Info Edmonton July/August 2026

Edmonton

INFO

Jul/Aug 2026

Festival SEASON IS HERE!

MORE THAN COWBOYS: INSIDE THE CANADIAN FINALS RODEO

SUMMER STAGES: HAWRELAK PARK RETURNS: OUTDOOR THEATRE, EDMONTON'S GATHERING CONCERTS AND ART WALKS PLACE REOPENS

P lus LOCAL DINING, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Contents CONTENTS Contents JULY/AUGUST 2026

ARTS & ATTRACTIONS PAGES 18-25 Art walks, outdoor performances, museum discoveries and summer road trips.

SHOPPING PAGES 26-31 Night markets, artisan fairs, vintage treasures and local makers.

DINING PAGES 32-39 Patios, food festivals, orchard brunches and seasonal flavours.

ENTERTAINMENT PAGES 40-45 Concerts, rodeos, cultural celebrations and summer festival highlights.

Feature Story

The Secret Language of Festivals: From Cariwest mas costumes to dragon dances and traditional embroidery, Edmonton's festivals tell stories that go far beyond the spectacle.

PHOTO: CANADA'S UKRAINIAN SHUMKA DANCERS

The Guide

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FEATURES

14 More Than Cowboys: The Professional Sport Behind the Canadian Finals Rodeo

25 A City Made for Art Walks: Three ways to experience Edmonton's outdoor art scene

17 Edmonton Gets Its Gathering Place Back: William Hawrelak Park Returns

46 A Day Trip to Big Valley Jamboree: Alberta's biggest country music festival

ALSO INSIDE 5 EDITOR’S NOTE

16 BUSINESS IN EDMONTON

6 WHAT’S ON

48 YOU ARE HERE

9 GAME ON, EDMONTON!

49 LOCAL SERVICES

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50 THE LAST WORD

ON THE COVER: Feathers, colour, music, and movement—this Cariwest Festival performer embodies the energy of Edmonton’s summer festival season. Inside this issue, we celebrate the cultural festivals, outdoor performances, art events, and community gatherings that fill the city and region with life all summer long.

Photo by Stephanie Cragg, Cariwest Festival 2025.

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

JULY/AUGUST 2026

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INFO

Edmonton JUL/AUG 2026

EDITOR Tracy Cooper-Posey ART DIRECTOR Dawn Cumby-Dallin EDITORIAL INTERN Katherine Cooper-Smith PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR OF SALES Greg Davis ADMINISTRATION & CIRCULATION Marie Tanner TANNER YOUNG PUBLISHING ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Box 13, 22106 South Cooking Lake Rd Cooking Lake, Alberta T8E 1J1 PHONE 780-465-3362 EMAIL info@tanneryoung.com GROUP PUBLISHER R.H. (Rob) Tanner All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited.

Tanner Young Publishing Group makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

Tanner Young Publishing respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 6 territory, traditional lands of First Nations and Métis peoples.

Tanner Young Publishing Group is pleased to be a member of the Trans Canada Yellowhead Highway Association.

This magazine is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, abiding by the standards of the Canadian Society of Magazine Editors.

“This project is funded [in part] by the Government of Canada.”

«Ce projet est financé [en partie] par le gouvernement du Canada.»

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infoedmonton.com

FESTIVAL Season Editor’s Note

Tracy Cooper-Posey (she/her) Editor@InfoEdmonton.com

BE SOCIAL: Which Edmonton festival do you never miss? Tell us what keeps you coming back year after year.

There are cities that host festivals, and then there are cities that are transformed because of them.

Every summer, Edmonton becomes a little louder, brighter and more colourful. Streets fill with music. Parks become stages. Parking lots turn into gathering places. Communities share traditions, food, stories and performances with neighbours who may be experiencing them for the very first time.

This issue celebrates that transformation.

Our cover story, “The Secret Language of Festivals,” looks beyond the spectacle to explore the meanings hidden in costumes, symbols and traditions. From the dazzling mas costumes of Cariwest to cultural performances, traditional dress and centuries-old customs, festivals tell stories that are easy to admire but even more fascinating to understand.

We also head behind the scenes of one of Canada's premier rodeo events to discover why the Canadian Finals Rodeo is about far more than cowboys. We celebrate the long-awaited reopening of William Hawrelak Park, explore Edmonton's thriving art walk scene, and take a road trip south to Big Valley Jamboree, where music and community have been bringing people together for decades.

Of course, that's only the beginning. Throughout these pages you'll find outdoor concerts, theatre performances, artisan markets, patio dining, cultural celebrations and enough summer adventures to fill every weekend between now and Labour Day. Summer in Edmonton has always been about gathering together. This issue is an invitation to do exactly that.

See you out there.

PHOTOS: ANGELLI GARCIA; HAROLD PECHECO

1) What’s your favourite hidden gem to visit during Edmonton’s early summer months?

2) What part of Edmonton comes alive in the summer more than people realize?

3) If a visitor only had one summer weekend in Edmonton, where would you send them?

ANGELLI

HAROLD

Q1: I love love love an iced coffee on a hot summer day and a visit to Delavoye Chocolate Maker for their Iced Vietnamese Mocha hits the spot.

Q2: 124th Street has so many events happening in the summer! Admire the blooms lining the streets on your walk to grab a coffee, browse the shops, and enjoy live music during the Afternoon Sound Sessions that happen every Saturday in the summer months.

Q3: The newly opened Hawrelak Park for a walk and a meal at the Lift Me Up on the Lake by Tiramisu Bistro! The newly reopened Hawrelak Park is a must-visit for a walk or picnic, especially with a meal from Lift Me Up on the Lake by Tiramisu Bistro.

After missing the park for the past three years, it’s a summer tradition I’m excited to enjoy again with my friends and family!

Angelli Garcia , Project Coordinator, 124 Street & Area Business Association

Q1: The family and I love to walk the trails at Whitemud Creek Ravine and see how many different animals we can spot along the varied terrain. It's almost like the city disappears even though you are in the centre of it.

Q2: Nighttime around Alberta Legislature was a popular spot to go to while I was at University. It's even better now with the redevelopment of the area in the last few years - there are lots of pretty lights and water activations. Often you'll see families hanging out to soak and cool off in the wading pool, or take Instagram selfies by the dancing springs.

Q3: I'm biased but definitely the Aug 8 weekend is my fave. There's the beautiful Cariwest Festival that celebrates Caribbean (and other) cultures through a colourful parade downtown that ends with food and parties (aka "fetes") that go throughout the night at Sir Winston Churchill Square.

And that same weekend, there's also the Folk Festival and Animethon so it's action-packed!

Harold Pacheco, Director, Marketing, Cameron Development Management Inc., (South Edmonton Common)

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Clue

July

1 12 <

Based on the cult-classic film and the board game that inspired it, Clue brings murder, mystery and mayhem to the stage. When six suspicious guests gather at a remote mansion, the bodies begin piling up and the laughs come just as quickly. Expect frantic comedy, clever twists and plenty of red herrings.

JubileeAuditorium.com

Freewill Shakespeare Festival

3 < 12

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The 25th Annual

17< 26

From midway thrills and outrageous fair food to agricultural showcases and nightly entertainment, K-Days remains one of Edmonton’s biggest summer traditions. This year’s addition of KDays Music Fest brings a lineup of major performers to the grounds, making the city’s signature fair an even bigger celebration.

K-Days.com

< Putnam County

August

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More than 40 local restaurants, food trucks and beverage makers gather in Sir Winston Churchill Square for Edmonton’s largest outdoor food festival. Sample-sized dishes let visitors taste their way across the city’s dining scene, while live music and entertainment provide the soundtrack to ten delicious summer days.

TasteOfEdm.ca

K-Days

Jugglers, acrobats, magicians and comedians take over Sir Winston Churchill Square as performers from around the world transform downtown into an open-air stage. Celebrating more than 40 years in Edmonton, StreetFest combines jaw-dropping skill with audience participation, proving that some of the best theatre happens without walls.

EdmontonStreetFest.com

July

< 26 16 Taste Of Edmonton

Summer theatre returns under the stars as Freewill Shakespeare presents two comedies with one famous playwright at the centre of both. Audiences can enjoy Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing or Something Rotten!, the musical comedy that affectionately pokes fun at the Bard and the birth of Broadway.

FreewillShakespeare.com

Edmonton International Street Performers Festival

14 19 <

Spelling Bee

Six overachieving middle-school students compete for spelling supremacy in this Tony Awardwinning musical comedy. Filled with audience participation, quirky characters and surprising heart, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee turns an awkward adolescent rite of passage into one of musical theatre’s most charming and hilarious competitions.

CitadelTheatre.com

< 24 25 Post Malone

With Jelly Roll

Two of music’s biggest names take over Commonwealth Stadium for a pair of summer stadium concerts.

Post Malone’s genre-blending mix of country, pop and hip-hop joins forces with Jelly Roll’s country-rock sound, creating one of the largest live music events to hit Edmonton this year.

Ticketmaster.ca infoedmonton.com

PHOTOS: FREEWILL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL; EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL STREET PERFORMERS FESTIVAL; CITADEL THEATRE; BROADWAY ACROSS CANADA; TASTE OF EDMONTON; K-DAYS; TICKEMASTER

What's On

Heritage Festival

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What's On

14 Aug 16

<

More than 60 cultural pavilions transform Edmonton into a global celebration of food, music, dance and tradition. Returning to William Hawrelak Park, Heritage Festival invites visitors to sample cuisines from around the world while exploring performances, exhibits and customs that reflect the city's remarkable cultural diversity.

HeritageFest.ca

<

Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival

Edmonton Folk Music Festival

PHOTOS: EDMONTON HERITAGE FESTIVAL; EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESETIVAL; AC/DC; EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL; EDMONTON DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL; UKRAINIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE; TICKETMASTER

One of Canada’s most respected music festivals returns with four days of performances overlooking Edmonton’s river valley.

International headliners, emerging artists and the festival’s famous collaborative workshops create a uniquely communal atmosphere that has made Folk Fest a summer tradition for more than four decades.

EdmontonFolkFest.org

6 <9

AC/DC – Power Up Tour 2026

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Rock legends AC/DC bring their Power Up Tour to Commonwealth Stadium for one of the summer’s biggest concerts. With a catalogue that includes classics such as Back in Black, Thunderstruck and Highway to Hell, the band continues to fill stadiums more than five decades after its formation.

Ticketmaster.ca

The rhythmic beat of drums echoes across Louise McKinney Riverfront Park as teams race traditional dragon boats along the North Saskatchewan River. Beyond the competition, the festival celebrates Asian cultures through performances, food, family activities and community programming, making it one of Edmonton’s most colourful summer weekends.

YEGDragonFest.ca

Ukrainian Day

One of Alberta’s longest-running cultural celebrations returns to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.

Traditional music, dance, food, crafts and historical demonstrations bring Ukrainian heritage to life across the open-air museum, offering visitors a chance to experience the customs, stories and traditions that helped shape the province.

UkrainianVillage.ca

The Fringe Festival

13< 23

North America’s largest and longest-running fringe theatre festival returns with hundreds of indoor and outdoor performances, street entertainment and pop-up experiences.

From comedy and drama to the wonderfully difficult-to-categorize, Fringe transforms Old Strathcona into a lively celebration of independent artists, creativity and controlled chaos.

FringeTheatre.ca

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Guns N’ Roses: World Tour 2026

Rock icons Guns N’ Roses bring their World Tour 2026 to Commonwealth Stadium for a night of arena-sized anthems and guitar-driven spectacle. Joined by special guests The Black Crowes, the band behind Sweet Child O’ Mine, Paradise City and November Rain continues to draw massive crowds worldwide.

Ticketmaster.ca

There are so many more events to choose from! Use the QR code to jump to our Events listings on Info Edmonton, where you can find the perfect event for you.

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Game On!

Summer in Edmonton is game time. Whether it’s elite athletes, roaring engines, dragon boats or monster trucks, the next two months are packed with opportunities to watch, cheer and be amazed.

STINGERS HOME GAMES Jul 1 - 4:00 p.m. vs Calgary Surge

Jul 26 - 4:00 p.m. vs Calgary Surge

Jul 5 - 4:00 p.m. vs Winnipeg Sea Bears

Jul 31 - 7:00 p.m. vs Saskatoon Mamba

Jul 11 - 7:00 p.m. vs Vancouver Bandits

Aug 2 - 4:00 p.m. vs Ottawa Blackjacks

EDMONTON RIVERHAWKS HOME GAMES Jul 1 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Bellingham Bells: Happy Bday Canada

Jul 12 - 1:00 p.m. vs. Marion Berries: Kiddos Crash the Park

Jul 2 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Bellingham Bells: Foodie Night

Jul 20 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kamloops Northpaws: $5 Uni Student Night

Jul 7 - 1:00 p.m. vs. Nanaimo NightOwls: Corporate Hooky Office Olympics Edition

Jul 21 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kamloops Northpaws: Dingers, Drinks & Dawgs

Jul 8 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Nanaimo NightOwls: Date night!

Jul 22 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kamloops Northpaws: Get Punk'd and 2000's Dance Party

Jul 9 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Nanaimo NightOwls: Italian Plumber Video Game Night

Jul 24 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kelowna Falcons: Margaritaville Beach Party

Jul 10 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Marion Berries: Star Wars Night!

Jul 25 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kelowna Falcons: Wizards, Wands and Magic

Jul 11 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Marion Berries: Euro Summer Vacay

Jul 26 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Kelowna Falcons: Fan Appreciation Day!

EDMONTON ELKS GAMES Jul 9 - 7:00 p.m. vs. Ottawa Redblacks

Aug 15 - 1:00 p.m. vs. Toronto Argonauts

Jul 17 - 5:00 p.m. vs. B.C Lions

Aug 21 - 7:30 p.m. vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Aug 1 - 5:00 p.m. vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders

EVENTS

PHOTO: GOLF CANADA

July 4 | RUGBY CANADA VS. SPAIN | Clarke Stadium Canada’s men’s rugby team opens its summer international schedule against Spain at Clarke Stadium. Known for its fast-paced action and physical play, rugby continues to grow in popularity across Canada, making this a rare opportunity to see elite international competition in Edmonton. | Ticketmaster.ca July 10 to 12 | ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONALS | RAD Torque Raceway Three days of high-speed competition return to RAD Torque Raceway as the Rocky Mountain Nationals bring together drag racers from across Western Canada. The event features professional and amateur classes, roaring engines and quarter-mile battles, making it one of the region’s premier motorsports weekends. | RADRaceway.com

July 11 | RUGBY CANADA VS. UNITED STATES | Clarke Stadium One of international rugby’s oldest rivalries comes to Edmonton as Canada’s men face the United States at Clarke Stadium. Fast-paced and physical, the match offers fans a chance to see elite international competition as both teams continue their push toward future Rugby World Cup qualification. | Ticketmaster.ca July 16 to 19 | ALBERTA SUMMER GAMES | Sherwood Park More than 2,500 young athletes from across the province compete in the Alberta Summer Games, showcasing talent in sports ranging from athletics and soccer to swimming and baseball. Held every two years, the Games offer a glimpse of Alberta’s next generation of elite competitors. | FestivalPlace.ca July 25 | WORLD TRIATHLON CUP EDMONTON | Hawrelak Park Area & River Valley Elite athletes from around the world race through swimming, cycling and running disciplines as the World Triathlon Cup returns to Edmonton. Part of the international World Triathlon circuit, the event offers spectators a chance to watch Olympic-calibre competitors test their endurance and speed on a challenging course. | DoNorthEvents.ca July 27 | SOURDOUGH RAFT RACE | North Saskatchewan River One of Edmonton’s most unusual sporting traditions returns as homemade rafts navigate the North Saskatchewan River. Inspired by the city’s Klondike Days heritage, the annual race combines creativity, engineering and a healthy willingness to get wet, drawing participants and spectators for a uniquely Edmonton competition. | SourdoughRaftRace.com August 17 | EDMONTON MARATHON | Downtown Edmonton & River Valley Thousands of runners take to Edmonton’s streets and river valley trails for the city’s annual marathon weekend. Participants can choose from marathon, half-marathon, 10K and 5K distances, while spectators line the route to cheer on everyone from elite competitors to first-time runners. | EdmontonMarathon.ca August 20 to 23 | CPKC WOMEN’S OPEN | Royal Mayfair Golf Club The world’s top women golfers compete for one of the most prestigious titles on the LPGA Tour as the CPKC Women’s Open comes to the Edmonton region. The tournament brings international stars, rising talent and four days of championship golf to one of Alberta’s premier courses. | Ticketmaster.ca August 22 | WWE SUMMER TOUR | Rogers Place Professional wrestling returns to Rogers Place as WWE Superstars bring the Summer Tour to Edmonton. Combining athletic competition with largerthan-life personalities, the event features fan-favourite wrestlers, dramatic rivalries and the high-energy spectacle that has made WWE a global entertainment phenomenon. | RogersPlace.com August 22 | 96TH CANADIAN DERBY | Century Mile Racetrack One of Western Canada’s premier horse racing events returns as the Canadian Derby celebrates its 96th running. Top three-year-old thoroughbreds compete for one of the sport’s most prestigious regional titles, while fans enjoy a full day of racing, fashion and Derby Day festivities. | Cnty.com/CenturyMile

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Secret THE

LANGUAGE OF FESTIVALS

WHAT EDMONTON'S SUMMER CELEBRATIONS ARE REALLY SAYING

Cariwest masquerader sweeps down the parade route in a blaze of feathers, beads and colour. Spectators line the street taking photographs, cheering and dancing to the music. Most see a spectacular costume.

What they are actually seeing is a story.

Every summer, Edmonton's festivals fill parks, streets and stages with music, performances, costumes and traditions from around the world. We admire the artistry. We enjoy the food. We join the celebrations.

Yet many of the things we see carry meanings that go far beyond their visual appeal.

A Caribbean masquerader is not simply wearing a costume. A dragon boat is more than a racing vessel. A traditional Ukrainian dance costume is far more than colourful embroidery. Festivals preserve history, identity and culture in ways that can be seen, worn, danced and shared.

In many ways, festivals speak a language of their own.

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MORE THAN A COSTUME Cariwest, Western Canada's largest Caribbean arts festival, offers one of Edmonton's most vibrant examples of that hidden language. [Cariwest.ca] The festival's dazzling costumes are often referred to as "mas," short for masquerade. But according to Cariwest President Samantha Alexander, mas is much more than dressing up for a parade.

"It is a form of cultural expression rooted in Caribbean Carnival traditions, particularly those of Trinidad and Tobago," she explains.

The tradition's history is closely tied to slavery, emancipation and cultural resistance. During the colonial period, enslaved Africans were excluded from the masquerade balls and celebrations of European plantation owners. Instead, they preserved and developed their own traditions through music, dance, storytelling, drumming and masquerade. Following emancipation, those celebrations

infoedmonton.com

PHOTOS: KEVIN FUHR - DELTA IMAGERY; ALEX SCUCCATO; CANADA'S UKRAINIAN SHUMKA DANCERS

Cariwest

became public expressions of freedom, identity and cultural pride.

That history still lives within modern Carnival traditions.

When Cariwest participants prepare for the parade, they are not simply assembling eye-catching costumes. Each mas band develops a theme, and costumes are designed to interpret that theme through colour, movement, music and visual symbolism. Feathers, beads, wire and fabric become tools for storytelling.

Even the language reflects that deeper meaning.

Participants do not simply wear costumes. They "play mas."

"The people wearing the costumes are not simply modelling a design," says Alexander. "They are becoming part of the story and bringing the costume to life through movement, dance and interaction with the music and the crowd."

What audiences experience as celebration is also a living expression of resilience, creativity and cultural memory.

The beauty of a Cariwest costume may be what first captures attention, but behind every feather and bead lies a tradition shaped by generations of artists, musicians, costume makers and community members.

DRAGONS, LIONS AND LIVING SYMBOLS

The same pattern appears across many cultural festivals.

At Edmonton's Dragon Boat Festival, spectators watch sleek boats race across the water beneath elaborately carved dragon heads. During cultural celebrations throughout the city, brightly coloured dragons and lions weave through crowds accompanied by drums and cymbals. [YEGDagonFest.ca] To many observers, these are simply dramatic visual elements.

In Chinese tradition, however, dragons and lions carry powerful symbolic meanings.

The dragon has long been associated with strength, prosperity, good fortune and protection. Dragon dances are performed to bring blessings and positive energy to communities, while dragon boats trace their origins back more than 2,000 years to traditions connected with the poet Qu Yuan and the annual Dragon Boat Festival.

Even the drummer aboard a dragon boat serves a purpose beyond atmosphere. The drumbeat helps synchronize the paddlers, transforming dozens of individual athletes into a single coordinated crew.

Lion dances carry their own traditions. Although often confused with dragon dances, they are separate art forms. Lions are

al Dragon Boat Festiv

frequently associated with driving away bad luck and welcoming prosperity, making them a familiar sight at celebrations, grand openings and festivals.

