Date Night Part 4

Edmonton Area Festivals January-June

Author

Sarah Vance
December 16, 2024

January

Lunarlicious is an exciting indoor event that brings the lively atmosphere of outdoor night markets to life in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Featuring delicious cultural foods, creative local vendors, and festive entertainment, the event offers a unique blend of tradition and creativity. Join us as we transform the space into a vibrant night market, showcasing the rich heritage of the Lunar New Year with activities for everyone to enjoy!

Chinatown Dining Week Edmonton is an annual culinary event celebrating the city's Chinatown, where participating restaurants offer special menus and discounts, showcasing a variety of traditional and modern Chinese cuisine.

Celebrate the vibrant cultures of Alberta Avenue District, including Ukrainian, French Canadian, Franco African, Indigenous (Métis, Inuit, Cree), Latin American, and Asian, through art, performances, and delicious treats. Explore Pipon Village for snowshoeing, bannock by the fire, and cultural storytelling. Enjoy thrilling activities like Deep Freezer Races, axe-throwing, street hockey, and whimsical ice sculptures.

Join one of Edmonton's most unique winter celebrations, the Flying Canoë Volant! This creative, interactive event blends local history with French-Canadian, First Nation, and Métis traditions. Based on the legend of the Flying Canoe, it invites you on a nighttime adventure through Edmonton's French Quarter and the illuminated trails of Mill Creek Ravine.

Chiseled, Edmonton's International Ice Carving Competition, returns with teams of internationally acclaimed artists competing to create stunning sculptures. Each team has 34 hours and 15 blocks of ice to craft their masterpiece using chainsaws and chisels. Watch the artistry unfold in the ICE District Plaza. The sculptures are judged on artistry and technique, with each piece made entirely of water, ice, and snow.

February

Sweet Treats and Latte (February 7-17)

Old Strathcona is home to a variety of cafes and bakeshops offering unique and delicious treats for all tastes. Returning for another year, our Sweet Treats & Latte Festival showcases the best sweet treat businesses in the district, providing the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

Togather Chinatown (February 1-2)

The festival highlights community-focused BIPOC and marginalized artists, local organizations, and up-and-coming artists and micro-businesses making an impact in Edmonton's arts scene. We come together to share our stories and celebrate the city's rich and diverse cultural landscape. In addition to the market, there are family-friendly activities such as performances, workshops, children's games, food, and much more!

Winefest offers an extraordinary tasting experience featuring hundreds of all-inclusive wines from the world's most celebrated wine regions, including red, white, port, sparkling, and dessert varieties. Attendees can sample an extensive selection of wines paired with delectable sweet and savory hors d'oeuvres.

La Poutine Week

La Poutine Week is a two-week food festival celebrating Canada's beloved French-Canadian classic, poutine. Participating restaurants across Canada create unique poutines reflective of their cuisine, offered at a special "poutine price." Poutine lovers can try the creations and vote for their favorites, with winners announced in categories like "The Judge's Choice" and "Most Original Poutine."

Channel your inner adventurer at the Canadian Birkebeiner, Canada's premier classic-style cross-country ski festival! Feel the rush as you race across the final stretch of track, gliding into a blanket of white snow. Held at Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area in Alberta.

International Festival of Winter Cinerma (February 7-16)

The world offers countless opportunities to celebrate winter cinema, and IFWC is thrilled to present exceptional films submitted by global filmmakers. Each year, we feature films focused on winter, mountains, the polar regions, indigenous cultures, and local stories at our snow theatre.

The Silver Skate Festival is a free 10-day family-friendly event celebrating culture, art, education, sport, and recreation. Glide along the city's free public skating surfaces, enjoy the Snow Sculpture Garden, and be dazzled by roving performers on the Folk Trail. Experience the Fire Sculpture burn by writing out a fear or wish, and visit the Indigenous pavilion for stories and a Winter Walking Ceremony.

Feed the Soul Dining Week (not happening 2025)

Feed the Soul Dining Week in Edmonton is a celebration of the city's diverse Black-owned food scene. The event features participating restaurants offering special menus and daily dish features at set prices. It aims to showcase the positive influence the African Diaspora has on Edmonton's culinary industry.

Ice Fest Edmonton is an annual winter event that celebrates ice climbing and outdoor adventure. One of the main attractions is the ice climbing wall, where participants can try their hand at scaling frozen surfaces. The festival also includes ice sculpting, live music, and other winter-themed activities.

Northwest Festival in Edmonton is a documentary film festival showcasing non-fiction films, music, and art. The festival features a wide range of documentary films, including international and local productions. Live music performances, art exhibitions, and workshops are also part of the festival.

March

Edmonton Craft Beer Festival ranks among the world's fastest-growing beer events, showcasing over 500 beers from 100+ breweries. The festival offers a diverse range of beverages, including ciders, meads, and spirits to complement the beer selection. Ticket prices start at $20, with additional sampling coupons available for purchase.

