Interestingly, Edmonton’s yearly fringe theatre festival is the second biggest on the planet after Edinburgh. Most non-Albertans go through Edmonton on their way to elsewhere, more often than not Jasper National Park, which lies four hours toward the west, or, for a modest bunch of guests, the overhyped West Edmonton Mall, the biggest shopping center in North America. In case you’re hunting down the spirit of the city, travel south of the stream to the university district and cheerful Whyte Avenue, home to little theatres, plunge cafes and an energetic Friday night mood.
Top Job Industries
If it is already most of the most well-known facts about Canada, they have the most diversified economies. Some of the major industries thriving in Edmonton are trade and retail, healthcare, education, oil and gas, mining, food processing and others that follow behind. Alberta is once again reigning supreme as it accounts for 10% of the national population and homing 20% of Canada’s best employers. Alberta is the heartbeat of Canada’s energy sector, so it should come as no surprise that energy is one of the major industries of Edmonton. These are some of the top corporations found in Edmonton; PCL Constructors Inc., MNP LLP, Gibson Energy Inc., Davis Automotive Group, Concept Group, Canadian Western Bank, Aecon and many others.
Education
Did you know that Canada is considered the world’s most educated country? More than half its residents have a college degree. Canada homes some of the world’s most prestigious educational institutions in the world, and it’s pretty affordable too. Most of Canada’s schooling is government-funded and is divided into primary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education. Overall, Canada has 190 school days in the year, starting in September and ending in June. For the most part in Canada, you’re expected to start schooling around the age of 5 or 6 finishing secondary education at about 17 or 18. As for post-secondary, Canada has recently become the more preferred nation for studies over the United Kingdom, they’re that good.
Festivals & Entertainment
Edmonton is nicknamed ‘the Festival City’ as it hosts many huge festivals every year. It is around the summertime when Edmonton catapults into festival mode. For starters, the Edmonton International Fringe Festival takes place in August, with this years’ theme being “That Was Then, This is Fringe.” The Fringe Festival is in its 35th year and orchestrates 16 00 live theatre performances in over 40 venues. Other festivals worth checking out in Edmonton are:
- Improvaganza- As the name suggests, Improvaganza brings improv performers from all over Canada and elsewhere in the world, to of course improvise in front of an audience. It’s in its 16th year of running now.
- Porkapalooza- This is a BBQ competition, but not limited to just that it also has live acts, beers gardens, and food trucks.
- Edmonton International Jazz Festival- This festival offers you 10 days of pure musical entertainment, with over 55 acts and 250 musicians.
- Freewill Shakespeare Festival- This festival brings Edmonton a summer Shakespeare experience. A professional, contemporary and innovative productions of the works of William Shakespeare.
- Rock’n August- is an international car show and music festival and one of the biggest events in Alberta. Showcasing nearly 550 classic cars, with an attendance of over 50 000 people.
Things to do in Edmonton
Edmonton offers so many unique and affordable experiences. Edmonton prides itself on its diversified culture and lively eclectic vibe. Let’s get straight into it then; nature lovers will surely enjoy a trip to Elk Island National Park. Scenic lovers will appreciate the North Saskatchewan River Valley, Canada’s largest urban park covers that cover more than 18 000 acres and offers the perfect opportunity for outdoor activities Ps. You can join a Segway tour, the first of its kind in Canada. And lastly, for all the history lovers, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, is an award-winning historical site highlighting the Ukrainian settlement in East-central Alberta in the early 1900s. On a much lighter note, there are other ‘must-sees’ in Edmonton includingGalaxyland, West Edmonton Mall, Telus World of Science, World Waterpark, Muttart Conservatory, Alberta Aviation Museum and much more.
Culture
Alberta is home to various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. that date back to the original settlers. Albertans from varying backgrounds can appreciate all that the province brings to the table, including a high quality of life, and protected and inclusive communities that praise diversity. Albertans want you to feel welcome and at home, to build a rewarding career and create an incredible life for your family.