Like Cariwest's mas costumes, these traditions communicate ideas through movement, performance and symbolism. They transform history and belief into something that can be experienced by an audience in the present day.

WEARABLE HISTORY

Traditional Ukrainian costumes offer another example of how culture can be preserved in plain sight. [Shumka.com] Many people first notice the embroidery.

What they may not realize is that the stitching can function almost like a cultural fingerprint.

According to Vincent Rees, a Ukrainian cultural historian, tourism specialist and Shumka alumnus, different regions of

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

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Heritage Fest

WHY FESTIVALS MATTER

Ukraine developed distinctive embroidery patterns, colours and techniques that can often identify where a garment originated.

"A trained eye can often identify whether a shirt comes from regions such as Hutsulshchyna, Polissia, Podillia, Bukovyna or Poltava simply by its embroidery style," he says.

The colours themselves tell stories.

The Poltava region is known for elegant white-on-white embroidery. Hutsul costumes feature vibrant oranges, reds, yellows and greens inspired by the energetic culture of the Carpathian Mountains. Bukovyna is known for rich black embroidery accented with metallic threads and beads.

What appears decorative often carries layers of cultural information.

Jewelry can reveal social status. Historically, coral necklaces were expensive and frequently represented a family's prosperity. Multiple strands of coral were not merely fashion statements but symbols of wealth and inheritance, often passed from generation to generation.

Headwear carried meaning as well.

Flower crowns traditionally signalled unmarried young women, while married women covered their hair using various forms of wraps, caps or kerchiefs. Different styles communicated age, marital status and regional identity before a word was spoken.

Even belts, boots and woven sashes could reveal clues about local customs, craftsmanship and daily life.

Rees believes many people misunderstand traditional Ukrainian costumes because they see them only as folk dress.

"They are regional cultural documents," he says.

Every stitch, colour choice, accessory and silhouette reflects generations of local history, environment, trade, beliefs and identity.

"They are not just costumes," Rees says. "They are wearable history."

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Perhaps nowhere is this more visible than at Edmonton's Heritage Festival. [HeritageFest.ca] Every summer, dozens of cultural communities gather in one place to share food, music, dance, crafts and traditions with hundreds of thousands of visitors. For many attendees, the experience begins with a meal or a performance. Look more closely, however, and the festival becomes something else: a living museum of cultural memory.

The embroidery on a costume, the rhythm of a dance, the style of a headdress, the instruments in an ensemble or the stories behind a traditional craft all carry pieces of history forward from one generation to the next. What visitors experience as entertainment is often the result of centuries of tradition, adaptation and preservation.

That is true not only at Heritage Festival, but across Edmonton's summer festival season. Each celebration offers a glimpse into traditions that communities have carried across oceans, borders and generations.

Festivals are often viewed primarily as entertainment. They are certainly that. They bring people together, create memories and fill summer weekends with music, food and celebration.

But they also serve another purpose.

They preserve traditions that might otherwise fade. They provide opportunities for younger generations to learn skills, stories and cultural practices. They create spaces where communities can share their heritage not only with their own members but with neighbours from across the city.

Alexander sees that role clearly at Cariwest.

"For Caribbean youth growing up in Edmonton, Cariwest creates a space where their culture is visible, celebrated and shared with the broader community," she says.

Young participants learn design, construction, storytelling, collaboration, music and performance while discovering their place within traditions that stretch back generations.

The same can be said of countless cultural festivals across Edmonton every summer.

Whether expressed through embroidery, drumming, dance, costume design, music or food, each tradition carries pieces of history forward into the future.

The next time a Cariwest masquerader passes in a swirl of feathers and colour, a dragon winds its way through a festival crowd, or dancers step onto a stage in carefully embroidered costumes, look a little closer.

Every costume, rhythm and movement carries a story.

You just have to know how to read it.

infoedmonton.com

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MORE THAN

COWBOYS

When most Albertans think about professional sports, they think of hockey. They think of standings, rankings, sponsorships, training regimens, road trips, injuries, and Stanley Cup final runs. They think of athletes dedicating their lives to reaching the highest level of competition.

What many people don't realize is that professional rodeo operates in much the same way.

The competitors who will arrive in Edmonton this October for the Canadian Finals Rodeo aren't weekend hobbyists. They are professional athletes competing for the national championship of Canadian rodeo.

For rodeo athletes, the road to the CFR begins long before the first chute opens.

RODEO IS A PROFESSION

Like hockey players pursuing a playoff berth, rodeo competitors spend the season chasing points, earnings, and rankings.

Throughout the year, competitors travel from sanctioned event to event across Canada and beyond, entering rodeos and accumulating the results needed to qualify for major championship events. Every ride, run, and performance contributes to their standing, and it’s all carefully recorded by the sanctioning body, Canadian Pro Rodeo Association.

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The lifestyle requires dedication. Competitors spend long hours on the road, balancing training, travel, and competition schedules.

Many compete in multiple events throughout the season, moving from one community to the next in pursuit of opportunities.

Success is never guaranteed.

Unlike athletes signed to professional team contracts, rodeo competitors largely earn their income one event at a time.

Prize money is awarded based on performance, and those results contribute to the season standings that determine qualification for the Canadian Finals Rodeo. Every competition therefore carries a double incentive: immediate earnings and progress toward a national championship berth.

A successful weekend can advance both goals; an injury or poor performance can set them back.

For many competitors, rodeo is not simply a sport. It is their business, their livelihood, and their passion.

THE COST OF COMPETING

Professional rodeo comes with significant expenses. Top-level competitors invest tens of thousands of dollars each year in travel, equipment, animal care, and entry fees. Competition horses can represent investments comparable to a luxury vehicle—or even a home in some markets.

Horse trailers, feed, veterinary care, conditioning programs, tack, and transportation all contribute to the cost of staying

infoedmonton.com

PHOTOS: CANADIAN FINALS RODEO

THE PROFESSIONAL SPORT BEHIND THE CANADIAN FINALS RODEO

competitive. Maintaining top-level performance requires yearround commitment and substantial resources.

Competitors invest in specialized equipment, transportation, training, and entry fees. Many spend countless hours travelling between events throughout the season, often covering thousands of kilometres in the process.

Rodeo is the only professional “pay-to-play” sport. While other pro sports athletes such as baseball players are paid huge salaries, rodeo cowboys must pay to enter every rodeo.

For rough stock riders--the saddle bronc, bareback and bull riders—the average cost of fuel is $25–$30,000 a year, entry fees another $25–$30,000 a year. For the timed event specialists, legendary tie-down rope horse trainer Logan Bird said, “To buy a rope horse you can win on will for sure cost you at least $100,000.”

For steer wrestlers, who require two horses, double the costs.

Sponsorships play an important role in helping athletes offset expenses. Much like other professional sports, rodeo competitors often partner with companies that support their careers through equipment, apparel, feed, vehicles, or financial assistance. That is why many of the pro performers have brand logos on their shirts and vests.

Behind every ride or run seen in the arena are countless hours of preparation, and significant financial investment.

ATHLETES ON TWO AND FOUR LEGS

One of the biggest misconceptions about rodeo is that only the human competitors are athletes. In reality, many of the animals involved are highly trained performers in their own right.

Barrel racing horses, for example, require exceptional speed, agility, conditioning, and focus. Years of training may go into developing a horse capable of competing at the highest levels.

The bulls and bucking horses used in rodeo competition also represent a major investment. Breeding programs, conditioning, training, veterinary care, and transportation are all part of maintaining championship-calibre animals.

The best bucking horses and bulls can become well-known within the sport, earning reputations every bit as impressive as the competitors who ride them. Within rodeo circles, a champion bucking horse can achieve a level of recognition comparable to a star athlete in any major professional sport.

Rodeo arenas have been named after famous horses such as “Midnight” Stadium in Fort McLeod and “High Chaparral” Arena in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan. The famed bull “Outlaw” has been immortalized in bronze by artist Richard Loffler, and today’s freshly-retired superstar bareback horse, “Virgil,” owned by C5 Rodeo Company, makes special appearances at select rodeos. Fans of the amazing grey are invited to take a photo with Virgil by his very own selfie pen.

sponsorship opportunities, and work toward qualifying for championship events.

As the season draws to a close, every result carries greater weight. With fewer events remaining, competitors have fewer opportunities to climb the standings and secure a place at the CFR. For fans of professional sports, the comparison is familiar. Much as hockey teams battle for playoff positions, rodeo athletes compete for the opportunity to advance to the sport's highest-profile events.

Making the CFR is an achievement in itself.

Qualification represents months of effort, sacrifice, travel, and competition against some of the country's best athletes. Reaching the finals signals that a competitor has earned a place among the sport's elite.

WHERE THE SEASON COMES TOGETHER

This October, many of Canada's top rodeo competitors will gather in Edmonton for the Canadian Finals Rodeo.

For spectators, the event offers far more than an opportunity to watch exciting competition. It is a chance to witness the culmination of an entire season's worth of work, dedication, and determination.

Every competitor who enters the arena has travelled a unique path to get there. Every ride represents years of experience and countless hours of preparation. Every championship race reflects months of competition across communities large and small.

For longtime rodeo fans, the CFR is a highlight of the year. For newcomers, it offers an opportunity to discover the professional sport behind the spectacle.

The Canadian Finals Rodeo returns to Rogers Place from October 7-10, bringing together top competitors, championship competition, western culture, and four days of action in the heart of downtown Edmonton.

Behind the hats, horses, and tradition lies something many visitors may not expect: a demanding professional sport and the athletes who dedicate their lives to it.

RANKINGS, SPONSORS AND CHAMPIONSHIP DREAMS

Every season builds toward a goal.

Throughout the year, competitors monitor standings, chase

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When the winners of the 2026 Edmonton Tourism Awards were announced in June this year, the celebration was about more than trophies. The awards highlighted something that often goes unnoticed: tourism is one of Edmonton's most important economic engines.

Produced by Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels, the awards recognize leadership, innovation, and excellence across Edmonton's tourism industry. This year's winners reflected several trends shaping the city's visitor economy, including the growth of Indigenous tourism, the continued strength of major events, and the emergence of uniquely Edmonton experiences.

“Indigenous tourism is an important part of Edmonton's tourism landscape,” says Ziyah Karmali, Manager of Media Relations & Storytelling for Explore Edmonton. Recognition of organizations such as Métis Crossing reflects growing demand for authentic cultural experiences that connect visitors with local stories, traditions, and communities.

At the same time, Edmonton entrepreneurs continue to create attractions, restaurants, festivals, and experiences that help define the city's identity. According to Karmali, local creativity is becoming one of Edmonton's greatest tourism assets, turning first-time visitors into repeat visitors.

Major events also remain a cornerstone of tourism growth.

From festivals and conventions to sporting events and the Canadian Finals Rodeo, Edmonton continues to build on its reputation as a city that knows how to host.

The economic impact is significant.

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Visitors spent $2.6 billion in the Edmonton region in 2025, while more than 7 million visitors came to the city. Tourism supports hotels, restaurants, attractions, transportation providers, retailers, event organizers, and countless other businesses throughout the region. Across Alberta, more than 250,000 jobs are tied to the visitor economy.

“Tourism is economic development,” says Karmali. “The visitor economy powers growth in Edmonton, driving economic impact, supporting local businesses, and enhancing quality of life for residents.”

The city's long-term Tourism Master Plan aims to build on that momentum. Developed by Explore Edmonton, the ten-year strategy focuses on creating meaningful experiences for visitors and residents while supporting sustainable growth and longterm economic prosperity.

What often surprises visitors most, Karmali notes, is the sheer diversity of experiences available. Edmonton's more than 60 festivals, thriving culinary scene, major sporting events, Indigenous tourism offerings, and North Saskatchewan River Valley combine to create a destination that many visitors discover is far more dynamic than expected.

The Edmonton Tourism Awards celebrate the organizations that make those experiences possible. Just as importantly, they highlight an industry that continues to play a vital role in Edmonton's economy, helping attract visitors, investment, and new opportunities to the city.

EdmontonTourismAwards.com

infoedmonton.com

PHOTO: EXPLORE EDMONTON; EDMONTON TOURISM AWARDS

THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM

EDMONTON GETS ITS GATHERING

PLACE BACK

PHOTO: CITY OF EDMONTON

William Hawrelak Park

or generations of Edmontonians, William Hawrelak Park has been where summer memories are made. Families spread blankets beside the lake. Friends gather for concerts and festivals.

Cyclists and walkers pause to enjoy one of the most beautiful corners of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. In winter, visitors bundle up to skate, explore, and celebrate the season.

After several years of closure for extensive rehabilitation and renewal work, Hawrelak Park is finally welcoming visitors back.

Its return is significant not only because of what the park offers, but because of where it sits.

Located in the heart of Edmonton's River Valley, Hawrelak is part of one of North America's largest urban park systems. The River Valley stretches for kilometres through the city, connecting parks, trails, natural areas, and recreational spaces that define Edmonton's outdoor identity.

Among those many green spaces, Hawrelak occupies a special place. With its central lake, expansive lawns, mature trees, picnic sites, and easy access to trails, the park has long served as one of Edmonton's premier gathering places. It is a destination that appeals equally to outdoor enthusiasts, families, festival-goers, and visitors looking for a quiet place to enjoy the scenery.

Perhaps nowhere is that role more visible than during festival season. Many of Edmonton's favourite events have called Hawrelak home over the years. During the park's closure, organizers found alternative venues, ensuring traditions could continue. Yet for many residents, the events never felt quite the same away from their familiar setting in the River Valley.

This year marks the return of several major festivals and events to the park, including the Freewill Shakespeare Festival (FreewillShakespeare.com), Symphony Under the Sky (WinspearCentre.com), the Heritage Festival (HeritageFest.ca), and the World Triathlon Cup (DoNorthEvents.ca). Together, they showcase the remarkable versatility of a venue that can host everything from international sporting competitions to outdoor theatre and multicultural celebrations.

The park's importance extends beyond the summer months.

Winter favourites such as Silver Skate Festival (SilverSkate.ca) and the International Festival of Winter Cinema (IFWC.ca) are also scheduled to return, once again transforming Hawrelak into a hub of activity during Edmonton's coldest season.

The surrounding River Valley remains busy year-round as well.

Nearby stretches of the North Saskatchewan River host events such as the Dragon Boat Festival (YEGDragonFest.ca ) and the Sourdough Raft Race (SourDoughRaftRace.com), adding even more opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the city outdoors.

Parks can be measured by acreage, amenities, and trail connections. Their real value, however, lies in the memories they create and the communities they bring together.

For countless Edmontonians, Hawrelak Park is more than a destination on a map. It is a place of shared experiences, annual traditions, and treasured moments. Its reopening restores more than a park.

It brings back one of Edmonton's favourite places to gather.

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Arts & Attractions Museums || Attractions || Galleries || Festivals || Theatres

A DIFFERENT SIDE OF SUMMER Summer is usually a season of celebration, but the Royal Alberta Museum is offering visitors a chance to explore a more universal subject. Death: Life’s Greatest Mystery examines how cultures around the world understand mortality, remembrance and what may lie beyond.

Summer is a season of transition at the Art Gallery of Alberta, making it an ideal time to visit. Two thought-provoking exhibitions are approaching their final weeks while two major new exhibitions arrive to carry the gallery through the rest of the season.

Visitors still have time to experience In Whose Eyes, an exhibition exploring portraiture, identity and the ways we see ourselves and others. Also nearing its close is Wallflower, a vibrant exhibition that examines humanity’s relationship with the natural world through contemporary artistic perspectives.

Both exhibitions remain on display through August.

Beginning June 20, the gallery shifts gears with the opening of Sports: The Art of Competing. Timed perfectly for a summer filled with festivals, outdoor recreation and sporting events, the exhibition explores competition, athleticism and the cultural impact of sport through works drawn from the AGA’s collection and beyond.

Opening the same day is Funny Bone, Wish Bone, Back Bone

by Zoë Ann Cardinal Schubert. Through sculpture, installation and mixed media, the Alberta artist examines family, memory, identity and resilience in a deeply personal body of work.

Together, these four exhibitions showcase the range of experiences visitors can find under the AGA’s iconic zincand-glass curves. Whether you are drawn to contemporary art, Indigenous perspectives, personal storytelling or the culture of sport, there is something new—and something soon to be gone—waiting inside this summer.

YourAGA.ca

Far from being gloomy, the exhibition combines science, history and cultural traditions to explore one of humanity’s oldest questions. Interactive displays, artefacts and personal stories invite visitors to consider how different societies honour the dead and make meaning from loss.

Running through to September 7, the exhibition offers a thoughtful counterpoint to the busy festival season—and perhaps a reminder that reflecting on life is one way of appreciating it more fully.

RoyalAlbertaMuseum.ca

EVERY DOG HAS ITS DAY

Dogs have been our companions for thousands of years, but how much do we really know about them? Dogs!

A Science Tail at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton explores the remarkable bond between humans and canines through hands-on exhibits, interactive activities and plenty of opportunities for discovery.

Visitors can learn how dogs perceive the world, communicate with humans and perform extraordinary tasks, from search-and-rescue work to assisting people with disabilities. The exhibition combines science, history and a healthy dose of fun, making it a natural choice for families, animal lovers and curious minds of all ages.

Running through to September 7, it is proof that science can sometimes come with four legs, a wagging tail and a very wet nose.

TWOSE.ca

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infoedmonton.com

PHOTOS: AGA & VALERIYA VORONOVSKYA; ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM; TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE EDMONTON

FOUR REASONS TO VISIT THE AGA THIS SUMMER

PHOTOS: REYNOLDS ALBERTA MUSEUM; EDMONTON MURAL FESTIVAL

EASY PARKING Park downtown—or anywhere else in the city—with ease using the EPark, HotSpot or HangTag apps.

RIDE TO REYNOLDS

THE CITY AS CANVAS

For one day each summer, the Reynolds-Alberta Museum becomes one of the largest motorcycle gatherings in the province.

Every summer, blank walls across Edmonton become works of art.

Ride to Reynolds returns August 8, bringing together riders from across Alberta and beyond for a day that celebrates motorcycling culture and community. More than 1,200 motorcycles are expected to roll onto the museum grounds, creating an impressive temporary bike show featuring everything from vintage classics to modern touring machines and custom builds.

The Edmonton Mural Festival returns from August 15 to September 15, bringing local, national and international artists together to create large-scale public art throughout the city. Visitors can watch ATB Place, murals take shape in real time, meet Artist Nicole Wolf artists and explore neighbourhoods transformed by colour, creativity and imagination.

Visitors can enjoy food trucks, vendors, live entertainment and tours inside the museum, while riders have the chance to reconnect with friends, meet fellow enthusiasts and share their passion for life on two wheels.

Whether you arrive on a motorcycle or simply come to admire the incredible display, Ride to Reynolds is a summer event that proves some attractions are measured in horsepower.

What makes the festival unique is that the artwork remains long after the paint dries. Each mural becomes part of Edmonton's streetscape, adding new stories and perspectives to the city's walls while creating a growing collection of public art that can be enjoyed year-round.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a photographer or simply someone who enjoys discovering hidden corners of the city, the Edmonton Mural Festival offers a chance to see Edmonton through fresh eyes. EdmontonMuralFest.com

ReynoldsMuseum.ca ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

MUSEUMS ALBERTA AVIATION MUSEUM | Devoted to all things aeronautical and Albertan. The museum is located on-site at the former Edmonton City Centre Airport on the southwest corner of the field.

780-451-1175. 11410 Kingsway NW. AlbertaAviationMuseum.com

OLD STRATHCONA STREETCAR MUSEUM | A heritage society offering rides on restored streetcars, with historical info and an associated museum.

780-437-7721. 10330 84 Ave NW. EdmontonStreetcars.ca

featuring the original homes of pioneer John Walter, his family, and the community of Walterdale from 1875 to 1920. Visitors can explore early settler life, community history and scenic grounds along the river valley. 780-442-5311. 9180 Walterdale Hill NW. Edmonton.ca/Attractions_events/John-Walter-Museum

REDBRICK COMMON | The Red Brick Common has been preserving and promoting the history and culture of Stony Plain and the surrounding area for over fify years.

