Canada Day Long Weekend.
Canada Day 2026 lands on a Wednesday, which means the long weekend stretches from Friday June 26 all the way through Sunday July 5 if you plan it right. Ten days of the best Edmonton has to offer: The Works final days, Jazz Festival closing weekend, Improvaganza, Edmonton Carnaval, fireworks at the Legislature, the Legislature pancake breakfast, Metric at the Jubilee, A$AP Rocky at Rogers Place, StreetFest launching, Puppystock, two carnivals, kayaking at Rundle Park, Rice Howard Way every Saturday, and more free events than you can fit in a week.โ
โจ Edmonton Mama’s Weekly Pick
โญ Top Pick
Canada Day at the Alberta Legislature
๐ July 1 (Wednesday, Canada Day)
โฐ 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM ยท FREE all day
Alberta’s largest Canada Day celebration and the best free day of the Edmonton summer. Full schedule: 7-9 AM Edmonton Canada Road Race on the Legislature South Grounds. 7-10:30 AM 37th Annual Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Aga Khan Council — free and open to all. 10-11:15 AM Canadian Citizenship Ceremony at the Queen Elizabeth II Building. 11 AM to 5 PM Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre open including the Democracy Discovery Centre, Borealis Gallery, and Capital Gifts at 20% off. Noon to 5 PM Main Stage at Violet King Henry Plaza with Secondhand Dreamcar, Uptown, and Reuben and the Dark. 1-5 PM South Stage Bandshell with Al Jabal Dance, Hong De Canada Lion Dance, and more. Roving entertainment all afternoon with Spandy Andy, Brasstactics, Hula Hoop Circus, and balloon artists. Fireworks at 11 PM launched from Kinsmen Sports Centre over the North Saskatchewan River.
๐ Edmonton Mama’s Road Trip Pick
๐ Road Trip Pick
Ponoka Stampede: Canada Day Long Weekend Road Trip
๐ June 25 – July 1, 2026
๐๏ธ Free grounds admission ยท various ticket options
One of the Top 10 rodeos in the world runs right through Canada Day week. CPCA rodeo action, WPCA chuckwagon races, midway rides, beer gardens, dances, and live music all week including Dwight Yoakam on June 26. A classic Alberta long weekend road trip and the kind of experience you only get in this province.
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Family Events
๐ Half Price ยท WEM
Kick Off to Summer Family Fun Bash at WEM World Waterpark
๐ June 26 (Friday)
โฐ Doors 5:30 PM ยท Slides open until 8:30 PM
๐๏ธ ~Half regular admission ยท Only 700 tickets ยท Sells out
Kick off the long weekend at World Waterpark with a private low-capacity evening event — only 700 tickets available versus the park’s usual 3,500. That means little-to-no line-ups for slides, extra space to relax, and a tropical 31ยฐC setting all evening. Half price admission, all ages welcome. This is the 26th time this organizer has run this event and it always sells out. Grab tickets early.
๐ FREE ยท Alberta Avenue
Edmonton Carnaval
๐ June 27-29 ยท โฐ 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily ยท FREE
The best Latin carnival in Alberta kicks off the long weekend right on Alberta Avenue. Three days of live cumbia music, Latin-inspired food and drinks, salsa classes, children’s activities, games, and pure community energy. A free all-ages festival celebrating both Canadian multiculturalism and Latin culture in one of Edmonton’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
โ๏ธ Pop-Up Market
Litha Market
๐ June 27 (Saturday)
A summer solstice-themed market celebrating sunlight, creativity, and community. 30+ local vendors, morning magic gift bags for the first patrons, tattoo artists, and a warm market vibe to kick off the long weekend. Check their social media for the confirmed location before heading out.
FREE ยท Churchill Square
AGA Art Cart at Churchill Square
๐ June 27 (Saturday) ยท โฐ 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM ยท FREE
Free drop-in art activities for kids and families hosted by Art Gallery of Alberta educators. No registration — just show up and make something. Happening right inside The Works Festival footprint at Churchill Square.
