What is Edmonton Known For? 7 Fun Facts About Edmonton

Life in Edmonton is fascinating and fun all around for residents and visitors alike. Beautiful scenery, endless things to do, and numerous dining options make it even more appealing. However, there are quite a few fun facts about Edmonton that even locals don't know. Get to know Edmonton's community and history for enjoyment and perhaps exploration with the following facts and trivia about Edmonton.

Quick Glance At Some Edmonton Facts

• The city of Edmonton hosts dozens of annual festivals every year, including the Edmonton Heritage Festival and the Edmonton International Fringe Festival
• West Edmonton Mall was once the largest mall in the world
• The River Valley parks system is the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America
• Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta and is home to the more than century-old Alberta Legislature Building

Edmonton Is Canada's Festival City

More than 50 annual festivals in Edmonton and dozens more nearby keep the good vibes flowing throughout the year. Held at the Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds, one favourite includes the week-long K-Days Festival. K-Days was formerly known as Klondike Days, and the event attracts over 700,000 fun-seeking attendees each year. There are various activities, carnival rides, retail booths, and live music during K-Days.

Another top choice is the Edmonton International Film Festival, which occurs annually each summer at the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park. Attended by thousands of movie buffs who adore independent and international films, the festival promotes creativity and collaboration between artists and filmmakers. The multi-venue Freewill Shakespeare Festival visits Edmonton parks and outdoor spaces to entertain with Shakespeare-inspired works in hilarious skits and songs. Depending on where and when the show is, the performances change a bit to be suitable for all audiences.

Edmonton is One of Canada's Sunniest Cities

Edmonton ranks as one of Canada's sunniest cities, boasting around 2,300 hours of sunshine per year. This abundance of sunlight contributes to the city's vibrant atmosphere and provides residents and visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. With such a high number of sunny hours, it's a great environment for exploring its numerous parks, outdoor festivals, and recreational facilities.

The city's sunny disposition also plays a vital role in promoting physical and mental well-being among its inhabitants. Sunlight is known to boost mood and energy levels, making Edmonton an ideal place for those seeking an active and healthy lifestyle. No matter the outdoor activities being enjoyed, the sunny weather in Edmonton enhances the overall quality of life for its residents.

Moreover, the city's sunny reputation attracts tourists looking to escape gloomier climates and indulge in the brightness that Edmonton has to offer. Visitors can take advantage of the sunny days to explore the city's diverse cultural attractions, vibrant food scene, and extensive recreational options.

Edmonton Is Home to Canada's First Public Planetarium

The Queen Elizabeth Planetarium is one of the most important historical landmarks in Edmonton. Located in Coronation Park, the site commemorates a visit in 1959 by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip. It is simply stunning in architecture with a cylindrical shape and a huge dome.

Several ideas were suggested for the site, including a memorial park and an observatory. Ultimately, the council settled on constructing a planetarium. Council members made this decision once they realized bright city lights might impede the views from an observatory.

As the primary focal point in Coronation Park, The Queen Elizabeth Planetarium expanded tremendously after the original construction's completion. Due to limited capacity issues, the planetarium closed and rebranded twice. After making agreements with new ownership, the Commonwealth decided to remodel, restore, and brand the 60-year-old structure, which reopened as The Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium in 2020.

Edmonton Has the Second Largest Mall in North America

Once the largest shopping mall in the world until 2004, the West Edmonton Mall is still the second biggest mall complex in North America. The mall's size is equivalent to 48 city blocks! While it's smaller in square footage than the Mall of America, West Edmonton Mall is the largest in terms of store count.

The West Edmonton Mall idea was hailed in the late 1970s by Raphael, Eskander, Bahman, and Nader Ghermezian. These four brothers amassed a sizable real estate empire with funds earned from a Persian rug business. Eventually, they established the company Triple Five Group.

With the funds on hand, the brothers conceived a shopping and entertainment complex with a Disneyworld vibe. This massive undertaking had to be designed and constructed in numerous phases and opened in 1981. The mall continues to expand to this day, much to the delight of patrons.

So, what is there to do at West Edmonton Mall? A better question would be to ask what one cannot do there. Inside, visitors will find more than 800 stores and a regulation-sized ice rink. The complex also boasts an indoor amusement park, 18 holes of mini-golf, a sea-life park, and an indoor lake. When hunger strikes or sleep calls, the mall offers more than 100 dining options and two luxurious hotels.

The River Valley Is The Largest Urban Park in Canada

The parks of the North Saskatchewan River Valley in the Edmonton metropolitan region hold the distinction of being the largest urban park in Canada. Spanning over 7,000 hectares, this natural oasis is 22 times larger than Central Park in New York City. The River Valley parks are a beloved recreational area for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and even skiing in the winter months.

With over 160 kilometres of maintained pathways, the River Valley provides ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Birdwatching is a popular pastime in the River Valley, with numerous species of birds calling the park home.

In addition to its natural beauty, the River Valley also boasts stunning panoramic views of the North Saskatchewan River and the city skyline. Edmontonians often escape the hustle and bustle of urban life by seeking solace in the tranquil surroundings of the park. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks or an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking session, the River Valley offers something for everyone to enjoy in the heart of the city.

Residents Cannot Own 76 Pigeons in Edmonton

While it sounds unusual, Edmonton residents cannot own 76 pigeons or more. Established by a local Animal Licensing and Control bylaw, there are extensive rules concerning pigeons for keepers and races. While the reason for the number 75 maximum is unknown, it's a fun fact that was likely developed due to the predominance of pigeon racing and keeping in Edmonton.

Pigeon keepers have strict guidelines concerning when the birds are allowed out of their holding area. When travelling, no more than 20 in a flock is acceptable, and there are even curfews! Racing pigeons are required to be registered and wear bands that clock their flight times. There a many racing clubs around Edmonton, but the oldest sporting establishment in Canada is the Calgary Racing Pigeon Club. Opened in 1904, it is the oldest in the country.

Fort Edmonton Park is Canada's Largest Living History Museum

Canada's largest living history museum, Fort Edmonton Park, offers visitors a glimpse into the past through immersive historical experiences. In addition to the Indigenous Peoples Experience, this expansive park is divided into four distinct time periods: the fur trade era of 1846, the pioneer days of 1885, the municipal era of 1905, and the mid-1920s. Each era showcases authentic buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive activities that transport visitors back in time.

Located in Southwest Edmonton, Fort Edmonton Park boasts dozens of structures that have been meticulously preserved or replicated to reflect the historical accuracy of each time period. The park's attention to detail and commitment to historical authenticity make it a premier destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.

One of the highlights of Fort Edmonton Park is the steam train that chugs through the park, offering visitors a scenic ride and a unique perspective on the historical surroundings. Additionally, the park hosts various events throughout the year, including themed historical celebrations, educational programs, and interactive demonstrations that further enrich the visitor experience. Fort Edmonton Park truly stands out as a living time capsule, preserving and sharing Canada's rich history in an engaging and memorable way.

Discover More About Edmonton Today

There is so much to learn about Edmonton's wonderful community—including many more fun facts. With an abundance of outdoor activities and historical experiences to enjoy, Edmonton offers something for everyone to explore and appreciate. Whether soaking up the sun or stepping back in time, Edmonton's attractions and atmosphere are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.