From loud rodeos to exciting live music shows, Western Canada is a top spot for festivals in North America. Music fans and culture lovers have many options to enjoy fun events. You can experience everything from arts and culture, music, rodeos and family friendly entertainment.
Blog
Festivals You Can't Miss
in Western Canada
April 23rd 2025
If you want to hear great talent outside or dance to amazing musicians, Western Canada's lively festival scene has many must-see festivals that should be on every travel list.
Key Highlights
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Western Canada, encompassing the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan, is home to iconic festivals that celebrate music, arts, culture, food, family and sporting events.
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Summer is the prime festival season, with events spanning across the region.
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Enjoy internationally acclaimed gatherings like the Calgary Stampede and Vancouver International Jazz Festival.
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Explore unique festival venues, from mountain ranges in Whistler to riverside stages in Edmonton.
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Experience both large-scale productions and intimate community events featuring homegrown talent.
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These festivals draw global audiences and offer something unforgettable for every festival-goer.
Must-Visit Festivals in Western Canada
There is no better way to enjoy the lively culture and beautiful views of Western Canada than by going to its amazing festivals. From the open prairies to the high peaks of the Rockies and the lively coast of British Columbia, there are many different festivals to choose from. Each one gives you a special look into the music, arts, and creativity found in the area.
The performances feature both big international stars and local favorites. Events like the Calgary Stampede, Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and Edmonton Folk Music Festival, along with special gatherings in Banff and Whistler, mean there is something for everyone. To make things easier, we've broken our must-visit festivals in Western Canada into categories so let's look at some of the best festivals that you should not miss!
Arts and Culture
1. Carnaval del Sol
It's the biggest Latin festival in the Pacific Northwest, taking place in Vancouver each July. Recreating the atmosphere of a vibrant city plaza in Latin America, this festival showcases live music, dance, visual art, street dancing and sumptuous Latin food.
2. Regina Dragon Boat Festival
Head to Saskatchewan's capital in August to cheer on determined paddlers at the Regina Dragon Boat Festival. Enjoy foods of all ethnic origins at this annual event and discover what's waiting for you in the Dragon's Lair Tent in the beautiful city of Regina!
Children and Family
1. Abbotsford International Air Show
The Abbotsford International Air Show showcases both military and civilian aircraft performers with a mix of demonstrations, exhibits, and up-close opportunities to view helicopters, warbirds and so much more. As one of the largest airshows in North America (and Canada's biggest), it's a fun festival for all the family.
2. Jasper Dark Sky Festival
Jasper National Park in Alberta is the world's largest accessible dark sky preserve. For two glorious weeks in October each year, would-be astronomers of all ages can take part in guided stargazing, marvel at spectacular northern lights and take part in many family-friendly events. The festival takes place at various locations around Jasper, Alberta. So make plans now to join the bright festival star lights and get lost in the stars!
Food, Wine and Beer
1. K Days (Klondike Days)
Formerly known as the Edmonton Exhibition, Klondike Days and Capital Ex, this Edmonton festival runs for ten days in July in conjunction with the Taste of Edmonton festival. Enjoy gourmet delights, comfort foods, craft beers and other delicious food and beverage offerings bringing you flavours guaranteed to delight. This festival takes place at the EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds.
2. Cornucopia Whistler
Taste buds run wild at Whistler's annual fall festival of food and drink. Whistler is the picturesque backdrop each November, providing attendees with both spectacular scenery and abundant opportunities to experiment with new culinary flavours and unforgettable winemaker's dinners.
Music Festivals
1. Vancouver International Jazz Festival
The Vancouver International Jazz Festival is a special event in Canada’s lively music festival scene. It even competes with the well-known jazz scene in Montreal. Each June, Vancouver comes alive with excitement. Famous artists and new talents play jazz, blues, and creative music all around the city in its streets, parks, and venues.
People from North America and other places come together for a full schedule. It mixes ticketed performances with many free shows outside. FestivalSeekers and music fans love the friendly vibe. Music flows from famous concert halls into the local neighborhoods, bringing everyone together through sound and rhythm.
The variety at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival is truly unique. It creates a space for both jazz lovers and newcomers. Whether you want a cozy evening at a small club or a fun afternoon at an outdoor stage, this festival offers an amazing musical experience.
