How can we foster and give back to the community groups and become that organization that people look to for community service?”

The festival has brought into the fold seventeen different services groups and charitable partners, who provide volunteers throughout the eleven days.

Between the vendors, ticket donations, and a 50/50 raffle, Taste of Edmonton supports other local non-profits. This year any proceeds raised from food tickets donated by festival-goers will be donated in turn to Edmonton's Food Bank.

In 2015, Events Edmonton established the Taste of Edmonton Community Fund to help create and

support local initiatives. Every year, the equivalent value of donated Taste of Edmonton tickets are added to the fund to help grow its contributions to the community. The fund generates a net income that is donated on behalf of Taste of Edmonton to deserving organizations that are working to improve our community and help those in need.

But their largesse goes beyond charities. “We’re a non-profit organization going into our 40th year. We’ve had an extreme economic impact over the forty years. Working with community partners, restaurant partners struggling to come out of the pandemic,” said Vienneau. "Our goal is to help as many people as we possibly can."

WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR?

“We’ve made a few changes,” says Vienneau. "For the first time we will be shutting down all of 100th Street between 102 Avenue and 102A Avenue."

In the past, restaurants were limited to three items each. However, for 2024, each restaurant has the option of offering two to four food items. “The majority are going for this,” Vienneau adds.

THE FOOD!

The majority of Restaurant Partners who will be at the festival are returning from previous years. On the other hand, many restaurants are joining for the first time this year: Choco N’ Dip, Chung Chun Rice Hotdog, Da Kao Bistro, Dagu Rice Noodle, Italian Bakery Cuisine, Love Kitchen Catering,

Millers Ice Cream, Ribeye Butcher Shop, Salute, and Szechuan Paramount. There are also two new food trucks; Native Delights and Live Bowl'd.

Altogether there will be 40 restaurant booths, nine food trucks, two food carts, three Canada Dry Beverage Centres, and the Canadian Brew House bars. This is not the final roster, either. Watch for when the official menu becomes available so you can plan your route through the festival and add up how many tickets you should get. Dishes range in price, although most restaurants have at least one item that is worth two tickets.

Information regarding Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Friendly, Dairy Free and Nut Containing dishes will be listed beside each menu item, too.

7 OTHER WAYS TO ENJOY THE FESTIVAL THIS YEAR

1. Family First Environment. Bring everyone. There is programming for children, including face painters and other kid-oriented features.

2. Be Entertained by the McLennan

Ross Stage performances

Talent from across Canada, including local performers, will appear onstage from noon each day of the festival. They include the Canadian rock band, Glass Tiger, and the Canadian rapper, Classified. Plus The Legends of Drag, Robin Cisek, Donita Large & The Small Band, The Give ‘em Hell Boys, Dirt Road Angels, Kaeley Jade, Shaguar, The South Asian Dance Experience, and many more. In total, there are 41 performing artists, and 85% of those artists are from the Edmonton area. Students of the Victoria School of Performing Arts and the Resonate Music School will be appearing, providing these young performers with their first opportunity to play on a major stage.

3. Enjoy the Court Jester Dueling Pianos

The Court Jester Dueling Pianos will appear every evening on the McLennan Ross stage at 6pm. The players have become a crowd favourite.

4. Have a drink (or two)

The Canadian Brewhouse will return to the festival and will serve all your favourite drinks. Attendees are free to carry their drinks around the entire festival site, too, so you can imbibe while enjoying the food, the performers and much more.

5. Buy tickets in the 50/50 Draw

The 50/50 draw was introduced in 2021 and that year’s winner took home $50,000. The draw has had no cap since. Proceeds from the draw go to the Taste of Edmonton Community Foundation.

6. Browse the Market

The Market is hosted by Wholly Handmade and features local artisans and crafters. There is a minimum of 33 artisans showing their creative wares each day, plus demonstrating their skills.

7. Help the Community

If you have extra tickets left over at the end of your visit, donate them at any entry or exit donation box. All proceeds will go to Edmonton's Food Bank.

FESTIVAL GUIDE Summer

CELEBRATE ALL SUMMER LONG

Keep watch on our complete Events Calendar at InfoEdmonton.com!

JUNE AFRICANIVAL

JUN 8–9 | Attendees will enjoy live music, African and Caribbean cuisine, visual and performing arts, a colourful cultural parade, and so much more at the annual Africanival! Africanival.org

35TH FREEWILL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

JUN 20–JUL 14 | Watch as the Bard’s iconic plays come to life. Laugh, swoon, and cry along with the talented performers who put on a show no matter the forecast. FreeWillShakespeare.com

BEAUMONT MUSIC FESTIVAL

JUN 21-22 | Canada’s longest running all-Canadian music event, with world-class entertainment for all demographics. The festival supports emerging and established Canadian artists, and provides family friendly entertainment.

BeaumontMusicFestival.ca

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

JUN 25–30 | Jazz enthusiasts are sure to be the first in line! This festival heats things up with performances by some of the most talented jazz musicians from around the globe. EdmontonJazz.com

THE WORKS ART & DESIGN FESTIVAL

JUN 27–JUL 1 | Take in enormous outdoor exhibits as Edmonton is transformed into the largest art gallery in North America, complete with live artist demonstrations, an outdoor street market, music, and more. TheWorks.ab.ca

JULY

40TH EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL STREET PERFORMERS FESTIVAL

JUL 5–14 | Check out roving artists as they take to the streets for a variety of shows. Watch magicians, comedians, puppeteers, jugglers, storytellers, musicians, fire dancers, and more. EdmontonStreetFest.com

Africanival

The Works Art & Design Festival

Freewill Shakespeare Festival

HISTORIC FESTIVAL & DOORS

OPEN EDMONTON

JUL 7–14 | Learn more about Edmonton’s history with tours of museums and historic sites. HistoricEdmonton.ca

40TH TASTE OF EDMONTON

JUL 18-28| Sample from dozens of Edmonton’s finest restaurants as they create special menus for this white-tented affair. Taste from a variety of delicious food, wine, and beer while enjoying live music and street performers. TasteOfEdm.ca

145TH K-DAYS

JUL 19–28 | A non-stop week of live entertainment, midway games, thrilling rides, unique food, and extravagant nightly fireworks await you at Northlands. The actionpacked extravaganza of carnival activities spans 10 days and is celebrating 145 years!

