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A Guide to KDays: What to Expect in Edmonton’s Must-Attend Summer Festival

Summers in Edmonton are nothing short of fun, especially when July comes around! One of our favourites is KDays, a spectacular 10-day festival full of fun activities for all ages, where adrenaline-pumping rides, local bites, and loud concerts are all the rave!

But that’s not all there is to it! If you want to experience KDays at its fullest, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve got a handy guide full of activities, recommendations, and tips for a hassle-free experience! Get ready for an epic 10-day summer festival in Edmonton!

What is KDays?

KDays is a 10-day annual exhibition in Edmonton, Alberta, held in the summer in July at the Edmonton EXPO Centre and Exhibition Grounds. It hosts fun games, attractions, rides, concerts, competitions, and entertainment.

It started in 1879 and was previously called the Edmonton Exhibition, which celebrated technology and innovation during that era. It was then renamed Klondike Days as a way to recognise the Canadian Gold Rush in Edmonton.

It has remained a place to gather and celebrate, highlighting the city’s diversity and culture, from music to food. Many people travel to Edmonton to experience this summer extravaganza.

Things to Know About KDays

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Location: Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds 
Contact: Online form
Admission Types*:

  • 10-Day Pass – general admission to all 10 days
  • Family Pack – 2 adults and 2 youth
  • Single Parent Pack – 1 adult and 2 youth
  • Single Day Admission – for 1 day only
  • Ride All Day Pass – unlimited access to rides
  • Upgraded Concert Tickets – includes Front & Centre Fan Zone and KDays Music Lounge

*Prices are to be announced and are subject to change from the previous year.

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What to Expect in KDays

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Rides and Games

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KDays doesn’t disappoint when it comes to activities. This all-ages event offers thrilling rides for the adrenaline junkies, slower-paced coasters for the kids, win or lose carnival games, interactive displays, and talented performers.

If you’re not into dizzying rides, why not take a shot at the Midway Games to win a prize? Who knows, maybe you’ll dominate the ring toss and take home a massive plush as your KDays souvenir!

Pro Tip:

Ride the Ferris Wheel to take a quick break without missing out on anything! It’s a chill ride that will give you a view of KDays from the top—a great way to see the crowd and check out where you want to go next!

The Midway: For All Ages

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The Midway is for all ages who want to experience gravity-defying rides! Crazy Mouse Coaster is full of twists and turns, The Zipper will spin you all around, and Mega Drop will take you to new heights and plunge you down!

Keep an eye out for fun additions! There’s something new each year at KDays, so you might see a cool stomach-churning ride on your visit! 

The Kidway: For the Little Ones

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For the kiddies who don’t meet the height requirement (or those not yet ready for really fast rides), The Kidway is the place to go. It has smaller coasters that are exciting but not too intense—perfect for first-time riders!

While you’re exploring with the kids, watch out for strolling performers who will show you whimsical acts like magic and sword swallowing! These cool tricks add a special charm to the festival.

KDays Music Fest

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Edmonton knows how to throw a music festival! The KDays Music Fest brings together a cool lineup of Canadian and international artists who are ready to serenade the crowd for the best summer ever!

The opening acts for the 10-day festival are composed of Alberta-based musicians! To give you an idea about the headliners, the 2024 lineup included Ja Rule, Simple Plan, Ludacris, and Amanda Marshall.

General admission includes access to the concerts. But you can upgrade for a more VIP experience to get the best views, private washrooms, and private bars—you also get your own private entrance, so you’re in front of the stage!

Pro Tips:

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that will let you enjoy the concert and dance to the music.
The upgraded tickets aren’t cheap, so look at the lineup and see if there’s an artist you really like before purchasing.

Shows and Entertainment

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KDays has something to offer for everyone. There are permanent shows to look forward to every year, such as Slamfest, the Great French-Canadian Patio Party, and SuperDogs!

Go to SuperDogs to watch paw-dorable woofies grace the centre stage to show off their skills! Furry performers will entertain you with cool tricks as they bark and run through obstacles and games.

Then, check out Slamfest for action-packed showdowns with Top Talent Wrestling. These muscular stars will fight in the ring, showing off their high-flying skills, to get crowned the KDays champion!

You can also go to Klondike Park to join the Great French-Canadian Patio Party, a cool event for music, stories, dance, and magic! A variety of talented artists will perform a mix of traditional and pop songs that will keep you grooving all night!

Pro Tip:

Check the schedule and plan out the shows you want to watch.

Food and Beverages

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Discover Edmonton’s diverse culinary scene by trying out classic treats and innovative delights! There’s something for every tastebud, including unique sandwiches, delectable donuts, traditional dishes, wacky desserts, and summer refreshments.

So, make sure your tummy’s ready to taste a lot of food because KDays has a competition where you can vote for your favourite vendors! There are four categories: savoury, sweet, beverage, and people’s choice.

