Alberta’s capital, known as Canada’s Festival City, is always celebrating something, from arts and culture to food and wine, dragon boats, winter and even accordions. With more than 50 festivals throughout the year, you’re bound to find a crowd pleaser.Come to the historical Old Strathcona district for a festival and come back to explore the famous farmers’ market and the galleries and shops. Visit with local vendors, find a funky restaurant and stick around for the night life – live theatre, music and dancing.
Escape the urban bustle without leaving the city. Twenty-two major parks make up Edmonton’s ribbon of green stretching along the North Saskatchewan River – the largest expanse of urban parkland in North America. Many of the summer festivals happen here. All along its 150 km (93 mi) of multi-use trails, you’ll encounter happy cyclists, runners and ramblers. When the snow falls, embrace the city’s passion for winter and take in an authentic winter festival. Go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the river valley. Carve some powder on four downhill ski slopes right here in the river valley.