We are known as Festival City for a reason — more than 30 celebrations take over our parks, stages and streets year-round! If you are looking for some fun this weekend, there is not just one, but THREE festivals to choose from!
1. Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival — The largest and oldest theatre festival of its kind in North America (!), more than 1,200 shows and performances from over 200 theatre companies take over Old Strathcona from August 15-25. Enjoy avant-garde, unjuried theatre or wander around Fringe Central where you are sure to run into roving street performers, fantastic local products and some great street food (don’t forget to grab a bag of mini donuts to munch on!). Visit fringetheatreadventures.ca for more information.
2. Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival — Rip up the river! From August 16-18 enjoy an exciting series of Dragon Boat races on the North Saskatchewan River. The origin of dragon boat racing can be traced to events that happened in southern China over 2,000 years ago! Originally, boats adorned with dragonheads were part of a fertility rite as a way to encourage plentiful rains and a good harvest. Now, racers take to the river in Edmonton to celebrate the Chinese-Canadian community and to race their way to the ultimate in bragging rights — these massive boats are no easy paddle! There will be both friendly and competitive races, traditional dances, food trucks, a beverage garden, and more, all located at Louise McKinney Park. Visit edmontondragonboatfestival.com for more information.
3. Edmonton Blues Festival — Celebrating their 15th year playing to chilled out crowds at the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park, the Blues Fest organizers are pulling out all the stops for this year’s event. Head to the park from August 16-18 to enjoy the soulful sounds of Juno award-winners, deep south blues legends, and more! Day passes are available at the door, visit www.bluesinternationalltd.com for more information.
