Must-Do Summer Experiences in Western Canada

Must-Do Summer Experiences in Western Canada

21/06/2018

Ah, Canada in the summertime. As a country filled with nature lovers, Canadians have taken summer experiences to the next level. Those who call Edmonton home have created such a hub of arts festivals that the city has been given the nickname of the “Festival City.” With incredible musical events, beer festivals, and world-class theatre, Edmonton and other parts of Western Canada are at the heart of some of the biggest and most unforgettable Canadian events. Here are our top picks:

1.   Shambhala Music Festival and Motion Notion Festival

If you’re looking for world-class music festivals with a cozy community feel, both Shambhala Music Festival and Motion Notion Festival should be right up your alley. Shambhala Music Festival runs from August 10th to 13th of 2018, with some of the largest names in electronic music appearing at the festival. The festival organizers are dedicated to creating a welcoming community that appreciates all guests.

Shambhala Music Festival and Motion Notion Festival

Motion Notion Festival is another music festival surrounded by immaculate landscapes. Remotely located 40 kilometers east of Golden, BC, it’s hard to find a more pristine and relaxing area than this.

2.   Vancouver Craft Beer Week

Vancouver Craft Beer Week has been going since 2010, celebrating it’s 9th year this year. Running from May 25th to June 3rd, those who choose to attend this festival of craft beer, art, foot, and music will be privy to choosing between the 300 beers and ciders that will be on tap this year.

Vancouver Craft Beer Week

3.   Honda Celebration of Light

Who doesn’t love the sight of fireworks on a perfect summer night? In Vancouver, Canada, the Honda Celebration of Light pairs music and a magical fireworks display like you’ve never seen before. Make sure to grab your tickets for one of the three showings on July 28th, August 1st or August 4th of 2018 before they’re gone!

4.   Edmonton International Fringe Festival

Edmonton is a city known for their love of the arts, so it’s suiting that they host the largest fringe festival in North America. With festivities taking place in the trendy Old Strathcona area, the Edmonton International Fringe Festival invites over 800 performers and hosts over 200 hours over a 10-day period (August 16th to 26th, 2018). Edmonton in the summer with its 18 hours of daylight is a sight to behold and taking in the indoor and outdoor theatre and festivities is just the cherry on top of an incredible city experience.

Edmonton International Fringe Festival

If you’re feeling a touch thirsty after the late show, you can grab a pint at a local pub along Whyte Avenue to watch the sunset late in the evening.

5.   Canada Day Canmore

If you want a less “touristy” and more authentic mountain experience with great community spirit, head down to Canmore! Canada Day celebrations in Canmore go out with a bang yet still maintain a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation without tourist crowds. The Canada Day Canmore event starts at 8 a.m. with a traditional pancake breakfast and Canada Day Fun Run and followed by a Canada Day parade, a party in the park, and a spectacular Canada Day fireworks. Not to mention, Table Food & Drink will march the parade for the first time this year! If you’re in the mood for crafty goods, make sure to check out the Mountain Made Canada Day Market for locally made gifts, art and food. For comfortable accommodations close to the action, Coast Hotels is happy to provide you with warm hospitality and incredible locations in Canmore, Central Edmonton and Downtown Vancouver.