🏈 The Edmonton Mama Family Playoff Guide 💚💛
Edmonton, Playoff Football Is Finally Coming Home!
Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Commonwealth Stadium
Everything Edmonton families need to know about the 2026 Edmonton Elks Western Final!
11 YEARS. ONE CITY. ONE INCREDIBLE PLAYOFF MOMENT!
After more than a decade of waiting, the Edmonton Elks are bringing playoff football back to Commonwealth Stadium!
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Edmonton Elks will face the BC Lions in the CFL Western Final, with a trip to the Grey Cup on the line!
And Edmonton Mama is excited to partner with the Edmonton Elks to help local families make the most of this historic moment!
Whether you’re bringing little ones, heading out with your teens or planning a family football night, this is one Edmonton experience you won’t want to miss!
From FREE ETS transportation and Park & Ride locations to the Kids Zone, pregame tailgating, stadium food and helpful family tips, we’ve put everything you need to know in one place!
So grab your green and gold, bundle up and get ready to cheer! 💚💛🏈
🏈 Edmonton Elks Western Final: Game-Day Details
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
🏈 Edmonton Elks vs. BC Lions
⏰ Kickoff: 5:30 PM MST
🏟️ Commonwealth Stadium
📍 11000 Stadium Road, Edmonton
🎟️ Tickets: Available through the Edmonton Elks.
GET YOUR WESTERN FINAL TICKETS
This isn’t just another football game. It’s a chance for Edmonton families to experience the energy of playoff football together and be part of a moment our city has waited 11 years to celebrate!
🚌 Getting to the Game: Your Transportation Guide!
MAMAS, LET’S MAKE GETTING TO THE GAME EASY! 💚
With thousands of fans heading to Commonwealth Stadium, planning your transportation ahead of time can make a BIG difference!
There are two transportation options worth knowing about: FREE ETS Football Park & Ride buses and the $25 Edmonton Elks Huddle Shuttle.
Here’s how they work!
OPTION 1 | FREE
💚 FREE ETS Football Park & Ride!
YOUR GAME TICKET IS YOUR RIDE! 🚌
Did you know your Edmonton Elks game ticket can also get you to and from Commonwealth Stadium on ETS Football Park & Ride buses?
Through Edmonton’s Ticket to Ride program, fans with valid, advance-purchased Elks game tickets can use the dedicated ETS Football Park & Ride buses without paying an additional transit fare.
⏰ When Does FREE ETS Park & Ride Run?
For the 5:30 PM kickoff, the regular game-day schedule is:
🚌 3:30 PM: FREE ETS Football Park & Ride service begins, two hours before kickoff.
🏈 5:30 PM: Edmonton Elks vs. BC Lions kickoff!
🚌 AFTER THE GAME: Dedicated ETS Football Park & Ride buses operate until the stadium clears.
Simply have your valid game ticket ready to show when requested.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Take advantage of the early transportation window! Arriving before kickoff gives your family time to explore the Kids Zone, enjoy the tailgate and grab something to eat.
These are the regular Edmonton Elks Football Park & Ride service hours. Check for Western Final service updates before travelling.
📍 All Four ETS Football Park & Ride Locations!
PARK YOUR VEHICLE & LET ETS TAKE YOU TO THE GAME! 🚌💚
Prefer to drive part of the way?
Edmonton’s ETS Football Park & Ride program offers dedicated bus service from four locations across the city.
1. EAUX CLAIRES
📍 97 Street & 157 Avenue
A convenient option for families travelling from north Edmonton.
2. LEWIS FARMS
📍 1021 Webber Greens Drive
A great option for families travelling from west Edmonton!
Please note: Parking may be limited due to construction, so plan to arrive early.
3. NAIT
📍 Lots A/B and D, 109 Street & 118 Avenue
A convenient option for families travelling from central Edmonton.
💰 Parking: $6
The ETS Park & Ride bus is covered by Ticket to Ride for eligible game-ticket holders. The NAIT parking charge is separate.
4. NAKÎ TRANSIT CENTRE
📍 15520 Campbell Road
A convenient option for families travelling from northwest Edmonton and surrounding communities.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Choose your Park & Ride location before game day and take a photo of where you parked!
Confirm Western Final Park & Ride operations with ETS before travelling.
OFFICIAL ETS PARK & RIDE INFORMATION
OPTION 2 | $25
🚌 The Edmonton Elks Huddle Shuttle
PARK AT THE EXPO CENTRE & RIDE TO THE GAME! 🏈
Looking for another convenient way to get your family to Commonwealth Stadium?
The Edmonton Elks Huddle Shuttle is a separate, PAID parking and transportation service operating from the Edmonton EXPO Centre.
🚗 Here’s How It Works!
STEP 1: DRIVE
Head to the Edmonton EXPO Centre.
📍 7515 118 Avenue NW, Edmonton
STEP 2: PARK
Park your vehicle in the designated Huddle Shuttle parking area with your purchased pass.