K-Days.com

EDMONTON CARNAVAL

JUL 20-21| Celebrate Latin American culture at this multicultural arts and entertainment festival. Check out artisanal booths, food vendors, live music, and more! EdmontonCarnaval.com

GREAT OUTDOORS COMEDY FESTIVAL

JUL 12-14 | An adults-only presentation of the best comedians in the world. This year’s headline is Kevin Hart. Order drinks, snacks and festival merchandise (limited menu) straight from your table. GreatOutdoorsComedyFestival.com

Edmonton International Street Performers Festival

Great Outdoors Comedy Festival

K-Days

AUGUST

EDMONTON HERITAGE FESTIVAL

AUG 3-4| The popular annual multicultural festival includes non-stop music and dancing, arts and crafts displays, cultural demonstrations, traditional costumes, and favourite cuisines from all over the world. HeritageFest.ca

45TH EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL

AUG 8–11 | Head to the hill for the 45th annual Folk Fest, with this year’s headliners Robert Plant and Alison Krauss. The four-day concert series hosts various food trucks on-site. EdmontonFolkFest.org

40TH

CARIWEST

CARIBBEAN ARTS FESTIVAL

AUG 9–11 | Prepare to be mesmerized by this spectacularly vibrant Caribbean festival! Watch the gala parade from the sidelines, check out the block party, and marvel at the colourful costume extravaganza, calypso competition, dance performances, and steel-band competition! Cariwest.ca

ANIMETHON 2024

AUG 9-11 | The festival is volunteer-run, designed to showcase Asian popular arts and related local communities. A celebrating of community, creativity, and culture, with presentations, panels, exhibitions, and a music video contest. Animethon.org

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL

AUG 15–25 | Recognized as the largest and oldest of its kind in North America, this phenomenal alternative theatre fest is one you won’t want to miss! Check out local, national, and international talents presenting over 1,200 shows and performances at more than 50 indoor and outdoor venues. FringeTheatre.ca

25TH EDMONTON BLUES FESTIVAL

AUG 16–18 | Check out top local and international acoustic and electric blues acts from around the world as they rock the house with everything from funk to zydeco. BluesInternationalLtd.com

EDMNONTON PRIDE FESTIVAL

AUG 17-24 | The biggest 2SLGBTQ+ pride event in Alberta, across multiple venues, with headquarters in Churchill square. Days and nights of performances, parties and celebrations. EdmontonPrideFest.com

EDMONTON’S MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL

AUG 25 | See all that Edmonton's mountain biking community has to offer, including group rides, races, arts, live entertainment, fun bike events, demos, and shopping! Experience Edmonton's amazing trails. EMBFest.ca

SEPTEMBER  PURPLE CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL

SEP 6-8 | A music festival of the future. A multi-venue, all-ages music experience focused on the newest sounds from the global underground. Purple City prides itself in being collaborative and community oriented, with a passion for independent music. PurpleCityFest.com

KALEIDO FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL

SEP 13-15 | Families and friends should check out this free event, which has plenty of activities suited to all ages, including live music, dance performances, film screenings, plays, shopping, art displays, and literary readings. KaleidoFest.ca

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

SEP 26–OCT 5 | Edmonton’s highly celebrated, international film fest gives voice to indie filmmakers in all genres, including contemporary independents, world cinema, documentary, Canadian films, and shorts. EdmontonFilmFest.com

Edmonton Folk Music Festival

Kaleido Family Arts Festival

Purple City Music Festival

International Fringe Theatre Festival

Edmonton Pride Festival

Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival

THE BIG ONE!

CFR’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

By special guest writer Terri Mason, Editor of Canadian Cowboy Country | CowboyCountryMagazine.ca

The Canadian Finals Rodeo is the most important rodeo in Canada, and it has returned to the province’s capital! From October 2 to 5, 2024, five professional rodeo performances will occur over four days in the beautiful Rogers Place in the downtown core.

For advance tickets, premium seating and to find out all that is happening in the capital during CFR, check out CFR.ca

CANADIAN COUNTRY EXPO

During the day and before the rodeo, rodeo fans are invited to the Edmonton EXPO Centre to enjoy the brand-new Canadian Country Expo.

The Centre has long been a premiere venue for all things Western, and “CFR Week” is no different.

The Centre will come alive with music, laughter, and the sounds of horses as the Western Event Showcase commences. This unique experience includes ranch rodeos, equine-based competitions, demonstrations, and performances. And don't miss

the thrilling action of Bullfighters Only!

Also, the Centre will host a Western tradeshow, a Western art show, dynamic stage shows featuring CFR highlights, rodeo competitors, educational workshops in horsemanship, roping techniques, livestock care, and a terrific historical exhibit commemorating the CFR's 50th anniversary, curated by the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Of special interest to little folks is the Kids Zone, a family-friendly area with pony rides, a petting zoo, and even roping lessons!

WANT MORE?

Sign up for the CFR Newsletter—The Dirt. Be the first to know and get The Dirt on CFR50!

Don't miss out! Subscribers to The Dirt will be the first to know about ticket presales, get access to the exclusive 5-Pack Membership, receive event announcements, and enjoy discounts from event partners. Sign up now at CFR.ca/The-Dirt

CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF Great Art

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

By Akosua Dufie Adasi

The Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) has been an artworld stalwart and a beacon of creativity throughout Alberta for 100 years. Established in 1924, its first exhibition took place in the Palm Room of Edmonton's Hotel Macdonald. Since then it has emerged as one of the leading galleries in Canada.

Currently, the AGA is housed in a building that is a work of art in its own right, in Sir Winston Churchill Square at the heart of the Arts District, in downtown Edmonton.

Designed by Los Angeles architect Randall Stout, the 7,900 square metre building opened to the public in January 2010. It features three floors of exhibition space, and

PHOTOS: ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

the City of Edmonton Terrace that overlooks the art district, where patrons can hang out and take in the city views. It also houses Shop AGA where patrons can snag unique items and exhibition related material, Ledcor Theatre, and the Art Rental and Sales Gallery.

The AGA is also home to creative and educational events via the Singhmar Centre for Art Education. Named after Prem and Saroj Singhmar of Sherwood Park, the Singhmar Centre for Art Education is home to the AGA’s Art Hive program, as well as art classes and camps such as Studio Y.

While the Gallery’s first exhibition featured only 24 borrowed works from the National Gallery of Canada, since then, the AGA’s collection has grown to encompass an array of pieces, including works by celebrated Canadian artists such as Emily Carr,

Alberta artist H.G. Glyde, Illingworth Kerr, and many more. Painters associated with the famed Group of Seven, such as A.Y. Jackson, are also represented.

Collecting and foregrounding Canadian art is a central mission of the AGA. Since its establishment, the AGA has acquired over 6,000 works of art. Most of the work produced after 1950 has been continuously added to the Collection.

The AGA has been home to great exhibitions, such as the recent Tom Thomson: North Star and in honour of their centennial anniversary, there will be a chance to explore the AGA's history and their vast collection through various exhibitions and programs.

