In Edmonton, the business networking landscape is as dynamic as the city itself, offering far more than just traditional referral groups.

Pillars like the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce connect a wide cross-section of the economy, while the Edmonton Business Association (EBA) champions the voice of small business through more intimate gatherings.

The scene’s true power lies in its specificity.

Dedicated groups support women entrepreneurs, young professionals, and the burgeoning tech startup community, creating targeted spaces for mentorship and growth.

For hyper-local connection, Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) from Old Strathcona to Downtown are essential.

They foster a sense of place and support brick-and-mortar businesses on a community level.

Ultimately, finding the right fit is about discovering a circle of allies.

It’s about building genuine relationships that offer support and resilience, proving that in Edmonton, your network’s true value is measured in community.

Edmonton-born billionaire Daryl Katz has been the sole governor of the Oilers since his pivotal purchase in 2008, an act that secured the team’s future in the city.

His vision, however, extended far beyond hockey, sparking a downtown renaissance with the development of the ICE District and Rogers Place.

This ambitious project has fundamentally reshaped Edmonton’s core and created a massive economic engine.

On the ice, the superstar era of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl has delivered thrilling hockey and two consecutive trips to the Stanley Cup Final.

While both runs ended in heartbreaking losses, they electrified the community.

As the quest for the first championship since 1990 continues, the pressure is immense, especially with McDavid's contract status looming.

The franchise remains a community pillar, but for Oil Country, one ultimate goal remains: bringing the Stanley Cup home.

A palpable mix of hope and desperation is gripping Edmonton as the Oilers head into a monumental season.

After two consecutive, heartbreaking losses in the Stanley Cup Final, the pressure to finally win is immense.

In a bold offseason, management added veteran forwards Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson to bolster their scoring depth.

The team also secured one of its pillars, signing Leon Draisaitl to a massive eight-year extension, making him the NHL's highest-paid player.

However, a huge question mark hangs over the franchise as captain Connor McDavid enters the final year of his contract.

His pending decision will define the team’s future.

With lingering concerns about goaltending and defense, this season feels like a culmination for a championship-starved city.

For the Oilers and their fans, the time for anything less than a championship is over.

Exploring Edmonton's most vibrant communities offers a rich alternative to the downtown core.

Three neighbourhoods stand out for their unique character: Whyte Avenue, 124 Street, and historic Garneau.

In Old Strathcona, Whyte Avenue is evolving from a nightlife hub into a 24/7 destination.

Innovative projects like the A and N Exchange and Station Park are breathing new life into the bohemian district.

Meanwhile, 124 Street shines as the city’s sophisticated arts and style centre, celebrated for its galleries, high-end boutiques, and popular events like the All Is Bright Festival.

Adjacent to the University of Alberta, Garneau offers stunning historic homes but is currently embroiled in a passionate debate over zoning changes and densification.

As Edmonton's 2025 housing market remains strong, these areas prove that buyers are investing in lifestyle and character, not just property.

Old Strathcona is Edmonton’s vibrant cultural heart, where historic charm meets a relentlessly modern energy.

Once a separate city, its iconic brick architecture was preserved by a twist of fate following its 1912 amalgamation with Edmonton.

Today, Whyte Avenue is the soul of the district, bustling with independent shops, renowned restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.

Known as the city’s theatre district, it’s home to iconic venues like the Varscona and Grindstone theatres.

Every August, the neighborhood transforms for the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, North America’s largest of its kind, returning from August 14-24, 2025.

The beloved Old Strathcona Farmers' Market is another year-round staple, connecting locals with producers every Saturday.

As the area continues to evolve with new residential projects, it carefully balances progress with preserving its unique, historic character.

Just a short drive from Edmonton, Elk Island National Park offers a world-class natural escape right in our own backyard.

This vital sanctuary is a renowned conservation success, famous for its role in saving both plains and wood bison from the brink of extinction.

Visitors can often spot these magnificent creatures along the Bison Loop Road.

