Edmonton’s ambitious $100 million plan to expand its bike lane network has ignited a city-wide debate over the future of our streets.

The project aims to add 82 kilometers of connected routes by 2026, creating safer pathways for cyclists of all abilities.

However, the expansion faces significant pushback.

In neighborhoods like Delton, community members are organizing against the loss of on-street parking and potential emergency vehicle delays.

The conflict has also escalated politically, with Alberta's Transportation Minister, Devin Dreeshen, publicly criticizing the removal of vehicle lanes.

Despite the pressure, Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and City Council have remained committed, voting 9-4 to proceed with construction.

While advocates from the YEG Bike Coalition argue the investment is crucial for safety and climate goals, the project remains a defining and often divisive issue for Edmontonians.

Tension is building as the United Conservative Party prepares for its annual general meeting right here in Edmonton from November 28-30.

Members will debate and vote on dozens of controversial policy proposals bubbling up from across the province.

These resolutions offer a clear glimpse into the party's grassroots priorities.

One audacious idea is for the province to purchase the RCMP's entire Alberta operation to create a provincial police force, rather than building one from scratch.

Another proposal seeks to restrict flags on public buildings to only official government banners.

In education, a key resolution demands that schools must inform parents if their child joins a Gay-Straight Alliance.

Health motions include banning vaccine mandates and pausing mRNA vaccine use.

While not binding, these votes send a strong signal to Premier Danielle Smith about the future direction her supporters want for Alberta.

The Edmonton Misericordia Hospital is advancing with a critical multi-phase redevelopment, bringing welcome news to the city's west end.

Following the successful 2023 opening of a new emergency department that tripled capacity, the focus has shifted to a severe shortage of inpatient beds.

The hospital has recently been operating at over 100% capacity, creating immense strain on patient flow.

In response, the Alberta government has committed $2 million to begin planning a major expansion.

The project involves constructing a new patient care tower on the hospital grounds, which is expected to add approximately 350 new acute care beds.

This significant investment by Covenant Health and the province promises to modernize the aging facility, reduce wait times, and ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare for Edmonton’s growing communities for years to come.

A new era has begun at City Hall with veteran councillor Andrew Knack officially becoming Edmonton's new mayor.

His victory comes as Edmonton grapples with the pressures of being one of Canada's fastest-growing cities.

Knack’s campaign focused on core local issues: making life more affordable, improving public safety, and managing explosive growth responsibly.

He takes charge as residents feel the pinch of rising costs, a key theme that dominated the election.

The new mayor plans to support local businesses by cutting red tape and attracting new investment, particularly in high-growth sectors.

Major ongoing projects like the Valley Line West LRT expansion and the revitalization of Downtown Edmonton remain top priorities.

Emphasizing practical solutions over politics, Knack’s immediate goal is to unite the new council around a shared vision for a safer, more affordable city for everyone.

Downtown Edmonton's New Central Library, a complete transformation of the old Stanley A. Milner Library, has become a dynamic community anchor on Sir Winston Churchill Square.

Opening in 2020 after a major overhaul by Teeple Architects and Stantec, the project reimagined the 1967 structure with a striking metallic exterior.

The final cost grew to $84.5 million due to unforeseen structural and hazardous material issues discovered during demolition.

Inside, the library is a hub of innovation, featuring a massive interactive digital wall and a 10,000-square-foot Makerspace with 3D printers and production studios.

A key feature is PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN, or Thunderbird House, the city’s first public space designed to support Indigenous smudging ceremonies.

With an expanded children's area and its connection to a revitalized Centennial Plaza, the library is more than a place for books; it is a vibrant center for creation, learning, and inclusion.

The 7 Figure Accelerator, an online course from marketer Philip Johansen, is generating major buzz with its promise of high-ticket affiliate marketing success.

The program teaches members to earn large commissions by promoting digital products using short-form video on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

A key attraction is its “done-for-you” system, which provides pre-built sales funnels and content templates to simplify the process for beginners.