Awe-Inspiring

ART TOUR OF 124TH STREET

124th Street has earned the name of “Gallery District!” The vibrant neighbourhood bustles with artists, cafés, galleries, restaurants, and life. You can pack in a whole day of art viewing between Jasper Avenue and Stony Plain Road.

ART

The Bugera Matheson Gallery has been part of Edmonton’s art scene since 1992. They feature seasonal solo exhibitions in the main gallery, including landscape, still life, figurative and abstract paintings, as well as sculptures. 1B-10110 124 St. | BugeraMathesonGallery.com

At the West End Gallery, explore contemporary glass art and paintings by distinguished Canadian artists. Founded by Dan and Lana Hudon in 1975, West End Gallery is now directed by their son, Matthew, and his wife, Jennifer. 10337 124 St. | WestEndGalleryLtd.com

Rebecca Aldernet, “Swimmers” at MAUD Gallery

Jim Visser, “The Athabasca” at Bugera Matheson

Rod Charlesworth, “Northern Islets” at West End Gallery

Eddy Cobiness, Untitled at Bearclaw Gallery

A one-stop art and art services provider, Lando Gallery offers quality Canadian and international fine art and fine objects, along with custom framing, art leasing, appraisals, and estate management to its individual, corporate, and institutional clients. 10345 124 St. | LandoGallery.com

Next door is the contemporary Peter Robertson Gallery, representing over 40 emerging, mid-career, and senior Canadian artists since 2004. Peter and Camille Robertson strive to inform, challenge, and retain relevance within the broader art community. 12323 104 Ave. | PRobertsonGallery.com

Specializing in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit art in Canada, Bearclaw Gallery carries a wide selection of original artwork, showcasing the creativity, varied experiences, traditions, and histories of leading Indigenous artists in Canada. 10403 124 St. | BearclawGallery.com

Owned by local artist Jael Roznicki, the contemporary MAUD Gallery opened recently. Housed in the old SubStation 600 building, it features local and international artists like Nadine Johnson and Rebecca Aldernet. 10643 124 St.|MaudGallery.com

TO MY CITY Love

By Natasha Chiam

My Dearest Edmonton,

Like Napoleon wrote to Josephine, “In all the time I have known you, I adore you more each day,” I, too, keep finding reasons to love you more the longer we are together. From childhood adventures to adult dreams, you've been my constant companion, shaping my memories and experiences.

As a child, you enchanted me with the magic of bedtime stories brought to life at Storyland Valley Zoo, and the simple joys of experiencing life long ago at Fort Edmonton Park. The scent of hotdogs cooking on the blackened barbeque grills in Wilfred Laurier Park, and playing on what, to my young mind, were

Hotel Macdonald, overlooking the river valley

skyscraper-high, sun-scorched metal playground slides, are etched into my earliest memories.

The empty fields behind our home on the western edge of the city provided endless hours of exploration with the gaggle of kids from our block. Amidst the epic games of hide and seek and makeshift forts constructed from salvaged parts and the wild things growing around us, I experienced the innocence of youth and on a dare, the excitement of my first kiss.

Klondike Days brought the city to life with its vibrant Gold Rush cosplay and bustling festivities. Whenever I am hit with the oddly satisfying olfactory assault of hot tarry asphalt and the fried sweetness of fresh mini-donuts I am taken back to hours spent on the midway at Northlands. Screaming as the Polar Express attendant repeated “Who wants to go faster?”, standing in line and building my courage to ride the Gravitron, and timing it just right to be on the Ferris wheel for the nightly fireworks.

The evolution of West Edmonton Mall mirrored my own journey, from carefree teenager to responsible young adult. My first job was at the mall as a World Waterpark slide attendant, and my last one there as assistant manager at the Gap, during my actual ‘gap year’ between high school and university!

University life on the south side revealed yet another facet of your charm. From the eerie halls of the Bio Science building, where more than once I took a wrong turn and ended up opening a door to nothing or found a staircase that simply ended, to late nights dancing at Rebar on Whyte Ave, or downtown at Flashbacks. Locations that exist in my memories, or under layers of paint and new signage. My connection to you deepened as I expanded my horizons and found music and art and kindred souls.

Your quirks, like the return of both geese and motorcyclists in spring, singing us their respective songs, and the collective amnesia from which we all suffer on the first day of winter driving, remind me of your ever-changing nature. Yet amidst the chaos, there is a sense of familiarity and belonging that anchors me to you.

Knowing you is like stumbling upon a perfectly-worn-in, twenty-dollar vintage jacket at a thrift store, only to discover its true treasure trove of countless pockets once you get it home!

Exploring your hidden gems fills me with a sense of wonder and appreciation. I marvel at the pod of pelicans jostling each other for room on the platforms at Beaumaris Lake, and bathe in the soul nurturing nature therapy that is your 59-acre conservation area at Larch Sanctuary. Each pocket of beauty within your borders is a testament to your diversity and commitment to more than just your human inhabitants.

Your sports fans may be fickle, but they are unwavering in their passion. Through highs and lows, they stand by you, embodying the spirit of community that defines you. And while you are currently experiencing quite a metropolitan metamorphosis, at your core, you maintain your small-town values and freely expose your caring and generosity whenever disaster strikes friends or neighbours.

As I watch my children grow, I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my love for you with them. The museum may have moved, but the wildlife dioramas and prehistoric fossils remain the same, and I see them now through my children’s eyes. The animatronic Humpty Dumpty is no longer at the zoo, but Lucy the elephant is, and I can’t help but feel a new kinship with her as we both cope with arthritis and the need for more breaks during our walks around the expanding zoo grounds.

Your myriad of festivals brings both joy to the whole city and my reluctance to leave you for any sort of summer vacation. I count the days to the yearly homecoming of walking through the gates of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and into the warm embrace of music and community on Gallagher Hill.

In your old neighborhoods, I see echoes of my past and dreams for the future. Heritage homes and new infill houses intermingle and create more depth and character in your communities. Walking hand in hand with my husband, we continue to explore your ever-changing landscape and hope to pass on this appreciation to our teenagers, who on occasion will still come with us and talk about their dreams for the future.

In the end, it is your people, the citizens of this city, who bring me the most delight. It’s the line up outside the local bakery, knowing that Edmontonians are nothing if not loyal to their favourite baked goods! It’s the rainbows and dance parties and joy on display at Pride Corner almost every weekend. And it is the collaborative spirit of enterprising folks who make the best of you, like those who took an old industrial area and turned it into a haven for craft beer producers and consumers. Your human landscape is truly the cream of the crop, Edmonton.