The park boasts over 80 kilometers of trails for all abilities, from the accessible Living Waters Boardwalk to longer, more challenging hikes.

Paddle the peaceful, motor-free waters of Astotin Lake or enjoy a family picnic at one of the many scenic sites.

As part of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, it’s also one of the best local spots for stargazing and watching for the Northern Lights.

It remains a cherished gem for nearby communities like Sherwood Park and Fort Saskatchewan.

Edmonton truly lives up to its 'Festival City' nickname with a vibrant, year-round calendar packed with over 50 major events celebrating community and culture.

The city defiantly embraces winter with the Deep Freeze festival on Alberta Avenue and the iconic Silver Skate Festival in Laurier Park.

When summer arrives, the energy explodes with massive events.

July's K-Days fair leads into an incredible August featuring the world-renowned Heritage Festival, the legendary Edmonton Folk Music Festival, and North America’s largest Fringe Theatre Festival in Old Strathcona.

From the free outdoor art of The Works festival downtown to the whimsical Kaleido Family Arts Festival, there is a celebration for every season.

This constant rhythm of creativity is the heartbeat of our community, ensuring there is always a reason to gather and connect.

Planning the perfect family weekend in Edmonton is easier than you think.

Kick off your adventure with a trip to the TELUS World of Science, where interactive exhibits and cosmic journeys await exploration.

Then, get up close with incredible animals like red pandas and snow leopards at the Edmonton Valley Zoo in our beautiful River Valley.

On Sunday, discover local wildlife at the John Janzen Nature Centre, especially its fantastic indoor playground, the Tegler Discovery Zone.

For a thrilling finale, travel back in time at Jurassic Forest, where animatronic dinosaurs bring prehistoric wonders to life for an immersive experience.

This itinerary blends science, nature, and adventure for an unforgettable family experience right here in the city.

Image credit: City of Edmonton

A battle over the future of Edmonton's neighbourhoods is intensifying as some residents take development matters into their own hands.

Homeowners are now turning to a powerful legal tool, restrictive covenants, to halt the city's push for denser housing.

This mechanism legally limits how a property can be used or developed, even after it's sold.

For residents in communities like Crestwood and Glenora, it feels like a last resort to protect their neighbourhood's character from unwanted multifamily infill.

The move is a direct response to Edmonton's new zoning bylaw, which paves the way for more multi-unit housing across the city.

City officials, including Councillor Andrew Knack, acknowledge the difficult balance between achieving growth objectives and respecting community desires.

While challenging to implement widely, the movement represents a significant pushback against the city's vision for urban density.

Slave Lake residents are on high alert as a fast-moving wildfire, sparked by lightning, burns northeast of town in northern Alberta.

An evacuation alert remains in place for the town and parts of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.

Despite brief rain, firefighters supported by air crews are battling the blaze, which has already scorched about 44 hectares and is not yet contained.

Locals are being urged to prepare essential items and have vehicles ready, as the risk of evacuation remains high.

Mayor Francesca Ward reported encouraging progress on containment lines and praised the community for their vigilance.

Wildfire danger remains extreme due to hot, dry weather, with 11 active fires in the area.

Officials warn residents to stay alert and follow all safety instructions to protect their families and homes.

The town of Taber in southern Alberta is grappling with a surging measles outbreak, with over 1,300 cases now confirmed across the province and a major concentration in the South Zone.

Alberta Health Services has issued urgent advisories after possible exposures at places like the Taber Health Centre emergency department and the local Walmart.

Residents potentially exposed have been told to monitor for symptoms and check their vaccination records.

The outbreak has ignited debate in Taber, dividing residents between vocal support for increased vaccination and skepticism about vaccine necessity.

Vaccination rates in Alberta have dipped recently, with only 74% of children fully vaccinated by age seven.

Local physician Dr. Eric Leishman warns the true infection count may be underreported, as many cases involve entire families.

Health officials urge all residents—especially those born after 1970 with fewer than two vaccine doses—to get vaccinated and reduce community risk.