From concerts and sporting events to Broadway shows and festivals, Edmonton kicks of the August long weekend with tons of great events. Whether you are taking the extra day off for some rest and relaxation, or hoping to turn up the heat on your summer fun, check out our weekend picks!
Friday, July 29
Edmonton Eskimos vs. Toronto Argos
Get ready football fans! The undefeated Edmonton Eskimos face off against the Toronto Argonauts in their fifth game of the season. The team is looking better than ever, especially after their latest win over long-time southern rivals, the Calgary Stampeders. Catch all the action at Commonwealth Stadium, as these titanic teams collide on the field. Tickets $48.50 – $76. 780-448-ESKS (3757).
Common
Winner of two Grammy Awards, this hip-hop artist turned actor returns to his musical roots at Edmonton Events Centre. Common stands out from the crowd with his socially conscious lyrics and has recently made his mark in Hollywood in films like the Terminator Salvation and Smoking Aces. Tickets $52.76 – $75.39. 780-489-SHOW (7469).
Saturday, July 30
A Taste of Edmonton
The foodie festival of the season wraps up, so head down to Churchill Square to sample every last delicious dish and drink. To start the day off right, head down to the Palisades Square Safeway Pancake Breakfast and catch some great musical acts. For even more music, the main stage will be home to great acts like The Normals, Encore Jazz and Alberta-native Aaron Lines.
Image courtesy of Bottom Line Productions
Wicked
Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked plays at the Northern Jubilee Auditorium to take audiences to the magical Land of Oz, way before the arrival of Dorothy and her ruby slippers. Winner of 35 major industry awards, this Broadway musical turns the classic tale of good-versus-evil upside down and delivers some of Broadway’s best of singing, dancing and acting. July 20th-August 7th, Tickets $45.00 – $150.00.
Sunday, July 31
Ace of Base
Capital Ex wraps up with the Swedish pop-group Ace of Base, signalling the end of another fantastic midway festival extravaganza. With over seven “Hot 100 Hits” in the United States, Ace of Base has garnered an enormous fan base, including the likes of big name stars such as Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. Famous for such hits as All That She Wants and The Sign, the band released their newest studio album, The Golden Ratio, after an eight-year hiatus. Free with midway admission $6-$12. 1-855-780-3000.
Edmonton Capitals vs. Lake County Fielders
Spend your Sunday cheering on the Edmonton Capitals as they go up against the Lake County Fielders. With the Capitals sitting one above the Lake County Fielders in the current standings, this game promises excitement and drama! Families can take advantage of the Family Pack, which includes 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs and 4 Pepsi for $52.
Monday, August 1
Image courtesy of Servus Heritage Festival
Servus Heritage Festival
Canada’s multiculturalism comes alive at this Edmonton festival favourite. With 62 pavilions representing 85 different cultures, the 2011 Servus Heritage Festival continues a 36-year tradition of bringing Edmontonians of every background together in a fantastic outdoor celebration. Catch a performance, try a tasty treat or just take in the colourful sights and sounds at Hawrelak Park. Free admission, Food Bank donations appreciated. 780-488–3378.
Urban Green Cafe and River Valley Adventure Co.
The Urban Green Cafe and River Valley Adventure Co. opened its doors in Louise McKinney Park on Canada Day this year, attracting a crowd with their sampling of drinks and snacks. In addition to tasty treats, the first stand-alone cafe in the River Valley also offers bike and sports equipment rentals as well as Segway tours. Owners Chris and Jana Szydlowski hope to provide River Valley visitors with a meeting point that will be open to customers year-round. 780-995-7347.
Stay, Dine, Do