Formerly known as the Multicultural Heritage Centre, the Red Brick Common promotes community connections through the operation of a museum, public art gallery, adult and children programming, family events, as well as cultural and agricultural programs. 780-963-2777. 5411 51 Street, Stony Plain. RedbrickCommon.ca

MUSÉE HÉRITAGE MUSEUM | A community museum celebrating the rich history and heritage of the St. Albert area with engaging exhibits, artefacts and programs that highlight local stories and historic traditions. 780-4591528. 5 St. Anne St. StAlbert.ca/Exp/Heritage/Museum

REYNOLDS ALBERTA MUSEUM | Love vintage machinery? Discover historic vehicles, farm equipment, aircraft and interactive exhibits celebrating Alberta’s mechanical heritage. 780- 312-2065. 6426 40 Ave, Wetaskiwin, AB. ReynoldsMuseum.ca

NEON SIGN MUSEUM | A unique outdoor display celebrating Edmonton’s visual history with a collection of historic neon signs preserved along 104 Street. It’s a colorful, nostalgic experience perfect to enjoy any time, but especially after dark. 780-496-5281. 104St NW. Edmonton.ca/City_Government/Edmonton_Archives/ Neon-Sign-Museum

ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM | A premier museum exploring Alberta’s natural world, human history and vibrant cultures through expansive exhibits, interactive displays and storytelling that engages visitors of all ages. Expect fascinating galleries on wildlife, Indigenous histories, and more. 825-468-6000. 9810 103A Ave NW. RoyalAlbertaMuseum.ca

JOHN WALTER MUSEUM | A charming historic site

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

JULY/AUGUST 2026

RUTHERFORD HOUSE | Tucked inside the University of Alberta campus is a beautifully preserved Edwardian mansion once home to Alberta’s first Premier. Guests can tour guided rooms and enjoy costumed interpreters, gardens and exhibits showcasing early 20thcentury life. 780-427-3995.

11153 Saskatchewan Dr NW. RutherfordHouse.ca STONY PLAIN AND PARKLAND PIONEER MUSEUM | This outdoor heritage museum offers a

glimpse into early prairie life. Historic buildings, farm equipment, and antique collections recreate what life was like for settlers in the Parkland region during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

780-963-1234. 5120 41 Ave, Stony Plain.

PioneerMuseum.ca THE PALEONTOLOGY MUSEUM | Highlights from two extraordinary collections, University of Alberta Laboratory for Vertebrate Paleontology and the Invertebrate Paleontology Collection, are available for public discovery in the Paleontology Museum.

Specimens on display range in age from over 600 million to 10,000 years, from dinosaurs to fish to trilobites. Significant fossils highlight unique discoveries that address major evolutionary questions.

780-288-0109. Earth Sciences Building, University of Alberta Campus, 11011 88 Avenue NW. UAlberta.ca/en/earth-sciences/facilities/collectionsand-museums/index.html 19

ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE ARTS & CRAFTS MUSEUM | This small but fascinating museum

preserves Ukrainian folk art and traditional crafts. Visitors can see beautifully embroidered textiles, ceramics, and handmade objects that reflect generations of Ukrainian heritage and cultural traditions in Alberta. 10825 97 Street NW. UCWLCEdmonton.ca/Ukrainian-Museum WOMEN’S ART MUSEUM OF CANADA | Highlights

artwork by women and gender-diverse artists from across the country. Through exhibitions and programs, the museum promotes creative voices that have often been overlooked in traditional galleries. 587-415-4457. WAMSoc.ca ATTRACTIONS ALBERTA LEGISLATURE GROUNDS | Spanning 57 acres of land with stunning views, the Legislature grounds include one of the city’s most iconic buildings. 780-4272826. 10800 97 Ave NW. Assembly.ab.ca EDMONTON RIVERBOATS | Edmonton's iconic riverboat.

Discover the beauty of Edmonton as you dine, on a delightful weekend brunch, dinner, or mesmerizing sunset cruise.

780-424-2628. 9734 98 Ave NW. EdmontonRiverboat.ca ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK | Large, forested park featuring a refuge for bison, elk and many birds, plus campsites and picnic spots. 780-922-5790. Improvement Disctrict No. 13. Parks.Canada.ca/pn-np/ab/ElkIsland FORT EDMONTON PARK | Heritage park with recreated

architecture from 1885, 1905 & 1920 Edmonton, plus a fort and streetcars. 780-496-7341. 7000 143 St NW. FortEdmontonPark.com

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GALAXYLAND | North America's largest indoor amusement park features 27 rides and more for all ages. Sponsored by Hasbro, a global play and entertainment company. 780-444-5300. West Edmonton Mall, 8882 170 St NW. WEM.ca/play/ Attractions/Galaxyland HAWRELAK PARK | One of Edmonton’s most beloved parks, William Hawrelak Park offers walking trails, picnic sites, paddleboat rentals and broad green spaces in the heart of the river valley. Recently reopened after major renovations, it is also home to many of the city’s biggest festivals and outdoor events. Groat Road & River Valley Road NW. HIGH LEVEL STREET CAR | The High Level Bridge Streetcar is a historic streetcar ride over the High Level Bridge, where you can enjoy spectacular views along the river. 780-437-7721. 8408 Gateway Blvd NW. EdmontonStreetcars.ca/HighLevelBridge MUTTART CONSERVATORY | One of Canada's largest indoor botanical collections is nestled in the river valley with vivid gardens presenting plant life from across the globe. 780-496-8755. 9626 96a St NW. Edmonton.ca/Attractions_Events/ Muttart-Conservatory TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE | A broad-based science centre with hands-on exhibits on robots, the human body and more, plus a separate observatory.

780-451-3344. 11211 142 Street NW. TelusWorldOfScienceEdmonton.ca

infoedmonton.com

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA BOTANIC GARDENS |

See where lush and diverse landscapes blend seamlessly with rich experiences. Wander through cultural gardens, such as the Kurimoto Japanese Garden and Aga Khan Garden. View thousands of plant species or take in a location designed to celebrate arts and culture. 780-492-326. 51227 AB-60, Parkland County.

UAlberta.ca/en/Botanic-Garden GALLERIES

ALBERTA CRAFT GALLERY AND SHOP | Offers access to the two exhibition galleries and features a retail shop showcasing blown glass, clay, wood, jewelry, stone, new media and more work by over 175 Alberta Craft Artists. 780-488-5900. 10186 106 Street NW. AlbertaCraft.ab.ca ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA | A landmark visual arts institution showcasing contemporary and historical works from local, Canadian and international artists. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions, engaging programs and inspiring collections that span diverse artistic styles and media. 780-422-6223. 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. YourAga.ca ART GALLERY OF ST. ALBERT | A communityfocused gallery featuring contemporary exhibitions, local artists and cultural programming that reflects the creativity of the St. Albert region. The inviting space encourages exploration and appreciation of visual arts. 780-460-4310. 19 Perron Street, St. Albert. ArtsAndHeritage.ca

ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

BEARCLAW GALLERY | A respected gallery showcasing a diverse collection of Canadian First Nations, Métis and Inuit art, including original paintings, sculpture, carvings and culturally significant works. Visitors can explore Indigenous artistic traditions and contemporary creativity in an inviting space. 780-482-1204. 10403 124 Street NW. BearclawGallery.com BUGERA LAMB FINE ART | A curated gallery showcasing Western Canadian and contemporary artwork with rotating exhibitions and thoughtful collections. The gallery offers a warm environment to discover and connect with compelling pieces by emerging and established artists. The gallery has been a part of Edmonton's art scene since 1992 and keeps growing and developing along with the city's eclectic art community. 780-482-2854. 10110 124 Street NW. BugeraLambArt.ca JOHN AND MAGGIE MITCHELL ART GALLERY | Located in the Atrium of Allard Hall, this is MacEwan University’s professional public art gallery, dedicated to engaging timely conversations and community through contemporary art. 780-297-4470. 11110 104 Ave NW. MitchellArtGallery.Macewan.ca LANDO GALLERY | A distinguished fine art gallery in Edmonton’s gallery district featuring Canadian and international works, custom framing and expert appraisals. The welcoming space highlights both classic and contemporary pieces with a refined aesthetic. 780-990-1161. 10345 124 St NW. LandoGallery.com

LATITUDE 53 | A dynamic artist-run contemporary art gallery presenting thought-provoking exhibitions, collaborative projects and community-centred programming.

The space highlights emerging and established voices in visual art with a focus on innovation. 780-423-5353.

10130 100 St NW. Latitude53.org MACTAGGART ART COLLECTION |Composed of more than 1,000 rare works of art, including textiles, costumes, paintings, handscrolls, albums, engravings, and other artifacts from ancient and modern East Asia. The collection furthers our knowledge of East Asian cultures, and informs the research of students and scholars world-wide.

780-492-9474. 87 Ave NW. Ualberta.ca/en/museums/ museum-collections/mactaggart-art-collection.html MAUD GALLERY INC |Modern contemporary art gallery focused on art from established and emerging Canadian and international artists. (587) 991-6283. 10643 124 Street NW. MaudGallery.com OCICIWAN CONTEMPORARY ART CENTRE | Supporting the work of Indigenous contemporary artists and designers, engages in contemporary critical dialogue, values artistic collaboration and fosters awareness of Indigenous contemporary art practices. 780-244-5505.

10124 96 Street NW. Ociciwan.ca PETER ROBERTSON GALLERY | Established in 2004

and recognized as one of Canada's leading contemporary art galleries, this gallery space represents a roster of over 40 emerging, mid-career, and senior Canadian artists. 780-455-7479. 10332 124 Street NW. PRobertsonGallery.com

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

FESTIVALS (Date order) ROCKIN’ THUNDER FESTIVAL | Rockin' Thunder brings the hottest names in rock music to Edmonto for the ultimate festival experience. |July 11-12. Exhibition Lands Racetrack, Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118 Ave NW. RockinThunderFest.com GREAT OUTDOORS COMEDY FESTIVAL | Catch live outdoor comedy in Edmonton at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival. Top comedians, food trucks & festival vibes under the open sky. Catch your favourite comedian with General Admission or General Admission Plus. Or go full rockstar with VIP Club or VIP Table – offering table-side service and laughs that may send champagne out your nose.| July 17-19. Kinsmen Park, 9100 Walterdale Hill NW. GreatOutdoorsComedyFestival.com/Cities/Edmonton K-DAYS|Edmonton’s extravaganza of rides, games, music, food and adventure. The rides and games alone will leave you breathless and wanting more. Watch as fireworks light up the night sky and cheer for the band onstage. Savour the tangy smokiness of a perfectly barbecued rib, taste the warm sugary bliss of freshly fried donuts and bite into the gooey crispness of a candy apple.|July 17-26. Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118 Ave NW. K-Days.com BIG VALLEY JAMBOREE | Canada's premiere camping music festival, bringing some of the biggest country superstars. It is a massive, four-day outdoor event hosted annually in Camrose, Alberta, over the August long weekend, featuring top-tier live acts, a bustling tradeshow, camping, and rodeo events. | July 30 – Aug 2. 4250 Exhibition Dr., Camrose, AB. BigValleyJamboree.com

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ARTS & ATTRACTIONS

EDMONTON HERITAGE FESTIVAL | The world’s largest three-day celebration of multiculturalism.

Alberta-based cultural groups share their history, song, dance and food with the world. They supply all the songs, dance, crafts and music. | Aug 1 – Aug 3. Hawrelak Park, 9330 Groat Rd NW. HeritageFest.ca

DRAGON FESTIVAL | Pan-American Lion Dance Championship, Taste of Chinatown street food market, outdoor cinema, cultural performances, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities.| Aug 20-23. Kinistinâw Park, 10249 – 96 St. ExploreChinatownYeg.com/Dragon-Festival

EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL | World-class folk

EDMONTON PRIDE FESTIVAL | Celebrate love, diversity,

artists across multiple stages, sweeping views of the downtown skyline, and a deeply rooted, community-driven volunteer spirit. |Aug 6–9. Gallagher Park, 9505 96 Ave NW. EdmontonFolkFest.org

CARIWEST FESTIVAL| A Caribbean arts and culture festival

held annually in the heart of downtown. this three-day summer celebration showcases Caribbean heritage through vibrant street parades, elaborate masquerade costumes, infectious music, and authentic island cuisine. | Aug 7-9. Sir Winston Churchill Square, 100 St NW. Cariwest.ca EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL | Everything from boundary-pushing theatre

and comedy to improv, magic, and cabaret. They are famously part street party and part theatre marathon, featuring huge outdoor festival sites, food trucks, and free street performers.| Aug 13. Old Strathcona District.

FringeTheatre.ca/Festival DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL | An annual summer celebration of Asian heritage, sport, and culture. The event is highlighted by high-energy dragon boat races on the water, traditional lion dances, cultural performances, and open-air food markets| Aug 14-16. Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, 9999 Grierson Hill NW. YegDragonFest.ca

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and community at Edmonton Pride Fest, happening in the heart of downtown at Sir Winston Churchill Square. One of Alberta’s largest LGBTQ2S+ events, the festival features a high-energy Pride Parade, the vibrant PrideFest at FanPark with music and drag performances, and the fun-filled Brunch Sing-Along. | Aug 21-22. Various Venues Downtown. EdmontonPrideFest.com THEATRES CITADEL THEATRE | Edmonton's major venue for theatre arts. Featuring Canadian and international professional productions. 780-425-1820. 9828 101A Avenue NW. CitadelTheatre.com HOROWITZ THEATRE | Since 1967, One of Edmonton’s favourite venues for live music, comedy, dance, and more. Its intimate, welcoming atmosphere makes every performance feel up close and unforgettable. 780-492-4764. 8900 114 Street NW. HorowitzEvents.ca NORTHERN ALBERTA JUBILEE AUDITORIUM | A major

performing arts, culture and community facility located in the University of Alberta campus. The auditorium was built in 1955 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Alberta.

780-427-2760. 11455 87 Ave NW. JubileeAuditorium.com

infoedmonton.com

ROXY THEATRE | Also known as The Roxy, it was originally designated as a movie theatre, but was eventually converted into a live-action performance venue. 780-453-2440. 10708 124 St. TheatreNetwork.ca VARSCONA THEATRE | This beautiful and intimate 200-seat theatre in the Old Strathcona neighborhood houses performances by local theatre groups year-round. 780-433-3399. 10329 83 Ave NW. VarsconaTheatre.com NORTHERN LIGHT THEATRE | One of Edmonton’s leading independent theatre companies, Northern Light Theatre produces contemporary Canadian plays that are thoughtful, funny and often a little daring. Performances are staged at the Studio Theatre inside the ATB Financial Arts Barns. 780-471-1586. 10330 84 Avenue NW. NorthernLightTheatre.com WALTERDALE THEATRE | Housed in a converted 1900s firehall, this intimate venue in Old Strathcona is a cornerstone of Edmonton’s theatre scene. The historic building hosts a vibrant calendar of productions by the Walterdale Theatre Associates, one of Western Canada’s oldest community theatre groups. 7804393058.

10322 83 Ave NW. WalterdaleTheatre.com WINSPEAR CENTRE | One of the finest performing arts centres located in the downtown core of Edmonton. In addition to their diverse performance schedule, they also provide over 30 immersive learning opportunities.

780-428-1414. 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square NW. WinspearCentre.com

A CITY MADE FOR

PHOTO: ACTIVATE ARTS ALBERTA

ART WALKS

For a city better known for festivals, hockey, and the river valley, Edmonton has quietly become an impressive destination for art lovers on foot. This year alone, residents and visitors can explore at least four distinct art walk experiences across the city.

The Kinnaird Ravine Art Walk [FreeArtsSociety.org/MuralPorject <sic>] offers a permanent outdoor gallery tucked into the river valley, blending public art with one of Edmonton's most scenic natural spaces.

In June, the 124 Street Art Walk [124Street.ca] brought artists and visitors together in one of the city's most established arts districts. July sees the return of the Whyte Avenue Art Walk [Art-Walk.ca], transforming Old Strathcona into an open-air gallery filled with painters, photographers, sculptors, and makers.

Later in the year, the Strathearn Art Walk [StrathearnArtwalk.com] adds a neighbourhood-focused

celebration of local creativity and music.

What makes Edmonton's collection of art walks remarkable is their variety. Some are temporary events. One is permanent.

Some take place in bustling commercial districts, while another unfolds beneath the trees of the river valley. Together they invite people to experience art outside traditional gallery spaces.

That's part of what makes Edmonton's arts scene unique.

Creativity isn't confined to museums or exhibition halls. It spills onto sidewalks, into neighbourhoods, and along trails, where discovering a painting, sculpture, or installation becomes part of the journey.

In a prairie city often celebrated for its festivals, Edmonton's art walks offer another reason to get outside, explore a new corner of the city, and see familiar places through a more creative lens.

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Shopping Shopping Centres & Districts || Collectables & Gifts || Outdoors || Artisan Markets

SUMMER MARKETS: EDMONTON'S FAVOURITE TREASURE HUNT POP-UP MARKETS Cosplay Garage Sale (July 4) Costume creators, collectors and fandom enthusiasts gather to buy, sell and trade cosplay gear, accessories and hard-to-find treasures. Facebook.com/events/1299997918847002 The Original Edmonton Witches Market (July 4–5) A celebration of alternative spirituality, handcrafted goods, art, crystals, wellness products and local makers.

TheOriginalEdmontonWitchesMarket.com The Orchard Seed Market (July 11 & August 15) A curated artisan market highlighting local creators, makers and small businesses in a community-focused setting. @TheOrchardSeedMarket The Malla Outpost Market (July 11–12) An eclectic gathering of vendors, artists and independent businesses offering unique products and creative finds.

Facebook.com/events/2033612177229166

Whether you're hunting for farm-fresh produce, handcrafted gifts, vintage finds, alternative fashions or late-night street food, Edmonton's summer market calendar offers something nearly every day of the week.

Hello Market Summer Solstice (July 21) A seasonal market featuring local makers, artisans and small businesses with a focus on community and discovery. @HelloMarketYEG

RECURRING MARKETS

Alt After Dark Night Market (July 31) A late-evening shopping experience showcasing alternative creators, artists and vendors in a lively night-market atmosphere.

NorthOfOrdinaryEvents.com

MARKET

DAYS

Castledowns Farmers' Market

Wednesday

Sherwood Park Baseline Market

Wednesday

Leduc Farmers' Market

Thursday & Saturday

124 Street Grand Market

Thursday & Sunday

Grand Night Market

Friday

Leduc Block Party Market

Friday

Bountiful Farmers' Market

Friday–Sunday

St. Albert Farmer’s Market

Saturday

Downtown Farmers' Market

Saturday

Old Strathcona Farmers' Market

Saturday & Sunday

More information: CastledownsFarmersMarket.com • BaselineFarmersMarket.com • LeducFarmersMarket.ca • 124GrandMarket.com • @AlbertaMadeMarket • StAlbertFarmersMarket.com • BountifulMarkets.com •EdmontonDowntown.com/FarmersMarket • OSFM.ca 26

Ignite Market (August 28–30) Food trucks, artisan vendors, games, live music and community performances transform the Booster Juice Recreation Centre into a festival-style night market experience. IgniteMarket.ca Wholly Handmade (August 29–30) One of Alberta's premier handmade markets, featuring juried artisans, craftspeople and makers from across the province.

WhollyHandmade.com From bustling farmers' markets to themed pop-ups and lively night markets, Edmonton's summer market scene has become a destination in its own right. Mark your calendar, gather a few friends and explore the creativity, flavours and community spirit that make these markets some of the city's most enjoyable summer outings.

infoedmonton.com

PHOTO: ALEX SCUCCATO

Markets have evolved far beyond rows of tables and cash boxes. Today's events blend shopping, food, entertainment and community into experiences that can fill an entire evening. One of the newest examples is Ignite Market, a reimagined night market arriving at the Booster Juice Recreation Centre in late August.

Alongside dozens of food vendors, artisans and makers, the event features games, live performances and community participation. Organizers still talk about a spontaneous open-mic performance last year, when a nervous attendee sang before hundreds of people and was met with enthusiastic support from the crowd—a reminder that local markets are as much about connection as commerce.

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OLD STRATHCONA ANTIQUE MALL PARKING LOT SALES JULY 12 & AUGUST 3 PHOTOS: OLD STRATHCONA ANTIQUE MALL; ALBERTA COUNCIL FOR THE UKRAINIAN ARTS

If you love the thrill of discovering unexpected treasures, mark these dates on your calendar.

The Old Strathcona Antique Mall's popular Parking Lot Sales return on July 12 and August 3, transforming the area outside Western Canada's largest antique store into an open-air marketplace packed with vintage finds, collectibles and hidden gems.

Vendors offer everything from antiques, retro décor and furniture to toys, tools, artwork, china, sports memorabilia and one-of-akind curiosities. Whether you're a serious collector or simply enjoy browsing, every table offers the possibility of an unexpected discovery.

Arrive early for the best selection and bring your sharpest treasurehunting instincts.

UKRAINIAN VINTAGE FAIR JUNE 27 – AUGUST 8 Looking for a unique piece of history? The Ukrainian Vintage Fair offers weeks of treasure hunting for anyone who loves antiques, collectibles and traditional craftsmanship.

Hosted by the Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts, the sale features Ukrainian vintage items including embroidery, jewelry, pottery, ceramics, weaving, wood carvings, artwork, music, religious items, pysanky, books, gifts and souvenirs.

Whether you're searching for a special addition to a collection, exploring your heritage or simply looking for something distinctive, there's plenty to discover. Shop the collection during regular gallery hours at the ACUA Arts Centre and bring home a piece of Ukrainian culture and history.

