You’ll love Edmonton’s big summer festivals
This post originally appeared on the Travel Alberta website.
Edmonton heats up in summer as more than 60 festivals and events take over the city. The authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere of Alberta's capital is kicked up a notch and both locals and visitors come together to enjoy the fun.
Want to experience the vibrancy and community spirit? Here are the events to plan your trip around.
International Jazz Festival
For many locals, Edmonton's 10-day International Jazz Festival in June marks the start of summer. The city explodes as the coolest artists fill venues with smooth tunes. Visit Churchill Square at lunchtime to enjoy their free afternoon concert series. Then, at night, head to a wine-bar to enjoy a jam session with some incredible musicians.
International Street Performers Festival
July is the busiest month for festivals in Edmonton, and the 10-day Edmonton International Street Performers Festival usually kicks the festivities off in style. Kids go crazy for this one, as it's full of surprises: acrobats, stilt walkers, puppeteers. Anything can happen when this cast of characters hits the streets.
A Taste of Edmonton
Any hopes for shedding a few pounds are tossed out the window in mid-July. For 10 days the city transforms itself into a smorgasbord at A Taste of Edmonton. Bite sized entrees, appetizers, and desserts are prepared by top chefs, food trucks, and local eateries. Live music and sample cocktails add to the outdoor dinner party.
K-Days
Held at Northlands Park over the last two weeks in July, K-days is definitely a family affair. Carnival rides, games, live music, nightly fireworks, and those addictive mini doughnuts. You'll be on a sugar high and adrenalin rush for a week afterward.
Interstellar Rodeo
The three-day Interstellar Rodeo at the end of the month is all about music. Here, you'll dance the night away to trail-blazing mavericks in Hawrelak Park's open-air amphitheatre. You may even discover the world's next great talent.
International Folk Music Festival
Festival life doesn't slow down in August. It starts with the famous four-day International Folk Music Festival in Gallagher Park. You won't want to miss out on the great music, dancing, and food trucks. And make sure to take advantage of the beer garden party.
International Fringe Festival
North America's largest and longest running fringe festival hits the city for 10-days in the middle of August. Streets and public spaces become a stage for national and international buskers and costumed actors. Unconventional and always entertaining, the Fringe is a local favourite.
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