However, the program faces significant criticism.

Many argue its business model is self-referential, as members are heavily encouraged to earn their first commissions by selling the Accelerator course itself to new students.

This has led to debates about its long-term value versus its immediate structure.

With a steep entry price of over $2,000 plus ongoing software fees, it’s a costly commitment.

The program is a legitimate training system, but it is not a shortcut and requires consistent daily effort and a substantial budget.

Edmonton has named Warren Driechel its new police chief, promoting a 28-year veteran from within its own ranks for the first time in over two decades.

His appointment on September 19, 2025, marks a significant shift for the Edmonton Police Service.

Driechel plans to transform the EPS into a proactive force focused on addressing the root causes of social disorder like homelessness, addiction, and mental health crises.

This comes as the city grapples with public safety perceptions, particularly downtown, even as official crime rates decline.

Driechel has also been strikingly candid about a past disciplinary incident involving steroids, framing it as a profound lesson in resilience.

His honesty impressed the police commission and city officials, including Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, who praised his selection.

The city is betting on a homegrown leader to navigate complex challenges and restore public trust.

In the story of Edmonton, few names resonate with the force and warmth of Tommy Banks.

More than a jazz musician, he was a cultural architect and a relentless champion for the city's arts scene.

He helped establish the now-iconic Yardbird Suite jazz club and hosted the nationally broadcast 'The Tommy Banks Show' directly from Edmonton, featuring legends like Aretha Franklin.

His unwavering advocacy was a driving force behind the creation of the magnificent Francis Winspear Centre for Music.

Later in life, he brought his passion for public service to a national stage, serving for nearly 12 years as a distinguished Senator for Alberta.

Though he worked on global events like the Olympics, he always refused to leave.

His legacy is cemented in the institutions he built and the vibrant cultural soul he helped give Edmonton.

Edmonton is mourning the loss of business leader and philanthropist Bruce Saville, who has passed away at the age of 80.

A self-made software mogul, Saville used the fortune from his company, Saville Systems, to become one of the city's most impactful community builders.

His legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Edmonton's sports scene.

Saville was a pivotal member of the Edmonton Investors Group, the local consortium that famously purchased the Edmonton Oilers in 1998, preventing the team from relocating to Houston.

His generosity extended far beyond the hockey rink.

His vision and significant donations were instrumental in creating the world-class Saville Community Sports Centre at the University of Alberta, a facility that serves thousands of local athletes.

Remembered for his immense heart and quiet dedication to causes like homelessness, Saville's contributions profoundly shaped the city he called home.

South Edmonton has a new, much-needed grocery option with the grand opening of a No Frills in Ellerslie Crossing.

The store, located at 734 Parsons Road South West, officially opened its doors on October 9, bringing fresh competition to the city’s bustling south side.

This new location is a direct response to the area's surging population growth, offering an affordable choice for the diverse families moving into the Ellerslie community.

It's part of a larger expansion for the brand across Edmonton.

Another No Frills recently opened in Mill Woods Town Centre, with a future store planned for the west-end community of Rosenthal.

During the grand opening, a donation was made to the Edmonton Food Bank, reinforcing a commitment to local families.

The arrival of this discount grocer is set to increase competition among nearby supermarkets, which could benefit all South Edmonton consumers.

The Alberta government is threatening to legislate teachers back into the classroom, a significant escalation in the historic strike that has shuttered schools for over a week.

Finance Minister Nate Horner stated the province will consider back-to-work legislation if no deal is reached by October 27.

The strike, led by the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA), is the first of its kind in provincial history, leaving 740,000 students from Edmonton to Calgary out of class.

While the government has balked at the union’s financial demands, the ATA insists the core issues are critically underfunded classrooms.

ATA president Jason Schilling argues that ballooning class sizes and a lack of support for students with complex needs have pushed the education system to a breaking point.

