Whether you’re new to the city or celebrating your first Canada Day here, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable experience. Events are organized by time, with clear details on locations, “why go” highlights, prices, transit, parking info, and direct links for registration or further information.
Just remember - don’t drink and drive, and if the cobra chicken looks friendly it’s just wondering what you taste like. Flip the script this Canada Day with this fun recipe!
Mike would like to let everyone know that Canada Geese are protected under the Migratory Birds Act of 1994 so go to the supermarket and not the park if you’re thinking of trying this recipe.
Morning Events
Edmonton Riverboat Canada Day Brunch Cruise
Time: July 1, 10:00 AM boarding | Departs 11:00 AM | Returns ~12:30 PM
Location: Edmonton Riverboat, 9734 98 Ave NW (Rafter’s Landing)
Price: $60–$75 per person
Why go?
Kick off Canada Day with a scenic brunch cruise along the North Saskatchewan River. Enjoy fresh air, a delicious buffet, and panoramic views of Edmonton’s skyline—ideal for couples or families looking for a relaxing start.
Transit: Valley Line LRT to Muttart stop, 7-min walk
Parking: Limited at Rafter’s Landing; overflow at Henrietta Muir Edwards Park
Edmonton Valley Zoo Canada Day
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Edmonton Valley Zoo, 13315 Buena Vista Rd NW
Price: Regular zoo admission
Why go?
Celebrate Canada’s wildlife heritage with special animal encounters, conservation talks, crafts, and roving performers. Perfect for kids and adults who love animals and learning about local ecology.
Transit: ETS buses 733, 725, 930 nearby
Parking: Free on-site
Muttart Conservatory “Imagine” Event
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Muttart Conservatory, 9626 96A Ave NW
Price: Regular admission
Why go?
Immerse yourself in storytelling, face painting, scavenger hunts, and crafts among Muttart’s stunning botanical pyramids. A creative, family-friendly event sparking imagination in guests of all ages.
Transit: Valley Line LRT to Muttart stop
Parking: On-site lot (arrive early)
Afternoon & Evening Events
Fort Edmonton Park – Multicultural & Canada Day Celebration
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (runs June 28 – July 1)
Location: Fort Edmonton Park, 7000 143 St NW
Price: $22.25 (child) – $27.90 (adult)
Why go?
Explore Edmonton’s past through live multicultural performances (lion dancers, Caribbean showcases), heritage games, crafts, Indigenous ceremonies, and pie-eating contests. Engage with Canada’s diverse history in an interactive, family-focused setting.
Transit: ETS Route 4 to South Campus/Fort Edmonton Park Transit Centre, then shuttle
Parking: Free on-site
LRT Streetcar Tours at Fort Edmonton Park
Included with Fort Edmonton Park admission
Why go?
Ride a restored streetcar through recreated historic streets, connecting visitors to Edmonton’s fur trading, Indigenous, and settlement eras. A charming educational highlight, especially for children.
Transit & Parking: Same as Fort Edmonton Park above
Legislature Grounds Canada Day Festival
Time: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Fireworks at 10:00 PM
Location: Alberta Legislature Grounds, 10800 97 Ave NW
Price: Free
Why go?
Edmonton’s largest Canada Day festival features live music, Indigenous performances, cultural showcases, kids’ crafts, historical tours, food trucks, and fireworks to cap off the night.
Transit: LRT Capital/Metro Line to Government Centre Station, 5-min Pedway
Parking: Free nearby; note road closures from 6 AM – midnight
Mill Woods Park Celebration
Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Fireworks at 10:00 PM
Location: Mill Woods Park, 31 Ave & 66 St NW
Price: Free
Why go?
A warm neighbourhood festival with live music, multicultural performances, petting zoo, hayrides, food vendors, carnival games, and fireworks. Perfect for families seeking local community vibes.
Transit: ETS buses 68, 926, 917; near Mill Woods Transit Centre
Parking: On-site & street; closures begin at 7:30 PM (66 St) and 10:45 PM (23 Ave & Mill Woods Rd)
Edmonton Riverboat BBQ & Dock Tours
Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Edmonton Riverboat, 9734 98 Ave NW
Price: Free with RSVP
Why go?
Enjoy free hotdogs, live music, kids’ face painting, and dock tours of Edmonton’s beloved riverboat. A casual, budget-friendly way to join in the festivities.
Transit & Parking: Same as brunch cruise above
Edmonton Riverboat Fireworks Party Buffet Cruise
Time: Boarding 9:00 PM | Depart 10:00 PM | Fireworks 11:00 PM | Return 11:30 PM
Location: Edmonton Riverboat, 9734 98 Ave NW
Price: ~$150+ per ticket
Why go?
Celebrate Canada Day in luxury with a gourmet buffet dinner, live DJ, and unbeatable fireworks views from the water. Ideal for a memorable date night or group celebration.
Transit & Parking: Same as brunch cruise above
Park & Heritage Options
Borden Park Picnic & Pavilion Concerts
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Borden Park, 7507 Borden Park Rd NW
Price: Free
Why go?
Enjoy local musicians at the historic bandshell, explore outdoor art installations, and picnic under mature trees—a quiet, reflective celebration away from big crowds.
Transit: ETS buses 2, 8, 141
Parking: Free on-site lots
Downtown Heritage Tours & Storytelling
Time: Tours at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM; storytelling follows
Location: Alberta Legislature & Victoria Park
Price: Free
Why go?
Connect with Edmonton’s heritage through guided Legislature tours, Indigenous storytelling sessions, and cultural performances. Learn what makes Alberta’s capital city unique.
Registration: Reserve here or call Visitor Services at 780‑427‑7362. Drop-in available 10 minutes prior to tours if space remains.
Transit & Parking: LRT to Government Centre Station; free off-street parking nearby
Important Note: William Hawrelak Park Closure
William Hawrelak Park is closed until early 2026 for major rehabilitation. All amenities, trails, parking lots, and playgrounds are inaccessible.
Alternative picnic parks: Buena Vista Park, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, and Victoria Park.
Source: City of Edmonton – Hawrelak Park Renewal
Fireworks Viewing Locations
Time: 10:00 PM
Best spots: Legislature Grounds, Victoria Park, Mill Woods Park, Kinsmen Park
Why go?
Experience breathtaking fireworks choreographed to music, illuminating Edmonton’s skyline and river valley.
Transit: ETS buses and Capital Line LRT provide late-night service until 1:30 AM
Parking: Free on-street parking on Canada Day (arrive early)
FAQs
Do I need tickets?
Only Fort Edmonton Park and riverboat cruises require tickets. All other events are free.
Is public transit free on Canada Day?
Normal fares apply, but there is extended late-night service post-fireworks.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, at most outdoor events. Keep pets leashed and away from food service zones.
What if it rains?
Events run rain or shine; fireworks may be delayed for safety.
Where can I register for Legislature tours?
Reserve online here or call 780‑427‑7362.
Final Tips
Arrive early for parking and the best viewing spots if you’re heading to one of the many fireworks shows
Take transit where possible to avoid traffic congestion
Check official event websites for last-minute updates or weather delays
Thinking of Calling Edmonton Home?
If celebrating Canada Day has shown you the welcoming community spirit Edmonton offers, I’d love to help you find your place here. As a local Realtor specializing in helping newcomers and first-time buyers, I provide honest guidance, expert insight, and dedicated support every step of the way. Call me today to learn more about what makes Edmonton a great place to live, work, and build your future.