Welcome to the Alberta Spirits & Cocktail Festival, a celebration of the finest locally crafted spirits and hand-made cocktails. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, sampling premium whiskies, gins, vodkas, liqueurs, and more, while enjoying delicious bites prepared by local chefs. Discover new award-winning spirits and learn how to craft impressive cocktails that will wow your friends. Throughout the event, enjoy live music, flair bartending shows, and fireside chats with master distillers, making it an exciting and memorable celebration of Alberta’s vibrant spirit scene)

Creativity is alive and thriving in Alberta, and you're invited to join in! Hosted by Workshop West Playwright's Theatre, this intimate festival showcases staged readings of plays in development, presented in a relaxed, cabaret-style setting with just the right amount of sound, lighting, and staging to spark your imagination. Engage with Edmonton's award-winning playwrights through workshops and other events that promise to inspire and entertain!

SkirtsAfire Festival is a celebration of women in the arts, featuring a variety of performances, exhibitions, and events showcasing local and national female artists. The festival includes music, dance, theatre, visual art, and spoken word performances. SkirtsAfire aims to promote and empower women in the arts.

Millwoods DIning Week

Discover the flavors of Mill Woods during reater Mill Woods Dining Week.
Dine at one of the 9 participating restaurants and enjoy a featured dish for under $15.

Indulge at your favorite downtown restaurant during Downtown Dining Week! Tempt your taste buds with an array of multi-course menus from some of Edmonton's best eateries. This celebration of Edmonton’s diverse culinary scene offers diners the chance to enjoy special fixed-price menus from participating restaurants.

Edmonton Cocktail Week is a celebration (mof the city's vibrant cocktail scene, featuring a variety of activities and events. Participating bars and restaurants offer specially crafted cocktails at a set price of $12, showcasing local distilleries and talent. The event aims to promote Edmonton's cocktail culture and community.

April

The Edmonton Region committee of the Alberta Drama Festival Association (ADFA) is excited to present Stage Struck! A One Act Play Festival on April 19-20, 2024. The 2024 festival featured nine plays, including six new works by local playwrights, one previously produced piece, and a staged reading.Edmonton Poetry Festival

Dreamspeakers International Indigenous Film Festival is a festival showcasing Indigenous films, media art, and storytelling from Canada and around the world. The festival features film screenings, workshops, and panel discussions. It aims to promote Indigenous filmmakers and storytelling.

ChocoFest is Alberta’s ultimate chocolate celebration! Whether you're a passionate chocolate enthusiast or seeking a fun, family-friendly outing, ChocoFest offers something for everyone. Discover a variety of artisanal chocolates, indulgent desserts, and unique confections from both local and international vendors, along with exciting activities, live entertainment, a chocolate chip cookie bake-off, and exclusive tasting opportunities—this two-day event guarantees unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Bonfire is Rapid Fire Theatre’s annual showcase of fresh, improvised ideas. Featuring the talented members of the Rapid Fire Theatre ensemble, each performance at Bonfire is an original creation by one of RFT’s own. Experience innovative ideas that have never been attempted before—some may succeed, others may not, but all will be a delight to watch!

Each year, beer enthusiasts from across the globe gather to celebrate tradition, innovation, and everything beer at the Edmonton International BeerFest. The event features hundreds of beers from around the world, eight live bands, roving entertainers such as stilt walkers, magicians, and street performers, along with two stages of live music, Beer School, and much more.

May

Pizzafest

La Pizza Week is a week-long celebration of Canada’s best pizzas. Restaurants nationwide are invited to create a unique pizza at a special price for the duration of the festival.

The festival celebrates Asian contributions to the film and media landscape, highlighting the talents of Asian-Canadian and Asian-American artists. It aims to showcase diverse voices and perspectives, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural influences in film. Through this platform, the festival amplifies the stories and achievements of Asian creators in the industry.

Discover emerging artists while enjoying a delicious dinner or brunch, all while soaking in the vibrant arts scene. With a variety of shows, experiences, and festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether in the evening or afternoon, you're sure to find an experience that strikes a chord with you.

The Leduc Black Gold Pro Rodeo is back with a jam-packed lineup of fun, family-friendly events. Bring the whole family to enjoy professional rodeo performances, the West Coast Amusements midway, a parade, pancake breakfasts, a car show, the K-Days talent search, a family fun fair, and much more!

Join us for five nights of diverse programming, featuring runway shows by local, Canadian, and international designers. We support emerging talent while also highlighting renowned designers. Our international fashion week, WCFW, is a local and global event that includes design competitions, student showcases, and world-class runway shows!

This enchanting multi-day festival transforms the banks of the Sturgeon River in downtown St. Albert into a lively carnival, with over 55,000 children enjoying performances by professional artists from around the world. The International Children's Festival aims to provide the best in children's arts and cultural experiences, breaking down barriers and fostering joy and creativity. Its mission is to inspire the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts through immersive and accessible cultural experiences.

