Edmonton knows how to have fun! Canada’s “Festival City” is always celebrating something, from music, film, and theatre, to heritage, food, accordions, dragon boats, and even winter. With over 30 festivals throughout the year, it’s easy to find a reason to celebrate.

Also the capital of Alberta, Edmonton began as a Hudson's Bay fur trading post in 1795. Today, it’s a major hub for our energy, mining and biotech industries. Smack in the centre of the province, Edmonton’s flat prairie landscape is bisected by the deep river valleys of the North Saskatchewan.

Escape the urban bustle without leaving the city in the parks and pathways winding along the river - the longest stretch of urban parkland on the continent. In the summer, check out an outdoor festival, or hike, bike or blade along 150 km (93 mi) of trails. Tee off on one of the valley’s golf courses. When the snow falls, embrace Edmonton’s passion for winter and go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Carve some powder on four downhill ski slopes right here in the valley.

Festivals. River valley. Arts. Giant mall. Here’s your insider Edmonton checklist!

Pro sports mania

Join the local fan frenzy at a live Oilers hockey game, or an Eskimos football game, or catch the best of bull riding and steer wrestling at the Canadian Finals Rodeo. 

Retail therapy

West Edmonton Mall is the largest shopping centre in North America with 800+ shops and services, a waterpark, skating rink, marine park, hotel and the world’s biggest indoor amusement park. For eclectic shops and cafes, hit historic Old Strathcona or the 124th Street area. 

Golf until the cows come home – and then some

With 17 hours of daylight in high summer, you can golf in Edmonton long after the cows have gone to bed!

Paintings, plants and people

The triumphant architecture of the Art Gallery of Alberta is a masterpiece in itself, housing local and international exhibitions. Explore the unique collections of the Royal Alberta Museum. Travel back in time at historic Fort Edmonton Park, where many feature films set in the old west have been shot.

It’s a jungle in there

Escape winter chills in the tropical gardens of the Muttart Conservatory. 

Get outta town!

Less than an hour away, Elk Island National Park is a sanctuary of aspen parkland. Watch for the bison that roam the park. Camp in the summer and cross country ski here in winter. If you’re looking for a blast from the past, be sure to visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Twenty-five minutes east of Edmonton.

You’re this close to more authentic Alberta experiences. Explore the towns and counties in Edmonton’s countryside.