And there is a spot in the far west end at the edge of your city limits at the Charpentier Complex sports fields, where on a clear summer night, as I sit beneath a pink and purple cotton-candy Alberta sunset and gaze upon your growing and glowing cityscape, I'm filled with a sense of peace, pride, and gratitude.

And once again, as before,

I adore you more.

With all my love,

Natasha Chiam~

Lucy the elephant

ANNIVERSARIES EVERYWHERE!

Edmonton has always been a creative, culturally rich city, and the number of milestone anniversaries that our festivals, attractions and destinations are marking this year is proof that our city is amazing. Here is the truly extraordinary list of birthdays we’ll be marking this year.

145th: K-Days K-days.com

100th: Art Gallery of Alberta YourAGA.ca

75th: Edmonton Elks GoElks.com

60th: Edmonton Opera EdmontonOpera.com

50th: Canadian Finals Rodeo CFR.CA

50th: Fort Edmonton Park FortEdmontonPark.ca

50th: Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village UkrainianVillage.ca

45th: Brian Webb Dance Company BWDC.ca

45th: Edmonton Folk Festival EdmontonFolkFest.org

40th: Callingwood Farmers Market CallingwoodFamersMarket.com

40th: International Street Performers Festival EdmontonStreetFest.com

40th: Taste of Edmonton TasteOfEdm.ca

40th: Cariwest Cariwest.ca

35th: Freewill Shakespeare Festival FreewillShakespeare.com

30th: Shadow Theatre ShadowTheatre.org

25th: Edmonton International Blues Festival BluesInternationalLtd.com

10th: Beaumont Jazz an Blues Festival BeaumontMusicFestival.ca

10th: Edmonton Reggae Festival EdmontonReggaeFestival.ca

10th: Edmonton International Cat Fest EdmontonCatFest.com

ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTION

100TH STREET FUNICULAR/FREDERICK G TODD LOOKOUT

10065 100 St., NW, Edmonton W Edmonton.ca/Activities_Parks_Recreation/ Parks_Rivervalley/Funicular

ALBERTA AVIATION MUSEUM

11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton T 780-451-1175 W AlbertaAviationMuseum.com

ALBERTA LEGISLATURE

10800 97 Ave. NW, Edmonton T 780-427-7362 W Assembly.ab.ca/visit

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq., Edmonton T 780-422-6223 W YourAGA.ca

EDMONTON CITY HALL & CHURCHILL SQUARE

1 Sir Winston Churchill Sq., Edmonton T 311

EDMONTON RIVERBOAT

9734 98 Ave. NW, Edmonton

T 780-424-2628 W EdmontonRiverBoat.ca

EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO

13315 Buena Vista Rd. & 87 Ave. NW, Edmonton

T 780-442-5311

W Edmonton.ca/Attractions_Events/Edmonton-Valley-Zoo

ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

54401 Range Rd. 203, Fort Saskatchewan

T 780-922-5790

W Parks.Canada.ca/pn-np/ab/ElkIsland

FORT EDMONTON PARK

7000-143 St., Edmonton

T 780-496-7381 W FortEdmontonPark.ca

GOVERNMENT HOUSE

12845 102 Ave. NW, Edmonton

T 780-427-2281 W Alberta.ca/Government-House

HIGH LEVEL BRIDGE STREETCAR

Cnr. Whyte Ave. & Gateway Blvd., to just south of Jasper Avenue, between 109th & 110th Streets T 780-437-7721

W EdmontonStreetcars.ca/HighLevelBridge

MUTTART CONSERVATORY

9626 96a St., NW, Edmonton

T 780-496-8755

W Edmonton.ca/Attractions_Events/Muttart-Conservatory

DESCRIPTION

The funicular operates on-demand, to transport you down the steep valley. At the bottom is the Frederick G. Todd Lookout, with a 1800+ view of the valley. There is also a stairway beside the funicular, upon which you can test your fitness. But don’t worry! There are seats all along the stairway where you can rest and enjoy the view.

Dedicated to keeping Edmonton’s rich aviation history alive, the historic World War II hangar has more than 30 aircraft on display, a restoration area, gift shop, simulators, and a large events facility. The museum runs events and programs throughout the year. Watch for their popular Open Cockpit Day, and Sensory events for the neurodiverse.

Alberta’s foremost historic site is open for you to discover, with free tours available. The Legislature offers a variety of special events throughout the year, and the nearby Visitor Centre includes the 4D Pehonan Theatre and hands-on Agora Interpretive Centre.

The AGA building is itself a work of art. The AGA turns 100 this year and the celebrations are running all summer long. Since its founding, the AGA has acquired over 6,000 works of art, the vast majority of which were produced after 1950 and added to the Collection since 1970.

Guided City Hall tours are available for all ages. City Hall Plaza features a fountain that is a community hub where people can splash in over the summer and skate on in winter. Across the road is Churchill Square, the site of many festivals and events throughout the year.

Discover the beauty of Edmonton on a delightful weekend brunch, dinner, or a mesmerizing sunset cruise. The paddle steamer, formerly known as the Edmonton Queen, has undergone a million-dollar renovation and is now the Edmonton Riverboat

A small, intimate zoo that provides authentic and engaging animal experiences. From wolves to snowy owls, to snakes and armadillos, over 350 animals with their caregivers are regularly out and about, meeting and engaging with guests. Special events are scheduled throughout the summer.

A natural wonderland. A refuge for bison, elk and more than 250 bird species, the park is an oasis of calm for day picnickers and overnight campers alike. Free bus rides from Edmonton during the summer. See Parkbus.ca

Established in 1967, the park is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Preserved or rebuilt streets recreate the life of 1846, 1885, 1905 and 1920s Edmonton, a new Indigenous Peoples Experience, a train and streetcar, a theatre and a midway, and more. Plan to stay a whole day!

Government House opened in 1913 as the official residence of Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor. Today, the building and its surrounding grounds welcomes everyone for free guided tours and special events, including traditional teas and the popular New Year’s Day Levee. Also stroll around the picturesque grounds and enjoy the view across the river valley.

This historic ride takes you along former Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) trackage through the only tunnel ever built on a CPR mainline in Alberta, across the High Level Bridge into Edmonton's Downtown, stopping just south of Jasper Avenue. The Strathcona stop is home to the museum.

One of Canada's largest indoor botanical collections, located in the river valley. Their botanical gardens feature the distinctive glass pyramids that house tropical & arid biomes. Tours and events are regularly scheduled. Plus, throughout summer, outdoor dining, hosted by Café Bloom.

