Read on as we unveil six of the best food festivals happening this summer.
Summer is flying by, and we don’t want you to miss out on anything. While autumn isn’t far away (we know, it’s a tragedy), there are still so many things to do, see, and eat around Alberta before the leaves (and snow) fall. So, foodies, this one's for you.
Alberta is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Among its many treasures, Alberta has some of the best culinary experiences for foodies, offering a smorgasbord of festivals celebrating the province’s vast food and beverage scene. From bustling city events to quaint lakeside feasts, here's an overview of the top food festivals happening throughout the remainder of the summer.
Taste of Edmonton: July 18-28, 2024
A Taste of Edmonton is a culinary extravaganza set in the heart of Alberta’s capital city. Held at Sir Winston Churchill Square, this festival has grown to be known as the largest food festival in Western Canada, as it transforms downtown Edmonton into a dynamic foodie paradise. Celebrating 40 years of the best eats in the city, the event features a diverse selection of Edmonton’s finest chefs and food trucks, offering everything from gourmet dishes to street food favourites.
Live music, interactive cooking demonstrations and workshops, and a lively atmosphere make this festival a summertime fave. It’s an opportunity to explore the culinary scene on the go, sampling dishes from different cultures and styles. Be sure to check out the website and social media for tickets and further information.
Taste of Calgary: August 1-5, 2024
A Taste of Calgary is the city’s premier outdoor food and drink festival, held at a new exciting location along the river pathway on the corner of 4th Avenue and 9th Street, LOT 6, 311-8 Street SW. This annual festival, in its 24th year, showcases the best of Calgary’s culinary scene, with food samples from a wide range of popular restaurants and beverage companies. From spicy street eats to gourmet dishes and a beer garden featuring local brews, A Taste of Calgary is the city’s most appetizing festival! Admission is free, and tickets are $1 per Taste. Pets are welcome on a leash, too!
Cochrane Food Fest: August 11, 2024
The Cochrane Food Fest is proud to be back for its fourth year and counting! Set in the pretty town of Cochrane, just between Calgary and the Rocky Mountains, this festival features local vendors, food trucks, beer gardens, and an artisan marketplace to explore. Located at Cochrane’s beautiful Mitford Park and overlooking the Bow River, the festival brings a relaxed environment with live music, kids’ activities, and plenty of delicious eats to sample. Stay in the loop for the music lineup and list of participating restaurants. It’s a fantastic way to spend a summer day, enjoying the community spirit and tasting local flavours.
Feast at the Beach at Kinosoo Beach: August 30 & 31, 2024
Feast at the Beach is a unique food festival held at Kinosoo Beach in Cold Lake. This lakeside event combines specialty eats in a beach party atmosphere, making it the perfect summer outing, family night, or date night with your favourite person. Visitors can enjoy food from local restaurants and food trucks, along with local craft beers and cocktails from some of the best breweries in Alberta. The festival also features live music, beach games, a Kid Zone, and activities for all ages. The stunning lake views and expansive Alberta sunsets in a relaxed and entertaining vibe make it a popular choice for locals and summer visitors.
Alberta on the Plate: August 9-18, 2024
Alberta on the Plate is a province-wide celebration of local food and drink that shares Alberta’s incredible food story. This culinary “Dine Around” festival takes place in various locations throughout the province, showcasing the talents of Alberta’s chefs, farmers, and food producers.
The festival connects visitors to experience Alberta’s finest foodscape, from casual to fine dining and everything in between. It features farm-to-table dinners, food tours, and special menus at participating restaurants. It’s an excellent way to discover new restaurants and learn about the legends behind the food. The 10-day event also highlights the importance of sustainable and locally sourced ingredients and the incredible bounty grown around this beautiful province.
Brewery & the Beast: August 25
A meat-lover’s paradise and a craft lover's dream unite! Brewery & the Beast showcases locally sourced and sustainable meat, craft beverages, and live music. It creates a delicious and engaging experience for Albertans, all driven with purpose. Held in Calgary and coined “the Damn Fine Festival of Meat, Beer, and Music,” it’s a one-of-a-kind event featuring an extraordinary line-up of top chefs and beverage makers who come together to showcase their best meat-centric dishes and quality drinks. The heart of the festival is driven by its community, where all the dishes are sourced from Canadian farmers and ranchers who raise their animals responsibly and ethically. This is one feast of a festival you don’t want to miss!
Each of these festivals offers an unparalleled taste of what Alberta has to offer, showcasing Alberta’s rich culinary heritage. From the urban sophistication of Taste of Edmonton and Calgary to the charming community vibes of Cochrane, and the shores of Cold Lake, there’s something for everyone. The festivals provide the opportunity to discover new dishes, support local, and enjoy a day out with family and friends. These events are not just about food, but creating memories and celebrating community spirit.
Mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and get ready to savour the flavour of Alberta.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
