The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is an annual event held in mid-July at Sir Winston Churchill Square. Running for 10 days, this festival brings a vibrant array of performances and activities to the heart of the city. More on edmontonski.com.
The Origins
The festival was founded in 1985 by two friends, Sheldon Wilner and Dick Finkel, with the aim of showcasing exceptional street performances in downtown Edmonton. Since its inception, the festival has become the largest of its kind in North America.
Initially called StreetFest, the event began as a modest collection of summer cultural activities designed to make Edmonton’s summer livelier and more colorful. In its first year, 20 local artists participated. Although initial attendance was modest, the event sparked community interest and was extended into the following years.
Over the decades, the festival has featured more than 5,000 performers, many of whom are volunteers dedicated to enhancing and expanding the event. These volunteers contribute their time and funds to improve programming and attract new talent.
The founders have made great efforts to bring in performers from across the globe, including artists from Canada, the United States, Japan, Spain, France, and Ukraine. Notable participants include Cindy, an incredible face-painting artist with over 20 years of involvement, and Elizabeth McEwen, whose captivating works have delighted festival-goers for over three decades.
Mike Rogiani and his family, well-known vendors at the festival, sell beautifully crafted handmade souvenirs, further enriching the festival’s lively atmosphere.
The festival has hosted countless talented performers over the years, including world-famous tightrope walker Philippe Petit, clown Mile Hancock, and many others. Each artist brings unique, engaging acts to the stage.
What Makes the Festival Special
During its 10-day run, the festival produces over 3,000 balloon sculptures, totaling an impressive 100,400 original creations to date. Accompanying these visual delights are performances by comedians, acrobats, and jugglers, as well as dazzling dance numbers and evening comedy showcases.
What sets this festival apart is its pay-what-you-can model. Performers earn their fees not from the organizers but through the generosity of spectators. After each act, hats are passed around, allowing audience members to contribute directly if they enjoyed the show.
In addition to open-air performances, the festival fosters artistic collaboration through its Troupe de Jour program. This initiative selects artists to create unique variety shows, combining their talents into innovative, one-of-a-kind performances. Emerging performers gain invaluable opportunities to work alongside seasoned professionals and present their acts to audiences.
Visitors can also try their hand at juggling or balloon sculpture-making through free workshops. Pop-up shops offering unique souvenirs add to the festive atmosphere, making the event memorable for all attendees.
A Festival for Everyone
With free admission and workshops, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival ensures accessibility for all. Whether you’re looking to marvel at world-class performances, try your hand at a new skill, or simply soak up the joyful atmosphere, this festival promises a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.