Frankly, for a city that goes by, ‘we have a festival for that’ as their tagline, it shouldn’t seem as unexpected. And yet their impressive lineup of festivals always leaves us pleasantly surprised. That’s Edmonton for you, the Festival City of Canada!
With countless fests each year, the city lives up to its festival motto quite literally. From ice sculptures in winter and street performances in warmer weather to unrealistic art by undiscovered artists and folklore by Indigenous performers, the city has a festival for every weather and every vibe.
As it happens, their Spring/Summer calendar is just as lit as can be expected of this festival city. And below are six fests that ought to be on every culture enthusiast’s radar!
#1 Ufest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival – May 27-28, 2022
A true celebration of Ukrainian culture, the festival is a 2-day entertainment extravaganza. From entertaining performances to exceptional visual arts and crafts to that of lip-smacking Ukrainian delicacies, this culture-rich fest has it all. Bonus: it’s free (except for the food, of course)!
#2 Freewill Shakespeare Festival − June 14-July 10, 2022
Fans of literature, theatre and Shakespeare, here’s something you’ll love. This ode to history’s most iconic playwright will showcase performances from his legendary body of work. Matching the Shakespearean vibe, the performances will take place at the equally iconic and picturesque Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park.
#3 The Works Art & Design Festival – July 8-July 17, 2022
Yes, The Works Art & Design Festival is back at the Winston Churchill Square! And so are 13 days of exceptional and electric visual arts. With art exhibits, large-scale installations, multi-disciplinary performances, demonstrations, and workshops the fest is your chance to fall in love with art all over again.
#4 Edmonton International Street Performers Festival – July 8-July 17
Gear up to be thoroughly entertained with Edmonton International Street Performers Festival, aka, StreetFest. The festival is a collection of a variety of performing arts- comedy, music, variety performances and physical feats- performed by local and international street artists. Plus, there are workshops to help you channel your inner entertainer.
#5 Whyte Avenue Art Walk – July 8 – July 10, 2022
Finally, a festival to match the vibrancy of the historic Whyte Ave. This 4km stretch of creativity overload is an uber-cool op to love and appreciate art. And also, snag your next artistic masterpiece from a yet-to-be-discovered talent. Art fanatic or not, the sheer vibe of the fest makes it a must-experience event.
#6 Taste of Edmonton – July 21-July 31
Some of the most mouthwatering delicacies by some of the city’s best restos and food trucks, served with some of the most delicious cocktails and beers you’ll find in town. All this while you soak up the summer sun and enjoy a great concert series. Foodies or not, Taste of Edmonton isn’t a festival you want to miss. It’s what summer dreams are made of!
Impressed much? Well, book your tickets, pack your bags, bookmark Explore Edmonton’s festival guide and head to YEG. See you there!
