Edmonton is a city that truly comes alive with festivals, no matter the season! From dazzling ice sculptures in winter to incredible live music and free international food tastings in summer, there’s always something unique and exciting happening. As edmontonski.com highlights, each event is a vibrant experience.
Freewill Shakespeare Festival
For a month each summer, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival breathes new life into the works of the Bard right here in Edmonton. You can immerse yourself in his iconic plays and truly appreciate his timeless genius. In 2025, the festival celebrates its 35th anniversary, marking the occasion with performances across four community leagues city-wide. Don’t miss this year’s main production: David Horak’s direction of As You Like It, bringing Shakespeare’s whimsical comedy to life in the enchanting Forest of Arden.
International StreetFest
What do unicyclists, puppeteers, tightrope walkers, and acrobats all have in common? You can find them all at Edmonton’s International StreetFest! Since 1981, this event has brought joy and wonder to Edmontonians and visitors alike. Street performers transform Edmonton into a hub of street theatre with their hilarious, witty, and absolutely incredible shows.
Fun Facts about International StreetFest:
- It was the first festival of its kind in North America.
- Over 200,000 people attend the festival over its 10-day run.
- Performers from all over the world grace the stages annually.
- Over the years, International StreetFest has hosted approximately 480 circus arts workshops for kids and adults.
The Whyte Avenue Art Walk
The Whyte Avenue Art Walk is Edmonton’s premier art stroll, where 460 artists share their talent and creativity, showcasing unparalleled works along Whyte Avenue. This annual three-day festival allows attendees to purchase unique artworks and witness the creative process firsthand. It’s definitely a fantastic way to spend your time, dive into the art scene, and maybe even find your next favourite piece.
Taste of Edmonton
Taste of Edmonton is an eleven-day culinary extravaganza that lets Edmontonians savour delicious and unique national dishes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover the city’s diverse gastronomy. With about 50 local restaurants and food trucks offering over 170 types of incredible dishes, there’s something for every palate. Plus, the atmosphere is set by stunning performances from renowned musicians, making for a truly memorable experience.
Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
Get ready for some serious laughs at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival! For three hilarious days, superstar comedians take the stage, delivering side-splitting sets. Don’t miss your chance to see some of today’s best comics against a natural backdrop in cities across North America. Prepare for an evening filled with unbridled fun, delicious food, cold drinks, and festival surprises.
KDays
First held 130 years ago as the Edmonton Exhibition, KDays quickly became a celebration of technology and innovation. People travelled from all over to witness the latest advancements in agriculture, science, and industry. In the 1960s, the exhibition expanded its scope, blending modern innovations with historical tributes. Today, KDays is a spectacular carnival of rides, games, music, food, and adventure that will leave you breathless and wanting more! Fireworks light up the night sky, and famous musical acts perform throughout the 10-day event. You’ll get an adrenaline rush on thrilling roller coasters and rides, and discover unique finds at the marketplace.
Edmonton Reggae Festival
The Edmonton Reggae Festival is where music, community, and art unite to celebrate the rhythm of reggae. For two days, Edmontonians can enjoy live performances, stunning art exhibits, and engaging family activities.
The Edmonton Heritage Festival
The Edmonton Heritage Festival is the world’s largest three-day multicultural festival. This event showcases a vibrant tapestry of culinary traditions, entertainment, presentations, and crafts from around the globe. Admission to the festival and all dance and music performances are free. Visitors can purchase a wide array of delicious treats prepared in the pavilions. The primary mission of this festival is to foster greater public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of cultural diversity.
The Edmonton Folk Music Festival
The Edmonton Folk Music Festival annually champions live folk music and the exchange of meaningful, inclusive experiences. The city’s hills truly come alive with the sounds of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival. For four enchanting days, talented performers, delicious food and drinks, and a wonderful atmosphere make this event the premier musical event of the summer.
Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival
The Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival is an annual celebration of Caribbean art, music, and culture in Edmonton. This three-day event features a spectacular costume parade and an iconic outdoor parade, along with live music and exquisite Caribbean cuisine throughout the weekend. The festival aims to pass on the rich heritage of Caribbean culture to future generations.
International Fringe Theatre Festival
The International Fringe Theatre Festival is one of the largest and oldest theatre festivals in North America. For 11 days, local, national, and international artists present a wide variety of theatrical performances. Between shows, you can explore the grounds and enjoy street singing, open stages, and lively beer gardens. Each year, over 1,600 talented artists from Canada and around the world grace the festival’s stages.
Edmonton Mural Festival
Witness an explosion of colour and creativity across the city by visiting the Edmonton Mural Festival, which runs for an entire month each year. At this festival, local and international artists transform Edmonton into an open-air gallery. Enjoy stunning murals, participate in interactive art activities, and join in vibrant community events, including an unforgettable closing party. This festival promotes inclusivity and inspires future artists with every brushstroke.
International Children’s Festival
The International Children’s Festival is a magical multi-day event dedicated to kids! It transforms the banks of the Sturgeon River in downtown St. Albert into a grand carnival, always bustling with young visitors. Here, they can connect with each other, play games, and enjoy performances by professional artists from around the globe.
The Works Art & Design Festival
The Works Art & Design Festival brings Edmonton to life and spreads joy to the public! This outdoor art and design festival is considered one of the largest in North America. It features hundreds of performances and exhibitions at venues across the city. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere of bold colours, large-scale sculptural installations, and live music.
Kaleido Family Arts Festival
Kaleido is a family-friendly arts festival where you can enjoy collaborative performances from various art forms, including music, dance, theatre, film, and literature. These unique performances take place on rooftops, in alleyways, parks, and open spaces, offering a truly immersive artistic experience.