Edmonton is also a cultural center known as “The Festival City”. Edmonton plays host to many festivals, which among them is Capital Ex, formally known as Klondike Days. This is the main festival held annually during the summer with a midway, rides, music and exhibits. Other major festivals and events include the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival, the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, the Canadian Finals Rodeo, Heritage Days and the Edmonton Indy. Come see the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra!
Major attractions include West Edmonton Mall and Fort Edmonton Park. The mall, with an Amusement Park and Water Park, was until recently the largest in North America. Fort Edmonton is the largest living history museum. It was originally established on the north bank of the North Saskatchewan River as a trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company.
Edmonton is home to North America’s longest stretch of connected urban parkland, which is located in the river valley. To put that in perspective, it is 22 times larger than Central Park in New York.
There are no shortages of Professional Sports Teams in Edmonton. The Edmonton Oilers of the NHL have won the Stanley Cup no less than 5 times since they first joined the NHL in 1979. Led by the legendary Wayne Gretzky who helped them win 4 of the 5 Cups, the Oilers have become in their short existence a Fan Favourite amongst not only the die-hard hockey fan but also the younger fans just learning about Canada’s Favourite pastime.
Joining the Oilers are the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League and the Edmonton Rush of the National Lacrosse League. The Eskimos are perennial powerhouses in the CFL while the Rush have become a dominant team in their division. It doesn’t end there with teams in the professional ranks of soccer, baseball and basketball.
There are many Public and Private Golf courses in the region as well as downhill ski slopes and areas for cross country skiing and public skating. Take a drive in any direction to see for yourself.
Despite the fact there are many things to do in Edmonton, one must not forget just how close the Canadian Rockies are. With World Class Skiing only hours away on the Yellowhead, all you have to do is book a hotel ahead of time.
Enjoy all Edmonton has to offer. Call it Home.