Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Edmonton once again lived up to its title of Canada’s Festival City this summer, as more than 20 festivals filled the streets and stages with music, art, theatre, and food. Thousands of visitors flocked to the city, contributing to the local economy while experiencing Alberta’s vibrant culture.
To keep the momentum alive, Alberta’s government invested heavily in the festival season. More than $450,000 was provided through community grants to help cover programming, hosting, and equipment costs. In addition, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts supported local presenters with over $1 million in funding, benefitting major events like the Edmonton Folk Festival, the International Fringe Theatre Festival, and The Works Visual Arts Festival.
“Edmonton’s festivals are a celebration of creativity and the spirit of our province,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women. “They connect Albertans, tell our stories, and strengthen community pride.”
This year’s lineup featured a wide mix of events, from the 40th anniversary of the Works Arts & Design Festival to the beloved Edmonton Heritage Festival. Newer highlights included the Alberta Circus Arts Festival, showcasing cutting-edge circus performances, and Afro Music Fest, which brought Afro-Caribbean rhythms and dance to city stages.
Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport, emphasized the broader impact: “Festivals aren’t just entertainment — they create jobs, support communities, and showcase Alberta as a must-visit destination.”
The results were clear. Attendance surged, breaking records across several events. Traci Bednard, CEO of Explore Edmonton, credited this success to the city’s unique cultural energy. “With more festivals than weeks in a year, Edmonton once again proved why it’s known worldwide as Festival City. This season not only strengthened our economy but also helped secure Edmonton’s place on Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 cities to visit in 2025.”
Looking ahead, Alberta’s Budget 2025 sets aside $64 million in community grants and an additional $4.5 million for the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. These investments are expected to further strengthen the province’s reputation as a cultural hub, ensuring summers in Edmonton continue to inspire, connect, and thrive.
