1. Edmonton Folk Music Festival | August 4 – 7
International stars of blues, Celtic, bluegrass, gospel, and world music perform at this open-air festival, where a hillside serves as a natural amphitheatre. This year’s headliners include Calexico, Mary Chapin Carpenter, The Tallest Man on Earth, and Passenger.
Gallagher Park | 9411-97 Ave.
2. Cariwest Festival | August 5 – 7
Dance the song of life at this lively festival of celebrations, including a colourful costume parade, calypso competition, dance performances, block party, and steel band competition.
Various Venues
3. Animethon | August 5 – 7
This annual event celebrates Japanese animation and design through workshops, gaming, costume contests, film screenings, and more. Special guests include Ladybeard, Misa Chiang, and AKIRA!
MacEwan University | 10700-104 Ave. | 780-497-5040
4. Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival | August 11 – 21
This alternative theatre festival is the largest of its kind in North America, featuring over 1,200 uncensored and non-juried shows and performances from over 200 theatre companies from around the world! Venues are located in the Old Strathcona area with roving street performers, beer gardens, delicious food, and great street shopping adding to the festive spirit. Now in its 35th year, the festival is celebrating its history with this year’s theme: That Was Then, This Is Fringe.
Various Venues
5. Edmonton Blues Festival | August 19 – 21
Top local and international acoustic and electric blues acts shake the house with everything from funk to zydeco. Hear popular blues musicians such as Shemekia Copeland, Paul Barrere, and Fred Tackett.
Various Venues
6. Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival | August 19 – 21
An intense series of Dragon Boat racing competitions on the North Saskatchewan River celebrate the city’s Chinese-Canadian community and the skills of several impressive athletes.
Louise McKinney Riverfront Park | 9999 Grierson Hill Rd. | 780-442-5311
7. Symphony Under the Sky | August 26 – 28
Enjoy some favourite familiar classical scores, contemporary hits, and Hollywood soundtracks at this annual outdoor music festival featuring the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.
Heritage Amphitheatre Hawrelak Park | 9930 Groat Rd. | 780-423-5311