FREE ยท Every Saturday
Rice Howard Way Summer Block Party
๐ Every Saturday June 20 – Sept 19 ยท โฐ 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM ยท FREE
Every Saturday the street closes to cars and turns into a giant outdoor patio. Live music, patio energy, local businesses, and food and drinks from participating restaurants including Sherlock Holmes, CRAFT Beer Market, Bianco, Bar Trove, and Woodwork. The June 28 edition features Uncle Joe, David Jay, Manny V. y Su Esquina Latina, and DJ FEL GOOD. Free to attend, drinks purchased on-site stay within the district. Families and dogs welcome.
๐ FREE ยท Canadian Multiculturalism Day
Canadian Multiculturalism Day at STRATHMA
๐ June 27 (Saturday) ยท โฐ 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM ยท FREE
June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day, part of the official Celebrate Canada week. STRATHMA hosts a free community celebration bringing together cultural groups and local organizations to honour the many cultures of Strathcona County. A welcoming, meaningful outing for the whole family.
๐ฃ FREE ยท Rundle Park
FREE Try-It Kayaking and Paddleboarding
๐ June 27 (Saturday) and June 29 (Monday) ยท ๐๏ธ FREE ยท All skill levels
Free kayaking and paddleboarding at Rundle Park on both Saturday June 27 and Monday June 29. Paddleboards can be used seated or standing. Certified volunteers on site to help beginners. Note: no sessions on the Tuesday July 1 Canada Day itself per club policy.
๐ฟ Indigenous Arts
Royal Alberta Museum: Traditional Hide Tanning Weekend
๐ June 27-28
A special weekend of traditional moose hide tanning at the Royal Alberta Museum — a meaningful form of cultural reclamation and resurgence. A rare and educational experience for older kids and adults during Celebrate Canada week.
๐ก Carnival ยท June 28 – July 1
Mill Woods Town Centre Ride-On Carnival
๐ June 28, 29, 30 and July 1 ยท โฐ 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM daily
๐๏ธ All-day wristband $40 ยท Single tickets from $1 each ยท Each ride 4-9 tickets
Wild Rose Shows sets up in the Mill Woods Town Centre parking lot all long weekend with rides, carnival games, fair food, and family fun. A great option if you want a midway experience close to home without the full K-Days commitment. Wristbands are non-transferable and non-refundable regardless of weather, so check the forecast before you buy.
๐ Long Weekend Game
Edmonton Stingers vs. Saskatoon Mamba
๐ June 28 (Sunday) ยท โฐ 4:00 PM ยท ๐๏ธ From $27
The two-time CEBL champion Stingers host Saskatoon on Sunday June 28 — a perfect long weekend afternoon game. Intimate buzzy arena and one of Edmonton’s best-value sports outings all summer.
FREE ยท Downtown ยท 10,000+ guests
37th Annual Canada Day Pancake Breakfast at the Legislature
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM ยท FREE
For 37 years this has been one of Edmonton’s most cherished Canada Day traditions. Thousands of Edmontonians gather at the Legislature Grounds for a free community pancake breakfast hosted by the Aga Khan Council of Edmonton. Last year over 10,000 guests were welcomed and served. The perfect way to start Canada Day before the rest of the day kicks off on the grounds.
FREE ยท Crestwood
Crestwood Canada Day Pancake Breakfast
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM ยท FREE
Fresh pancakes, great conversation, and hometown spirit at the Crestwood Community League. A neighbourhood tradition for families in the west end to start Canada Day together before heading out for the afternoon festivities.
FREE ยท Sherwood Park
Strathcona County Canada Day Pancake Breakfast
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM ยท FREE
A free community pancake breakfast to kick off Canada Day in Strathcona County right at beautiful Broadmoor Lake Park. A lovely morning option before the full day of Strathcona County Canada Day Festival begins.
FREE ยท West Meadows ยท Kids Inflatables
Canada Day Free Pancake Breakfast at West Meadows
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM ยท FREE
A free pancake breakfast with live music and large inflatables for kids. A great option for families in the west end of the city who want a fun morning start to Canada Day close to home.