ATTRACTION

NORTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER VALLEY

W Edmonton.ca/Activities_Parks_Recreation/Parks-River-Valley

OLD STRATHCONA FARMERS MARKET

10310 83 Ave. NW, Edmonton

T 780-439-1844 W OSFM.ca

REYNOLDS-ALBERTA MUSEUM

6426 40 Ave., Wetaskiwin

T 780-312-2065 W ReynoldsMuseum.ca

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM

9810 103A Ave. NW, Edmonton

T 825-468-6000 W RoyalAlbertaMuseum.ca

RUTHERFORD HOUSE

11153 Saskatchewan Dr., Edmonton

T 780-427-3995 W RutherfordHouse.ca

TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE

11211 142 St. NW, Edmonton

T 780-451-3344 W TelusWorldOfScienceEdmonton.ca

THE ICE DISTRICT/ROGERS PLACE

10360 102 St. NW, Edmonton

T 780-414-5483 W IceDistrict.com

UKRAINIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE

195041 Highway 16 E, Lamont County

T 780-662-3640 W UkrainianVillage.ca

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA BOTANIC GARDENS

51227 AB-60, Parkland County

T 780-492-3050 W UAlberta.ca/Botanic-Garden/index.html

WALTERDALE BRIDGE/RIVER WALK

105 St. NW, Edmonton

W Edmonton.ca/Projects_Plans/Walterdale-Bridge

WEST EDMONTON MALL

8882 170 St. NW, Edmonton

T 780-444-5321 W WEM.ca

WHYTE AVENUE/OLD STRATHCONA

Whyte Ave., Edmonton W OldStrathcona.ca

DESCRIPTION

Edmonton River Valley and parks system, known as the Ribbon of Green, is a continuous collection of urban parks, covering over 7,300 hectares (18,000 acres), making it the largest contiguous area of urban parkland in the country. The river itself was this year designated a Canadian Heritage River. There are multiple trails and pathways, picnic and barbecue areas and other features. This summer, Hawrelak Park is closed for renovations.

Operating for 40+ years, the market is Edmonton’s original, indoor farmers’ market. They have a fantastic mix of locally grown and produced goods and provide small, independent, local businesses with a venue to showcase their products. A favourite weekend destination.

The agricultural, industrial, and transportation museum celebrates “the spirit of the machine.” They have multiple events and programming throughout the year, including The Ultimate Car Show on Jul 13 and the Harvest Festival on Aug 31-Oct 01. Don’t miss the Aviation display hangar.

The largest museum in western Canada and one of the top museums in Canada, with galleries chronicling Alberta's natural and cultural worlds, international travelling exhibitions, an interactive dedicated children's gallery, and a bug room.

Rutherford House was the home of the first Premier of Alberta, Alexander Cameron Rutherford. Today, the restored and furnished Edwardian-era home maintains the Rutherford tradition of hospitality and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with costumed interpreters, guided tours, and special events.

A broad-based science centre with an IMAX Theatre and a Star Theatre. They house multiple exhibits, including a dinosaur exhibition with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and skeleton casts. They host special events yearround, including family nights, sensory friendly mornings and more.

Home to the NHL Oilers team, and the heart of hockey in Edmonton. The new ICE district in downtown Edmonton centers around the Rogers Place arena, and includes the ICE District plaza, the JW Marriott hotel and more. Sporting events, fan gatherings, concerts and more are regularly featured.

Now in its 50th year of operation, the village is an open-air museum that uses costumed historical interpreters to recreate pioneer settlements in Alberta and in particular, the lives of Ukrainian Canadian settlers from the years 1899 to 1930. Events and programs run throughout the summer.

Alberta's largest botanical garden, established in 1959. Over 97 hectares (240 acre) of stunning gardens, including the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, the Aga Khan Garden, and the Patrick Seymour Alpine Garden. The Bee Line Tram Service, a hop-on-hop-off transport, loops around the gardens for the less mobile.

There is a fascinating time-lapse video on the City’s website showing every step of the complicated construction of the unique bridge that has swiftly become an icon. The Pedestrian walk alongside the bridge leads to river walks on either side and provides long views down the river as you cross.

The largest shopping mall in Edmonton and the second largest in North America, with over 800 stories, nine attractions, two hotels, and over 100 dining venues, plus parking for 20,000 vehicles. Visit the World Waterpark, Galaxyland, the Ice Palace, Marine Life, the Alien Outbreak Escape Room, and more.

Whyte Avenue (also known as 82nd Ave) is the main vein of Old Strathcona, which pulses with history. Take a whole day to fully explore the public artwork, the shopping and the entertainment happening every day. The area has over 60 patios to enjoy, and food and bike tours are available.

A SWEET SUMMER Indulgence

HEAD TO GARNEAU FOR A TASTE OF FRANCE

ossibly one of Edmonton’s best-kept secrets is Little Bear Gelato. However, the purveyors of creamy French-style Gelato in flavors such as Pistachio, Earl Grey, Haskap Cheesecake, Créole Rhum Raisin, Sour Cherry, Mascarpone Raspberry and Bubble Gum, along with, of course, French Vanilla, won’t be secret for much longer.

The tiny, family-owned and operated Alberta company was established five years ago by Franck Bouilhol. “There was a lot of ice cream, but I missed my gelato,” Franck explains. A pastry chef from France, Franck named the

PHOTOS:

company for his son. “I call him little bear.”

Gelato is not ice cream, especially made by Franck. “The texture of gelato is more dense, with not as much air. There are no eggs, it is low fat and low sugar.” But the gelato and sorbet is all flavor.

Their gelato is made with simple ingredients. Milk and cream, nuts and other flavors. They also make a vegan sorbet, with the maximum amount of fruit as possible, all locally sourced.

Little Bear handcrafts gelato and sorbet in their downtown kitchen, and for four years have been selling exclusive flavors directly to restaurants and at farmers’ markets. “We do a negroni sorbet for the Little Wolf restaurant on 109 Street,” Franck explained. “The problem is, it’s a niche…all the people have seen us at the farmers' market.”

Therefore, this summer, Little Bear will run a pop-up inside the French eatery Eleanor & Laurent, in Garneau. “Getting out of the farmers’ market is a good way to reach different patrons,” says Franck. And if the experiment is succesful, they will open a permanent store.

Don’t miss sampling this taste of France that is proudly made in Alberta. You’ll find them at Eleanor & Laurent all summer. Plus, Little Bear Gelato also deliver. Try their Pint Club, which delivers a pint of gelato each month to your home, for three months. Definitely for gelato lovers who can’t get enough.

PATIOS FOR EVERY OCCASION

here are unique patios, there are patios that welcome furry family members, there are patios with stupendous views and others with spectacular surroundings. Old Strathcona, alone, boasts more than 60 patios!

Edmontonians like to be outside as soon as the weather permits.