Cat Fest brings together cat lovers to celebrate cats and cat culture, while raising money and awareness for cat rescues

UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival is a two-day celebration of Ukrainian culture, featuring food, music, visual arts, crafts, and dance. The event brings together people of Ukrainian heritage and attracts a diverse audience from various cultural backgrounds. It's a vibrant celebration of traditions and community.

Downtown Spark is an annual festival held in downtown Edmonton, featuring a variety of outdoor activities and entertainment. The event showcases light displays, art installations, and live performances.

The Rainmaker is a major festival in St. Albert, Alberta, hosted annually by the St. Albert Family of Kin since its inception in 1965.

Come celebrate Beaumont, Alberta’s annual Beaumont Days filled with fun for all ages. Start the weekend with a Friday night street party featuring a market and food trucks, then enjoy Saturday’s pancake breakfast, parade, car show, soapbox derby, midway, and plenty of FREE family activities!

June

Join us for a monthly event that transforms the alley into a lively patio and playspace, offering street market vibes, great food, and fun games. Enjoy activities like Karaoke, Mahjong, Big 2, Chinese Dodgeball, and pop-up comedy, all while experiencing Chinatown after dark.

BOMFEST is an unforgettable experience, with an electric atmosphere that energizes every attendee. The music, along with the cheers of the crowd, creates an exhilarating vibe that’s impossible to resist. With world-class DJs and performers, BOMFEST guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.

The Edmonton Chamber Music Society’s Summer Solstice Festival celebrates summer with a series of fabulous concerts. Festival passes provide access to the three main concerts.

Nextfest is an annual multi-disciplinary arts festival in Edmonton that showcases emerging talent from local artists, performers, and creators. The festival features a wide range of events, including theater, music, visual art, dance, and film, offering a platform for new and innovative works.

Head to Giovanni Caboto Park for a two-day, family-friendly festival celebrating the diverse talent and culture of central Edmonton. As you explore the shops and restaurants of Edmonton's historic Little Italy, you'll be immersed in live music, laughter, and vibrant performances at the Heart of the City Music and Arts Festival. Beyond the Main Stage, enjoy workshops, art, music, poetry, dance, vendors, and plenty of activities for all ages throughout the park.

The Beaumont Blues and Roots Festival is a music festival held annually in Beaumont, Alberta, just outside of Edmonton. The festival features live performances by local, national, and international blues and roots musicians. It showcases a variety of genres, including blues, folk, rock, and country.

Stimulate your senses with vibrant colours, striking sculptural installations, live music on our all-ages patio, and everything The Works' Food Street and Vendor Row vendors have to offer!

The Edmonton Highland Gathering is an annual event celebrating Scottish culture and heritage.The festival features traditional Highland games, music, and dance, as well as delicious Scottish food and drink.

Edmonton Indigenous Festival

Edmonton Indigenous Festival is a celebration of Indigenous culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and art. The festival includes performances, workshops, and a marketplace showcasing Indigenous vendors and artisans. Traditional Indigenous foods and teas are also available.

The Freewill Shakespeare Festival in Edmonton is a summer celebration of Shakespeare's works, featuring two productions that play in repertory over four weeks. Produced by the Free Will Players Theatre Guild, the festival has been running for over three decades. The festival aims to make Shakespeare accessible to all, with outdoor performances in various community league locations across Edmonton

Sand on Whyte

Boardwalk Sand on Whyte returns to Old Strathcona this summer, showcasing incredible sand sculptures crafted by professional artists. Visitors can explore the intricate sand art installations while enjoying live music and a variety of food options.

Improvaganza is a popular improv comedy festival held annually in Edmonton, featuring a variety of improv performances, workshops, and events. The festival showcases local, national, and international improv talent, offering something for both improv enthusiasts and newcomers.

Now Hear This

Join us for an exciting range of events, including new classical music, multimedia performances, free improvisation, electronic music, and more! This year, many artists will be making their New Music Edmonton debut, while some familiar faces return to perform live after a long absence. Now Hear This is a one-of-a-kind festival, showcasing world premiere classical works, cutting-edge electronic music, dance, video, and performance art like no other.

Porkapalooza BBQ Festival

The Porkapalooza BBQ Festival is a community event celebrating the art and culture of BBQ. While it centers around a BBQ competition, the festival also features local food trucks, beer gardens, a food demonstration stage, a Kids Zone playground, and plenty of entertainment.

Dragon Festival

Louise McKinney Park will come alive with dragon boats, dragon kites, colossal dragon inflatables, and family-friendly activities. The Edmonton Dragon Boat Society and Edmonton Dragon Boat Racers will showcase demonstrations and talks on dragon boat racing, while you can also explore the Chinese Garden through storytelling

The Edmonton International Jazz Festival is a popular music festival held annually in Edmonton. The festival features live jazz performances by local, national, and international jazz musicians. It showcases a diverse range of jazz styles and genres.