Top 8 Edmonton Festivals to Attend

1. K-Days
K-Days is one of the largest festivals in Edmonton and takes place annually over a 10-day period in July at Northlands. K-Days celebrates all things Alberta and showcases the best of the province, including local music, and entertainment. K-Days also features a massive midway filled with rides and games, and a large outdoor market that showcases local artisans. In addition to these attractions, the festival also offers a number of interactive experiences and live performances, making it a great family-friendly event. General admission is usually under $20, but you can oftentimes find better deals if you pre-buy your tickets at participating retailers. It's still a great way to get out and experience the energy of the midway.

2. Heritage Fest
The Heritage Fest is a cultural celebration that takes place over the August long weekend in Hawrelak Park. The festival features performances and demonstrations from over 80 cultural groups from around the world on over 25 stages. This festival is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures, sample traditional food, and enjoy live music and dance performances. Admission is free, and the festival also has a children's area with activities and games.

3. The Fringe Fest
This summer festival is one of the largest Fringe festivals in the world and takes place over 11 days in August in Old Strathcona. With hundreds of local, national, and international performers, there's something for everyone. And while tickets for shows are required, admission to the street festival is free and includes food vendors, live music, and street performers.

4. The Works Art & Design Festival
This summer festival takes place in July and features local and national artists displaying and selling their work at venues throughout the city with the main events happening at Churchill Square. We love it, because not only is it almost entirely free, it's a great way to explore the city! You can also enjoy live music, food, and drinks from local vendors.

5. Ice on Whyte Festival
Bundle up and head on down to Old Strathcona – Edmonton's epicentre of arts and culture! This winter festival takes place in January and is all about ice, and is "Edmonton's International Ice Carving Competition." You can admire incredible ice sculptures, enjoy ice-carving demonstrations, and warm up with food and drinks from local vendors. The festival takes place on Whyte Ave and admission is free.

6. Edmonton International Jazz Festival
This summer festival takes place over several days in June and features local and international jazz musicians at venues throughout the city. You can catch some great music and enjoy food and drinks from local vendors. While tickets are required, there are also free events and outdoor performances.

7. Edmonton International Film Festival
EIFF is an international gathering of cinema buffs that takes place in September and showcases the best in Canadian and international cinema. With a mix of feature films, shorts, and documentaries, there's something for everyone. While tickets are required, there are also free and low-cost events and outdoor screenings.

8. Whyte Avenue Art Walk

Art Walks are on on our personal favourite ways to spend time together without breaking the bank. In Edmonton, this event takes place in August and is a celebration of the arts in Edmonton. You can enjoy live music, food, and drinks, and participate in various workshops and activities. There is no cost to get out and browse all the amazing visual and performing arts.