There’s also something new every year, so expect some quirky choices. You can take yourself on a culinary adventure and try treats you’ve never even heard of!

Pro Tip:

Bring a reusable water bottle to avoid purchasing bottled water at the event—these can be pricey. There are refilling stations on the grounds.

Cultural Experiences

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Edmonton’s KDays is also a place to discover cultural exhibitions. It has separate halls specifically made for exhibits and learning experiences.

Check out the Indigenous Experience to learn, honour, and celebrate the rich history of Indigenous Peoples. You’ll know more about their traditions and stories that show their resilience and heritage.

Another way to show support is by watching Indigenous artists perform on the stage. You can listen, admire, and cheer on talented musicians every day for 10 days!

Pro Tip:

Follow the KDays Instagram page to keep updated on any changes regarding the concert lineup and schedule.

Family-Friendly Activities

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Everyone is welcome at KDays. And when we say everyone, there are activities and experiences tailored specifically for kids, teens, and adults! 

The Discovery Zone is a place for young kids and the young at heart to participate in cool experiences. It’s basically where your imagination will run wild!

Here, KDays brings out a petting zoo where you can meet adorable animals. Just imagine adorable miniature ponies, alpacas, donkeys, rabbits, and more waiting to greet you!

You can also meet cool characters at the Glow Zone, an illuminated section where mythical creatures and beautiful princesses are ready to entertain you! You might see Belle, Elsa, and Spiderman!

And for innovation and robotics, check out the Tech Zone, a place where children can learn while having fun! Take part in STEM activities that will keep the mind creative and engaged!

Pro Tip:

Make sure the kids are wearing comfortable shoes. They’re going to be exploring a lot, especially once they see all the cool, colourful things!

Market Hall

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Explore the Market Hall to support local businesses and shop for essentials and trinkets. There’s a long list of vendors selling clothing, jewellery, artisan products, and food!

There’s literally something for everyone here. Look for custom products, handmade items, vintage stuff, thrifted clothing, sweet treats, and even spa experiences!

Check out the Pop-Up Market, a limited-time bazaar for local organisations and businesses. The vendors are only here for a day, so make sure you swing!

Pro Tip:

Bring cash because not all vendors accept card payments. If you forget, there are ATMs at the EXPO Centre.

Feature Days

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On selected days, there are special events that celebrate diversity and the history of the festival. These events are available for one day only, so make sure you know what day to go.

Previous Feature Days have included Pride Night to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, Indigenous Day which honours the Indigenous Peoples, and Throwback Day, which commemorates the past Klondike Days.

Pro Tip:

Remember to check the activities during Feature Days. Some have extra events and afterparties.

After-Dark Activities

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Yes, the fun at KDays lasts after dark. The grounds remain alive at night for live entertainment, DJs, afterparties, and fireworks!

Dance to cool beats at the Music Fest stage until midnight. And yes, adults can mix music and beer! Take a sip of delicious beer from local breweries, which includes special brews for this 10-day festival!

Don’t miss out on the illuminated night sky during the fireworks. This happens every night during the whole festival at 10:45 pm, so you’ll see it no matter what date you go!

Remember that you cannot enter the festival after 11:00 pm, so avoid going out if you want to join the after-dark festivities.

Pro Tip:

If you want the best viewing spot for the fireworks, go to the tarmac of Exhibition Lands.

Essentials Tips for a Smooth Experience at KDays

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KDays is a summer festival, so expect lots of activities under the sun. Here are things you have to know and do for a hassle-free experience!

  • Purchase your tickets early to save money because prices go up at the gate.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing because the weather’s going to be warm—bring sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes from the sun.
  • Stick to a small bag, like a crossbody or a fanny pack, that can hold your essentials. Bring a light backpack if you need to bring more things.
  • Wear sunscreen. You’ll be out in the sun all day, so make sure your skin’s protected.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle and remember to keep yourself hydrated in the summer. There are water refilling stations on the festival grounds.
  • Download the map so you know where to go. Take note of the rest areas, washrooms, the first aid station, and food spots.
  • Don’t be late. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
  • Know where to park. There are designated parking areas near the venue, so take note of those to plan your day ahead—follow the KDays Instagram to keep updated with changes.

Why Should You Go to Kdays

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KDays is a must-visit summer festival in Edmonton because you basically get a tonne of activities in one place! Sure, you could say that about other events, but did you know that concerts in KDays are included in the general admission?

If you compare it to other summer festivals in Alberta, KDays has something for everyone. Calgary Stampede (which starts before KDays), for example, is a rodeo festival, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

KDays is also the ultimate summer destination for families right in the city! You and the fambam can enjoy thrilling rides, carnival games, character meets, live performances, cultural exhibitions, quirky food, and tech activities.

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