We found a dozen patios that each have a unique, notable factor. If you like lingering outside when the mercury rises, these give you the perfect excuse.

MKT BAR + FARE

Housed in the old Canadian Pacific Strathcona Station building, this super-popular Whyte Avenue

gathering spot has a super-large patio to match. The patio wraps around the building, and features an outdoor bar. It’s a sought-after location with views of the Avenue. Try their all-day brunch on Sundays for a leisure mid-point to the weekend. 8101 Gateway Boulevard. CenturyHospitality.com/MKT/

MEAT RESTAURANT

What makes this locally owned and operated patio on 104th Street in Old Strathcona different is the combination of two factors. One is the fare: Authentic southern barbecue. Enjoy platters of brisket, pulled pork or smoked chicken, plus more smokehouse style options. Enjoy your meal on the

Courtyard by Marriott

PATIOS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ICEHOUSE

This eats and drinks destination in the historical Jasper Block on Jasper Avenue has added an Alberta flavour to traditional southern comfort food. Try an Alberta Bison and Jalapeno Burger, along with an icy offering from their extended drinks menu. What makes their street-side patio unique is their willingness to supply blankets and heaters if you’d rather stay right where you are. 10516 Jasper Ave. | RockyMountainIcehouse.ca

BREW & BLOOM

patio, which is one of the new patios that thrust out into the street, while the public sidewalk wraps around it. You can soak up the atmosphere of Old Strathcona along with your beer or bourbon. 8216 104 St. | MeatForDinner.com

CRAFT BEER MARKET

CRAFT Beer Market is tucked away off Rice Howard Way, so the patio dining is relaxed and airy. The patio is on the roof. It’s large, with plenty of umbrellas, and a clear glass wall looking down upon the street, plus a bar for fast service. Try one of their hand-smashed, naturally raised beef burgers, or share a plate of Korean Sticky Ribs. 10013-101A Ave.

Billed as Edmonton’s first floral restaurant, Brew & Bloom are unique. Tucked away in Oliver, the patio matches in the interior of the store. If flowers appeal to you, sample the café’s bowers. They have an extensive drinks menu, and both brunch and dinner menus. Try the Gold Fingers crispy chicken tenders, which are dusted with gold and edible flowers and look too good to eat. 10550 115 St.

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

The Courtyard patio’s major draw is, without question, the view. Perched high up over the river valley, any seat on the patio provides long, unobscured vistas up and down the river, with high tables nestled up against the Perspex railing, to give you an unobstructed view. Enjoy the Riverside Bistro’s menu, including Miso Glazed Sockeye Salmon. 5 Thornton Crt.

Hotel Macdonald Confederation Lounge Patio

THE SHERLOCK HOLMES PUB

The downtown location of the Sherlock Holmes has an enviable patio, where the surroundings more than match the fare. While enjoying the ivy-covered ambience of the patio, try the highly recommended Bangers & Mash, or the plant-based version, Beyond Banger & Mash. 10012-101A Ave. (Rice Howard Way) | TheSherlocksPubs.ca

CANADIAN ICEHOUSE

The Canadian Icehouse is home to the largest rooftop patio in Western Canada. With amazing views of the downtown core, and the Ice District Plaza, it’s a spot you need to check out. Their extended menu includes a Steak and Sushi main dish, plus burgers, pizzas and more. The patio is family-friendly and offers a kids’ menu. 10332 103 St. | TheCanadianIcehouse.com

HOTEL MACDONALD CONFEDERATION LOUNGE PATIO

Be drawn to this patio for the fine dining, as well as the fabulous view over the river valley, while being surrounded by manicured gardens. With a European style canopy to provide shade, and deep, comfortable seating, you can relax and enjoy a meal of Alberta Ribeye Steak Frites with Truffle Fries, Asparagus, and Chimichurri, along with champagne from their extended champagne menu, or a creatively mixed cocktail. 10065 100th St. | Fairmont.com/Macdonald-Edmonton/

CAFÉ BICYCLETTE

With vintage windows hanging around the borders, plus plenty of flowers and greenery, the shabby chic vibe gives the patio at Café Bicyclette a wonderful atmosphere where you can indulge in a French delicacy and, of course, aromatic coffee. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays. Try Saumon fumé à l'avocat; Sgambaro's smoked salmon, avocado, soft poached eggs and brown butter hollandaise. Bon Appétit! 8627 91 St. | CafeBicyclette.ca

THE GREENHOUSE

There are three locations, each with a patio with meditation-inducing views, for they are all located within the City of Edmonton golf courses: Victoria, Rundle Park, and Riverside. They’re open to the public, as well as players. Try their Ahi Tuna Poke and follow up with a Pesto Chicken Sandwich, with shredded chicken, arugula pesto, melted provolone, pickled red onion, aïoli, and greens. Check website for locations. RobertSpencerHosp.com/TheGreenhouse

Q CIGAR ROOM

Wrap up your al fresco dining with a stop at the Q Cigar Room. As part of the River Cree Resort, their patio has deep, comfortable seating, and warming firepits. Q Cigar also offer a full menu, if you would like a meal or snack with your cigar. #100-21557 Chief Lapotac Blvd. NW, Enoch | QCigarRoom.com

Brew & Bloom Q Cigar Room

CRAFT Beer Market

Summer ’ s

TOP HATS

WHERE TO FIND LIDS AND BRIMS TO SUIT YOUR STYLE

f you judge purely by the hats you see upon the street, you might get the impression that the only choices for summer headwear are baseball caps and western hats.

Hats aren’t just for winter. With summers growing warmer and the longer days naturally increasing your time out in the sun, a hat to shield your face and neck becomes more than a stylish statement.

Two Edmonton-based companies are working to provide more choices in the hat department, so that you no longer have to pick between fashion and health.

HUMBLEWOOD HATS

Alex Mottershead started Humblewood Hats because “I've always loved hats and I really struggled to find high quality locally, so I ended up ordering my personal collection from overseas. I realised that if I wanted better quality hats, then others probably do also.”

Alex spent twenty years working in menswear and the clothing business, but his obsession with

hats really began at home. He grew up in a family of golden age cinema fans. Alex couldn’t help noticing how amazing the actors and actresses looked in hats, or how versatile they were.

Alex spent years learning everything about hats, dealing with suppliers and talking to customers. With Humblewood, every supplier they deal with has been thoroughly researched and shares their love for hats.

PHOTOS: EL CHAPEAU

focuses on high-quality, European-made hats and accessories,” Alex adds.