With negotiations at a standstill, the government's threat introduces a high-stakes deadline to the dispute that has profoundly disrupted families across Alberta.

Edmonton's ICE District is set for a massive expansion following City Council's approval of a landmark $400 million master agreement.

The new phase focuses on community building, introducing a public event park and the ambitious Village at ICE District.

This development will bring approximately 2,500 new housing units to the downtown core, with the first units slated for completion by 2028.

The expansion builds on the district’s immense success as the city’s premier sports and entertainment hub, anchored by Rogers Place.

Home to the Edmonton Oilers and host to global superstars, the area has fundamentally revitalized the city's core.

This next chapter reinforces the ICE District's transformative role, enhancing its blend of thrilling events, luxury living, and vibrant public spaces for all Edmontonians.

A glimmer of hope has emerged for Edmonton families as the province-wide teacher strike enters its second week.

The Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA) and the Teachers' Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) are set to resume negotiations on Tuesday, October 14.

This marks the first formal discussion since 51,000 educators walked off the job, closing schools across the city and province.

The strike, which began October 6, stems from deep disagreements over classroom conditions.

Teachers are fighting for smaller class sizes, more support for students with complex needs, and wages that keep pace with inflation.

A previous government offer was overwhelmingly rejected by union members.

For local parents with children in Edmonton Public and Catholic schools, the disruption has been significant, forcing many to scramble for childcare.

As the city awaits the outcome of Tuesday’s mediated talks, everyone is hoping for a resolution that gets students back to their desks.

Edmonton's job market is thriving, with strong opportunities available well beyond its traditional energy sector.

Key industries driving growth now include healthcare, technology, and construction.

Major employers like Alberta Health Services and a booming tech scene, championed by institutions like Amii, are actively seeking skilled workers.

For those starting their search, a mix of provincial online resources like the Alberta Job Bank and local support systems is most effective.

Tapping into staffing agencies such as Robert Half can provide direct connections to employers, while organizations like the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers offer specialized programs.

Don't underestimate the power of local networking; events hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce are crucial for discovering unadvertised opportunities and building essential professional relationships in the city.

Edmonton schools are indefinitely closed as a province-wide teachers' strike begins, impacting over 700,000 students and their families.

The job action follows the overwhelming rejection of the government's latest contract offer by members of the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA).

While a pay raise was part of the deal, educators argue the central issues are deteriorating classroom conditions.

Teachers cite oversized classes and a critical lack of resources to support students with increasingly complex needs as the primary drivers for the walkout.

As families scramble for childcare, Premier Danielle Smith’s government is offering a Parent Payment Program of $30 per day for children 12 and under.

With the ATA and the province at an impasse and no clear end in sight, Edmonton families face a period of prolonged uncertainty.

Every public and Catholic school in Edmonton is preparing to shut down this Monday, October 6, as a province-wide teacher strike looms.

The strike follows the overwhelming rejection of a tentative agreement by the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA).

Teachers say the deal failed to address critical issues like ballooning class sizes, classroom complexity, and wages that have not kept pace with inflation.

Both Edmonton Public Schools and Edmonton Catholic Schools have confirmed all classes and school activities will be suspended indefinitely.

This leaves tens of thousands of local parents scrambling to arrange last-minute childcare.

In response, the City of Edmonton is launching day camps and the province is offering parents $150 per week for childcare costs.

With no new negotiations scheduled, the city is bracing for a major disruption to family life.

New U.S. tariffs are creating a significant economic challenge for Edmonton.

The city's industrial heartland has been hit hard, with a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum and a 10 percent levy on energy exports.

This directly threatens local manufacturers like Argus Machine Co. Ltd. and disrupts critical supply chains.

The impact is creating a ripple effect that extends from the farm gate to the grocery store.

Alberta’s agricultural producers are facing a crisis as their largest export market becomes more costly, meaning local families can expect higher prices for essentials.

In response, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce has voiced deep anxiety among businesses.