FREE ยท World Cup + Canada Day ยท Downtown
Canada Celebrates at ICE District Fan Park
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ Doors 9:00 AM ยท FREE
Canada Day meets FIFA World Cup 2026 at ICE District Fan Park. Free Canada Celebrates experience inside The Tent with football activities, food trucks, DJ entertainment, face painting, and three big Round of 32 match screenings. A massive free celebration right in the heart of downtown Edmonton.
FREE ยท All Day ยท Downtown ยท Fireworks 11 PM
Canada Day at Legislature Grounds: Full Day Festival
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM ยท FREE
After the pancake breakfast wraps up, the full festival kicks into gear from noon. Main Stage at Violet King Henry Plaza noon to 5 PM with Secondhand Dreamcar, Uptown, and Reuben and the Dark. South Stage Bandshell 1-5 PM with Al Jabal Dance, Hong De Canada Lion Dance, and more. Roving entertainment all afternoon with Spandy Andy, Brasstactics, and Hula Hoop Circus. Canadian Citizenship Ceremony at 10-11:15 AM. Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre open 11 AM to 5 PM. City of Edmonton fireworks at 11 PM launched from Kinsmen Sports Centre — the Legislature grounds are one of the best viewing spots in the city.
FREE ยท LAST DAY ยท Churchill Square
The Works Art and Design Festival: Final Day
๐ July 1 is the very last day ยท โฐ 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM ยท FREE
Your absolute last chance to experience North America’s largest free outdoor art and design festival. Churchill Square packed with 19 exhibits including the feature installations Technicolour DreamCloth, SUPERGARDEN, and Belly of the Bull. The Works Street Stage runs live performances all afternoon and evening. Combine it with the Legislature celebrations just down the road for an unforgettable free Canada Day downtown.
FREE ยท Castle Downs
Canada Day Party in the Park at Castle Downs
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM ยท FREE
A free afternoon Canada Day celebration right in the Castle Downs neighbourhood. Free kids activities, face painting, crafts, entertainment, music, inflatables, and games at the playground and spray park. Great for families who want a low-key, close-to-home Canada Day afternoon without the downtown crowds.
๐ฟ Muttart Conservatory
Canada Day in the Hundred Acre Wood at Muttart Conservatory
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The Hundred Acre Wood comes to Muttart Conservatory just in time for Canada Day. A Winnie-the-Pooh inspired Canada Day experience inside the gorgeous glass pyramids. A unique, magical Canada Day option for little ones who love Pooh Bear. Confirm admission details directly with Muttart before heading out.
๐ TELUS World of Science ยท Canada Day Birthday!
Galaxy Fest 2026 at TELUS World of Science
๐ July 1 (Canada Day) ยท โฐ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
๐๏ธ Included with admission ยท Some activities free outdoors
TELUS World of Science turns 42 on Canada Day and they are celebrating with a full day of cosmic fun. Free outdoor activities include Bottle Rockets (10-11 AM), the Annual Rocket Launch (noon to 1 PM, weather permitting), and Bubble Art (2-2:30 PM). Inside with admission: Science of Fireworks on the Syncrude Science Stage at 11 AM, Liquid Nitrogen Galactic Ice Cream at 1 PM and 3:30 PM, Dress Like an Astronaut photo ops 1:30-3:30 PM, and full Zeidler Dome shows all day. The RASC Observatory is open 1:15-4:45 PM — free admission. A genuinely spectacular Canada Day outing for curious kids of any age.
โพ Riverhawks + Fireworks
Riverhawks Canada Day Game + City Fireworks
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 7:05 PM first pitch ยท Fireworks at 11 PM
The Riverhawks biggest game of the year. Stay after the game for the 11 PM City of Edmonton fireworks display over the river valley — one of the best seats in the city to watch them. Sells out every year. Book early.
