Written by Becky Hagan-Egyir
Remember that movie starring Jennifer Garner about a girl who desperately wishes she could be thirty instead of thirteen? 13 Going on 30 was a fun chick flick, but it also gave a statement about how wonderful it can be to come of age when you do it with the right people by your side. In Edmonton, there are three organizations and events that have helped our city’s cultural scene to come of age and yes, this summer they’re all turning 30. Here’s why you should be one of the people at their side as they celebrate:
TELUS World of Science-Edmonton
Learning doesn’t have to be boring and since 1984, the TELUS World of Science-Edmonton has made sure that learning is not only fun, but inspiring. People like former Prime Minister, Jean Chretien who visited in 2000, or the twin actors, James and Oliver Phelps — recognized as the practical jokester duo, the Weasley brothers in the Harry Potter films — who visited in 2013 when TELUS World of Science-Edmonton hosted Harry Potter: The Exhibition, have all had their share of fun here. On July 1 which “not only marks Canada’s birthday but also the anniversary” you can celebrate too! As a tribute to their first birthday, tickets will cost ONLY $4 (plus GST). telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca
The Street Performers Festival
I dare you to not to crack a smile at this fest, filled with fun tunes, applause, and most importantly, laughter, inChurchill Square from July 4 – 13. Kids will love the sight of puppets, circus acts, magic, and dance that take place throughout the Square. But this fest is also great for adults who haven’t lost that childhood sense of wonder at sights like jugglers tossing sticks of fire, or contortionists whose body parts seem to be made of elastic instead of muscle and bone. This year, new acts that haven’t performed in the past will help the fest celebrate their 30th year in Edmonton including: Pogo Fred, the Kif Kif Sisters, and the Red Trouser Sisters. edmontonstreetfest.com
Taste of Edmonton
As aromatic spices from around the globe fill the air and enhance the flavour of that velvet smooth wine you’re drinking, but make sure you leave room for dessert after the feast you’re sure to have. From July 17 – 26 at the heart of the city in Churchill Square, this party will go from morning to night (11 am – 11 pm) and will be the event to put all “picnics to shame” as the festival has been doing since 1984. So how are they celebrating for their 30th? Twelve new restaurants and five new food trucks will be at the fest. And even better than birthday cake, dishes like Zinc’s banana bread pudding with caramel sauce, whipped cream, and brûléed banana will help top off your meal. There’ll also be a line-up of musical acts to groove to — you’ll be burning off some of those calories without even realizing it! tasteofedm.ca