Old Strathcona Antique Mall | 10323 78 Avenue NW | OldStrathconaMall.com

ACUA Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts | 10554 110 Street NW | ACUArts.ca

SHOPPING

SHOPPING CENTRES & DISTRICTS BONNIE DOON SHOPPING CENTRE | An old-school mall with brand-name retailers, beauty salons, a bowling alley, food court and supermarket.

Connected to the LRT system. 780-465-7902. 8330 82 Ave NW. BonnieDoonShoppingCentre.com CURRENTS OF WINDERMERE | This outdoor, open air mall is a modern shopping centre offering a diverse mix of retail stores, restaurants, and services.

Guests appreciate its bright, spacious layout, family-friendly amenities, and convenient location for everyday and specialty shopping. 780-229-4800. 6004 Currents Dr NW. ShopCurrents.ca EDMONTON CITY CENTRE | The downtown destination of choice for blending national brands, boutique shops, and dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy urban convenience, seasonal events, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Edmonton.

780-426-8444. 10025 102A Ave NW. EdmontonCityCentre.com EMERALD HILLS SHOPPING CENTRE | Combining successful, leading retail stores and services with a relaxed, easy-going setting. Enjoy wide walking paths, outdoor music and an abundance of trusted national and regional brands. 587-392-4843. 5000 Emerald Drive, Sherwood Park. EmeraldHillsCentre.com

KINGSWAY MALL | A bustling shopping destination featuring a mix of national retailers, boutique shops and dining options. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with convenient amenities, seasonal events, and plenty of choices for fashion, electronics, and family shopping.

780-477-5756. 109 Kingsway NW. KingswayMall.ca

MILL WOODS TOWN CENTRE | Mill Woods Town Centre is an attractive community centre located in the heart of a growing residential area in southeast Edmonton. Connected to the LRT system.

780-461-2400. 2331 66 Street NW. MillwoodsTownCentre.com

LONDONDERRY MALL | Your destination for a diverse selection of stores and services. A long-standing community mall featuring a wide selection of retailers, food options, and services. Visitors enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, accessible layout, and a variety of shopping choices for the whole family. Explore fantastic vendors that match your personal style and compliment your lifestyle. 780-476-1444. 1 Londonderry Mall NW. LondonderryMall.com

NORTH TOWN CENTRE | A neighbourhood retail hub with a combination of big-box stores, specialty shops and casual dining. Visitors appreciate its practical layout, friendly environment, and accessibility for everyday shopping needs 780-475-1673. 9450 137 Ave NW. NorthTownCentre.com

MANCHESTER SQUARE | Featuring an outdoor fountain, a 20-foot promenade for casual strolling, and a hidden indoor alleyway with artistic features that let visitors feel like they are walking the streets of Europe.

780-705-8676. 10712 120 St NW. ManchesterSquare.ca

NORTHGATE CENTRE | A classic Edmonton shopping centre offering a variety of stores, services, and eateries in a convenient, communityfriendly setting. Guests can explore local favourites and national brands while enjoying a relaxed, welcoming shopping experience. 780-475-3695.

9499 137 Ave NW. NorthgateCentre.ca

MANNING TOWN CENTRE | Large plaza, communityfocused shopping destination with a diverse mix of stores, grocery outlets, and service providers.

Shoppers enjoy a friendly atmosphere, convenient parking, and easy access to everyday essentials.780.424-8008. 15531 37 Street NW. ManningTownCentre.com

SOUTH EDMONTON COMMON | One of Alberta’s largest retail complexes, offering big-box stores, restaurants, and entertainment. Guests can enjoy a one-stop shopping experience with plenty of options for fashion, electronics, home goods, and leisure activities. 587-756-6400. 1732 99 Street NW. SouthEdmontonCommon.com

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SHOPPING

SOUTHGATE CENTRE | A popular, modern mall blending national brands, boutique retailers and a variety of dining options. Visitors appreciate the comfortable layout, engaging events, and convenient shopping experience in a welcoming setting. 780-435-3721. 5015 111 Street NW. SouthgateCentre.com SOUTHPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE | An open air commercial plaza in the Gateway/Calgary trail area of Edmonton with a diverse range of shops and expansions coming in the new year. This convenient neighbourhood shopping hub offering a variety of retailers, services, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, easy parking, and a mix of everyday essentials alongside local favourites. 3203 Calgary Trail NW.

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COLLECTIBLES & GIFTS AUDREY’S | Edmonton's oldest independent bookstore.

A beloved Edmonton classic with a rich selection of new and classic titles, gifts, puzzles and more. Shoppers can discover literary finds, enjoy expert recommendations, and join community events in a cozy, welcoming space.

780-423-3487. 10702 Jasper Avenue NW. Audreys.ca BISSETT STAINED GLASS | A specialty studio offering handcrafted stained glass pieces and supplies. Guests can admire intricate glass art, find custom pieces and explore materials for creative projects in a warm, artisancentred space.

780-435-7533. 3104 Parsons Road NW. BissettGlass.com COLLECTIVERSE | Destination for vintage vinyl records with over 3100 records to browse, they’re sure to have something for everyone. They also carry a selection of new records and re-presses. 587-400-7478. 435 Mistatim Way NW. Collectiverse.ca

WEST EDMONTON MALL | One-stop destination for entertainment and the widest variety of retailers, with over 800 stores and restaurants, 12 world-class attractions, and two hotels. This is Edmonton’s iconic shopping and entertainment destination with hundreds of stores, amusement attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Guests can enjoy world-class shopping, family entertainment, seasonal events, and unique experiences all under one roof. 780-444-5321.

8882 170 Street NW. WEM.ca

JACEK CHOCOLATE COUTURE | Award-winning artisanal chocolate boutique with elegant, handmade chocolates and confections in-house. Visitors can indulge in beautifully presented truffles, bars and sweet creations perfect for gifts or special treats. 825-480-7791. 9674 142 Street NW. JacekChocolate.com

WESTMOUNT SHOPPING CENTRE | Shopping mall in the Woodcroft neighbourhood, open since 1955, this mall houses brand-name retailers, restaurants, health services and beauty salons.

780-452-1234. 13310 111 Avenue NW. WestmountShopping.com

KI-FU-NE JAPAN GIFT STORE | A unique Japanese gift shop featuring carefully curated imports from Japan including folk crafts, stationery, textiles and cultural treasures. Guests can enjoy authentic items that celebrate Japanese design and tradition. 780-341-5424. 7609 109 St NW. KifuneEdmonton.com

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OLD STRATHCONA ANTIQUE MALL | Western Canada’s largest antique mall with an everchanging collection of vintage treasures, collectibles and retro finds. Shoppers can browse decades of history from furniture and décor to rare memorabilia 780-4330398. 10323 78 Avenue NW. OldStrathconaMall.com PAPER BIRCH BOOKS | A small used bookstore, chock full of treasures from contemporary titles to vintage paperbacks, zany ephemera, and more.

587-400-3207. 10825 95 Street NW. PaperBirchBooks.ca POP COLLECTIVE | Pop Collective is an Edmonton local market featuring Alberta makers, handmade gifts, artisan collectives, and pop-up vendors. Bringing over 100 local businesses together, with unique finds, all from incredible local artisans. Explore something new, and support small businesses in the heart of Oliver.

587-226-8565. 12021 102 Ave NW. PopCollective.ca QUEEN MARY’S MARKET | Visitors from all over Edmonton and surrounding areas come out and be where bargains rein supreme. This family-friendly shopping experience catering to families and basics everyone needs to unique one of a kind collectibles. 780-413-8998. 12011 111 Ave NW. QueenMarysMarket.com TAPS GAMES | Magic the Gathering Store and gaming space for drop-in games and events. Board games, games workshop, Dungeons & Dragons, Pokémon, Magic Singles and more! 780-705-0132. 2854 Calgary Trail NW. TapsGames.ca

SHOPPING

THE ARTWORKS | A creative boutique blending floral design, fine gifts and artistic pieces. Visitors can enjoy unique jewelry, thoughtful gifts and fresh floral arrangements in a stylish space that feels like a mix of gallery and general store. 780-420-6311.

10150 100 Street NW. TheArtworks.ca

WEE BOOK INN | A beloved independent used bookstore with towering shelves and a welcoming vibe. Visitors can lose themselves in a treasure trove of fiction, classics and rare finds while enjoying a relaxed, booklover atmosphere. 780-4327230. 10332 Jasper Avenue NW. WeeBookInn.com

THE JUNQUE CELLAR | A quirky boutique offering an eclectic mix of vintage items, home décor, and curiosities. Perfect for those seeking one-of-akind treasures. 780-433-9963. 10442 Whyte Ave NW (basement). Instagram.com/Junque.Cellar

WEST EDMONTON COIN AND STAMP | West Edmonton Coin and Stamp sells fine gold and silver coins at Royal Canadian Mint Issue Price. A premier source for all types of coins, stamps, sports cards, memorabilia and collectibles. 780-444-1156. 8882 170 Street NW. WestEdmontonCoinAndStamp.com

THE MAKERS KEEP | Showcasing handmade goods from local artisans, this boutique offers everything from jewelry to home décor, emphasizing sustainability and craftsmanship. 587-200-0473.

2755 Broadmoor Boulevard, Sherwood Park.

TheMakersKeep.com

WHEN PIGS FLY | A whimsical gift boutique on Whyte Avenue filled with quirky treasures, fun home accents and imaginative products. Shoppers can find unique gifts, playful décor and standout pieces perfect for special occasions or browsing inspiration. 780-433-9127.

10470 Whyte Avenue NW. WhenPigsFly.ca

THE PLAID GIRAFFE | Discover a beautiful selection of locally produced jewelry, purses, hand bags, and much more at the Plaid Giraffe in Old Strathcona Community. 780-439-6195. 10340 Whyte Avenue NW. ThePlaidGiraffe.ca

OUTDOORS ELEMENTS OUTFITTERS | Elements Outfitters Edmonton is your one-stop shop for top-quality outdoor gear and apparel. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a weekend warrior, they have everything you need to tackle your next adventure. 780-758-4442. 1441 99 Street NW. ElementsOutfitters.ca

VILLAGE GOODS | A charming fairtrade gift shop offering ethically sourced artisan goods from around the world. Guests can browse unique home décor, jewelry, handmade textiles and thoughtful keepsakes while supporting global artisans and community values. 780-439-8349. 10432 Whyte Avenue NW. VillageGoods.ca

FJALLRAVEN EDMONTON | Hailing from the small town of Örnsköldsvik in Sweden, Fjällräven is an outdoor clothing and equipment company that’s committed to making nature more accessible. 587-413-0684. 11970 104 Avenue NW. Fjallraven.com

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HELLY HANSEN | Located inside West Edmonton Mall, they are family owned and have been operating since 1999. Specializing in gear for any and all activities, they provide high quality, protective technical gear for work, survival and sport. 780-444-2334. 8882 170th Street NW. HellyHansen.com ICE DISTRICT AUTHENTICS | The official Oilers Team Store, offering a wide range of official Oilers and Oil Kings merchandise, including game-used gear. 780-664-0230.

10336 103 St NW. IceDistrictAuthentics.com MARK’S | Whether you’re gearing up for your job or easing into your downtime, or heading out on the River Valley trails, Mark’s has what you need to make shopping for everything from hoodies to hard hats the easiest thing on your to-do list with simple, reliable products. Ten different locations throughout Edmonton, check website for details. 780-479-2478. 1100 Westmount Shopping Centre NW. Marks.com MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT COMPANY (MEC) EDMONTON SOUTH | Since 1971, MEC has sold exceptional products at fair prices, whether you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Bike Shop hours may differ from regular store hours. Also located on 104th Avenue NW. 780-433-0293. 1624 99 Street NW. MEC.ca SPORT CHEK | Canada’s largest retailer of sporting clothing and equipment, offering a wide range of products for various outdoor activities. Multiple stores. See site for locations. 780-435-8488. South Edmonton Common, 1320 99 Street NW. SportChek.ca

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SHOPPING

THE FISHIN’ HOLE | For 50 years, The Fishin' Hole has been the go-to destination for anglers across Canada, helping them find the right gear to up their game and catch the big one. Specializes in fishing gear and accessories, providing a comprehensive selection for anglers of all levels. Also Located in South Edmonton Common. 780-444-1220. 11283 170 Street NW. TheFishinHole.com TOTEM OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS | family owned business that has been around for over 50 years, it’s home to a retail store, sports exchange, evaluation center, and a rental & repair shop. Selling quality new and used outdoor sporting gear. 780-432-1223. 7430 99 Street NW. TotemOutfitters.ca TRACK N’ TRAIL | Serving Edmonton's outdoor community since 1984. This independent shop is good for all your cross country, Nordic, alpine touring skiing, backpacking, climbing, hiking and trail running needs.

780-432-1707. 10148 Whyte Ave NW. TracknTrail.ca UNITED SPORT & CYCLE | A family-owned store offering a vast selection of sporting goods, including cycling, hockey, and outdoor equipment. 780-433-1181.

7620 Gateway Blvd NW. UnitedSport.ca FASHION FLOC BOUTIQUE | A trendy women’s clothing boutique with carefully selected apparel and accessories. Shoppers can find unique, polished pieces ideal for seasonal updates and special occasions..

780-705-0994. 170-14101 West Block Drive NW. FlocBoutique.com​ FOOSH | A contemporary clothing and lifestyle boutique showcasing modern designs, versatile apparel and curated accessories. Visitors will appreciate the shop’s clean aesthetic and fashionforward selections for everyday style updates. A visionary space combining sneakers, streetwear, music, and art culture, offering a unique shopping experience for urban fashion enthusiasts.

780-491-6980. 10544 82 Avenue NW. Foosh.ca​ GRAVITY POPE | A tailored fashion boutique focusing on quality craftsmanship, curated garments and distinct style. Guests can find unique pieces that blend classic tailoring with modern sensibilities. 780-439-1637.

10414 Whyte Ave NW. GravityPope.com THE HELM CLOTHING | A menswear boutique blending classic tailoring with modern casual pieces.

Shoppers can find quality shirts, jackets, accessories and thoughtful staples perfect for building a refined and practical wardrobe. 780-425-4344. 10176 103 Street NW. TheHelmClothing.com JJOHN FLUEVOG SHOES | Since 2017, Fluevog Edmonton has been happily serving the historic City of Champions’ many unique soles. 780-250-1970. 10344 Whyte Ave NW. Fluevog.ca OPULENCE | A premier luxury fashion boutique featuring an extensive collection of designer brands for men, women and children. Guests can explore highend labels, premium accessories, elite denim and upscale eyewear in an elevated shopping environment.

780) 4893842. 8882 170 Street NW. OpulenceClothing.ca 30

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RED BRICK VINTAGE | A curated vintage clothing and accessory store owned and operated by the Red Brick Common. One hundred percent of proceeds go to support community programming. 780-963-2777. PERC Building, 5413 51 Street, Stony Plain. RedBrickVintage.ca RED RIBBON BOUTIQUE | An underground boutique carrying affordable, laid-back styles for all types, including clothing, home goods, cards, and jewelry. 780-454-4336. 12520 102 Avenue NW. RedRibbon.ca​ SHAF & CO. | A bespoke tailoring studio offering expert craftsmanship and personalized service for custom suits, alterations, and refined wardrobe pieces. Clients can expect meticulous attention to detail, quality fabrics, and a tailored fit that elevates every garment. 587-9382397. 10180 101 Street NW. ShafAndCo.com SHOP HARROW | Femalerun boutique on 102 Ave offering vintageinspired Canadianmade clothing, handmade accessories and timeless, sustainable fashion.

780-2444995. 12547 102 Avenue NW. ShopHarrow.ca WILDROSE VINTAGE | A retro boutique offering vintage clothing, accessories, and unique finds from past decades. A nostalgic journey for fashion aficionados. 10462 82 Avenue NW. WildroseVintage.ca MARKETS ONGOING MARKETS (Alphabetical) 124 GRAND MARKET | Established in 2012, the 124 Grand Market is a fixture in the Alberta Farmers and Public Market community, with flagship locations in the heart of 124th Street and the newest Night Market product popping up in a neighbourhood near you. | Westmount area. 108 Avenue & 124 Street.

124GrandMarket.com BASELINE FARMERS’ MARKET | An outdoor farmers market in Sherwood Park that runs seasonally, managed by a local Edmonton family. A supportive community of entrepreneurs and small businesses who make, bake or grow their products, or sell unique items that support the local economy. | Home Depot Parking lot. 390 Baseline Road, Sherwood Park.

BaselineFarmersMarket.com BEVERLY FARMERS’ MARKET | Only on Tuesdays from May through September. A beloved northeast Edmonton tradition since 1997, the Beverly Farmers' Market brings together local growers, bakers, artisans, and food vendors in a welcoming community atmosphere.

Visitors can shop fresh produce and handmade goods while enjoying live entertainment, family activities, and one of Edmonton's friendliest neighbourhood markets.

Riverview Crossing Shopping Centre, 3210 118 Avenue NW. BeverlyFarmersMarket.ca BOUNTIFUL FARMERS’ MARKET | This southside market is a one-stop-shop to keep you stocked for the week. Here, you'll find everything from fresh local produce and meat to local coffee. 780-818-3878. 3696 97 Street NW. BountifulMarkets.com CALLINGWOOD FARMERS’ MARKET | Edmonton’s largest outdoor market, operating for over 40 years with 200+ vendors offering a beautiful mix of locally grown and hand-crafted goods. | The Marketplace at Callingwood. Corner of 69 Avenue & 177 Street NW. CallingwoodFarmersMarket.com

SHOPPING

DOWNTOWN FARMERS’ MARKET | The Downtown Farmers’ Market is back outdoors on 104th Street, this summer. Pick up hot single organic fruits, veggies, homemade meals and artisanal goods at 45+ vendors. You can bring your dog, too. Make an afternoon of it! | On 104th Street NW, downtown. EdmontonDowntown.com/FarmersMarket LEDUC FARMERS’ MARKET | Dedicated to providing Leduc and surrounding area with locally produced goods and fostering a sense of community. With a great selection of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meat to candles and jewelry. Their vendor list changes each week. | Leduc Red Centre. 4330 Black Gold Drive.

LeducFarmersMarket.ca SALISBURY FARMERS’ MARKET |Every Thursday | Located at Salisbury Greenhouse, Salisbury Farmers' Market is your source for fresh, local food essentials, and quality arts and crafts. Salisbury Greenhouse, 52337 Range Road 232. SalisburyFarmersMarket.ca SOUTH COMMON FARMERS’ MARKET | Committed to delivering you the healthiest food in town while sustaining community support by bringing together the farmers, investors, business owners, and consumers.

Research Park, 150 Karl Clark Rd NW. SouthCommonMarket.ca ST. ALBERT FARMERS’ MARKET | In 2022, the St. Albert Farmers’ Market celebrated its 40th anniversary!

They are proud to offer a unique shopping experience where you can find the freshest local produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. St. Anne Street, Downtown.

StAlbertFarmersMarket.com

POP-UP MARKETS (Date order) THE ORCHARD SEED MARKET | July 11 & Aug 15| Held among trees and lovely rural vistas, the Orchard Seed Market will give you hallmark BC vibes of summer days with farm animals, live music, 30+ local Vendors, food trucks, a rescue fundraiser happening and so much more! There will be complementary grilled fruit on ice-cream that you must try as well as a bouncy castle for the kids! Not only will there be local artisans and produce, but they will also be fundraising for the amazing Ferne's Acres Animal Sanctuary. 51424 AB-60, Spruce Grove.

MAGIC SHOW & KID MARKET | July 11 | Big magic, small businesses, and tons of smiles! Join us at The Currents of Windermere for the Block Party: Magic Show & Kids Market, a funfilled afternoon designed for kids and families. Enjoy live magic, explore a market run by young entrepreneurs, and soak up the summer vibes. Currents of Windermere Town Square. ShopCurrents.ca/ Magic-Show-Kid-Market PARKING LOT SALE| July 12 & Aug 3| Treasure hunters won't want to miss the Parking Lot Sale at the Old Strathcona Antique Mall. With two dates across late summer, the Parking Lot Sale features dozens of vendors and thousands of unique finds, shoppers can browse antiques, vintage décor, collectibles, furniture, records, artwork, toys, and more while enjoying food trucks and a lively outdoor market atmosphere. Old Strathcona Antique Mall, 10323 78 Avenue NW. OldStrathconaMall.com/Events

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

AUGUST ROOTS & RHYTHM FAIR | Aug 21-23 | Combining shopping, local vendors, artisan products, food, and entertainment, this community market event celebrates local creativity and culture while providing visitors with opportunities to discover unique Edmonton-area businesses.