๐ FREE ยท Century Mile ยท All Ages
Canada Day at the Races: Century Mile Racetrack
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ Doors 12:15 PM ยท First race 1:15 PM
๐๏ธ FREE admission and parking ยท All ages welcome
Celebrate Canada Day with live horse racing at Century Mile. Doors open at 12:15 PM and the first race goes at 1:15 PM. Free admission, free parking, all ages welcome. A fun, easy, affordable Canada Day afternoon outing especially for families with little ones who love horses.
FREE ๐ Mill Woods ยท Fireworks
Mill Woods Canada Day Celebration and Fireworks
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 2:00 PM – 11:30 PM ยท FREE
Over 30 years running and still one of Edmonton’s best free Canada Day community celebrations. Train rides, carnival games, bouncy slide, roving princesses, face painting, food trucks, beer garden, artisan fair, mainstage with local performers and dancers, and fireworks at 11 PM. Bring a non-perishable food donation for SSVP ST THERESA’s Food Bank if you can.
FREE ๐ St. Albert ยท Fireworks 11 PM
St. Albert Canada Day Festival at Servus Place
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM ยท FREE
Presented by Servus Credit Union. Inclusive Hour 9-10 AM for families who benefit from smaller crowds (pre-registration required). Family activities at Servus Place 10 AM to 4 PM: face painting, inflatables, scavenger hunt, glitter tattoos, games, live entertainment, and free skating. Two showings of Hoppers at Millennium Park at 6 PM and 8:30 PM. Fireworks at 11 PM from Meadowview Ball Diamonds. Free Park and Ride from Nakรฎ Transit Centre.
FREE ๐ Sherwood Park ยท Fireworks
Strathcona County Canada Day Festival
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM ยท FREE
A full day of family-friendly fun at beautiful Broadmoor Lake Park in Sherwood Park. Live performances, local entertainment, hands-on activities, food, and evening fireworks to cap the day. A fantastic alternative to the Edmonton crowds if you are east of the city.
FREE ๐ Fort Saskatchewan ยท Fireworks
Canada Day in Fort Saskatchewan
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
A full day of Canada Day celebration in Fort Saskatchewan. Morning parade and car show, family-friendly activities in Legacy Park, live entertainment, free admission to the Fort Heritage Precinct, the farmers’ market, and evening fireworks. One of the region’s most complete Canada Day celebrations and a beautiful small-city vibe just northeast of Edmonton.
FREE ๐ Spruce Grove ยท Fireworks
Canada Day in Spruce Grove
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Celebrate Canada Day at Jubilee Park in Spruce Grove with a full day of family-friendly fun, live entertainment, community activities, and Canadian festivities through to evening fireworks. A great option for families west of the city who want a smaller-community Canada Day feel.
๐ Canada Day Road Race
Edmonton Canada Day Road Race
๐ July 1 ยท โฐ 7:00 AM ยท 2.5K, 5K, 15K ยท Registration required
Kick off Canada Day with a run along the Legislature grounds. All participants get a Canada Day hat and finisher’s medal. A great way to earn the pancake breakfast. In support of Wellspring Alberta cancer support programs.
๐ Edmonton Fireworks Viewing Guide
City of Edmonton Canada Day Fireworks: Best Viewing Spots
Best confirmed viewing spots: Queen Elizabeth Park and Hill, River Valley Road Trail, Victoria Park, Constable Ezio Faraone Park (west entrance to High Level Bridge on 109 St north), Alberta Legislature Grounds, Walterdale Hill Road sidewalks, and Government House Park. No viewing from inside Kinsmen Park due to safety proximity. CBC Edmonton will live-stream the show for those watching from home.
FREE ยท Launches July 3
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival (StreetFest)
๐ July 3-12 ยท Opens Friday July 3 at 5:00 PM
๐๏ธ FREE ยท Pass the hat to support performers
North America’s first international street performers festival is back for its 41st year and it launches on Friday July 3 — right as the Canada Day long weekend wraps up. Ten days of acrobats, jugglers, clowns, unicyclists, tightrope walkers, puppeteers, and musicians from around the world transforming Churchill Square. Circle shows, Kids’ World, Busker Academy circus workshops, and roving acts all day. Admission is free — bring cash to toss in the hat for the performers. One of Edmonton’s absolute best free events of the whole summer.
