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Edmonton's Festivals: a crash course

Edmonton’s mall vibes are something else — this really is a one-mall town, and everyone knows which one. West Edmonton Mall doesn’t just eclipse the rest, it leaves every other mall in Canada in the dust. Pirate ship, roller coaster, waterpark, bronze whale, the whole deal. Call it West Ed, or just say "the mall" - everyone will know which mall you're talking about. WEM even inspired its own art show in 2023 (from which we have a map of WEM mall memories available here!). WEM is pretty much legend, and everyone will have a story about it.

This blog's mission is to introduce people to the hidden gems of Edmonton. This means we assume that you know about all the epic number of Edmonton festivals that happen year-round. But of course, you may also be reading this blog because you're a newcomer to Edmonton and you're going in cold (let's hope it's not -40C but we have a festival for that too). Maybe you've just moved here, or you're travelling here for a weekend, or a semester, and want to know what's up. Well, we've got you! Here's a roundup of just some of Edmonton's non-profit festivals and events, where you can get a full slice of those Edmonton vibes you're looking for. Think we missed something? Feel free to submit yours for future updates to this post!

EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL

Get your tarp on (you'll see) at this classic, city-defining summer music festival. It's been around for over forty years, entire families have been going for decades straight, and may it keep on folkin' for forty more. It's a great volunteering situation if you're looking for something to give your time to.

HERITAGE DAYS

Two things! One: Edmonton LOVES to eat. Two: Edmonton has a lot of diasporas under one roof. So be sure to enjoy the world's largest three-day multiculturalism celebration and the hundreds of food tents every August long weekend.

FRINGE

Love theatre? Hate theatre? Wherever you fall on this spectrum, you must check out a Fringe show at the world's second biggest Fringe festival. At least walk the Fringe grounds, soak up the vibes and catch a free show outdoor show. We think the mini-donuts aren't optional but up to you!

SYMPHONY UNDER THE SKY

Are you getting the idea that Edmonton comes alive in the summer? Yes! So also make sure to enjoy a laid back and cozy outdoor symphony in the summer envenings.

FLYING CANOE VOLANT

Edmonton has a sizeable Francophone population and nous l'apprécions! Happening over a winter weekend in the Mill Creek area of the river valley, The Flying Canoë Volant is a festival that celebrates local Indigenous and Francophone history. Yes, there is a flying canoe, and the winter night comes alive with light and music, it's a great way to spend a winter evening outside.