Currently, they have one location, at Bountiful Farmer's Market at 3696 97 Street. | HumblewoodHats.ca

EL CHAPEAU

El Chapeau is jointly owned by sisters Lyndsay and Natalie. Says Lyndsay, “I’m the crazy ideas person, and Natalie has such an eye for design and can execute with perfect precision, so the balance has fallen into place very naturally. I always joke that she jumped on board to keep me in line. We started with a small hat order that we funded ourselves to see if we could make the visions in our head a physical reality, and it snowballed from there.”

They found that when they were trying to buy hats for themselves, they were either beautiful and simple or fun, but crazy expensive. “Our vision

really was to create stylish hats that bridged the gap between uniqueness and accessibility.”

The sisters created El Chapeau in 2021, and they handle all aspects of the company, including operations, design selection and order management.

El Chapeau is a pop-up business, appearing at farmers’ markets across the city. “It has been an incredibly fun ride that allows us to connect with people while still maintaining our day to day lives

and sanity,” says Lyndsay. “We are hands-on to set up, engage with, and assemble hats for our customers at every event, which is our favorite part. There’s something really special about seeing someone light up, feeling excited about what they’ve just created and how they look in it.”

Look for El Chapeau throughout the summer:

June 22: St. Albert Farmer’s Market

June 28-July 1: Ponoka Stampede

July 5-7: Wild Rose Retreat

July 20 & 27: St. Albert Farmer’s Market

August 1-4: Big Valley Jamboree

August 10: The Silver Buckle (Red Deer)

They also offer virtual appointments that can be booked through their website.

ShopElChapeau.com

PHOTOS: EL CHAPEAU, HUMBLEWOOD

40 YEARS FRESH

CALLINGWOOD FARMERS’ MARKET THRIVES

In May, Callingwood Farmers’ Market celebrated its 40th anniversary. It is Edmonton’s largest outdoor market, offering a mix of locally grown and hand-crafted goods, from over 150 vendors.

Says Market Manager, Jocelyne Fraser, “The Callingwood Farmers Market has been a cornerstone of Edmonton's cultural landscape for four decades, and we look forward to continuing to provide a vibrant space for local businesses and community members to come together and celebrate.”

The market has on offer one of the broadest ranges of goods and products, including art and photography, baked goods, beverages, clothing and accessories, confections and snacks, home decor and gifts, meat, eggs, honey and grains, pet products, plants and flowers, toys and woodworking, among others. And, of course, fruit and vegetables.

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The market works with small, Albertabased businesses to help get their products in front of Edmontonians who are equally committed about buying close to home. Visiting the market is a family affair, for they have a full calendar of programming that includes live music, interactive DIY workshops, and free monthly kids’ events.

Callingwood is an Alberta approved farmers’ market, having met the program guidelines to offer vendors and customers the best market experience possible.

New to the market this year is the Young Entrepreneur Program, an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of local business leaders. Ten young individuals from the community will showcase their entrepreneurial skills and offerings, adding a fresh and vibrant energy to the market atmosphere.

Make it a point to stop by Callingwood Farmers Market this summer, to enjoy a day of shopping where everything on offer is local, fresh, and proudly handmade. Located on the corner of 69 Avenue and 177 Street, they’re open every Wednesday and Sunday. | CallingwoodFarmersMarket.com

BIG SOUNDS AT BIG VALLEY SOUTH: TAKE A Trip

The Big Valley Jamboree (known as “BVJ”) is one of Alberta’s biggest annual country music festivals, drawing crowds of over 25,000 people each day of the festival, and often selling out well before the event date.

The festival was originally located in Big Valley but switched to Camrose in its second year and has been there ever since. It boosts the Camrose economy so much, the organizer has poured millions into upgrading the Camrose Exhibition Grounds to better serve the festival.

The four-day festival provides camping grounds, food and drinks, parking and other services and amenities for festival goers. It is

Beyond Edmonton, the entire province waits for you to discover everything it has to offer. Take a weekend, or two or more, to head out and explore these destinations, each with a come-hither event to entice you onto the road.

also family friendly. Kids under 10 can attend free, and only the licensed areas are off limits to children.

Previous headline performers at the festival include Bryan Adams (the first year opener), Tim McGraw, Kevin Costner, Lady Antebellum and Reba McEntire, among many others.

This year, the headliners are independent singer songwriter Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, plus Grammy Award and Academy of Country Music Award-winning Keith Urban.

DATE: Aug 1-4 | LOCATION: Camrose | DISTANCE: 1 hour, 9 minutes | SITE: BigValleyJamboree.com

PHOTO: BILL BORGWARDT

OTHER SOUTHERN DESTINATIONS

BIRCH BAY RANCH FAMILY FUN DAY

Zip lining, rock climbing, rappelling, pony rides, bouncy castles, hayrides and a barbecue.

DATE: Jun 1 | LOCATION: South Cooking Lake | DISTANCE: 32 minutes | SITE: BirchBayRanch.com/FamilyFunDay

REYNOLD’S MUSEUM HARVEST FESTIVAL

Harvesting using steam and gasolinepowered equipment, threshing demonstrations, tractor rides, carnival games, petting zoo, bread baking, rope making and live music.

DATE: Aug 31-Sep 1 | LOCATION: Wetaskiwin | DISTANCE: 1 hour | SITE: ReynoldsMuseum.ca

5 KM FOAM FEST

An obstacle course featuring foam! The world’s largest inflatable waterslide, slip and slides, and mud pits. Tire hops, rope climbing and log rolls, too.

DATE: Jul 6 | LOCATION: Red Deer | DISTANCE: 2 hours, 10 minutes | SITE: The5kFoamFest.com

PONOKA STAMPEDE

A multi-day event culminating in the championship on Canada Day. Also a midway, a trade show and live entertainment. Campgrounds and local accommodations available.

DATE: Jun 25 – Jul 1 | LOCATION: Ponoka | DISTANCE: 1 hour, 13 minutes | SITE: PonokaStampede.com

WEST:

MUSIC AND MOUNTAINS

The Jasper Folk Music Festival has gone through several iterations and is now the premier music festival for the region. It is scheduled for September to take advantage of the fall colours, and features rhythm, folk and blues music.

September is a beautiful time to be in the Rockies and the perfect time to dust off your dancin’ shoes to enjoy some melodies in the late summer sun.

Previous years have seen performers like Moontricks, MIINA, Maddie Storvold and the Walnut Collective, Reuben and The Dark with Bullhorn Singers, and Fast Romantics appear in the multiple venues.

Jasper has many accommodation possibilities, and while you are there, take in some of the beauty of the mountains. There are trails and hikes to explore, lookout points, the Sky Train, nearby Athabasca Falls and Miette Hot Springs. Have lunch at the exclusive Jasper Park Lodge, where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle liked to stay.