Premier Danielle Smith’s government is taking defensive action by prioritizing Canadian-made goods and promoting local products.

While the full fallout remains uncertain, the tariffs represent a turbulent period for Edmonton's businesses and residents.

Alberta is on the brink of a historic province-wide teacher strike that could shutter schools for 700,000 students as early as October 6.

The potential job action follows the overwhelming rejection of a proposed contract by the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA), with 89.5 percent of members voting against the deal.

In a controversial move, Premier Danielle Smith’s government announced it will pay parents $150 per week for each child 12 and under if the strike proceeds.

These payments will be funded by money saved from striking teachers' unpaid salaries.

ATA president Jason Schilling called the plan disrespectful, saying the government would rather pay parents to wait out a strike than pay teachers to prevent one.

Educators argue the core issues remain unresolved: lagging pay, ballooning class sizes, and inadequate support for students with complex needs.

With no new talks scheduled, families across Alberta face deep uncertainty.

The Edmonton River Valley, North America's largest urban parkland, is the defining feature of our city, offering trails and iconic attractions like the Muttart Conservatory and Fort Edmonton Park.

However, its future is the subject of intense debate at City Hall.

A new River Valley Area Redevelopment Plan has sparked a clash between conservationists and development proponents.

The Edmonton River Valley Conservation Coalition warns that weak language and a proposal to delegate development decisions could lead to the "death by a thousand cuts" for our natural areas.

They point to data showing a four percent loss of natural space since 2005.

Conversely, others argue the plan provides necessary flexibility for urban growth and recreation.

The outcome of these ongoing policy decisions will fundamentally shape the future of this cherished local jewel for generations to come.

West Edmonton Mall is far more than a shopping center; it's a sprawling universe of entertainment and a year-round escape for Edmontonians.

Step into the tropical paradise of the World Waterpark, consistently kept at 31°C and home to the planet’s largest indoor wave pool.

Nearby, Galaxyland offers thrill-seekers North America's largest indoor amusement park, now partnered with toy giant Hasbro.

While fans recently said goodbye to the iconic Mindbender roller coaster after nearly four decades, anticipation is building city-wide.

Construction is already underway for its massive replacement, promising a new signature thrill for the next generation.

The adventure continues with the Marine Life aquarium, year-round skating at the Ice Palace, and high-speed electric go-karts at DRIVE.

You can even stay overnight in the famous theme rooms at the Fantasyland Hotel, from pirate ships to space pods.

Edmonton’s story began long before settlers, on land known as amiskwaciy-wâskahikan, a vital gathering place for Indigenous peoples.

The city's modern roots were planted in 1795 with the establishment of Fort Edmonton, a bustling fur trade hub that defined the region for generations.

This foundational era is vividly recreated at Fort Edmonton Park, which features the powerful Indigenous Peoples Experience.

A new chapter began in 1905 when Edmonton was named Alberta's capital.

This status was cemented with the construction of the majestic Alberta Legislature Building, a symbol of political ambition.

Meanwhile, across the river, the rival city of Strathcona boomed thanks to the railway's arrival on Whyte Avenue.

After the two cities amalgamated in 1912, Old Strathcona’s unique historic architecture was beautifully preserved.

These landmarks represent the layered history, from Indigenous heritage to frontier rivalry, that continues to shape our city today.

A palpable buzz is growing in Edmonton as the city positions itself for a Professional Women's Hockey League team.

The wildly successful inaugural season of the PWHL has shifted the conversation from if a team will arrive to when.

A critical audition for the city arrives with the PWHL Takeover Tour game at Rogers Place.

A massive turnout for the neutral-site matchup would send a powerful message that Edmonton is ready to support a franchise long-term.

Edmonton's case is bolstered by its deep hockey roots, from the legendary University of Alberta Pandas to the trailblazing Edmonton Chimos of the past.

The event also serves as a homecoming for local stars like Danielle Serdachny and Stephanie Markowski, proving the region is a hotbed for elite talent.

