Hey there, festival lovers! As the days get warmer and the sun shines brighter, Edmonton transforms into a vibrant playground of cultural festivities. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, Edmonton’s upcoming festivals promise to deliver unforgettable experiences. From music and arts to food and heritage, here’s a sneak peek at the festivals you absolutely can’t miss this season!
1. Downtown Spark
Dates: May 23 – June 2, 2024
Location: Various venues downtown
Why you’ll love it: This 10 day festival will kick off the summer season with fun for the whole family – pets included! Returning for the third year the Downtown Spark features large-scale inflatable sculptures from Australia, Tasmania and the U.K., alongside new works by Edmonton-based artist Cheyenne Rain LeGrande. Check out their website for daily programs including, live music performances, food trucks onsite, and pet friendly patio parties.
2. International Children’s Festival of the Arts
Dates: May 30 – June 2, 2024
Location: Various Venues, St. Albert
Why you’ll love it: For over forty years, this festival has sparked the imaginations of children through world music, interactive art, and storytelling. Kids of all ages will delight in creating their own masterpieces and experiencing the magic of make-believe worlds, all through accessible and affordable activities.
3. BOMFEST! – Boodang Outdoor Music Festival
Dates: June 22, 2024
Location: Fan Park @ ICE District, 10128 – 104 Avenue NW
Why you’ll love it: Get hyped for BOMFEST, the ultimate celebration of the electronic music scene! This festival is all about bringing you the biggest names in the game, plus introducing you to the hottest emerging talent. Whether you’re into trance, dubstep, or house, BOMFEST has got you covered. Get ready to dance the night away! The stacked line up will feature Armin Van Buuren, Jauz, Imanbek, and more! Tickets to the fest start at $99.
4. TD Edmonton International Jazz Festival
Dates: June 25 – 30, 2024
Location: Various Venues
Why you’ll love it: The Edmonton International Jazz Festival (EIJF) is the heart of Edmonton’s music scene! With everything from swing and bebop to punk and house, EIJF brings it all under one roof. Enjoy intimate club shows, cabaret-style dance parties, free outdoor concerts, and international acts. Plus, it’s a great platform for local talent and offers educational programs for future jazz lovers!
5. The Works Art & Design Festival
Dates: June 27 to July 1, 2024
Location: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Why you’ll love it: Every summer, The Works takes over a square kilometer of downtown Edmonton with amazing art and design! It’s not just an event; it’s a place for everyone to discover, discuss, and fall in love with art. As North America’s largest free outdoor art and design festival, The Works truly has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the creativity and inspiration!
6. Edmonton International Street Performers Festival
Dates: June 27 to July 1, 2024
Location: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Why you’ll love it: Ever since 1985, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival was North America’s first of its kind! Head to Sir Winston Churchill Square to catch over 500 free outdoor performances from musicians, jugglers, acrobats, and more. While admission is free, don’t forget to bring cash for the ‘Pass the Hat’ tradition to support these amazing artists. Plus, there’s Kids’ World for little ones, Busker Academy to learn circus skills, and an all-ages patio music series in the evenings!
7. The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
Dates: Friday July 12th – Sunday July 14th, 2024
Location: Kinsmen Park
Why you’ll love it: Get ready for a weekend full of laughs at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival! This year, it’s bigger and better, doubling the fun by expanding from four cities to eight in 2024! You won’t want to miss out on the good times and hilarious entertainment. Join in and let the laughter roll!
8. K-Days
Dates: July 19 to 28, 2024
Location: Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds
Why you’ll love it: Experience thrilling rides, addictive games, live music, and delicious food, it’s an adventure you won’t forget. From Kids Town with top children’s entertainers to the Indigenous Hall offering authentic experiences, and killer concerts at the Mainstage, there’s endless fun for everyone. Save money and purchase your tickets in advance!
9. Edmonton Reggae Roots & Drums Festival
Dates: July 20 – 21, 2024
Location: Victoria Park, 12030 River Valley Road
Why you’ll love it: Calling all Caribbean music lovers and festival enthusiasts! Don’t miss out on the ultimate summer vibe at the Edmonton Reggae Roots & Drums Festival! Known as ‘Edmonton’s Biggest Celebration of Reggae, Dancehall & Afrobeats music’, it’s a must for your summer calendar in 2024. Get ready to groove to the rhythm and indulge in Caribbean and Afro cuisine—it’s going to be epic!
9. The Edmonton Heritage Festival
Dates: August 3 to 5, 2024
Location: Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Park
Why you’ll love it: The Heritage Festival is a celebration of Edmonton’s multicultural heart. With over 70 pavilions representing more than 90 cultures, this festival is a feast for the senses. Enjoy traditional music, dance, crafts, and a smorgasbord of international cuisines. It’s the perfect way to travel the world without leaving the city.
10. Edmonton Folk Music Festival 2024
Dates: August 8-11, 2024
Location: Gallagher Park, 9411 – 97 Avenue NW
Why you’ll love it: Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival! This year’s lineup promises to be vibrant and diverse, with over 60 talented musicians from around the world. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the city skyline in Gallagher Park, this annual gathering embodies Edmonton’s spirit as a “festival city.” Whether you’re there for the music, to catch up with friends, or to join the dedicated team of volunteers, it’s bound to be a weekend full of music, community, and fun! Tickets for the 2024 festival will go on sale Saturday June 1.
11. Cariwest Festival
Dates: August 9 to 11, 2024
Location:
Sir Winston Churchill Square
Why you’ll love it: Time to get your groove on at the Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival! This celebration of Caribbean culture is packed with vibrant parades, colorful costumes, and infectious music. Plus, the food is to die for. If you’re looking for a weekend of lively festivities and island vibes, this is it.
11. Animethon 2024
Dates: August 9 – 11, 2024
Location: Edmonton Convention Centre, 9797 Jasper Avenue NW
Why you’ll love it: Dive into the ultimate anime experience at Animethon, Canada’s longest-running anime festival! With cosplay, concerts, gaming, and a bustling vendor hall, it’s the perfect place to meet fellow fans and make lifelong friends. Get hyped for three days of non-stop fun filled with panels, demonstrations, and tons of activities celebrating anime, gaming, and Japanese pop culture!
12. Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
Dates: August 15 – 25, 2024
Location: ATB Financial Arts Barns, 10330-84 Avenue
Why you’ll love it: Get ready to be blown away by the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival! It’s North America’s largest and oldest fringe festival. With over 1,500 live performances, you’ll find everything from jaw-dropping theatre and dance to laugh-out-loud comedy. Plus, the street performers and food vendors make it a total vibe.
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