Heritage Festival returns to Hawrelak Park this August long weekend after 3-year absence
The 53rd Heritage Festival is bringing 300,000 visitors and 65 pavilions representing 60+ countries and cultures back to the river valley August 1-3. ETS Park and Ride is recommended.
Sources · local media reports
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Edmonton's 53rd Heritage Festival is returning to Hawrelak Park for the long weekend after a three-year absence, bringing an expected 300,000 visitors to celebrate food, culture, and traditions from more than 60 countries and cultures.
The festival runs August 1-3 and features 65 pavilions hosted by community groups sharing their heritage through food, music, crafts, and performances. Three years ago, the festival moved temporarily to Borden Park while Hawrelak underwent extensive renovations.
"It's very much a homecoming for us this weekend after three years in a temporary space," said Edmonton Heritage Festival Association executive director Rob Rohatyn. "This festival is one like no other in the world. It's a festival where we can all come together, set aside our political differences, celebrate our shared humanity."
With no public parking on site, visitors are strongly encouraged to use ETS Park and Ride services and drop-off locations outside Hawrelak Park.
The festival is also a significant fundraising weekend for the Edmonton Food Bank. This year, the food bank is focusing on monetary donations rather than canned goods due to reduced trucking capacity. Visitors are encouraged to donate at their local grocery store or to the food bank directly.
Organizers are monitoring weather closely given the intense storms that have hit Edmonton this summer. "We do have an emergency response plan in place, we have procedures that are ready to be activated if severe weather were to come near to us," Rohatyn said.
Before you go
When and where is the Heritage Festival?
The 53rd Heritage Festival runs August 1-3, 2026 at Hawrelak Park in Edmonton.
How do I get there?
ETS Park and Ride services and drop-off locations are available outside Hawrelak Park. There is no public parking on site, so visitors are strongly encouraged to use these transit options.
What will be at the festival?
The Heritage Festival features 65 pavilions hosted by community groups representing more than 60 countries and cultures, with food, music, crafts, and performances celebrating different heritages.