2. Edmonton Folk Music Festival
Edmonton shines every August during the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, one of Canada’s top music festivals. This event takes place in beautiful Gallagher Park. It attracts fans from everywhere who come to enjoy live music surrounded by green hills and the city skyline.
The festival is known for its mix of international headliners and amazing homegrown musical talent. This makes it a great choice for people who want diversity and real experiences at a music festival. There are different stages for both daytime and evening shows, featuring everything from quiet acoustic performances to exciting full-band acts. People can enjoy a variety of music styles, including folk, indie, roots, or global sounds.
What makes the Edmonton Folk Music Festival special is its sense of community. It is run by volunteers, open to everyone, and aims to create lasting memories for all ages. With its welcoming vibe, delicious local food, and top-notch performances, this music festival is a must-see for everyone visiting Canada in the summer.
3. Big Valley Jamboree
Every summer, the Big Valley Jamboree changes Camrose into a lively spot for country music fans. This famous music festival is one of the best events in Canada. It draws people from everywhere to enjoy live country music. The 2025 show brings more excitement with a new lineup. It promises great memories for all who attend. With both big stars and today's top artists, the Big Valley Jamboree is a key event in the Canadian music festival calendar. It's an important celebration of country music.
Rodeos
1. Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is one of Canada’s biggest and most famous events. Every July, Calgary turns into a fun, western-style party that lasts for ten days. The main highlight is the Stampede rodeo. It includes exciting contests like bull riding, barrel racing, and thrilling chuckwagon races.
People visit the BMO Centre to see exhibitions of farming history, local artisan markets, and energetic powwow competitions. The area has a family-friendly Midway. Here, you will find classic rides, games, and tasty festival food that keeps everyone happy. For music fans, the Stampede stage has concerts featuring country stars and well-known rock bands, adding even more fun to the event.
The lively feeling goes beyond the festival grounds. The whole city holds pancake breakfasts, showing a welcoming spirit of western hospitality that draws visitors from everywhere. If you want to experience Alberta’s rich culture and adventurous side, you shouldn’t miss the Calgary Stampede.
2. Williams Lake Stampede
Williams Lake Stampede brings excitement to the community. It has many fun events and demonstrations. The rodeo is the main part of the festival. It features thrilling competitions that draw top talent from Canada and the United States.
In downtown Williams Lake, there are cultural showcases and activities led by the local community. These events celebrate the heritage and pride of the area. Whether you enjoy the thrilling rodeo events or want to learn about the rich traditions, the Stampede offers unforgettable moments for everyone.
Wellness Festivals
1. Edmonton Mountain Bike Festival
The Edmonton Mountain Bike Festival is famous for its many races, fun bike events, and community activities. There are exciting enduro races and the easier Trailblazers Kids Race. It’s a great event for everyone. The festival focuses on inclusivity with group rides that invite cyclists of all ages and skill levels. It’s an excellent chance to meet other adventure lovers.
2. OM Yoga Festival
OM Yoga Festival is a two day outdoor/indoor summer event designed to encourage and support a deeper practice and appreciation of yoga. Surrounded by the beauty and rejuvenating aspects of nature, participants will customize their personal schedules from over 20 different choices comprised of yoga practices, meditations, live music opportunities, sound therapy and informative workshops!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Western Canada is full of culture and celebration. It has many festivals for different interests and tastes. You can enjoy exciting rodeos or listen to the amazing music at at various venues in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Each event offers a special experience that shows the region's history and community and each has a campground nearby where you can combine an RV vacation with attendance at a festival. When you attend these festivals, you not only make great memories but also learn about the local culture. So, mark your calendar and get ready for fun—these festivals are experiences you won’t want to miss! CanaDream offers Western Canada RV rentals from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton, giving you options to pick up at a branch close to your chosen festival.
Frequently Asked Questions about Festivals
What is the best time of year to visit festivals in Western Canada?
The most popular time for festivals in western Canada is June and July. Many major events in Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver happen during this time. The weather is warm, and the days are long. Summer brings the best variety of music, arts, and cultural celebrations. Festivals however are held throughout the year and in all seasons so check out our Festivals pages for more information.
Do I need to purchase tickets for these festivals?
Most festivals require an entrance fee or advance ticket purchase. For some festivals you can "pay at the gate" but we recommend purchasing tickets in advance for music festivals and many of the more popular events to avoid disappointment. Visit the festival sites for more information.
