St Albert International Children's Festival

This June, a trip to Edmonton isn't complete without an adventure just a little westward of the city, in the picturesque community of St. Albert. Founded in 1861 by Father Albert Lacombe, St. Albert is celebrating its 150th Anniversary this year.  Fittingly, its festivals and attractions are bigger than ever before. 

The St. Albert International Children's Festival from May 31 to June 4 celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year. One of North America's longest running and biggest children's festivals, this year's show will be made even more exciting with its largest production to date: a French-Canadian style cirque: Viaggio by iL CiRCo. 

Festival director Nancy Abrahamson calls it "an inspiring journey to a surreal world with whimsical characters, original music, and artful choreography." And by the latter, she means modern-day acrobatics that display awe-inspiring and downright superhuman acts of strength.  

The festival showcases some of the world's best children's performers from all around the world: actors, dancers, puppeteers, clowns and storytellers from Australia, Germany, Mexico, the United States and Canada. Abrahamson refers to it all as "a cultural kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and one-of-a-kind performances."  

Another must-see attraction in St. Albert is the newly opened Enjoy Centre, a project by Hole's. This massive 242,000 square foot facility holds: a huge greenhouse with trees, shrubs, perennials, bedding plants and floral studio; a bistro with an espresso and wine bar; an events space for weddings and conferences; and by the end of June, a wine store, European spa, food store, deli, home décor store, kitchen store and bakery. 

For details about the International Children’s Festival visit the official web site at www.childfest.com

For more information about other top events and festivals in Alberta, visit the Alberta annual events and festivals page at Top Events Canada