๐ฌ Pop-Up Drive-In ยท Valley Zoo
Horizon Drive-In Movie Pop-Up at Edmonton Valley Zoo
๐ July 3 (Friday) and July 4 (Saturday)
โฐ First movie 10:00 PM ยท Second movie 11:45 PM both nights
๐๏ธ From $16.20 adult ยท Parking first come first served
Horizon Drive-In teams up with the Edmonton Valley Zoo Development Society for two nights of double-feature drive-in movies. Friday July 3: Grease at 10 PM then Top Gun at 11:45 PM. Saturday July 4: Zootopia at 10 PM (great for kids before they sleep in the car) then The Conjuring at 11:45 PM for the night owls. A portion of every ticket goes directly to the Valley Zoo. Parking is first come first served in designated areas — this will be busy, so arrive early. Tickets available now.
FREE ยท StreetFest Edition
Rice Howard Way Block Party: StreetFest Weekend
๐ July 4 (Saturday) ยท โฐ 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM ยท FREE
The July 4 Saturday Block Party on Rice Howard Way has a special StreetFest energy as the festival launches just down the street at Churchill Square. Hit both in the same afternoon — live music and patios on Rice Howard Way, then wander over to Churchill Square for the performers. Confirmed via Foundry Events: this edition features StreetFest-themed programming alongside the regular live music lineup.
๐ช Big Top ยท Londonderry Mall
Europa Super Circus
๐ July 2-5 ยท 8 shows across 4 days
๐๏ธ GA $25-$35 ยท Preferred $40 ยท VIP $50 ยท Ringside $60 ยท Under 3 free on a lap
International tight-wire acrobats, Jose Ponce Ramos on the Wheel of Death, All-Star FMX Ultimate Circus riders, high-flying aerialists, dizzying roller skaters, and comedic clowns all under a 650-seat Big Top in the Londonderry Mall parking lot. Eight performances across four days, each running about 2 hours with an intermission. All ages, no animals. Arrive 30-45 minutes early for parking and seating. Kids under 3 are free on a lap. Tickets through their website — multiple shows are already generating buzz so book ahead.
๐ FREE ยท Miquelon Lake Road Trip
Snakes of Alberta at Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
๐ July 2 (Thursday) ยท FREE
A free indoor family presentation about Alberta’s snake species with live animal ambassadors Puzzle and/or Riddle making an appearance. Genuinely fun for curious kids. Pair with a walk around the lake for a full day trip east of the city.
๐ FREE ยท Dog Festival
Puppystock
๐ July 5 (Sunday) ยท โฐ 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM ยท FREE
A community dog festival celebrating rescue organizations and animal welfare. Meet local rescues, watch educational presentations about innovative spay/neuter programs, enjoy doggy games, bouncy castles, BBQ, vegan food options, a beer garden, and raffles and auctions. A fun, free, dog-friendly day to wrap up the long weekend. Check their social media for the confirmed location before heading out.
Downtown 104th Street Market + Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
๐ June 27 & July 4 Saturdays ยท Old Strathcona also June 28 & July 5 Sundays
Two of Edmonton’s best farmers’ markets are running every weekend of the long weekend. The Downtown 104th Street Market runs Saturdays 10 AM to 3 PM. The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market runs Saturdays 8 AM to 3 PM AND Sundays 11 AM to 3 PM — making it a great Sunday morning option too on June 28 and July 5.
Fort Edmonton Park ยท Edmonton Valley Zoo ยท TELUS World of Science
All three big family destinations are open all long weekend. Confirm July 1 Canada Day hours directly with each venue before heading out as statutory holiday hours may vary.