STEP 3: RIDE
Board the dedicated Huddle Shuttle for transportation to Commonwealth Stadium!
STEP 4: ENJOY THE GAME
Cheer on the Edmonton Elks as they battle for a spot in the Grey Cup!
STEP 5: RETURN
After the game, take the Huddle Shuttle back to the Edmonton EXPO Centre to collect your vehicle.
💰 How Much Does the Huddle Shuttle Cost?
$25 for a single-game pass.
The pass includes:
🚗 Parking in the designated Edmonton EXPO Centre Huddle Shuttle area.
🚌 Shuttle transportation to Commonwealth Stadium.
🚌 Return shuttle transportation after the game.
⏰ When Does the Huddle Shuttle Run?
Under the regular game-day schedule:
3:30 PM: Shuttle service begins, two hours before kickoff.
During the game: Shuttle service continues.
After the game: Return service operates for approximately two hours after the final whistle.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Purchase your Huddle Shuttle pass in advance, as availability is limited.
IMPORTANT: The Huddle Shuttle is NOT FREE and is NOT part of the free ETS Ticket to Ride program.
Confirm Huddle Shuttle availability and operating times for the November 7 Western Final before purchasing or planning your trip.
♿ IMPORTANT ACCESSIBILITY NOTE: The Edmonton Elks Huddle Shuttle is NOT wheelchair accessible. However, strollers, service dogs and walkers are permitted.
🎉 Arrive Early for the Elks Tailgate Party!
THE PLAYOFF EXCITEMENT STARTS BEFORE KICKOFF! 💚💛
Why wait until the game starts to celebrate?
One of the best parts of attending an Edmonton Elks game is soaking up the excitement before the players even take the field!
The Elks Tailgate Presented by CLRA, traditionally held in Lot B at Commonwealth Stadium, brings football fans together for a pregame celebration!
What Can Families Look Forward To?
🏈 Pregame atmosphere: Experience the excitement as fans gather before kickoff.
💚 Green-and-gold spirit: Join fellow Edmonton football fans getting ready for the big game.
📸 Family photo opportunities: Capture those playoff memories before heading inside.
🍔 Food and refreshments: Check out the available tailgate offerings.
🎉 Game-day energy: Enjoy the build-up to one of Edmonton’s biggest football games in years!
During regular home games, fans can walk through the official tailgating area without a game ticket.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Make the pregame atmosphere part of your family’s experience! Arrive early, take some photos and soak up the excitement before heading into the stadium.
Specific tailgate activities, operating hours and access arrangements for the Western Final should be confirmed before game day.
🏈 The Kids Zone Opens at 3:30 PM!
BRINGING YOUNGER FOOTBALL FANS? ARRIVE EARLY! 🎉
The fun doesn’t have to wait until kickoff!
Families attending the Western Final can check out the Kids Zone, opening two hours before the game.
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
⏰ Kids Zone Opens: 3:30 PM
🏈 Kickoff: 5:30 PM
That’s two hours to enjoy the pregame excitement before settling into your seats!
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Plan to arrive early enough to visit the Kids Zone, grab some food and find your seats before kickoff.
👶 FREE Stroller Check at Gate 2!
MAMAS WITH LITTLE ONES, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU! 💕
Heading to the Western Final with a baby or toddler?
The Edmonton Elks have confirmed that FREE stroller check will be available at Gate 2!
📍 Location: Gate 2
💰 Cost: FREE!
This convenient service makes it easier for families to navigate the stadium without bringing their stroller into the seating area.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: If you’re bringing a stroller, head to Gate 2 before making your way to your seats.
💛 FREE Sensory Kits for Families!
Football games are exciting, but the cheering, music and large crowds can sometimes feel overwhelming.
The Edmonton Elks have confirmed that FREE sensory kits will be available during the Western Final!
📍 Locations: East & West information booths
💰 Cost: FREE!
These kits offer additional support for families who may benefit from sensory-friendly resources during the game.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Locate your nearest information booth when you arrive so you know where to go if your family needs a sensory kit.
🍔 What to Eat at Commonwealth Stadium!
COME HUNGRY, EDMONTON! 🌭🍟🍿
What’s a football game without some delicious game-day food?
Whether you’re planning to grab dinner before kickoff or enjoy snacks while cheering on the Elks, stadium concessions are part of the fun!
And there’s one unique option the Edmonton Elks specifically recommended highlighting!
⭐ Keep an Eye Out for the Grub Tub!
HAVE YOU HEARD OF THE GRUB TUB? 🍔
If you’re looking to try something different from your usual stadium snack, the Grub Tub is one to look for!
It’s one of the unique concession offerings recommended by the Edmonton Elks.
🌭 More Stadium Food Options
Families can explore the regular concession offerings throughout Commonwealth Stadium, including:
🌭 Classic football favourites.
🍟 Quick bites and savoury snacks.
