Discover the food, culture, and community spirit that make Edmonton’s Heritage Festival one of the largest multicultural celebrations in the world.
What Is the Edmonton Heritage Festival?
The Edmonton Heritage Festival is a free, family-friendly event celebrating cultural diversity, community, and connection. Now in its 52nd year, it brings together more than 70 cultural pavilions representing over 90 countries through food, music, dance, art, and traditional crafts.
This year, the festival returns August 2–4, 2025, with a new location at the Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Park, while William Hawrelak Park remains under rehabilitation.
The event is organized by the non-profit Edmonton Heritage Festival Association, a UNESCO-recognized organization that works year-round to promote multicultural education and understanding.
Dates:
Saturday, August 2 – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Sunday, August 3 – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Monday, August 4 (Heritage Day) – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location:
Edmonton EXPO Centre & Borden Park
7515 – 118 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5B 4X5
View Location on Map
Source: Heritage Festival Official Website
What You Can Expect at Heritage Festival 2025
Cultural Experiences
70+ cultural pavilions
Traditional clothing, artwork, storytelling, and exhibits
Over 900 scheduled dance and music performances across multiple stages
Global Cuisine
Sample authentic dishes from across the globe with affordable food tickets
Bring your appetite—this is the place to try something new
Art & Crafts Market
Handmade jewelry, textiles, and home goods for sale
Support Alberta-based artisans and global community initiatives
Volunteer-Driven
The entire festival is powered by thousands of volunteers from Alberta’s cultural communities who generously share their heritage and traditions.
Admission is completely free, thanks to community support and sponsors. You’re only paying for the food and crafts you choose to purchase.
Source: HeritageFest.ca – About
Getting There: Parking and Transit Guide
Public Transit – ETS & LRT
Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) and LRT will be running extended service during the festival.
LRT Access:
Take the Capital Line to Coliseum Station. From there, an outdoor pedway connects directly to the Edmonton EXPO Centre.
Bus Routes to Coliseum Transit Centre:
Route 5: From Westmount
Route 8: From Abbottsfield and the University
Route 53: From Mill Woods and Capilano
These routes drop you within walking distance of the festivalWhen in doubt, call 311
Park & Ride Shuttle Locations:
Eaux Claires Transit Centre (97 Street & 157 Avenue)
Lewis Farms Transit Centre (limited due to construction)
Nakî Transit Centre (St. Albert)
Downtown Churchill Square (special festival route)
Transit Fare:
$3.75 cash fare or $3.00 with Arc Card
Day passes and family passes available
Kids under 12 ride free with a paying adult
Source: CTV News Transit Overview, Heritage Festival Transit Guide
Parking
Parking is available at the Edmonton EXPO Centre via Wayne Gretzky Drive & 116 Avenue
Cost is approximately $20 per vehicle
Over 3,800 parking stalls on-site
Use the 73 Street entrance for shorter wait times
Supporting the Edmonton Food Bank
The Heritage Festival is one of Edmonton’s largest food drives, supporting the Edmonton Food Bank each year with tens of thousands of kilograms of donations.
You’ll find donation bins on-site at several key locations near gates and major intersections on the festival grounds. These are clearly marked with a "G" on the map.
How to Donate:
Bring non-perishable food items and drop them at donation bins
Text "FEEDYEG" to 20222 to donate $10 or $20 via mobile phone
Donate online now through the Edmonton Food Bank's Heritage Festival campaign
Make your donation here:
Donate to the Edmonton Food Bank
Source: Edmonton's Food Bank – Heritage Fest Partnership
Insider Tips to Make the Most of It
Arrive early to beat the crowds and get first pick at popular food booths
Shade is sparse, much more so than at Hawrelak Park. Bring a floppy hat, sunblock, and lots of water
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a reusable water bottle
Use the festival map to locate stages, restrooms, donation bins, and shuttle stops
Try new cuisines you’ve never tasted before
Ask volunteers questions—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions being shared
Be respectful when taking photos—always ask permission
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The Heritage Festival is completely free to attend. You only pay for food or crafts.
Do I need tickets for food?
Yes, food is purchased using tickets available at designated booths throughout the park.
Where is the festival this year?
Heritage Festival 2025 takes place at Edmonton EXPO Centre & Borden Park, not Hawrelak Park.
Is parking available?
Yes, paid parking is available at the EXPO Centre for around $20 per vehicle.
Can I take public transit?
Absolutely. ETS bus routes and the Capital Line LRT provide direct access to the site. Shuttle services are also available.
How do I donate to the Food Bank?
Bring food to the festival, text “FEEDYEG” to 20222, or donate online:
Donate Now
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. The festival is very family-oriented, with space for kids, cultural performances, and plenty of food options for all ages.
Can I bring my pet?
No, pets are not allowed on the festival grounds (except for registered service animals).
Is the site accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes. The EXPO and Borden Park grounds are flat and accessible.
Where can I find shade?
There are designated shaded areas, but bring hats and sunscreen to stay cool during midday.
Final Thoughts
The Edmonton Heritage Festival is a once-a-year opportunity to travel the world without leaving the city. Whether you're a foodie, music lover, or cultural explorer, there's something here for everyone—and it's all powered by volunteers, community leaders, and cultural ambassadors who generously share their heritage.
Make it even more meaningful by bringing a food donation or sending a quick text to support Edmonton's Food Bank. Every contribution helps.
For full festival details and maps, visit the official site:
heritagefest.ca
