Canada Day Events in Edmonton for Your Summer Kick Off Weekend

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Canada Day is the perfect excuse to turn up the charm and plan a full-on summer date day. July 1st lands on a Tuesday this year, if you’re lucky you might have a possible bonus long weekend! There’s going to be whole lot of fun packed into one day. Whether you’re into chill river views, sports, fireworks, or free food, Edmonton has something going on that makes it super easy to plan a low-key but memorable date.

1. Edmonton Riverboat Canada Day

Start the day with serious main character energy by hopping on a brunch cruise with the Edmonton Riverboat. Floating down the North Saskatchewan, mimosa in hand, is probably the cutest way to say “Happy Birthday, Canada.” Later that night, the Riverboat is back at it with a late-night dinner buffet and one of the most exclusive views of the fireworks in town. If you’re trying to impress someone with an epic skyline moment, this is the spot.

When: Tuesday, July 1st | Brunch 10:30am-12:30pm | Dinner Fireworks Party 9pm – 11:30pm

Cost: Brunch starting at $60, Dinner Fireworks Party $150

Location: Rafter’s Landing 9734 98 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T6C 4P6

2. Edmonton Riverboat Free Community Barbecue

Nothing brings people together like free food. The Edmonton Riverboat is serving up exactly that at their Canada Day Community Barbecue at Rafter’s Landing. From 2:00 PM, the grills are on, the tunes are up, and the good vibes are rolling.

Grab a hotdog, sip on a cold soft drink, and chill out by the water with your date or your crew. RSVP’s require, but its totally free and first-come, first-served. Be sure to plan ahead, show up early for the best bites and some fun pre-fireworks energy. It’s the kind of low-key afternoon that feels super summery and sweet without spending a dime.

Dates: March 8-June 21, 2025

Cost: $12.61 – $28.48

Location: Edmonton City Centre, 10025 102 Avenue NW, Edmonton

3. Canada Day at The Legislature

A midday stroll through the Legislature Grounds hits different on Canada Day. The newly renovated space is stunning, think fountains, gardens, and heritage buildings. Enjoy live music, entertainment, and activities for all ages. It’s totally free, super laid back, and there’s plenty of space to bring a blanket and settle in for a mini picnic date.

Dates: Tuesday, July 1st

Cost: free

Location: 10800 97 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 2B6

4. Riverhawks Canada Day Party

Nothing says “Canadian summer date” quite like a Riverhawks game. They’re throwing a Canada Day party complete with baseball, fun vibes, and all the ballpark snacks your heart could want. It’s casual, playful, and a perfect plan if you want to wear matching red-and-white fits and not take yourselves too seriously.

Dates: Tuesday, July 1st

Cost: starting $12

Location: 10233 96 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 0A5

5. Strathcona County Canada Day

If you and your date are down for a little road trip energy, Broadmoor Lake Park in Sherwood Park is the spot. Strathcona County knows how to throw a party, and their Canada Day celebration has everything from canoeing to live entertainment to fireworks. It’s wholesome, playful, and packed with activities that make you feel like a kid again. Bonus: The Italian Centre Shop is fueling volunteers with snacks, which means even the behind-the-scenes magic has a little extra love.

Dates: Tuesday, July 1st 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Cost: free

Location: 2015 Oak St Sherwood Park, Alberta T8A 0W9 Canada

6. Canada Day Stingers Game

If your ideal date has a little more action, the Edmonton Stingers are taking on the Montreal Alliance at the EXPO Centre. The vibe at a Stingers game is fast-paced but super accessible, and honestly, nothing beats bonding over shared hype for a big win. Plus, the CEBL keeps tickets affordable, so it’s a great pick if you’re doing multiple things in one day.

Dates: Tuesday, July 1st

Cost: starting $25.10

Location: Edmonton EXPO Centre, 7515 118 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB

7. City of Edmonton Fireworks

No matter how you spend the day, it’s only right to end it under the stars. Edmonton’s official fireworks show starts at 11 PM, and there are some amazing viewing spots around the city. Queen Elizabeth Park and River Valley Road Trail are top picks if you want a direct sightline, but Ezio Faraone Park near the High Level Bridge is just as stunning. For a slightly more chill, less crowded view, spots like the Legislature Grounds and Walterdale Hill Road Promenade also work perfectly.

Dates: Tuesday, July 1st 11pm

Cost: Free

Location: fireworks are lit up downtown


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