The Cypher is an all-new block party that will be taking over Edmonton’s Rice Howard Way this September with graffiti, skateboarding, and hip-hop all evening long.

Whether you’re a skateboarding pro or someone new to the sport, this experience is going to be calling your name. This upcoming block party is going to feature a mini ramp and street course built for the day, Indigenous artists painting skateboard decks live, as well as break dancing, graffiti, punk and hip hop until sunset.

Not to mention, pro-skater Joe Buffalo will be hosting the entire thing.

Here’s what to know about The Cypher

When is The Cypher?

The Cypher will be happening on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 3 to 7:30 p.m.

Where will it be taking place?

This upcoming block party will be taking place on Rice Howard Way, one of Edmonton’s entertainment districts (open on select days during the summer).

What’s the best way to get there?

Driving, transit, and walking are all viable options in the downtown core. The closest LRT Station to Rice Howard Way is Churchill Station (located about a block away).

Is there parking?

There are a select few parkades within walking distance to the entertainment district:

What can you do at The Cypher?

During this exciting event, there will be opportunities to participate in breaking workshops, an open session with Joe Buffalo, and dance to live music from talented local artists. Plus, you can also enter you and your crew in a skate battle for an exciting cash prize.

How will the skate crew battle work?

The crews will consist of two to four riders as well as one alternate. You’ll be able to enter as a duo, trio, or full squad, with your crew being judged as a unit regardless of size. If you’re a confirmed crew, you’ll be expected to post a 45- to 60-second video on your account by Sept. 10, tagging @thegrindyeg in the caption. Judges seed the bracket from the tapes and will release the bracket on Sept. 12.

Only six crews will be allowed to enter, with first-come, first-served to be in effect.

As for the competition format, there will be three-minute jam qualifiers at 5:30 p.m., followed by head-to-head battle semifinals, and a final battle at golden hour (accompanied by music from their live headliner).

The competition will be judged on difficulty, variety, use of the course, consistency, crew cohesion, and crowd response. In addition to the main award, the People’s Champ will be decided entirely by crowd roar.

Where can I sign my crew up for the competition?

You’ll be able to sign up and fill out the form online, with the link being available on The Grind YEG’s socials.

How much is admission to the event?

This event is entirely free to enter.

The Cypher

When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 3 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Rice Howard Way NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

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Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

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