DATE: Sep 6-7 | LOCATION: Jasper | DISTANCE: 3 hours, 48 minutes | SITE: JasperFolkMusicFestival.ca

OTHER WESTERN DESTINATIONS

PARTY IN THE PARK

A free, family fun festival that includes live music, children's activities, food vendors, roving performers, and more. Headliners for this year are Scott Helman and Madeline Merlo.

DATE: Jun 14-15 | LOCATION: Whitecourt | DISTANCE: 1 hour, 51 minutes | SITE: Whitecourt.ca

GROVE ROTARY RIB FEST

Money raised by the event funds community programs and help those in need. The festival features Rib Trucks, live music, and programming for everyone in the family.

DATE: Jun 14-16 | LOCATION: Spruce Grove | DISTANCE: 34 minutes| SITE: GroveRotaryRibfest.ca

CULTURAL CAMPFIRES

Spreading across the height of summer, the campfires have become a community favourite. Storytellers share stories from an array of cultural backgrounds. This is a free event; bring your lawn chair!

DATE: Jul 14-Aug 22 | LOCATION: Stony Plain | DISTANCE: 37 minutes | SITE: StonyPlain.com

CANADA DEATH RACE

Attend as a spectator or entrant! One of the world's toughest ultramarathons, over 118km, challenging extreme athletes. The Death Race is a Western States Qualifier; one of the few in Canada.

DATE: Aug 3-4 | LOCATION: Grande Cache | DISTANCE: 4 hours, 22 minutes | SITE: SinisterSports.ca/DeathRace/

EAST:

MUDDY MAYHEM

Cold Lake’s Extreme Mudfest features music, but beyond that, the festival is unique.

The mud racing is a highlight of the six-day event, and includes Mud-Drags, Mega Trucks, Rock Crawlers, Quads, and more. Thursday night features Extreme Bull-Riding. The festival offers after-hours parties, a slow-pitch softball tournament, the Extreme Mud-Run for Charity, and extreme mud racing classes.

On-site camping is available, and Cold Lake offers many off-site accommodation choices, too. While you’re in town, visit the Cold Lake Provincial Park, and the Marina on the lake.

DATE: Aug 14-19 | LOCATION: Cold Lake | DISTANCE: 3 hours, 11 minutes | SITE: ExtremeMudfest.com

OTHER EASTERN DESTINATIONS

LLOYD EX FAIR

Featuring a parade, midway, petting zoo, livestock shows, a kid’s zone, fireworks, pig races, and live entertainment.

DATE: Jul 10-13 | LOCATION: Lloydminster | DISTANCE: 2 hours, 25 minutes | SITE: LloydEx.com/LloydEx-Fair

SUMMER RUSH MUSIC FESTIVAL

Live music on two stages, with headliners Whale and the Wolf, Real Sickies and Roll the Bones. Plus health and wellness workshops, food and drink and more.

DATE: Aug 23-25 | LOCATION: Cold Lake | DISTANCE: 3 hours, 11 minutes | SITE: SummerRushFestival.com

LLOYDMINSTER HERITAGE DAY

A one-day agenda that is chock full of family-friendly activities to mark the history and heritage of the town. A free pancake breakfast, block party games, candle-making, a classic car display, crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo and live music, among other heritage activities.

DATE: Aug 5 | LOCATION: Lloydminster | DISTANCE: 2 hours, 25 minutes | SITE: Lloydminster.ca

COLD LAKE AIRSHOW

An exhilarating event, with family activities, live entertainment, and beer gardens. This year’s show celebrates the RCAF Centennial. Thrilling demonstrations from the Italian Air Force’s Frecce Tricolori, SkyHawks Parachute Team, a CF-18 Demonstration, CF Snowbirds, and more!

DATE: Jul 20-21 | LOCATION: Cold Lake | DISTANCE: 3 hours, 11 minutes | SITE: ColdLakeAirshow.com

RIVER RATS AND ROCKIN’ OUT NORTH:

The Magnificent River Rats Festival is two days of music on the beautiful Athabasca riverfront.

This nearly 30-year-old festival is family oriented, with lots for kids to do, food trucks, a farmers' market and a beer garden, an art show and sale, a classic car show, and a parade.

Headline musicians like the award-winning Canadian country music artist Duane Steele return to the festival for multiple years. Performers include Rusty Reed, Finger Eleven, Dirt Road Angels and Nice Horse.

A Battle of the Bands spices up the music, too.

The festival wraps up on the second night with a fireworks display.

DATE: Jun 30-Jul 1 | LOCATION: Athabasca | DISTANCE: 1 hour, 46 minutes | SITE: RiverRatsFestival.com

OTHER NORTHERN DESTINATIONS

BEAR CREEK FOLK FESTIVAL

A family festival focused upon folk music, with two stages, activities for kids, and an ethereal evening program with thousands of candles lighting the hill. Jan Arden is headlining this year.

DATE: Aug 16-18 | LOCATION: Grande Prairie | DISTANCE: 4 hours, 29 minutes | SITE: BearCreekFolkFest.org

SLAVE LAKE BEACH FEST

Two days of beach-style fun for families. Sandcastle competitions, games, food, beer gardens, music, and fireworks.

DATE: Aug 10-11 | LOCATION: Slave Lake | DISTANCE: 2 hours, 44 minutes | SITE: SlaveLakeRegion.ca

PHOTO: RIVER RATS

ALL REGIONS:

CANADA DAY

Any destination in Alberta that you care to name is likely to have a number of events scheduled for Canada Day. Pick your favourite location and spend the national holiday celebrating somewhere farther away than your own neighbourhood, where you can appreciate the magnificence of our province.

Find out more on Alberta48.ca If the idea of touring about the province appeals to you, check out our sister publication, Alberta 48 Travel Guide, and its site, Alberta48.ca. (Point your camera at the QR code on this page.) There, you can find itineraries for tours that take 48 hours or less, plus destinations and attractions across the province, travel tips, and more.

Looking Forward

LOOKING FORWARD

WINTER FESTIVALS

Even though the summer has gone, Edmonton’s festivals roll on. If you like festivals, you’ll love our breakdown of these pretty, inspiring and heart-warming winter events.

PLAYS, PERFORMANCES AND PRODUCTIONS

Many of Edmonton’s premier theatres, stages and venues will be gearing up for their 2024/2025 seasons. We’ll report on the plays to look forward to, and the shows you can’t afford to miss.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

We’ll help you de-stress over the length of your holiday shopping list with lots of ideas and suggestions for what to tuck inside stockings, or to place under the tree.

RING IN 2025 IN STYLE

We’ll have a New Year’s Eve guide for you to find the perfect experience, along with tips to survive the evening.

PHOTOS:

Churchill Square