🍿 Popcorn and game-day treats.
🥤 Drinks and refreshments.
☕ Warm beverages to help take the chill off a November evening.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Take a walk around the concourse before choosing your food. You might discover something your family hasn’t tried before!
🎒 Stadium Bag Policy & $2 Bag Check!
MAMAS, KNOW BEFORE YOU GO! 👜
Before heading to Commonwealth Stadium, take a moment to check the bag policy so your family can get through security as smoothly as possible.
What Bags Are Permitted?
✔️ Clear bags: Maximum 12 × 12 × 6 inches.
✔️ Small clutches: Maximum 4.5 × 6.5 inches.
Exceptions may apply for diaper bags and medically necessary items.
All bags are subject to inspection.
👜 Need to Check a Bag? It’s Just $2!
The Edmonton Elks have confirmed that bag check will be available for $2.
📍 Bag check locations: Gates 2, 6, 9 and 13.
💰 Cost: $2 per bag.
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Check your bag size before leaving home. If it doesn’t meet stadium requirements, plan to use bag check.
🧣 November Football in Edmonton: Dress Warm!
MAMAS, YOU KNOW HOW UNPREDICTABLE NOVEMBER WEATHER CAN BE! ❄️
With a 5:30 PM kickoff, families should prepare for a chilly evening at Commonwealth Stadium.
A little planning will go a long way toward keeping everyone comfortable!
What to Wear & Bring
🧥 Dress in layers: Warm jackets, sweaters and thermal clothing are your friends!
🧤 Pack mittens and toques: Especially for younger football fans.
🧣 Bring a blanket: A little extra warmth can make a big difference while sitting in the stands.
🥾 Wear warm footwear: You’ll likely be doing plenty of walking.
📱 Charge your phone: Keep your mobile tickets accessible and your camera ready.
💚 Wear your GREEN & GOLD: Jerseys, scarves, hats and all your favorite Elks gear!
💛 EDMONTON MAMA TIP: Bring an extra layer for the kids, even if the weather seems manageable when you leave home. Temperatures can feel much colder once the sun goes down!
💕 Edmonton Mama’s Top Family Game-Day Tips!
Heading to the Western Final with kids or teens?
Here are a few simple ways to make your experience even better!
⏰ ARRIVE EARLY!
Between transportation, tailgating, the Kids Zone, stadium food and finding your seats, give yourself plenty of time.
📸 CAPTURE THE MEMORIES!
This is Edmonton’s first home playoff game since 2015! Get everyone dressed in green and gold and take a few family photos before heading into the stadium.
🚻 PLAN WASHROOM BREAKS!
Take advantage of quieter moments before kickoff or during the game.
📱 HAVE YOUR TICKETS READY!
Make sure your digital tickets are accessible before arriving at the stadium.
👨👩👧👦 CHOOSE A FAMILY MEETING SPOT!
If you’re attending with older kids or teens, agree on a meeting location in case anyone gets separated.
💚 GET LOUD & HAVE FUN!
You don’t have to know every football rule to enjoy the excitement! Cheer for the Elks, celebrate the touchdowns and soak up the incredible playoff atmosphere!
💚 11 Years in the Making!
The last time Edmonton hosted a CFL playoff game was in 2015.
That year, Edmonton defeated the Calgary Stampeders 45-31 in the Western Final before going on to win the Grey Cup!
Now, 11 years later, playoff football is returning to Commonwealth Stadium.
This time, the Edmonton Elks will face the BC Lions, with a spot in the 113th Grey Cup on the line!
For longtime fans, it’s a chance to relive the excitement.
For younger fans, it’s an opportunity to experience something they’ve never seen before.
And for Edmonton families, it’s a chance to come together and make memories that will last long after the final whistle.
THIS IS EDMONTON. THIS IS PLAYOFF FOOTBALL. THIS IS GREEN & GOLD! 💚💛🏈
🏈 Ready to Experience the Western Final?
Edmonton Mama is excited to partner with the Edmonton Elks to help local families make the most of this incredible moment for our city!
Whether you’re bringing little ones, heading out with your teens or planning a night with the whole family, we hope this guide helps make your playoff experience easy, exciting and memorable!
💚 Game-Day Reminder
📅 Saturday, November 7, 2026
🏈 Edmonton Elks vs. BC Lions
⏰ 5:30 PM Kickoff
🏟️ Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
💕 SAVE this guide to help plan your family’s game day!
💌 SEND it to another Edmonton family heading to the Western Final!
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LET’S GO ELKS! 💚💛🏈
Stay caffeinated, Mamas. ☕
This guide was created in paid partnership with the Edmonton Elks. Kids Zone opening time, stroller check, sensory kits, bag check and concession details were confirmed directly with the Edmonton Elks. Transportation and tailgate arrangements may be subject to playoff-specific updates. Please check official sources before attending.
💚💛 Edmonton Mama x Edmonton Elks | edmontonmama.ca