Edmonton Fringe announces 'Unforgettable' theme for 45th festival
Running August 13–23, the 2026 festival will feature 209 shows in 37 venues across town, plus free concerts, KidsFringe, 35 outdoor performers, and new Indigenous and queer programming.
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The Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is officially going with Unforgettable as the theme for its 45th edition.
Organizers announced Monday the overarching concept celebrates the moments that linger long after the final bow: "The unexpected discoveries. The daring performances. The belly laughs, tears, chance encounters, familiar faces and hugs in a lineup outside a theatre, and the unforgettable stories that have shaped North America's largest and longest running Fringe Theatre Festival for nearly half a century."
Running August 13–23, the 2026 Fringe will feature 209 shows across 37 venues around town, including longtime anchors like the French Quarter and Old Strathcona. The festival will also offer free concerts in ATB Park featuring a mix of local and touring artists, KidsFringe programming, and 35 outdoor performers ranging from circus artists to street theatre.
New this year is an expanded pêhonân with an Indigenous-led gathering place for storytelling and connection. Also debuting is "Q2Q: A Queer Barns Series" featuring open mics, drag workshops, and more.
Returning is the Fringe Shuttle, a free service connecting the main Fringe Grounds to the French Quarter, supported by Edmonton Transit. Festival Guides go on sale July 29, while ticket sales start August 5 at noon.
