Summer has arrived, kicking off festival season in Edson and area! This summer promises a variety of exciting festivals, offering everything from exhilarating carnival rides and medieval fun to live music and more. Despite being a small community, Edson's festival organizers go above and beyond to create memorable and thrilling events that entice you to come back year after year. Be sure to add these 4 must-visit Edson and area festivals to your summer bucket list!
1. Summer Festival
Canada’s biggest travelling carnival is back this summer for another year of exhilarating rides and family-friendly fun!
From July 10-12, Edson's Main Street will be transformed into a carnival wonderland for the annual Summer Festival hosted by the Edson & District Chamber of Commerce.
Challenge yourself or dare your friends to take on the spectacular rides brought in by West Coast Amusements! The Zipper and Vertigo are perfect for adrenaline junkies, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can find comfort in the classic Ferris Wheel and Carousel. Let your kids loose in Kiddieland, which features a series of rides specifically made for little ones over 2 years old.
Take part in the quintessential carnival activities such as ring toss and balloon pop for the chance to win prizes, and indulge in traditional carnival snacks like cotton candy or mini donuts.
Grab lunch at one of the great on-site food trucks and be sure to pick up an Elephant Ear on your way out – an Edson staple!
Local artists will be set up along Main Street to sell their works, and there will also be great sales and deals available at your favourite local businesses.
For presale wristbands, which will allow you access to unlimited rides, visit https://westcoastamusements.com/event/edson-ab-2024/.
Main Street (50th Street, Edson)
July 10-12 | 1 pm
2. Edson Renaissance Faire
Hear Ye Hear Ye! Thou hast been summoned by the Town of Edson to partake in the second annual Edson Renaissance Faire! Travel back in time to a place of merriment and song, dueling and dragons, sport and questing from July 27-28 at the Yellowhead Ag Society Rodeo Grounds.
Saturday and Sunday will offer a smorgasbord of medieval fun, with performers, activities, quests, games and demonstrations taking place all weekend long. Witness the thrilling spectacle of fully armored combat by the Historical Armored Combat Sports Association, watch an exciting Vikings-age reenactment by Vikings Vinland, participate in a tarot reading or guided meditation with Dimii La Lunn, learn Scottish folklore through captivating storytelling and dance with Angus and Dolina, and much more. Another notable feature is the Vikings Vinalnd re-enactment camp. From live entertainment on and off stage to storytelling and crafts, interactive experiences like Fight a Knight and a maypole dance, and delicious food and drinks, this event is sure to please those of all ages.
Experience the medieval art of trinket trading by exchanging small items with fellow traders throughout the weekend. Bring your own items to share and trade in this unique tradition where you can meet new people and take home unique souvenirs.
Saturday evening will feature a Celtic concert in Dragon's Head Pub, with opening act Angus and Dolina. Doors open at 7 pm, with the Lethbridge Celtic Route's set to start off the show at 7:30 pm.
Amidst all the other exciting activities taking place, Saturday afternoon will feature a costume parade and contest with prizes, so be sure to dress in your favourite Renaissance-era clothing for the chance to win!
Free bussing will be available to and from the Renaissance Faire, with busses running a continuous circuit between Parkland Lodge, the Edson & District Leisure Centre and the Galloway Station Museum, Travel Centre & Archives throughout the weekend.
This event is great for the whole family and is one you surely will not want to miss.
Tickets are available for two day or single day passes and can be purchased at the gate or at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/edson-renaissance-faire-2024-tickets-846454737907. Tickets for the Celtic concert are only available online as seating is limited.
Yellowhead Agricultural Society Rodeo Grounds (901 Range Road 180, Yellowhead County)
July 27 | 10-6 pm
July 28 | 10-3 pm
3. VibesTown Festival
Join the Poplar Ridge Ranch in Yellowhead County for an immersive music and art experience at VibesTown Festival!
Vibestown is an inclusive adult experience designed to reignite the joy of play. It offers a space where adults can freely explore, connect, and express themselves creatively.
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing four-day journey packed with soulful live music, dynamic electronic DJs, inspiring workshops, and spontaneous artistry. At this festival, every participant plays a pivotal role in cultivating an atmosphere where magic unfolds through community spirit and shared creativity. Rejuvenate with yoga, dance beneath the stars, and explore theme camps and local art.
Offering a diverse range of workshops that cater to various interests and personal growth, participants have the opportunity to engage in sessions designed to enhance well-being, such as breath work and meditation. Creative expression is encouraged through workshops in songwriting, spoken word, and the Art of Poi. Additionally, educational sessions on herbology, rhythm, and healing modalities offer opportunities for learning and self-discovery, enriching the festival experience.
Onsite camping is available for the weekend, whether you decide to pitch your own tent or sleep in an RV.
Be sure to join Poplar Ridge Ranch for this unforgettable experience! Get your tickets at https://www.vibesmusicfestival.com/event-details/vibestown-festival.
Poplar Ridge Ranch (Full address on purchased ticket)
August 22-25 | Gates open at 4 pm on August 22
4. Wop May Day
Every year, the Galloway Station Museum and the Town of Edson host the annual Wop May Day celebration to honour the contributions of famous RCAF and bush pilot Wilfrid Reid ‘Wop’ May.
In 1919, Wop May was hired by the Edmonton Police Service to fly a detective to Edson in search of a wanted murder suspect. This event went down in history as the first aerial police chase in Canadian history.
The event will consist of a variety of enjoyable activities, from picnic races and inflatables to crafts, family entertainment courtesy of Beth Portman and much more. The popular pie eating contest, which is open to those of all ages, is always a hoot for participants and spectators alike. Old-timey carnival games will offer tons of fun for kids, as they will be able to exchange their tokens for some great prizes at the end of the day.
In addition to these exciting activities, an artisan market will be taking place inside the museum, which will see talented local artists selling their own works.
Be sure to also grab a bite to eat at one of the many on-site food trucks before you go!
Come help us celebrate Wop May at this free, family-friendly event! More details will be announced closer to the date, so be sure to stay updated at facebook.com/GallowayStationMuseum.
RCMP Centennial Park (223-55th Street, Edson)
August 31 | 1-5 pm
What festivals will you attend in Edson this year?
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