Their presence highlights that a team here would be a true reflection of the community's passion.

A new culinary destination has arrived in Edmonton, bringing the authentic warmth and spirit of Mexico to the city.

Juana Ines has officially opened its doors in the architecturally distinct Manchester Square, offering a sanctuary of traditional recipes and bold, vibrant flavours.

This isn't just another taco joint; the cozy, sit-down restaurant focuses on time-honored dishes like slow-cooked meats and complex mole sauces.

The philosophy is a deep commitment to authenticity, creating a welcoming space where guests can savor a genuine taste of Mexican heritage.

Set against the European-inspired backdrop of Manchester Square, the restaurant provides a unique experience for those seeking a delicious pause from city life.

As a new fixture near the 124 Street corridor, Juana Ines is poised to become a cherished local spot for comforting meals and relaxed nights out.

A major new culinary destination has arrived in Edmonton’s Brewery District.

Nero Restaurant, the latest venture from acclaimed restaurateur Dave Manna, has officially opened its doors inside the iconic Molson Brewery Building on 104th Avenue NW.

The celebrated team behind Bianco and Rosso Pizzeria has created a stunning space that masterfully blends the building’s industrial heritage with elegant, old-world European style.

The menu features modern, Italian-inspired cuisine designed for sharing, including house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas.

Nero is more than just a restaurant; it serves as a crucial anchor for the area's ongoing revitalization, conveniently located near MacEwan University and the ICE District.

Its arrival marks a pivotal moment for the neighbourhood, transforming a local landmark into a vibrant dining hub and signalling a new chapter for Edmonton's evolving culinary scene.

West Edmonton Mall is far more than just a place to shop; it’s a self-contained universe of entertainment and a premier local destination.

It offers a year-round escape from the prairie weather for Edmontonians and visitors alike.

You can ride the waves in the tropical 31°C heat of the World Waterpark or explore the newly reimagined Galaxyland powered by Hasbro, North America's largest indoor amusement park.

The attractions don’t stop there.

Discover over 100 species of marine animals at the Sea Life Caverns, watch the incredible sea lion shows, or skate under the glass dome at the NHL-sized Ice Palace.

With everything from bowling and go-karts to the unique themed rooms at the Fantasyland Hotel, WEM solidifies its status as a world-class vacation spot right in our backyard.

Excitement is building in West Edmonton for the grand opening of Kinton Ramen's first-ever local restaurant.

The nationally acclaimed brand will open its doors on Saturday, September 20, 2025, in the bustling Terra Losa neighborhood at 9518-170 St NW.

To celebrate its arrival, the restaurant is offering an incredible 50% discount on all ramen bowls for the entire day.

This launch is a key part of an ambitious Alberta expansion, a partnership with The Labreche Group that will introduce 12 new outposts across the province.

Founded in Toronto, Kinton Ramen is celebrated for its authentic Japanese recipes from Executive Chef Aki Urata, featuring rich, slow-simmered broths and classic sides like Gyoza and Karaage.

Its arrival is a major win for Edmonton's rapidly growing culinary scene and a welcome addition for West End food lovers.

Edmonton is gearing up for a spectacular 2025, reaffirming its title as Festival City with a calendar packed with year-round celebrations.

The excitement begins in winter with unique events like the Silver Skate Festival, which turns local parks into wonderlands of snow sculptures and skating.

As the city thaws, spring brings cultural showcases like the vibrant UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival.

Summer is the undeniable peak, headlined by an incredible trio of events in August.

Experience global food and performances at the Edmonton Heritage Festival, soak in the legendary atmosphere of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, and dive into the creative chaos of the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival.

With other major draws like K-Days, Taste of Edmonton, and the Street Performers Festival, the city’s schedule is an open invitation for all to explore.

After two agonizingly close trips to the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers are facing a season of monumental expectations.

Anything less than hoisting the cup feels like a failure for a team that has been on the brink of glory.