Edmonton Expo Centre. 7515 118 Ave NW. Eventbrite.com/e/august-roots-rhythm-fair-tickets1989145017293 VILLAGE GOODS SUMMER POP-UP MARKET |Aug 15 | A community-focused pop-up market on Whyte Avenue featuring local makers, handmade products, and small businesses. The event offers shoppers a chance to support local entrepreneurs while exploring one of Edmonton's most iconic shopping districts. Village Goods, 10432 Whyte Avenue NW. VillageGoods.ca IGNITE MARKET | Aug 28-30 | A vibrant, community-focused night market designed to showcase Edmonton’s creative energy, local entrepreneurship, and live entertainment in a high-energy evening setting. It brings together thousands of attendees for a curated mix of food, shopping, games, and performance art in a festival-style atmosphere. Booster Juice Recreation Center, 2051 Leger Rd NW. WHOLLY HANDMADE AUGUST 2026 | Aug 29-30 | Wholly Handmade is Sherwood Park & Edmonton’s premier artisan market featuring 100% handmade vendors, local artisans, and uniquely curated makers at every event. Come and support over 135 artisans and crafters all in one place! Great back to school ideas, Fall decor and more! The Agora, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park. WhollyHandmade.com

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Dining 124th Street || City Centre || Gateway || North Side || Outside Edmonton || South Side || West End || Whyte Ave/Strathcona

TASTE OF CHINATOWN

STREET CAR CASK PARTIES

AUGUST 20–23, 2026

VARIOUS DATES, SUMMER 2026

Edmonton’s Chinatown has always been one of the city’s great food destinations, but this four-day celebration invites visitors to explore it in a whole new way. Taste of Chinatown combines food, culture, and community, encouraging Edmontonians to discover the neighbourhood through its restaurants, bakeries, cafés, and specialty shops.

Taste of Chinatown also reflects a larger movement to celebrate and revitalize one of Edmonton’s most historic neighbourhoods. For generations, Chinatown has been a cultural and commercial hub, and today it remains home to family-run restaurants, bakeries, markets, and community organizations that help preserve its unique character.

Guests board a beautifully restored heritage streetcar and travel between Old Strathcona and downtown while enjoying themed culinary experiences, local beverages, and spectacular views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Each event offers a different experience, making the series a popular choice for date nights, celebrations, and visitors looking for something distinctly Edmonton.

The Street Cars series runs throughout the summer, giving plenty of opportunities to climb aboard and experience the city from a different perspective.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect BBQ pork bun, introducing friends to a favourite hidden gem, or simply looking for an excuse to spend an afternoon exploring, Taste of Chinatown offers a delicious reason to visit.

TheCommon.ca/street-cars

ExploreChinatownYEG.com

VARIOUS DATES, SUMMER 2026

EXPERIENCE DELAVOYE Chocolate lovers can go far beyond a simple tasting at Delavoye Chocolate Maker.

Throughout the summer, the boutique bean-to-bar chocolate factory on 124 Street offers intimate experiences that explore the art and science of craft chocolate.

Events include chocolate tastings, wine and chocolate pairings, chocolate mixology evenings, and the popular After Dark at Delavoye experience, featuring a behind-the-scenes factory tour with dessert and cacao tea. Small group sizes give guests an opportunity to learn directly from founder and chocolate maker Antoine Lavoie.

One of Edmonton's few true bean-to-bar makers, Delavoye crafts chocolate locally from ethically sourced cacao beans, creating an experience that's as educational as it is delicious.

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PHOTOS: DEPOSITPHOTOS; THE COMMON; DELAVOYE CHOCOLATE MAKER

The event is part of Explore Chinatown Edmonton’s growing festival lineup and runs alongside the Edmonton Dragon Festival, creating a lively atmosphere filled with entertainment, cultural experiences, and, of course, exceptional food.

Visitors can sample a wide range of flavours, from traditional Chinese dishes and fresh-baked treats to modern culinary creations inspired by Asian cuisines from across the region.

Take dinner with a side of Edmonton history this summer.

The Common’s Street Cars series combines food, drinks, and one of the city’s most unique venues—the historic High Level Bridge Streetcar.

PHOTOS: TASTE OF EDMONTON; BAR OA FARMS

TASTE OF EDMONTON

BRUNCHIN’ BLOOM

JULY 16–26, 2026

JULY 19

For eleven delicious days each summer, Churchill Square becomes the culinary heart of the city. Taste of Edmonton returns this July with more than 50 local restaurants and food trucks serving over 230 menu items, making it Western Canada's largest outdoor food festival.

Enjoy a summer morning where fresh food, flowers, and prairie landscapes come together.

Brunchin' Bloom invites guests to Lamberry Ranch for a relaxed farm experience set among rows of saskatoon berry orchards.

The ticket-based format makes it easy to sample everything from local favourites to new culinary discoveries. Alongside the food, visitors can enjoy free live entertainment, artisan vendors, family activities, and one of downtown Edmonton's liveliest summer atmospheres.

The morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared brunch served in the heart of the orchard. Guests then join a guided tour to learn about saskatoon berry production, the history of the ranch, and the rhythms of the growing season.

Now in its 42nd year, Taste of Edmonton remains one of the city's signature summer traditions, celebrating local food, culture, and community in the heart of downtown.

The experience concludes with a visit to the event's signature flower bar, where participants create and take home their own bouquet using locally grown blooms. Designed as an intimate small-group gathering, Brunchin' Bloom offers a chance to slow down, connect with the landscape, and savour a unique taste of rural Alberta.

TasteOfEdm.ca

BarOAFarms.rezgo.com

DINING

124TH STREET (West Central) ARCADIA BREWING CO. | A stylish craft brewery and kitchen serving house-made beers alongside elevated pub fare. Visitors can enjoy inventive brews, shareable plates and a vibrant social atmosphere in the heart of the 124th Street area. 825-512-5164. 10712 120 Street NW. ArcadiaBrewing.ca

GOLDEN SPARROW | A polished and stylish destination where expertly crafted cocktails pair beautifully with creative small plates and tapasstyle dishes. Guests can enjoy elevated flavours, vibrant brunch selections, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for dinner, drinks, or celebrations. 780-2443371. 10704 124st NW. GoldenSparrowYEG.com

BODEGA 124TH STREET | A charming Spanish tapas bar known for its authentic small plates, bold flavours and excellent wine pairings. Guests can enjoy shareable bites, cozy vibes and a hidden patio that feels like a neighbourhood favourite. 780-250-6066.

12417 Stony Plain Rd NW. BodegaBySabor.ca

KOUTOUKI | A lively, familyrun Greek taverna serving authentic Mediterranean classics with fresh, homemade ingredients. Guests can enjoy generous portions of souvlaki, dips, salads and mezze in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that often features celebratory vibes and fun Greekstyle entertainment on weekends.

780-452-5383. 10719 124 St. Koutouki.ca

DUCHESS BAKE SHOP | Edmonton’s beloved bakery known for beautifully crafted pastries, artisan breads and decadent sweets. Now moved to a new location! Guests can expect a warm atmosphere and delightful treats perfect any time of day. 780-4884999. 10718 124 St NW. DuchessBakeShop.com

MALINA CAFE & BAR | A chic café by day and intimate wine bar by night with light bites, pastries and specialty drinks. It’s perfect for brunch meetups or relaxed evenings with small plates. 780-708-0011.

10350 124 Street NW.

FOX BURGER | A trendy burger spot drawing crowds with creative toppings, local ingredients, and one of Edmonton's best smash-style burger experiences. Particularly popular for weekend brunch and casual dinners.

587-599-5205. 11003 123 St NW. FoxBurger.ca

MAY | One of the hottest dining rooms on 124 Street right now. Featuring modern Vietnamese-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, and an upscale atmosphere, it's become a destination for food lovers seeking something contemporary and distinctly Edmonton. 780-438-6880.

10522 124 St NW. RestaurantMay.ca INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

NUOVO BISTRO | Cozy Italian restaurant focusing on fresh ingredients at an affordable price. It’s cute, casual, and comfortable with approachable menus and homemade pasta. 587-855-6129. 10721 124 Street NW. NuovoBistro.ca PIAZZA CAFÉ | A newer addition to the district offering coffee, light meals, desserts, and a relaxed atmosphere. It has quickly built a following among locals looking for a comfortable neighbourhood gathering spot. 780-540-2204. 11754 124 St NW. RASHT CAFE - PERSIAN CAFE | A vibrant Northern Iranian café and restaurant blending Persian classics with fresh baked goods and coffee. The menu features hearty stews, kebabs and soups that delight adventurous palates. 587-9376702.

10321 124 Street NW. RGE RD | Inspired by feasts in fields, forests, mountains and oceans, Rge Rd explores the tastes and flavours of Canada from coast to coast. Chef Blair Lebsack and team welcome guests to eat off the beaten path with whole animal butchery, wood fire cookery and produce from local terroir. 780-447-4577.

10643 123 Street NW. RgeRd.ca

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TIRAMISU BISTRO | Featuring a modern take on traditional Italian fare, focusing on fresh ingredients and sustainable wines from small vineyards. What began with the inspiration of sharing a home-like experience for guests, staff and friends has developed into a full-service restaurant hosting unique breakfast, lunch, dinner menus.

780-452-3393. 10750 124 Street NW. TiramisuBistro.ca CITY CENTRE 7-KITCHENS RESTAURANT | A beloved restaurant in Chinatown serving up bold, flavourful classics like noodle soups and stirfried favourites. The welcoming service and delicious plates keep locals coming back. 780- 2496007.

9645 101A Ave NW. 7-kitchens.ca BAR TROVE | A stylish, intimate cocktail bar inspired by European cafés and lounges with a warm, modern vibe.

Guests can enjoy finely crafted cocktails, premium spirits, curated wines and elevated small plates in an elegant setting that’s perfect for date nights, special occasions or evenings out with friends. 780-616-4163. 10126 100 St NW. BarTrove.ca BERNADETTE’S |A modern Indigenous fine dining restaurant in the heart of downtown’s 104 Street district.

Bernadette’s focuses on seasonal Canadian ingredients, storytelling through food, and a constantly evolving menu that blends contemporary technique with traditional Indigenous culinary influence. 587-879-4317. 10114 104 St NW. Bernadettes.ca BOA & HARE | Intimate café & cocktail lounge in Chinatown blending café classics with creative fusion bites and specialty drinks. Ideal for brunch, chats or evening cocktails. 780-263-0988. 10520 97 St NW. BoaAndHare.ca BÜNDOK | A contemporary Canadian restaurant known for seasonal small plates, creative flavours and an intimate dining atmosphere. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted dishes and cocktails perfect for sharing and relaxed evenings downtown. 780-4200192. 10228 104 St NW. BundokYeg.com

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JUANA INES | Family-run Mexican kitchen offering authentic tacos, enchiladas, margaritas and handmade tortillas that celebrate traditional flavours in a colourful, welcoming space. 780-782-0652. 12042 107 Ave NW. Juana-Ines.ca MOLLY TEA | Delightful jasmine-tea house offering refreshing bubble teas and house-made beverages. A fun stop for a cool sip and a laid-back hang.

780-777-9805. 10173 109 St NW. MollyTeaCa.com NERO | Sleek modern restaurant offering a creative menu with seasonal dishes and bold flavours in an inviting space. Ideal for dinner with friends or date night.

780-249-1213. 12068 104 Ave NW. NeroEats.com PATRICIA STREET DELI | A beloved deli serving hearty sandwiches, artisanal coffee and premium meats.

The friendly service and quality ingredients make it ideal for lunchtime stops or casual bites. 587- 5258907.

10567 111 St NW. PatriciaStreetDeli.ca PLUME BAR | A chic and stylish cocktail bar with refined drinks and sleek décor. It’s a fantastic spot for craft cocktails and social evenings with friends.

780- 8888003. 10145 104 St NW. PlumeBar.ca RJ TASTY BITES | A Filipino comfort food spot offering savoury classics and homestyle dishes with bold flavours. It’s a go-to for hearty plates and casual meals.

780-422-4186. 9711 107 Ave NW. RjTastyBites.ca ROSIE'S BURGERS - BREWERY DISTRICT | Coming Soon! A Toronto-based smash burger brand expanding into Edmonton’s Brewery District. Known for simple, high-quality burgers, crinkle fries, and nostalgic diner-style vibes, it’s one of the most anticipated casual openings in the city. 11928 104 Ave NW. RosiesBurgers.ca SEITANS | A go-to for plant-forward eats, serving up hearty vegan pizzas and creative dishes with bold flavours. Ideal for vegans and curious omnivores alike.

587-206-3314. 11219 Jasper Avenue. Seitans.com

DRIFT FOOD TRUCK | A fun, local favourite that’s been around for over ten years. Enjoy inventive handhelds, sandwiches and seasonal comfort fare with laid-back vibes, perfect for casual lunches or quick bites. 780-966-7328.

Schedule/locations vary for truck and eatery. Check their site for current info. DriftFoodTruck.ca

THE DRUID IRISH PUB | A classic Irish pub bringing lively vibes, quality pints and hearty comfort food. Guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere perfect for social evenings and good conversation.

587-521-7780. 10363 104 St NW. TheDruidYeg.com

EGG CLUB EDMONTON | A Japanese-inspired sandwich shop known for fluffy egg-based sandwiches on milk bread. Egg Club brings a quick, casual downtown option focused on comfort food with a playful, minimalist Japanese café style. 780-250-8780.

10115 Rice Howard Wy. EggClub.ca

THE VIRSA MAHAL | A beloved Indian restaurant with rich Punjabi and North Indian flavours. Diners enjoy hearty curries, vegetarian favourites and warm service in a comfortable setting that feels like home. 825-480-8888. 10344 105 St NW. TheVirsaMahal.com

FENNEC KITCHEN AND BAR | A stylish downtown restaurant and cocktail bar serving refined small plates and creative beverages. The atmosphere is perfect for celebrations, business meetings, or contemporary dinners.

825-480-2417. 10250 101 St NW. FennecYeg.com

UKIES YUMMY | A bright Ukrainian restaurant serving hearty traditional dishes with modern touches.

The welcoming atmosphere and rich flavours make it a great stop for comfort meals and cultural eats.

780-995-0591. 10359 104 St NW.

JAVA CAFE & BAKERY | A bright, welcoming café and bakery serving freshly baked goods, specialty espresso drinks and comforting treats. It’s a great spot for brunch or a relaxed coffee with pastries. 780-757-8399. 10715 109 St NW. JavaCafe.ca

ZOCALO’S | Zocalo’s features a genuine espresso bar, European sandwiches and pastries, funky fresh-cut flowers, a greenhouse with select indoor and outdoor pots and plants. 780-428-0754. 10826 95 Street NW. Zocalo.ca infoedmonton.com

ZYMO | A bright European-Ukrainian restaurant blending comforting heritage dishes with modern flair. Guests can enjoy creative plates and a welcoming vibe ideal for lunches or relaxed dinners with friends or colleagues. 587-520-3330. 10166 100A St NW. Zymo.ca GATEWAY AURA THE COCKTAIL BAR | An elegant cocktail bar known for creative drinks and inviting ambiance.

It’s perfect for date nights or relaxed evenings with great company. 587-4982004.

3759 Gateway Blvd NW. AuratheCocktailBar.ca BLANCO CANTINA | Your ultimate destination for a fiesta of flavours and vibrant fun. A lively Mexicaninspired restaurant and tequila bar where vibrant flavours and festive vibes come together.

Guests can enjoy fresh tacos, shareable plates and creative margaritas in a fun atmosphere that’s perfect for happy hour, casual dinners and patio hangs. 587-463-7620. 1708 99 Street NW. BlancoCantina.ca DAAL ROTI PREMIUM - INDIAN TADKA HOUSE | A standout on Gateway Boulevard serving rich North Indian curries, tandoori specialties, and late-night dining. Popular with Edmonton food lovers looking for bold flavours, generous portions, and authentic preparation. 780-309-0777. 3645 Gateway Blvd NW. DaalRoti.ca DRTY ICE CREAM – STATION PARK | Gateway Boulevard outpost of DRTY Ice Cream serving artisan scoops perfect for a casual dessert after lunch, a stroll in the city, or family outings. 8125 Gateway Blvd NW. DrtyIceCream.ca DOSA GURU AT CALGARY TRAIL | One of Edmonton's hottest South Indian restaurants, specializing in crispy dosas, chutneys, and traditional southern Indian dishes. It has quickly become a destination for diners looking to explore regional Indian cuisine. 587-458-0112. 2920 Calgary Trail NW. DosaGuru.ca EMGEE’S AFRICAN RESTAURANT AND BAKERY | A vibrant spot celebrating authentic Nigerian and African cuisine with rich, flavourpacked stews, jollof rice, amala and other traditional favourites. The menu pairs hearty meals with warm hospitality, making it perfect for exploring bold West African flavours over lunch or dinner. 587-937-1669.

4510 Calgary Trail NW. MgTreats.ca FORNO FLAT BREAD CO | One of the newer culinary additions to the area, blending Mediterranean, Italian, and Middle Eastern influences.

Known for fresh-baked flatbreads, sandwiches, and shareable dishes in a casual modern setting.

780-993-6766. 3418 99 St NW. FornoFlatbread.com HAPPY LAMB | A popular hot pot restaurant featuring flavourful broths, premium meats and fresh ingredients for a customizable dining experience.

Guests can gather around the table and enjoy interactive, comforting meals with friends and family.

587-415-5858. 3838 Gateway Blvd NW. HappyLambHotPotCa.com

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INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

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DINING

GOGI KOREAN BBQ - EDMONTON SOUTH | One of Edmonton's most popular Korean BBQ destinations, offering tableside grilling, premium meats, and a lively atmosphere. A favourite for group outings and celebrations, with a reputation for generous portions and excellent service. 780-328-7710. 4112 Calgary Trail NW. GogiKoreanBbq.ca LUNAR | Stylish café and eatery serving fresh, seasonal plates with a community feel. Enjoy brunch, casual lunches or cozy dinners in a modern, relaxed setting. 780-7604567. 8222 Gateway Blvd NW. LunarYeg.com

THÉ MOON TEA HOUSE - GATEWAY | Bubble tea café featuring a variety of refreshing tea blends and toppings. Ideal for casual sips, hangouts or cool treats during any season. 3559 Gateway Blvd NW. TMoon.ca VATICANO CUCINA | A cherished south Edmonton Italian restaurant known for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and a warm dining room. Its combination of traditional recipes and contemporary presentation has made it a long-time local favourite.

780-250-1110. 10310 45 Ave NW. VaticanoYeg.com

GINTARO JAPANESE KITCHEN |A newer north-side Japanese restaurant that has quickly built a loyal following. Expect fresh sushi, ramen, rice bowls, and modern Japanese comfort food in a casual setting that punches above its weight.

780-473-8300. 11850 145 Ave NW. GintaroKitchen.com GRILL EXPRESS MEXICAN CUISINE | A laid-back Mexican eatery serving hearty tacos, burritos, and fresh salsas with bold Northern Mexican flavours, perfect for a flavourful lunch or dinner with friends. 780-900-0103. 6506 170 Ave NW.

MIDORI | A newer ramen-focused restaurant attracting attention for rich broths, Japanese comfort food, and modern presentation. An excellent option for diners looking for something beyond the usual chain offerings in south Edmonton. 780-249-1388. 10311 34 Ave NW. MidoriRamen.com

NORTH SIDE BOXCAR COFFEE SHOP | Community-loved coffee shop pouring expertly brewed espresso drinks and light bites. Perfect for relaxed mornings, casual work sessions, or catch-ups with friends. 825-459-4688.

11926 129 Ave NW. BoxcarCoffeeShop.ca

NOMIYA JAPANESE EATERY | A stylish Japanese eatery that recently expanded and renovated its Calgary Trail location. The menu features ramen, Japanese tapas, street food favourites, sake, and cocktails in a contemporary setting. | (780) 462-1300. 3803 Calgary Trail NW. NomRestaurant.com

THE BREADHAUS | The Breadhaus is a filipino bakery specialized in authentic filipino bread and pastries. They also make western bread like whole wheat, pumpernickel, 12 grains, sourdough and white, as well as custom cakes. 780-250-1300. 12617 140 Ave NW. TheBreadhaus.ca

MADE IN PALESTINE CULTURAL CAFÉ | The space celebrates authentic Palestinian food, coffee, and heritage, alongside a selection of traditional products and accessories that reflects the richness of Palestinian culture. 587-488-0893. 15166 127 St. MadeInPalestine.ca

SIU YEH LATE NIGHT BAR AND GRILL | A vibrant late-night spot featuring bold flavours and shared plates in a stylish environment. Guests can expect hearty eats, grilling favourites and a lively dinner scene. 780-717-5494. 3709 Gateway Blvd NW. SiuyehYeg.com

CORK & BARLEY | A cherished northeast Edmonton gathering place offering elevated pub fare, craft beer, and a welcoming atmosphere. Popular with locals for date nights, game nights, and casual dinners that feel a little more upscale. 780-249-2675. 4274 137 Ave NW. CorkandBarley.com

MOKHA COFFEE HOUSE | A welcoming coffee house with rich global brews, delightful desserts and cosy seating that makes it perfect for catching up with friends or unwinding with a handcrafted espresso in hand. The vibe is warm and community-focused.

780-371-8000. 5344 Admiral Girouard St NW.

JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS | A wellknown sandwich chain serving freshly sliced subs and classic deli flavours. Guests can expect customizable, hearty sandwiches perfect for lunch or quick dinners.

780-4730145. 13320 137 Ave NW. JerseyMikes.ca

ORBE RESTAURANT & BAR | A contemporary Asian-inspired restaurant in northwest Edmonton blending global techniques and modern plating. Orbe emphasizes shared dining, creative cocktails, and a refined but approachable atmosphere built around culinary experimentation. 587-409-6723. 13138 137 Ave NW. OrbeYeg.com OUZO TAVERNA | One of north Edmonton's standout dining destinations, serving authentic Greek cuisine in a warm, family-run atmosphere. Known for generous portions, fresh ingredients, and consistently excellent service, it's become a neighbourhood favourite and destination restaurant. 780-244-6896.

12150 161 Ave NW. OuzoTaverna.ca SUSHI TOSHI | Classic sushi and Japanese favourites in an inviting atmosphere, perfect for celebratory dinners or a relaxed evening of sashimi, rolls, and seafood specialties. 780-488-6610. 13619 St Albert Trail NW. SushiToshi.ca WALKER LAKE MEATS AND PIZZA (SCHONSEE LANDING) | A newer north Edmonton operation combining premium meats, house-made pizzas, and take-home specialties.

Popular with local residents looking for quality comfort food and unique menu options beyond the major chains. 825-203-1800. 16769 71 St NW. YELLA KUNAFA | Dessert haven spinning traditional Arabic kunafa. They’re sweet, gooey and perfect for sharing after dinner or exploring Edmonton’s food scene. 825-461-6994. 511 Mistatim Way NW. 36

infoedmonton.com

DINING

OUTSIDE EDMONTON ACERO | One of the region's most acclaimed upscale dining rooms, featuring contemporary Canadian cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and polished service. Frequently mentioned by locals as among the best restaurants in Sherwood Park. 780-570-7510. 270 Baseline Rd, Sherwood Park. AceroSwp.com AHLAN COFFEE HOUSE | A cozy café offering rich specialty coffee, traditional Middle Eastern beverages and sweet treats in a warm, welcoming setting. Guests can relax with friends, enjoy handcrafted drinks and experience inviting hospitality in a comfortable neighbourhood atmosphere. 115-130 Bellerose Drive, St. Albert. Instagram. com/Ahlan_Coffeehouse

A TASTE OF SUMMER Taste of Edmonton is back July 16–27.

Sample dishes from dozens of vendors, discover new favourites, and enjoy the festival atmosphere in Churchill Square.

TASTEOFEDM.CA

Incredible food, live music, and one of the city's favourite summer traditions.

BARBARETTA | One of the Spruce Grove’s most notable openings of the past year. This stylish wine and cocktail bar offers share plates, craft drinks, and an upscale yet approachable atmosphere. 587-286-5004. 115 First Ave, Spruce Grove. barbaretta.ca CHARTIER | A celebrated French-Canadian restaurant with a rustic yet refined menu featuring traditional Quebec comfort classics and modern twists. Guests can enjoy rich dishes like poutine, charcuterie and brunch favourites in a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for business meetings, casual meals, or special occasions. 780-7373633. 5012 50 Street NW, Beaumont. DineChartier.com FLAT BOY BURGERS | A casual burger joint dishing up juicy, handcrafted burgers with fresh toppings and bold flavours. Guests can enjoy classic and creative combinations in a fun, laid-back setting that’s perfect for quick bites or relaxed meals with friends. 780-217-4650. 5302 50 Street, Beaumont. FlatBoyBurgers.com GRATITUDE COFFEE | Cozy specialty coffee shop in Sherwood Park with expertly roasted beans, warm atmosphere and tasty espresso drinks. Perfect for meetups, study sessions, or relaxed mornings. 780-952-0881. 2833 Broadmoor Blvd, Sherwood Park. GratitudeCoffee.ca LA PATRONA | A cherished Sherwood Park destination serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Known for vibrant flavours, house-made recipes, and a loyal following that regularly places it among the area's most recommended restaurants. 780-570-1200. 2 Athabascan Ave, Sherwood Park. LaPatrona.Rocks MARIACHI LOVE | A trendy and colourful St. Albert restaurant offering Mexican street food, tacos, cocktails, and lively atmosphere. Its popularity continues to grow thanks to bold flavours and a fun dining experience. 780-569-5562.

11 Bellerose Dr, St. Albert.

MYANM'S NOODLE | A highly rated Burmese noodle spot serving rich, flavourful soups and traditional favourites.

The menu’s comforting bowls and vibrant broths make it a must-try for fans of authentic Southeast Asian cuisine.

587-474-1415. 5305 Magasin Ave NW, Beaumont.

MyanmNoodle.ca PASTRY HEAVEN & COFFEE SHOP | A charming bakery café in Leduc, offering fresh pastries, cakes and handcrafted coffee drinks. Visitors can relax with sweet treats and warm beverages in a cozy, inviting neighbourhood atmosphere. 780-900-8574. 5201 50 Street, Leduc.

Instagram.com/PastryHeavenCoffeeShop INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

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SANGAM SOCIAL | From elevated curries and tandoori specialties to handcrafted cocktails and fusion-inspired dishes, Sangam Social brings people together through exceptional food, drinks, and atmosphere. A stylish destination where culture, flavour, and hospitality meet. 780-278-4951. 975 Broadmoor Blvd, Sherwood Park. SangamSocial.com SAWMILL PRIME RIB & STEAK HOUSE | A long-standing regional favourite known for Alberta beef, classic steakhouse dining, and dependable quality. A cherished option for celebrations, business dinners, and visitors passing through Leduc.

780-986-1600. 8225 Sparrow Crescent, Leduc.

Sawmill.ca SOMETHING ELSE RESTAURANT | A cherished Spruce Grove institution serving Greek and Mediterranean favourites for decades. Known for generous portions, friendly service, and being a go-to spot for family celebrations and community gatherings. 780-960-6694. 215 McLeod Ave, Spruce Grove. SomethingElseRestaurant.com SPARK CHEF | One of Sherwood Park's most exciting newer independent restaurants. Chef-driven comfort food, creative specials, and a reputation for consistently excellent service have quickly made it a local favourite among food lovers. 780-570-3092.

1020 Sherwood Dr, Sherwood Park. SparkChef.ca SOUL FUEL KITCHEN | A newer Beaumont favourite focused on fresh ingredients, healthy comfort food, and welcoming service. Popular for lunch, takeout, and lighter fare that doesn't sacrifice flavour. 780-254-4343. 6302 29 Ave, Beaumont.

THE CURRY TABLE | Modern Indian dining spotlighting bold flavours, colourful curries, and creative takes on classics like butter chicken and tandoori. Ideal for both dine-in meals and takeout.

780-347-0521. 388 St, Albert Trail, St. Albert.

TheCurryTable.com THE PLOUGHMAN’S TABLE | An Englishinspired sandwich shop and café serving fresh sandwiches, homemade soups, baked goods, and quality coffee. They also feature a kids play area, making it a great spot for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or takeaway. Whether you're looking for a sandwich shop, a relaxed café, or a quick lunch, The Ploughman’s Table offers a welcoming place to enjoy simple, delicious food. 825-220-0984. 101 First Ave, Spruce Grove. ThePloughmansTable.com SOUTH SIDE BAKENARY PASTRIES | A high-quality pastry shop known for beautifully crafted baked goods and desserts. Guests can expect artisan breads, gorgeous pastries and warm service perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. 825-436-9461.

5732 75 Street NW. Bakenary.ca BENTO KUMA | A vibrant Asian fusion spot mixing Japanese, Hong Kong, Taiwanese and Southeast Asian comfort bowls with creative twists, perfect for casual lunches or flavorful dinners with friends. 780-6700185. 2731 182 Street SW. Instagram.com/ BentoKuma.YEG 38

CHAIIWALA OF LONDON SOUTHSIDE| A lively tea café specializing in South Asian chai and fusion snacks with bold spices and fresh flavours. The space is great for casual meetups and flavourful afternoon treats.

780-491-9252. 1051 Parsons Rd SW. ChaiiwalaofLondon.com DECCANI - INDIAN HYDERABADI KITCHEN | Dive into rich, aromatic Indian cuisine featuring classic Hyderabadi biryani and slow-cooked curries that showcase authentic spices and textures in every bite. 780-2209998. 6412 Cartmell Place SW. Deccani.ca JUU KU | A stylish Asian fusion gem blending Japanese, Chinese and Korean flavours in creative dishes, perfect for special dinners or casual nights out. Expect bold tastes and artful presentation in a welcoming setting. 780-229-6905. 5946 Mullen Way. Juuku.ca KADAK CAFE | Warm and casual café serving up rich Indian coffee, hearty snacks, and fusion bites. A great spot for brunch, coffee dates, or laid-back meals.

780-756-6681. 6818 Ellerslie Road SW. KadakCafe.ca KISSA10 | A charming Japanese-inspired café serving excellent espresso and tea in a calm, inviting space.

Guests can expect a relaxing atmosphere with thoughtful drinks and light bites. 1643 Towne Centre Blvd NW. Instagram.com/Kissa10.YEG MAHARANI | A warm and inviting Indian restaurant offering rich curries, biryanis and classic favourites that celebrate bold spices. It’s ideal for family meals or flavourful dinners with friends. 780-338-0333. 6453 Cartmell Pl SW. MaharaniQueenofIndia.ca MALINA CAFE AND BAKERY | A beloved café and bakery offering house-made treats, fresh bread and delicious coffee. Guests can expect friendly service and classic comfort baked goods for breakfast or afternoon breaks. 780-818-1967. 629 Cameron Heights Drive NW. MalinaBakery.ca NEW FREEZELAND EDMONTON | Proudly brings the famous New Freezeland restaurant from Ahmedabad, India, to Canada. They’re best known for their legendary grilled sandwiches, flavorful wraps, authentic Indian street eats, and rich, thick shakes. 825-203-5400. 270 91 St SW. NewFreezeland.ca UTOPIA CAFE & PLAY | A family-friendly café with indoor play space where parents can relax with great coffee and fresh eats while kids have fun. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming for groups and families. 780-863-6444. 16406 Ellerslie Road SW. UtopiaCafePlay.ca WEST END BEN'S MEATS AND DELI | Community favourite butcher and deli offering quality meats, sandwiches and housemade deli goodness. Great for hearty lunches, charcuterie prep or local artisan eats. 780-489-1424.

10516 184 St NW. BensMeats.com GREAT NORTH COOKIE CO. | Sweet bakery kiosk in West Edmonton Mall offering gourmet soft cookies in rotating creative flavours. A must-visit for cookie lovers and sweet treat stops. 587-402-4716. 8882 170 St NW. GreatNorthCookieCo.com infoedmonton.com

KINTON RAMEN - TERRA LOSSA | Part of North America’s popular ramen chain, serving rich broths and slurp-worthy bowls in a casual setting. A go-to for satisfying ramen nights. 780-249-6806. 9518 170 St NW. KintonRamen.com KUKURUKU CHICKEN PLAZA | Filipino-style crispy chicken joint serving bone-in wings, tenders and sides with bold seasoning. Perfect for quick, flavourful group meals.

780-462-8280. 10023 170 St NW. KukurukuChicken.com LAWSON’S FISH & CHIPS | A classic seafood spot serving crispy battered fish, golden fries and comforting British-style favourites. Guests can enjoy generous portions and casual dining in a welcoming, no-frills atmosphere perfect for lunch or dinner.

780-249-6133. 10183 186 Street NW. LawsonsFishandChips.com MADE BY MARCUS - BREWERY DISTRICT | Scoop up artisanal ice cream and inventive sweet treats from a lively local creamery. Ideal for afternoon dessert or a fun stop while exploring downtown. 780-2507998. 10429 121 Street NW. MadeByMarcus.ca MR. HALAL BURGER | Friendly burger spot kn own for juicy halal burgers, crispy sides, and quick service.

Great choice for casual meals and comfort food cravings.

780-758-2888. 8882 170 St NW. MrHalalBurger.com MOTHER DOUGH BREAD CO.| A beloved artisan bakery crafting fresh, naturally leavened breads, pastries and seasonal baked goods with care and quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy warm sourdough, sweet treats and a welcoming atmosphere for breakfast or takeout.

780-912-3560. 21742 92 Avenue NW. MotherDoughBreadCo.com PANINI’S ITALIAN CUCINA – 149 STREET | A welcoming Italian restaurant serving handtossed pizzas, house pasta, flavourful panini sandwiches and classic favourites with generous portions and bold Mediterranean flavours. Guests enjoy a relaxed vibe and diverse menu made with care. 877-749-8066. 14981 Stony Plain Road NW. PaninisItalian.com THE PIZZA SPOT | A neighbourhood favourite for classic and creative pizzas with crispy crusts and fresh toppings. It’s a great stop for family meals or casual nights with friends. 780-7055550. West Edmonton Mall.

ThePizzaSpot.ca WHYTE AVENUE/STRATHCONA BONJOUR BAKERY | A cozy French-inspired bakery that feels like stepping into a neighborhood café somewhere in Montréal or Paris, Bonjour Bakery is all about comfort, craftsmanship, and buttery perfection.

Their sandwiches and coffee make it an easy brunch or slow-morning stop, while the warm, welcoming atmosphere encourages you to linger longer than planned. 780-433-5924. 9913 82 Ave NW. YvanChartrand.com CHIANTI CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT | A cozy Italian restaurant offering pasta, pizza and classic comfort dishes at approachable prices. Diners can expect generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere suited for casual dinners and family gatherings. 780-439-9829. 10501 Whyte Ave NW. ChiantiEdmonton.ca

DINING

DA CECOT | Charming pasta and Italian comfort food spot featuring handcrafted pastas, sauces, and seasonal dishes. Good for cozy dinners and hearty Italian classics. 825-888-4218. 8137 104 Street NW. DaCecotFood.com HATCH’D BREAKFAST KITCHEN | A fast-casual breakfast concept near the University of Alberta offering elevated comfort food. Hatch’d specializes in breakfast sandwiches, burritos, and bowls, built for speed but focused on fresh ingredients and bold, modern flavours. 780-328-4283. 8315 112 St NW. Hatchd.ca HEAVENLY DESSERTS | A modern dessert lounge offering decadent sweets, waffles, crepes and indulgent treats alongside specialty drinks. Visitors can satisfy their sweet tooth in a stylish setting ideal for date nights or late-night cravings. 587-4088982. 10430 82Ave NW. HeavenlyDesserts.ca KING OF TARTS | A delightful bakery known for handcrafted tarts, pastries and sweet creations made with quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy beautifully presented desserts perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence. 10334 82 Ave NW. KingofTarts.ca KOKORO TOKYO MAZESOBA U OF A | A fun and flavorful Japanese mazesoba restaurant where guests dive into saucy, broth-less noodle bowls and creative toppings. It’s perfect for casual lunches or satisfying dinner adventures. 587-635-1841. 11145 84 Ave NW. Kokoro-Mazesoba.com

MEAT THE BUN | Locally raised from handcrafted patties, freshly baked buns and in-house sauces, classic cocktails, best gourmet burgers, signature poutines, in-house gravy, bold shots, boozy milkshakes. Its all about the Good Times & Good Vibes! 587-855-1700. 10542 82 Ave NW. MeattheBun.ca NARA KATSU | A highly rated Japanese eatery specializing in crispy tonkatsu and other comfort dishes. The menu features generous portions and bold flavours that make it a go-to for satisfying lunches and dinners. 780-989-0997. 8115 104 St NW. NaraKatsu.com

SNOW BEAR CAFE LTD. | A sweet bakery and café offering Asian-inspired desserts, bubble tea and treats. The fun flavours and cozy setting make it great for afternoon pick-me-ups. 587-469-5588.

10342 81 Ave NW. Instagram.com/Snowbear.

DessertCafe THE BUCKINGHAM | A popular vegan pub serving plant-based comfort food alongside local beers and cocktails. Visitors can enjoy creative dishes, live music nights and a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere in the heart of Old Strathcona. 780-761-1002. 10439 Whyte Ave NW. TheBuckingham.ca

NERO CAFE | Cozy café serving rich coffee, tasty bites, and relaxed vibes. Ideal for brunch, coffee dates, or unwinding with a latte in hand. 825-5583397. 9947 82 Ave NW. Instagram.com/Nero_Cafe

THE SIDE DOOR | A charming market shop at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market offering locally sourced foods, pantry items and occasional ready-to-eat bites. It’s perfect for picking up quality ingredients or quick snacks.

10310 83 Ave NW. TheSideDoor.ca

PARIS BAGUETTE | French-style bakery and café offering a tempting array of artisanal breads, pastries, sandwiches, and sweets in a bright, friendly setting. 587-520-8716. 10607 82 Ave NW. ParisBaguette.ca

VI NAM VIETNAMESE KITCHEN | A popular Vietnamese kitchen offering expertly made pho, crisp spring rolls, and colourful vermicelli bowls. Guests can expect generous portions and authentic flavours in a relaxed, friendly setting. 780-7585666.

10445 80 Ave NW. ViNamKitchen.com

POM GRAND PERSIAN GRILL | Known for its perfectly grilled kebabs and fragrant rice dishes, this spot delivers comforting, deeply seasoned meals that feel both celebratory and home-style at the same time. Expect saffron aromas, tender meats, fresh herbs, and colourful plates designed for sharing. 587-524-2222. 10812 Whyte Ave NW. PomGrand.com

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

WORKSHOP EATERY | Chef-driven and highly respected, Workshop focuses on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus. While slightly west of the corridor, it's regularly mentioned among Edmonton's best dining experiences and worth the short detour. 780-705-2205. 2003 91 St NW. RobertSpencerHosp.com/Workshop-Eatery

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Entertainment Nightlife || Sports || Places of Interest || Events

ENTERTAINMENT UNDER OPEN SKIES Summer is when Edmonton takes entertainment outdoors.

From comedy and live music to opera and symphony performances in the park, many of the season's most memorable events happen under open skies. This year also welcomes a new addition to the lineup, Neon Skies at ICE District.

Grab a lawn chair, a picnic blanket, or a few friends, and enjoy six outdoor events that make the most of an Edmonton summer.

GREAT OUTDOORS COMEDY FESTIVAL

Wild Roses Festival returns to Yellowhead County from July 10 to 12, bringing together women from across Alberta and beyond for a weekend of music, workshops, wellness, creativity, and community.

Billed as Canada's largest women's festival, the event features live performances, speakers, artisan vendors, food, healing experiences, and camping in a picturesque outdoor setting west of Edmonton.

Whether attending for inspiration, learning, or simply a summer getaway, participants can create their own festival experience.

July 17–19, 2026 | Kinsmen Park | GreatOutdoorsComedyFestival.com

PIGEON LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL

July 10–12, 2026 | Near Evansburg, Alberta | WildRosesFestival.com

A favourite August long-weekend tradition, the Pigeon Lake Music Festival returns to Mulhurst Bay from July 31 to August 2 with three days of live music beside one of Alberta's most popular lakes.

NEON SKIES

This year's lineup features Canadian favourites including The Sheepdogs, The Tea Party, The Trews, Chilliwack, Bran Van 3000, Sass Jordan, Classified, The Northern Pikes and more.

New for 2026, Neon Skies brings a two-night pop music festival to Fan Park at ICE District. The inaugural event features headline performances by Conan Gray and Kesha, with additional appearances by Natasha Bedingfield, Myles Smith, Slayyyter and Heidi Montag. Designed as an outdoor celebration of music, friendship and summer nights, Neon Skies adds a fresh option to Edmonton's already packed festival season.

July 17–18, 2026 | Fan Park at ICE District | NeonSkiesFestival.com 40

infoedmonton.com

With camping, food vendors, and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere, it's the perfect excuse for a summer road trip from Edmonton.

July 31–August 2, 2026 | Mulhurst Bay, Alberta | PLMF.ca

PHOTOS: WILD ROSES WOMEN'S FESTIVAL; NEON SKIES FESTIVAL; TRIXSTAR; PIGEON LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL

WILD ROSES FESTIVAL

Why watch comedy indoors when you can laugh under the open sky? The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival returns to Kinsmen Park from July 17 to 19, bringing a starstudded lineup of stand-up comedians to Edmonton's river valley.

This year's festival features performers including Aziz Ansari, Pete Davidson, Matt Rife, Hasan Minhaj, Ronny Chieng, Jeff Arcuri and more, turning one of the city's most scenic outdoor spaces into a giant comedy club for the weekend.

Check out our calendar of noteworthy events on pg. 6.

CHINATOWN SUMMER FESTIVAL

OPERA AL FRESCO

Discover another side of Edmonton's Chinatown at the Chinatown Summer Festival. Presented by Explore Chinatown YEG, the event celebrates the neighbourhood's culture and community with live entertainment, family activities, cultural performances, local vendors, and opportunities to explore one of Edmonton's most historic districts. It's a chance to experience the sights, sounds, and traditions that make Chinatown an important part of the city's cultural landscape.