๐ท Date Nights & Social Plans
๐ธ Best Concert of the Weekend
All the Feelings Tour: Metric, Broken Social Scene and Stars
๐ June 29 (Monday) ยท โฐ 7:00 PM ยท ๐๏ธ From $67
Three of Canada’s most beloved indie acts share one stage at the Jubilee on the long weekend Monday. Metric headlining with Broken Social Scene and Stars. An absolutely stacked Canadian lineup at one of Edmonton’s most beautiful venues. If you grew up on any of these artists, this is the show of the summer. Do not sleep on it.
๐ค Big Concert ยท July 3
A$AP Rocky: Don’t Be Dumb World Tour
๐ July 3 (Friday) ยท โฐ 7:30 PM ยท ๐๏ธ From $88
A$AP Rocky brings his first world tour in eight years to Rogers Place on July 3, supporting his album DON’T BE DUMB. Rocky co-starred in two A24 films this past year, co-chaired the 2025 Met Gala, and was named Chanel’s new house ambassador. A massive, full arena hip-hop show and the biggest concert of the post-Canada Day weekend. Tickets from $88 via AXS.
๐ญ Closing Weekend
Improvaganza: International Improv and Comedy Festival
๐ Closing weekend June 25-28 ยท Shows Thu-Sun ยท ๐๏ธ From $15
Rapid Fire Theatre’s annual international improv and sketch comedy festival wraps up its closing weekend right at the start of the long weekend. Best comedy acts from Canada and around the world. Closing weekends always have the highest-energy shows. At $15 a ticket this is one of Edmonton’s best-value nights out. Shows sell out — book ahead.
๐ท Jazz Festival: Closing Weekend
Edmonton International Jazz Festival: Final Weekend
๐ June 25-28 ยท final days of the festival
๐๏ธ Free outdoor stages + ticketed indoor shows
The final weekend of Jazz Festival runs right into the long weekend. Highlights include Pasquale Grasso and Francois Bourassa Quartet on June 27, Atlantic Jazz Collective with Norma Winstone at the Yardbird June 28, and Hiromi’s Sonicwonder headlining at the newly renovated Horowitz Theatre. The outdoor La Cite Francophone stage is always free. Book headliners early.
๐ญ Final Week
Freewill Shakespeare: Much Ado About Nothing
๐ Running until June 28 ยท โฐ Eve shows Tue-Sat 7:30 PM ยท Matinees Wed, Sat, Sun 1:30 PM ยท ๐๏ธ From $20
The final week of Freewill Shakespeare runs through June 28. Catch the Saturday June 27 matinee at 1:30 PM or evening show at 7:30 PM, or the Sunday June 28 matinee. A picnic blanket, a summer evening in Hawrelak Park, and Shakespeare. One of Edmonton’s best long weekend date nights.
๐ข Most Exclusive Fireworks Party
Edmonton River Boat Canada Day Fireworks Party
๐ July 1 (Canada Day) ยท ๐๏ธ Sells out — check for cancellations
The most exclusive fireworks watch party in Edmonton — floating on the North Saskatchewan River as the fireworks launch overhead. Includes a full dinner buffet, two drinks, a live DJ, and party favours. Already sells out with a waitlist but cancellations do come up. The best Canada Day date night in the city if you can get a spot.
๐ Canada Day Night Party
Blanche Canada Day Party
๐ July 1 (Canada Day) ยท โฐ Doors 5:00 PM
Keep Canada Day going after the fireworks. Blanche takes over both patio and indoor space with two DJ booths playing hip-hop and house music — DJs David Stone, Lugz, Navasia, Levy Breaks, and Kris Harvey. Drink specials all night. Tickets on Showpass.
โ๏ธ Ongoing
Patio Season on a Long Weekend
The Canada Day long weekend in Edmonton is peak patio season. Long warm evenings, city energy, everyone in a good mood. Make a reservation somewhere you have been meaning to try. The Common, Woodshed Burgers, Cafe Bicyclette at La Cite Francophone during Jazz Festival, and anything on Rice Howard Way while the Block Party is running are all worth seeking out.
Edmonton Mama’s Weekly Guide ยท Canada Day Long Weekend June 26 – July 5, 2026 ยท All events verified at time of publication. Always confirm details before heading out.