Management has gone all-in, adding proven offensive talent like Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson to bolster the attack.

Key veterans such as Adam Henrique and Corey Perry were also re-signed, signaling a united commitment to winning now.

Of course, the team’s fate rests on the shoulders of superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

However, a massive uncertainty looms over the season.

Captain Connor McDavid is entering the final year of his contract, and his decision casts a shadow of urgency over the entire franchise.

With the weight of the city on their backs, this season feels like a true reckoning for the Oilers at Rogers Place.

Ever wonder how Edmonton got its name?

Our city’s story begins in 1795 with the founding of Fort Edmonton by the Hudson’s Bay Company.

The rugged trading post was named after Edmonton, England, the birthplace of HBC Deputy Governor Sir James Winter Lake.

Long before European arrival, this area was known by Indigenous peoples as Amiskwaciy Waskahikan, the Cree name for "Beaver Hills House."

The city is actively embracing reconciliation, seen in major changes like adopting Indigenous names for all city wards and the CFL team's switch to the Edmonton Elks.

Our city's commitment to its four-legged friends is being tested like never before.

Edmonton dog shelters are sounding the alarm, describing their current situation as a full-blown crisis.

Organizations like the Edmonton Humane Society and Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS) are overflowing with animals.

A post-pandemic surge in pet populations, combined with a decrease in spaying and neutering, has left resources critically strained.

Volunteers and staff are facing immense compassion fatigue while vet bills can soar past $100,000 in a single month.

This dire situation has prompted an urgent call for foster homes, volunteers, donations, and adoptions from the Edmonton community.

Supporting these groups gives a deserving dog a second chance and offers a lifeline to the people dedicated to their care.

Edmonton's cultural heart beats strong within its diverse collection of museums and galleries, offering residents a deep connection to local heritage.

Downtown in the Arts District, the Royal Alberta Museum serves as Western Canada's largest museum, detailing provincial human and natural history.

Nearby, the architecturally stunning Art Gallery of Alberta showcases over 6,000 works with a focus on regional artists.

For a truly unique experience, the free outdoor Neon Sign Museum illuminates a vibrant piece of the city's commercial past.

History comes alive at Fort Edmonton Park, the largest living history museum in Canada, offering an immersive trip back in time.

From the Alberta Aviation Museum to the TELUS World of Science, these institutions are essential storytellers, reflecting the unique soul and identity of our city.

Despite a flurry of online speculation, the Edmonton Oilers are not changing their team name.

There are currently no official plans or discussions from team ownership or the NHL to rebrand the historic franchise.

The conversation stems from opinion pieces questioning the name’s connection to the fossil fuel industry, a debate that gained traction locally after the CFL’s Elks underwent their own name change.

However, the Oilers' identity is deeply rooted in Edmonton’s history as the heart of Canada’s oil industry.

The name was chosen in 1972 to honor this heritage and has been a proud staple ever since, apart from their inaugural season as the Alberta Oilers.

For the organization and fans, the focus remains firmly on hockey and the pursuit of a Stanley Cup, not a hypothetical rebranding.

The iconic name and logo are here to stay.

Edmonton's dining scene is experiencing a culinary renaissance, cementing its status as a top-tier foodie destination.

A surge of visionary chefs and restaurateurs are redefining what it means to eat in the city.

Exciting new openings are generating significant buzz, including Nero, a modern Italian eatery in the historic Molson Brewery, and Juu. Ku, a sophisticated Asian-fusion concept from Chef Andrew Fung.

These newcomers join beloved establishments like RGE RD, which continues to set the standard for innovative farm-to-table dining.

From the chic cocktails at Bar Trove downtown to the authentic handmade pastas at Olia on Jasper Avenue, the energy is palpable.

This blend of bold new concepts and timeless treasures offers a diverse and delicious tour through the city's vibrant neighborhoods, proving there has never been a more exciting time to dine in Edmonton.

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.