dad with a child on his shoulders and wife beside him looking and pointing up

The Best Spring & Summer Festivals in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada’s Festival City

16/05/2024

Edmonton, fondly known as "Canada's Festival City," is a hotspot for unique festivals that draw crowds from near and far. If you’re looking for things to do in Edmonton, come along as we dive into some of the best festivals happening in the city this Spring and Summer that you’ll want to add to your trip itinerary!  

UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival

UFest Edmonton is Western Canada’s largest multi-day Ukrainian festival and is happening in May at Borden Park. This unique festival celebrates Ukrainian culture with amazing food, music, live dancers, choirs, beer gardens, food vendors, cultural workshops, and a kids zone!

Downtown Spark

Downtown Spark is a 10-day festival in May happening right in the heart of downtown Edmonton. This family-friendly festival offers world-renowned art installations, music performances, dog parties, and block parties. The theme of each year is unique and you’ll have to stay tuned to find out where the art installations will be. 

kid getting face painted

The Works Art & Design Festival

This outdoor festival is North America’s largest free festival celebrating the visual arts. Held at Sir Winston Churchill Square in late June to early July, it attracts designers, artists, and art lovers from all over the world. You will experience performances, art demonstrations, multiple art exhibits, and interactive workshops that the entire family will enjoy. For art lovers, this is a festival you won’t want to miss! 

Edmonton International Street Performers Festival

Located at Sir Winston Churchill Square in July, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is celebrating over 40 years! This unique festival is free, and transforms Churchill Square, the heart of the downtown core, into an outdoor circus featuring some of the world’s best street performers. Walk through the festival and stop to see comedians, music performers, mimes, and other impressive street performers. This festival embraces the tradition called “Pass the Hat” of busking, which means if you see an act you love, you can leave as much as you want. 

Taste of Edmonton

Taste of Edmonton is Western Canada’s largest food festival and this year is extra special as the festival has been running for over 40 years! The festival takes place at Sir Winston Churchill Square, in heart of the downtown core, in July and features over 170 unique and delicious dishes to try, over 50 local eateries and food trucks that attend the event, plus you can also enjoy some live music in between, shopping for local artisan goods and foods. 

KDays 

From mid to late July at the Edmonton EXPO Centre, Edmonton’s most iconic summer fair is back. If you love the classic thrill of the midway, KDays is a must for families! Enjoy riding roller coasters, indulging in classic fair treats like sugar donuts, free concerts and even fireworks at night! Plus, there is a petting zoo, SuperDogs Show and more activities to enjoy after you’re done enjoying rides and games. There’s no shortage of fun to be had at KDays! 

ferris wheel at night time

Edmonton Heritage Festival

Journey around the world without leaving Edmonton at the Edmonton Heritage Festival. At the Edmonton EXPO Centre in August, this free multicultural extravaganza celebrates the diverse cultures and traditions of over 100 countries through music, dance, food, and art. It’s a family-friendly, alcohol-free festival where you can try a variety of unique culinary dishes, browse artwork, connect with other people and celebrate diversity! 

Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival

This is the perfect event if you’re looking for a great atmosphere that celebrates Caribbean arts, music, and culture! This vibrant and free 3-day event is happening in August at Sir Winston Churchill Square and includes a Friday Night Costume Extravaganza, a parade on Saturday, live music throughout the weekend, a Kids Korner, and authentic Caribbean foods. Learn more about the Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival here. 

Edmonton Pride Festival 

This annual festival features lively performances, dance parties, and community activities. Happening in August, Edmonton Pride Festival and its amazing events will be held at Sir Winston Churchill Square, located just off 100 Street North West. The LGBTQ2S+ community and allies come together to celebrate love, diversity and inclusion. Not only is the festival so much fun, it’s a great opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and create a sense of unity within the community! 

two girls holding a pride flag during a pride festival

Retreat to Comfort at Coast Hotels

After a day of festival fun, unwind in comfort at Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA, your home away from home in Edmonton. You'll find pet-friendly accommodations, onsite dining options, large comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, a whirlpool, and a steam room, all designed to enhance your getaway. Plus, this hotel is conveniently located in downtown Edmonton, so you can easily walk to many of these festivals and events! 

Embrace the magic of Edmonton's spring and summer festivals with Coast Hotels, your gateway to unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Book your stay today and let the festivities begin!