Opera meets the great outdoors at Opera al Fresco, Edmonton Opera's annual summer concert at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.

Audiences can stroll through the gardens, settle in beneath the open sky, and enjoy performances by Edmonton Opera soloists and chorus members. Combining beautiful surroundings with beloved operatic favourites, this end-of-summer tradition offers a relaxed and welcoming way to experience live opera outdoors.

PHOTOS: DEPOSITPHOTOS; EDMONTON OPERA

August 22-30, 2026 | Edmonton Chinatown, Kinistinâw Park |ExploreChinatownYEG.com

August 26, 2026 | University of Alberta Botanic Garden |EdmontonOpera.com

ENTERTAINMENT

NIGHTLIFE 99TEN | 99ten is a live music and event venue that host a myriad of DJs, bands and private party bookings of any size. 780-452-7333. 9910 109 St NW. 99Ten.ca Blues On Whyte | A longtime casual venue with a dance floor and pool tables. Edmonton's spot for all the newest and hottest live music. 825-333-3583. 10329 Whyte Ave NW. BluesOnWhyte.com CENTURY CASINO AND HOTEL | A relaxing retreat, the hotel has 26 luxurious rooms, a restaurant, a lounge, Yuk Yuk's comedy club, and Century Showroom where you can enjoy live music and entertainment.

780-643-4000. 13103 Fort Rd NW. Cnty.com/Edmonton CENTURY CASINO ST. ALBERT | With 11 table games including Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, and Three-Card Poker, and a restaurant with live entertainment, the options are endless for a fun night out.

780-460-8092. 24 Boudreau Rd. Cnty.com/StAlbert COMEDY FACTORY | Located in the Gateway Entertainment Centre on the city's south side, this comedy club hosts comedians, illusionists and hypnotists, impressionists, improv acts, and other variety acts.

780-469-4999. 3414 Gateway Blvd. Instagram.com/ ComedyFactoryEdmonton

GRINDSTONE COMEDY THEATRE | An improv-based theatre company that offers classes as well as being home to independently produced improv, stand-up, sketch-comedy and musical theatre troupes. 780-244-9076.

10019 81 Ave NW. GrindstoneTheatre.ca MIDWAY MUSIC HALL | Midway Music Hall is a nightclub and live music venue offering pub grub, cocktails and an arcade in a sprawling, casual space. (587) 635-0974. 6107 104 St NW. MidwayMusicHall.com NEW MOON FOLK CLUB | A long-running Edmonton favourite for live folk, roots, and acoustic music, New Moon Folk Club hosts intimate concerts in welcoming community venues, showcasing local talent alongside touring artists.

7804349897. 10819 71 Ave NW. NewMoonFolkClub.com PURE CASINO EDMONTON | Over the years, Pure Casino Edmonton has provided the city with superior gaming. Their 72,000 sqft casino houses over 800 slot machines, 28 VLTs, 26 live-action table games and a 24-hour, 12 table poker room. 780-463-9467. 7055 Argyll Rd NW. PureCasinoEdmonton.com PURE CASINO YELLOWHEAD | Top tier service, private tables, and personalized hosting make Pure Casino Yellowhead's high-limit room the most luxurious in the city.

780-424-9467. 12464 153 St NW. PureCasinoYellowhead.com INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

RIVER CREE RESORT AND CASINO | River Cree Resort & Casino offers a variety of entertainment options for guests, including 62,000 sq. ft. of the newest casino action around, four restaurants, and two NHL-sized hockey rinks. 780-484-2121 300 East Lapotac Boulevard, Enoch. RiverCreeResort.com STARLIGHT CASINO | The Starlight Casino will provide you with the glitz, glamour and vintage feel of retro Vegas in a high energy atmosphere, centered around dining, and great entertainment experiences. 780-4442112. 8882 170 St. Edmonton.StarlightCasino.ca THE AVIARY | A multidisciplinary 160-capacity venue in the heart of Edmonton. Cozy atmosphere. Artwork on the walls. Full bar. Stage has good acoustics.

780-233-3635. 9314 111 Ave NW. The-Aviary.Net THE COMIC STRIP | The Comic Strip is Edmonton's Home for Laughs. Located on Bourbon Street in the world famous West Edmonton Mall, The Comic Strip has earned industry praise. 780-483-5999. 8882 170 St NW. TheComicStrip.ca THE REC ROOM | Step into the ultimate social playground. Find state-of-the-art arcade and recreational games, plus a restaurant, bar, and live entertainment.

780-702-1332. 1725 99 Street NW. TheRecRoom.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

THE STARLIGHT ROOM | Edmonton's iconic underground live music and entertainment venue. Open to all genres and walks of life and follows the rich musical history led by previous incarnations in the same building such as the Bronx, the Rev, and Lush. 780-428-1099. 10030 102 St NW. StarliteRoom.ca UNION HALL | Edmonton's premiere concert venue, bringing you the best in touring and international talent, containing two levels with wrap around balconies and amazing sight-lines. 780-702-2582. 6240 99 St NW. UnionHall.ca YARDBIRD SUITE | Located in Edmonton's cultural hub of Old Strathcona, the Yardbird Suite is a favoured destination for lovers of jazz and beyond. 780-432-0428. 11 Tommy Banks Way NW. YardbirdSuite.com YUK YUK’S | This Canadian comedy franchise, found all across the country, features and promotes Canadian comedians and not only provides its patrons with good laughs but also gives back to the community with weekly fundraising programs. 780-481-9857. 13103 Fort Rd NW. YukYuks.com SPORTS BLOCS | Blocs invites you to experience bouldering: a fun, engaging, and accessible style of climbing that anyone can do! Designed with an open and friendly atmosphere, Blocs is a climbing gym focused on community, movement, and education. 587-754-7470. 8761 51 Ave NW. BlocsClimbing.com BOULDERS CLIMBLING | Dive into the heart of Edmonton's climbing community at Boulders, where adventurers gather to inspire and uplift each other. With three locations available, check their website for the one closest to you.

780-705-7110. 10505 107 St NW. RockJungleClimbing.ca

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EDMONTON PICKLEBALL CENTER | The ultimate destination for pickleball enthusiasts in Edmonton.

Nineteen individually partitioned courts, four on premium hardwood, and 15 on picklepave acrylic-textured surface.

EPC offers a premier experience for players of all levels.

(587) 873-3233. 11420 170 St NW. EdmontonPickleballCenter.com EDMONTON RIVERHAWKS | The Edmonton Riverhawks are a collegiate summer baseball team and members of the West Coast League. Home games are played at RE/MAX Field. 10233 96 Ave NW. RiverhawksBaseball.com

PLANET LAZER | A family-friendly entertainment hub offering laser tag, arcade games, go-karts and group fun. The venue’s mix of action and social games makes it ideal for casual outings and celebrations.

780-454-1888. 11271 170 St NW. PlanetLazer.net SAVILLE COMMUNITY SPORTS CENTRE | One of Edmonton’s top multisport facilities with basketball courts, volleyball courts, track, tennis and more. Dropin play or group bookings make it perfect for varied athletic pursuits. 780-492-1000. 11610 65 Ave NW. UAlberta.ca/en/Saville-Community-Sports-Centre

EDMONTON SOCCER CENTRE EAST | A wellliked indoor sports complex with turf fields suited for soccer and turfbased activities. Friendly staff and welcoming space make it great for casual match play. 780-4134125. 12720 Victoria Trail NW. Esaf.ca

SPEEDERS | The Edmonton location features a massive, visually stunning three-level track as well as a separate track for junior racers. And the fun just begins with karting, they also have a 35-game arcade, duckpin bowling, axe throwing, and more. 780-451-4377.

12808 170 St NW. Speeders.ca/Edmonton

EDMONTON SOCCER DOME | A large indoor soccer complex offering yearround turf fields perfect for recreational soccer, futsal and pickup games. The friendly environment makes it easy to organize matches with friends. 780-988-5357. 3126 Ewing Trail SW. EdmontonSoccerDome.com

SQUARE ROOM SPORTS FACILITY | A multiuse recreational space perfect for casual sport activities, games, and movementbased play. The flexible layout welcomes everything from pickup basketball to social sport events. 780-994-7253. 6034 83 Street NW. SquareRoom.ca

EDMONTON SPORT & SOCIAL CLUB | A social sports club organizing multisport leagues like soccer, dodgeball and basketball. It’s a great way to meet people and play different sports in a fun, communityfocused setting. 780-429-4263. 4220 98 Street NW. EdmontonSportsClub.com

VERTICALLY INCLINED ROCK GYM | This facility offers courses for beginner to advanced climbers, including Bouldering, Toproping, Auto Belays and Lead Climbing. 780-496-9390. 8523 Argyll Road NW. VerticallyInclined.com

CENTURY MILE RACETRACK AND CASINO | The multiple-level Century Mile Racetrack and Casino features a mile-long track, an 800-stall barn, slot machines, great dining options, and features family-friendly experiences like concerts and festivals. 4711 Airport Perimeter Road SW. Cnty.com/CenturyMile

EDMONTON STINGERS | Edmonton's professional basketball team playing in the CEBL The Edmonton Stingers offer an exciting basketball experience that's perfect for families. With affordable tickets, engaging game-day activities, and a vibrant atmosphere, it's a great way to enjoy quality time together. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the sport, attending a game promises fun for all ages. | Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118 Ave NW. TheStingers.ca

CLIP 'N CLIMB EDMONTON | An exciting indoor climbing centre with creative climbing walls for all skill levels. It’s a fun, active sport option that mixes challenge with casual play. 780-450-2277. 9718 12 Ave SW. ClipnClimbEdmonton.ca

FACTORY CLIMBING YEG | Step into the energetic pulse of Edmonton's climbing scene at Factory, where the community unites to challenge and elevate one another.

780-454-7625 10247 184st NW. RockJungleClimbing.ca

DRIVE | An indoor go-kart experience where street-art vibes meet fast-paced racing. Blaze through a graffiti-covered course built for thrill-seekers and style lovers alike. 780-444-5321. 8882 170 St NW. WEM.ca/Play/Attractions/Drive

GALAXYLAND AMUSEMENT PARK | Indoor amusement park in West Edmonton Mall featuring roller coasters, rides, and arcade games. Perfect for families or thrill-seekers. 780- 444 2288. 8882 170 Street NW. WEM.ca/Play/Attractions/Galaxyland

EDMONTON ELKS |The Elks offer an exciting game-day experience full of energy, pride, and community spirit. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just looking for a fun outing, the atmosphere at Commonwealth Stadium is electric and welcoming to all. Commonwealth Stadium. GoElks.com

GATEWAY ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE | A large bowling and entertainment facility with 10-pin bowling, glow bowling, arcade, laser tag and billiards. Guests can enjoy games and food in a lively, social environment.

780-435-1922. 3414 Gateway Boulevard NW. GatewayBowl.com

EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY | An excellent track for race-lovers to gain exceptional racing experience, Nascar racing, feature stock, race schools, test drives, birthday parties and much more. 780-467-9276.

244047A Township Rd 464, Wetaskiwin.

EdmontonRaceway.com

KINSMEN SPORTS CENTRE | A large sports hub featuring courts and open spaces for casual and organized play, including basketball, volleyball, badminton and more. It’s a goto for group games and sport meetups. 780-442-5311. 9100 Walterdale Hill NW. Edmonton.ca/Activities_Parks_Recreation/Kinsmen infoedmonton.com

PLACES OF INTEREST ACTIVATE EDMONTON SOUTH | One of the city's trendiest entertainment concepts, combining physical activity, gaming, and interactive technology.

Teams work together to complete challenges in immersive, high-energy game rooms. 587-480-7446.

1949 98 St NW. PlayActive.com CAT CAFÉ ON WHYTE | Popular cafe offering a range of adoptable cats, espresso drinks and treats in a bright, cheery space. Cat Cafes have many purposes; after blossoming in Japan they facilitate visits between cats and people living in accommodations that do not allow pets. 780-250-2287. 10111 Whyte Ave NW. CatCafeOnWhyte.com CHINESE GARDENS IN LOUISE MCKINNEY PARK | Serene 1.25-hectare traditional Chinese garden with pavilions, moon gate, rockeries, bamboo, and peonies. It’s a quiet cultural oasis in the river valley. Louise McKinney Park, 9999 Grierson Hill NW. Edmonton.ca COMMONWEALTH STADIUM | An open-air, multipurpose stadium primarily used for Canadian football, it also hosts athletics, soccer, rugby union and concerts. 780-442-5311. 11000 Stadium Rd NW. Edmonton.ca CRANKPOTS | Simply pick your piece, colours and paint away! With unlimited studio time and paints, you can truly relax and enjoy your painting experience. Their glazes are nontoxic and lead-free so they are safe for children. 780-414-1005. 10702 Whyte Ave NW. Crankpots.ca

ENTERTAINMENT

EDMONTON EXPO CENTRE | Edmonton EXPO Centre is the largest venue of its kind, it is a hub of activity; hosting rodeos, concerts, sporting events, galas, trade shows and much more.

780-471-7377. 7515 118 Ave NW. EdmontonExpoCentre.com ESCAPE CITY | Escape room adventure with themed rooms and interactive puzzles for friends or family. Escape City is great for team-building fun, for business groups, and for birthday party alternatives. 780- 668-2222. 10315 82 Ave NW. EscapeCity.ca ESCAPE LEGENDS | Escape Legends is Sherwood Park’s first and only escape room entertainment experience. Pit your mind against the game designers' – who will be the winner?

Enjoy, and find out. 780-416-2584. 178 Chippewa Road, Sherwood Park. EscapeLegends.ca HEXAGON BOARD GAME CAFE | This sleek, modern outpost for playing board games offers espresso drinks, beer and light bites with a large variety of board games, including old favourites and new games to try before you buy. 780-7573105. 10750 Whyte Ave NW. TheHexCafe.com ICE DISTRICT | Edmonton's modern entertainment hub combines public plazas, Rogers Place, restaurants, public art, and year-round events.

Since its development, it has become one of the city's defining gathering places. 780-414-5483.

10360 102 St NW. IceDistrict.com

JUBILATIONS DINNER THEATRE | Jubilations Dinner Theatre has been a staple of the Alberta theatre scene for over 25 years. Break from your routine and immerse yourself in a totally unique, truly Canadian experience. Take in the excitement while you enjoy a delicious multi-course dinner served by their character serviers. Immerse yourself in the evening--it's possible the performers will call upon you to assist! 780-484-2424. West Edmonton Mall, 2061-8882 170 Street NW. Jubilations.ca LAURIER PARK SCULPTURE GARDENS | This peaceful park features a little-known collection of whimsical metal sculptures, shaded paths, and access to river valley trails—great for quiet walks and art lovers. 780-442-5311. 13221 Buena Vista Rd NW. Edmonton.ca MARINE LIFE | Immerse yourself in a hidden underwater wonder as you explore what swims beneath the waves. Get up close with sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and more in this unforgettable underground aquatic adventure that’s home to over 100 species from around the world. 780-444-5321. 8882 170 St NW. WEM.ca/Play/Attractions/Marine-Life.

MAYFIELD DINNER THEATRE | Experience the combination of the sizzle of a gourmet feast with the electrifying energy of live theatre, creating an unforgettable Upcoming shows at the Mayfield include Hurry Hard, The Marvelous Wonderttes, Legends of the 70s & 80s, and more 780-483-4051. 16615 109 Avenue NW. MayfieldTheatre.ca

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

MUTTART CONSERVATORY | Located in Edmonton's iconic river valley, holds one of Canada's largest indoor plant collections. Explore the pyramids, with 700 different kinds of plant species and botanical gardens in four unique pyramids, surrounded by music, nature and beautiful works of art. The Muttart is sixty years old this year. Watch for their anniversary celebrations in early fall. 780-496-8755. 9626 96a Street NW. Edmonton.ca/Attractions_ Events/Muttart-Conservatory ROGERS PLACE | Located in the ICE District, Rogers Place is home to the Edmonton Oilers and a venue for some of the biggest concerts, shows, and live events in the city. Schedule performances are frequently updated on their website. Check for scheduled games for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. 780-414-5483. 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com STANLEY A. MILNER LIBRARY | Besides books, the central branch features impressive modern architecture and rotating art installations in public spaces. 780-496-7070. 7 Sir Winston Churchill Square NW. EPL.ca THE REC ROOM | You name it, they’ve got it.

From arcade staples like Pac Man, Mario Kart, and first-person racers, to carnival classics like skee-ball and basketball, to recreational games like bowling, axe-throwing, and more, tell your friends to meet you on the games floor and set a new high score. 780-702-1332. 1725 99 St NW. TheRecRoom.com/South-Edmonton

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ENTERTAINMENT

TABLE TOP CAFE | Their cozy space is the perfect spot to meet friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and engage in face-to-face gaming. There is a calendar of ongoing events to join in on and you can try-before-you-buy as many of these games are available for purchase. (587)524-5323.

5716 75 Street NW. TableTopCafe.ca VIVA CLAYWORKS | A group of talented ‘cerama-siblings’ who have come together to create a phenomenal teaching studio. They have 12 wheels and a ton of space to create in their Edmonton studio. If you want to sink your hands into clay and learn pottery, Viva studio is your creative home base. 780-413-0118. 10125 81 Ave NW.

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EDMONTON GARRISON | Festivities will run from 11am to 3pm and include military vehicle displays, a farmers’ market, petting zoo, food and dessert trucks, axe throwing, balloon twisters, caricatures, face painting, hay rides, and so much more. Edmonton Garrison Fitness Centre, Mons Ave & Rge Rd 244.

Todocanada.ca/city/edmonton/event/edmonton-garrisoncanada-day-celebration/ EDMONTON RIVERBOAT | The most exclusive fireworks watch party in Edmonton! Your ticket includes a full dinner buffet, two drinks, a live DJ, and more! |Edmonton River Boat Dock. EdmontonRiverboat.ca/CanadaDay

EVENTS CANADA DAY ALBERTA LEGISLATURE | The Alberta Legislature hosts daytime family activities, live music, and performances, making it the central hub for provincial celebrations. With a pancake breakfast, citizenship ceremony, family fun zone, and musical performances throughout the day. Alberta Legislature Grounds, 10800 97 Ave. Assembly.ab.ca/Visit/Events/Canada-Day

EDMONTON RIVERHAWKS: HAPPY BDAY CANADA | THE biggest game of the year is back!! A baseball game and one of the best views in the city for the City of Edmonton Firework show?!?! Sounds like a great time eh’, Edmonton? Gates open two hours early on Canada Day! Grab your maple syrup. Get out the red flannels. Get ready to party! Re/Max Field, 10233 96Ave. Infoedmonton.com/events/edmonton-riverhawkshappy-bday-canada

CHURCHILL SQUARE | July 1 is last day of the Works Art and Design Festival and your last chance to see Churchill Square rammed full of amazing public art from local and national artists. Don’t miss Trojan horse, an impressive installation that questions our use of plastics and overconsumption. Over on The Works mainstage, catch performances by Ali and The Mixtakes, Holidays in Canada, Amy Bishop, Du Rite Aces, Misery Mountain Boys, Denim Daddies, Party Jacket. 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square.

EDMONTON RIVER VALLEY | The big show! End the night with a stellar display at 11pm.

ICE DISTRICT PLAZA | It’s a free all-ages party at the ICE District Plaza with lawn games, inflatables, photo booths, face painting, food trucks, non-alcoholic refreshments and adult beverages. Performances by country music star Mackenzie Porter, hometown boy Dan Davidson and Mariya Stokes. 10360 102 St.

infoedmonton.com

MILL WOODS | Starting at 2, there will be food trucks, a fair, children’s activities and an entertainment stage. This is a free and inclusive event featuring multicultural performances, dance, music, fun, and fireworks that is open to everyone. Mill Woods Park, 23 Ave & 66 St. SeEdmonton.ca/ canada-day-2026 REGIMENT MILITARY MUSEUM | With a kid’s obstacle Coruse, a concert and military vehicle displays. Prince of Wales Armoury, 10440 108Ave. Allevents.in/edmonton/canada-day-ler-museum/ 200029988287755 SPRUCE GROVE | The boot-stompin’ country and bluegrass sound of Tim and the Glory Boys will take over Jubilee Park starting at 9:30 pm. but get there early because country trio The Heels Music and Tri Region-based rock and roll cover band Achilles Last Stand open the show at 6:30 pm. Jubilee Park, Spruce Grove Instagram.com/p/DZDYKM6kvo2/ ST. ALBERT | Take part in a scavenger hunt, create a free art project, explore the gardens and tour the historic houses and grain elevators. Drop by the Father Lacombe Chapel on Mission Hill for free family activities and tours. St. Albert Heritage Sites.

ArtsAndHeritage.ca/pages/events-tours STONY PLAIN | Stony Plain is celebrating Canada Day with a day of free family-friendly fun in the sun at the Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum, Main Street, and Heritage Park grounds.

Stonyplain.com/play/feature-events/canada-day

ENTERTAINMENT

LEDUC | Activities will be hosted throughout the community, ending with an outdoor community concert at the Leduc Recreation Centre and fireworks display at 11 p.m. award-winning Nova Scotia hip-hop icon, Classified, will headline. Leduc.ca/ event/canada-day ALL OTHER EVENTS (Date Order) NATIONS CUP CANADA VS SPAIN | July 4 | Canada and Spain will face off in the opening round of the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup at Clarke Stadium. This highly anticipated clash is a rematch of a thrilling 2025 test match, where Spain edged out Canada with a penalty kick on the final play to secure a 24-23 victory. | Clarke Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd NW. Rugby.ca/en/events/international/rugby-15s/senior-men/ esp-v-can/2026-07-04 ZIGGY MARLEY: BRIGHTSIDE TOUR 2026 | July 5 | Get ready to experience the legendary Ziggy Marley (oldest son of Bob Marley) live as he brings his Brightside Tour. Expect an electrifying performance filled with unity, resilience, and love.

The tour supports his ninth studio album, Brightside, and features fresh tracks like the title track "Brightside," "JAH We Give Glory," and "Many Mourn For Bob". |River Cree Resort and Casino, 300 East Lapotac Boulevard. RiverCreeResort.com/ Event/Ziggy-Marley-Brightside-Tour-2026 EDMONTON STINGERS VS WINNIPEG SEA BEARS | July 5 | Catch Canada’s top basketball players in action from May to August as they chase the CEBL Championship. With the intensity of a rock concert and the athleticism of pro basketball, Stingers games are a must-see. Grab your tickets, and be part of the Stingers’ journey to victory this summer! | Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118 Ave NW. EdmontonExpoCentre.com/Events/Edmonton-Stingersvs-Winnipeg-Sea-Bears-July5 KOE WETZEL – THE NIGHT CHAMPION WORLD TOUR | July 8 | Known for concerts the East Texas native describes fondly as “total chaos,” Wetzel’s live show has grown from Texas dive bars to sold-out amphitheaters and arenas nationwide.|Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com/Koe-Wetzel-July-8-2026.

NATIONS CUP TONGA VS SPAIN | July 11 | The match will feature as the first game of an exciting doubleheader at Clarke Stadium, followed by a matchup between Canada and Portugal. Both nations enter the tournament ranked closely in the World Rugby Men's Rankings, setting the stage for a highly competitive matchup as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. | Clarke Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd NW. UltimateRugby.com/Match/tonga-vs-spainat-clarke-stadium%2C-edmonton-11th-jul-2026/99798 NATIONS CUP CANADA VS PORTUGAL | July 11 | Canada’s men’s rugby team will play Portugal in Round 2 of the World Rugby Nations Cup 2026. In their last meeting during the November 2025 international tests, Portugal defeated Canada 33-27. | Clarke Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd NW. Rugby.ca/en/events/international/rugby-15s/ senior-men/prt-v-can/2026-07-11

CLUE – LIVE ON STAGE | July 14-19| Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget!

Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist. |The Jubilee Auditorium, 11455 87 Ave. JubileeAuditorium.com/Edmonton/Clue ALBERTA SUMMER GAMES |July 16 | The Alberta Summer Games bring together athletes, families, and the community for a province-wide celebration of sport and community. Athletes will complete in 13 different sports at multiple venues throughout Strathcona County.

FestivalPlace.ca/Events/Alberta-Summer-Games-2026 .

PAW PATROL MEET AND GREET WITH CHASE AND SKYE! | July 17 | A group of six rescue dogs, led by a tech-savvy boy named Ryder, has adventures in "PAW Patrol." The heroic pups, who believe "no job is too big, no pup is too small," work together to protect the community. Visit for a special meet and greet with PAW Patrol’s Chase and Skye, plus an interactive magic show

by Jordan Sabo of Pinwheel Productions! | West Edmonton Mall, 8882 170 St NW. Wem.ca/Events/Performances/Paw-Patrol-Meet-andGreet-with-chase-and-skye VALERIE JUNE | July 22 | As a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and three-time Americana Music Honors and Awards nominee, June weaves fresh medicinal downloads of love, sweetness, goodness, and joy with songs that have flowed through her for years. She has recorded three best-selling solo albums and written songs for legendary artists such as Mavis Staples and The Blind Boys of Alabama. | Horowitz Theatre, 8900 114 St NW. HorowitzEvents.ca/ en/Attending/Calendar/#32722 POST MALONE AND JELLY ROLL: THE BIG ASS STADIUM TOUR | July 24-25 | a massive co-headlining North American trek. Building on the success of their 2025 run, the tour features massive stadium productions, genre-bending music, and their hit live collaboration "Losers". | Commonwealth Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd NW. Livenation.ca/all-events/post-malone-tickets-ae_ K8vZ917KjPf_

ANIMETHON | Aug 7-9|Canada’s longest running anime convention. Animethon showcases Asian popular arts and related local communities, to bring people together to celebrate community, creativity, and culture.

Ffeatures and attractions for the event include: Special Guests: Voice actors and creators are featured for panels and autograph sessions, including voice actor Damien Haas and improv group The 404s. Animethon Music Fes: Highlighting Japanese music and anime songs, featuring trance idol group Ma'Scar'Piece.Dance Showcase & Talent: Fans can perform or watch Anisong, J-Idols, and K-pop routines at the Dreamer Stage. |Edmonton Convention centre, 9797 Jasper Ave. Animethon.org AC/DC - POWER UP TOUR 2026 |Aug 9|A high-voltage stadium rock spectacle supporting their 2020 album Power Up. Fronted by iconic vocalist Brian Johnson and lead guitarist Angus Young, the legendary live show features classic and deep-cut catalog hits, high-energy guitar solos, and the band’s signature explosive stage production. |Commonwealth Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd. Edmonton.ca/Attractions_Events/ commonwealth-stadium SERVUS EDMONTON MARATHON |Aug 16| In August each year, thousands of competitors from here and abroad take to the city streets, taking runners through historic neighbourhoods, downtown Edmonton, and along stunning views of the River Valley. More than a race; it's a vibrant celebration of community, athleticism, social connections and resilience.| Various locations throughout Edmonton. EdmontonMarathon.ca SHINEDOWN – DANCE KID DANCE ACT II WORLD TOUR |Aug 17| Fresh off one of the most dominant years of their career, Shinedown entered their next global chapter riding unprecedented momentum.

Over the past year, the multi-platinum band released four major songs, each reinforcing their position as one of the most powerful forces in modern music.|Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com/ Shinedown-august-17-2026 WWE SUMMER TOUR |Aug 22 | Bringing non-televised live events to arenas across North America.

The tour will feature top WWE superstars like Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, Jade Cargill, and Trick Williams. | Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com/wwe-summer-tour-august-22-2026

NATE BARGATZE: BIG DUMB EYES WORLD TOUR | July 26 | Bargatze is currently the #1 comedian in the world according to Pollstar, putting him in the company of Coldplay, Madonna and U2. Billboard announced that Bargatze set a record in 2024 for the biggest one-year gross by a comedy performer in history. Bargatze’s comedy is both clean and relatable, evident in his 15 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the most appearances by any comedian. | Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com/nate-bargatze-july-26-2026

GUNS N' ROSES: WORLD TOUR 2026 | Aug 26 | The legendary rock icons are hitting massive open-air venues across the globe, bringing their powerhouse three-hour-plus sets to massive crowds. The concert features a career-spanning setlist. Alongside legendary hits like "Sweet Child O' Mine," "November Rain," and "Paradise City", the tour marks the live debut of two brand-new singles, "Nothin’" and "Atlas".| Commonwealth Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd. Edmonton. ca/Attractions_Events/commonwealth-stadium

EDMONTON ELKS VS SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS |Aug 1| Exciting game-day experience full of energy, pride, and community spirit. The atmosphere at Commonwealth Stadium is electric and welcoming to all. With family-friendly entertainment, great food, and passionate fans, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening.

From kickoff to the final whistle, every Elks game is a celebration of sport and Edmonton pride. |Commonwealth Stadium, 11000 Stadium Rd. InfoEdmonton.com/Events/

MONSTER JAM| Aug 29-30. | Nothing compares to the one and only Monster Jam. Become a fan for life with an ultimate day of family fun. Get ready to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over your hometown, Edmonton, for a weekend packed with stunts, smiles, and jaw-dropping skills.| Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave NW. RogersPlace.com/ Monster-Jam-august-29-30-202

INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

JULY/AUGUST 2026

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A DAY TRIP TO

When most Edmontonians think about summer road trips, their minds turn west toward the mountains. Yet one of Alberta's biggest summer experiences lies in the opposite direction.

Every August, Big Valley Jamboree transforms the city of Camrose into a destination for country music fans from across Western Canada. Since 1993, the festival has grown into one of Canada's largest country music events, drawing tens of thousands of visitors for four days of live entertainment, food, shopping, and community spirit. For the four days of the festival, Camrose doubles in population.

For many attendees, Big Valley Jamboree is the highlight of the summer. Campsites fill months in advance, friends plan annual reunions around the festival, and returning visitors count down the days until the gates open. This year, crowd favourite Keith 46

Urban returns to the lineup, joining a roster of country stars performing across multiple stages throughout the weekend.

But enjoying Big Valley Jamboree doesn't require a campsite, an RV, or a long weekend.

Located just over an hour southeast of Edmonton, Camrose is close enough to make the festival an easy day trip. Visitors can arrive in the morning, spend the day exploring the grounds, catch an afternoon or evening performance, and still be home before midnight. It is also an ideal way to experience a major music festival for the first time without committing to four days of camping and festival living.

The music may be the headline attraction, but the festival grounds offer much more than concerts. A bustling marketplace features vendors selling everything from western wear to handcrafted goods. Food trucks and concession stands serve

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PHOTO: KEITH URBAN

BIG VALLEY JAMBOREE

classic festival favourites, while rodeo events, karaoke sessions, dance parties, and variety performers ensure there is always something happening between sets.

Part of the appeal is simply the atmosphere. There is something uniquely Albertan about gathering with thousands of other people under an open prairie sky to hear live music. The energy of a large festival crowd, the anticipation before a headliner takes the stage, and the shared excitement of discovering a new favourite artist create an experience that cannot be replicated through a playlist or livestream.

THEN THERE IS CAMROSE

The festival may be the reason for the trip, but Camrose itself is worth exploring.

Known for its welcoming small-city charm, Camrose offers a vibrant downtown filled with locally owned shops, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. Visitors looking for a break from the festival crowds can stroll through the city's historic core or enjoy lunch at one of its many independent eateries.

Nature lovers may want to spend time at Mirror Lake Park, one of Camrose's most beloved green spaces. Walking trails wind around the lake, providing a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the festival grounds. Throughout the summer, the park becomes a gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with public art, galleries, museums, and community events that help

make Camrose a destination year-round rather than simply a festival stop.

For visitors seeking a Beyond Edmonton adventure, Big Valley Jamboree offers the best of both worlds: one of Alberta's biggest summer events combined with the hospitality and attractions of a welcoming prairie city. Whether you stay for a single performance or spend the entire day exploring, it is an easy way to experience a summer tradition that has been bringing people together for more than three decades.

For tickets, schedules, and event information, visit BigValleyJamboree.com.

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JULY/AUGUST 2026

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YOU ARE HERE DOWNTOWN ST. ALBERT WHERE RIVER VALLEY CHARM MEETS ARTS AND CULTURE

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Arts and culture are woven throughout River, and the trestle bridge is a reminder the area. St. Albert Place (1), the of the community’s railway heritage.

Just northwest of Edmonton, downtown distinctive red-brick landmark designed Food lovers will find plenty to explore

by Canadian architect Douglas Cardinal, along Perron Street and St. Anne St. Albert offers something increasingly is home to the St. Albert Public Library Street, where cafés, bakeries, pubs and rare: a walkable city centre where (1), the Musée Héritage Museum (1) restaurants line the downtown corridor. history, culture and nature all meet and other cultural facilities. Nearby, the On Saturdays, the St. Albert Farmers’ within a few blocks of each other.

Arden Theatre (2) hosts performances Market (6) transforms the area. It is one of the largest outdoor farmers’ markets Centred around the Sturgeon River, the all year, while the Art Gallery of St. Albert (3) showcases works by local and in Western Canada. district combines trails and parks with galleries, theatres, restaurants and year- regional artists.

Just west of downtown, Grain Elevator round community events. It is the kind The river valley provides the perfect Park preserves two historic grain of place where visitors can spend the counterbalance to urban amenities. ion Aveelevators that stand as iconic reminders morning browsing a farmers’ market, ss Millennium Park (4) offers green Mi of St. Albert’s agricultural roots and enjoy lunch on a patio overlooking the space. The Children's Bridge (5) is a provide one of the region’s most river and finish the afternoon exploring Rd es on picturesque crossing over the Sturgeon recognizable prairie landmarks.

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• Walkable riverfront downtown with trails and parks

• One of Western Canada’s largest outdoor farmers’ markets

ST. ALBERT FARMERS’ MARKET

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The sprawling Red Willow Trail System offers over 99 kilometers of multiuse, interconnected trails spanning the Sturgeon River valley.

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PHOTOS: TRAVEL ALBERTA; CITY OF ST. ALBERT; ARTS & HERITAGE FOUNDATION OF ST. ALBERT; ST. ALBERT FARMERS’ MARKET

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Local Services Maps || Transit || Apps || Phone Numbers

TRAVEL NUMBERS TELEPHONE DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE Local 411 Long Distance 1-780-555-1212 EMERGENCY Ambulance/Fire/Police (Primary) 911 Police (Secondary) 780-423-4567 (Mobile: 377) Poison Centre 1-800-332-1414 VISITOR INFORMATION Alberta Motor Association 780-474-8601 Weather 780-462-7120 Explore Edmonton 780-426-4715 Edmonton Airport Visitor Information Centre 780-890-8382 Strathcona Chamber of Commerce 780-464-0801 Leduc Visitor Information Centre 780-986-5454 Tri-Municipal Region Visitor Information Centre (Stony Plain) 780-963-4545 The Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre 780-427-7362 Elk Island National Park Visitor Centre 780-922-5790 Hinton Visitor Information Centre 780-865-7000 Edson Visitor Information Centre 780-723-5696 BUSES & TRAINS Edmonton Transit 780-496-1600 Red Arrow 1-800-232-1958 VIA Rail 1-888-842-7245 CAR RENTALS Alamo 1-888-826-6893 Avis 1-800-879-2847 Budget 1-800-661-7027 Discount 780-448-3888 Enterprise 1-800-261-7331 National 1-800-227-7368 Hertz 1-800-263-0600 Thrifty 780-989-4000 AIRPORT/AIRLINES Edmonton Int’l Airport 780-890-8382 Air Canada 1-888-247-2262 American Airlines 1-800-433-7300 United Airlines 1-800-241-6522 West Jet 1-888-937-8538 TAXIS 24/7 Taxi Line 780-442-4444 Airport Taxi XXX-XXX-XXXX Barrel Taxi 780-489-7777 Capital Taxi 780-423-2425 Checker Cabs 780-484-8888 Prestige Cabs 780-462-4444 Prestige Limousine 780-463-5000 Yellow Cab 780-462-3456

EDMONTON AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Navigate the streets and eats of Edmonton with the help of your smartphone and these handy apps. These are all free to download and available for both Android and Apple devices.

GREATER EDMONTON YELLOW CAB Order a cab in seconds from one of the largest taxi companies in the city. Select your pick-up location, get a flat rate and even track the vehicle location.

EDMONTON TRANSIT BUS & TRAIN TIMES Take public transit? Plan the best route with the Transit app, and get real time updates on ETS bus and LRT times.

STREET FOOD EDMONTON Find the location of your favourite food trucks, or check the map to see what's nearby.

HOTSPOT If you're traveling by car, chances are you'll need to park eventually. Use the HotSpot app to pay for on-street parking from the comfort of your vehicle.

Frequest parkers can create an account.

HANGTAG The Park & Co app locates the nearest parking lots and compares rates. Pay conveniently from anywhere and even extend your parking sessions.

ALL TRAILS Discover the best hiking, running and biking trials!

Sort by difficulty, activity, and suitabilityy for dogs and strollers.

BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS 124TH STREET & AREA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION | Their strive to create a thriving business environment that encompasses taste, style, and character through an eclectic mix of premium services, specialty shops, and the arts. 124 St. is Edmonton's premier fashion, food, and arts district and home to many independent boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, theatres, and galleries in the city. 202, 10715-124 St., 780-413-6503.

124street.ca Map 1-C4 D DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION | The Downtown Business Association promotes Downtown Edmonton as the place to live, work, shop, and play.

This non-profit group promotes downtown vibrancy through popular public events and free guided summer walking tours. The DBA also promotes businesses and development projects in the core. 10121 Jasper Ave., 780-424-4085. edmontondowntown.com Map 3-G5 D EDMONTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Owned by the City of Edmonton, the EEDC is strategically focused on Edmonton's bright economic future. In addition to the economic aspect, they are responsible for regional tourism marketing as well as the management of both the Shaw Conference Centre and the Edmonton Research Park. 3 Flr, 9990 Jasper Ave., 780-424- 9191. edmonton.com Map 3-I5 D OLD STRATHCONA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION They enhance, promote and protect the businesses of Old Strathcona by supporting projects that maximize Old Strathcona’s appeal and by working to ensure the well-being of their members, staff, customers, and clients. #202, 10345 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-437-4182. oldstrathcona.ca INFO EDMONTON MAGAZINE

JULY/AUGUST 2026

ST. ALBERT DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION The St. Albert Downtown Business Association supports and promotes the historic downtown core, home to independent shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, and the St. Albert Farmers’ Market. The area blends small-town charm with walkable streets and cultural attractions just minutes from Edmonton. DowntownStAlbert.ca VISITOR SERVICES EXPLORE EDMONTON | Information on the City of Edmonton's attractions and events. Tourist Information: 780-496-8400 or 1-800-463-4667. Travel, trade, or convention/destination planning: 780- 426-4715. World Trade Centre, 9990 Jasper Ave., 780-401-7696. exploreedmonton.com Map 3-I5 D FOREIGN EXCHANGE CALFOREX CURRENCY SERVICES Southgate Mall #45, 5015-111 St. 780-484-4666 West Edmonton Mall #1762, 8882-170 St. 780-484-3868 calforex.com S W INTERNATIONAL CURRENCY EXCHANGE Call toll-free at 1-855-423-2274 Edmonton International Airport 1000 Airport Rd. 780-669-9439 Edmonton City Centre C227, 10200-102 Ave. 780-425-5426 ice-canada.ca D S TIPPING IN EDMONTON Tipping is customary in Edmonton for many service industries. In restaurants and bars, a gratuity of 15–20% before tax is standard for good service. Taxi and rideshare drivers are typically tipped 15%, while hotel staff such as bellhops and housekeeping are often tipped a few dollars per service. Tipping is discretionary, but widely expected, and is often added directly at the time of payment.

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THE HERO MURAL, Artis Hardthirteen and the Rust Magic team

Edmonton’s summer is entering its final act. Not that the city is slowing down.

If anything, late summer may be Edmonton at its busiest.

Festival tents still dot parks and plazas. Outdoor stages continue to draw crowds. Farmers’ markets overflow with fresh produce, handmade goods and visitors determined to make the most of every remaining warm weekend.

This issue has celebrated the season in full colour: visual arts, outdoor performances, summer concerts, community festivals, cultural gatherings and all the reasons Edmontonians spend as much time as possible outside between June and September.

There is something uniquely Edmonton about summer. After months of winter, the city seems determined to fit an entire year’s worth of activity into a few short months. Every weekend offers too many choices and never quite enough time.

But while summer may be drawing to a close, Edmonton is already preparing for its next season.

NEXT ISSUE

Our September–October issue will explore the transition from summer to autumn, beginning with the return of Edmonton’s theatre season. We’ll preview upcoming productions, performing arts launches and the cultural events that fill the city’s calendars once audiences move back indoors.

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We’ll also celebrate Alberta’s most colourful season, with ideas for fall-colour drives, scenic walks, harvest experiences and late-season festivals that make the most of crisp mornings and golden afternoons.

Literary festivals, gallery openings, museum exhibitions and cultural celebrations will take centre stage as Edmonton’s arts community begins another busy season. And, of course, Halloween will be lurking just around the corner, bringing haunted attractions, pumpkin patches and plenty of opportunities for seasonal fun.

Meanwhile, summer’s final chapters will still be playing out.

Sports seasons will wrap up, harvest markets will flourish, and hockey fans will once again turn their attention toward a new Oilers season and the promise that comes with opening night.

The festivals may eventually pack away their stages and tents, but in Edmonton there is always another season waiting in the wings.

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PHOTOS: EDMONTON MURAL FESTIVAL; DARBY P. & UNSPLASH

The Last Word LOOKING The LastFORWARD Word

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