The City of Edmonton recognizes the significant role festivals and events play in our community’s vibrancy. Edmonton offers a wide variety of festivals and events spanning artistic, cultural and sporting activities that contribute to our quality of life.
What is a Civic Event?
While there are thousands of events that occur in Edmonton each year which could be classified as 'civic events', many of these are simple gatherings such as meetings, weddings, birthday parties or picnics. These types of events tend to have fewer requirements and use a simpler booking process.
The Civic Events and Festivals Section works with civic events, which can be defined as:
...organized gatherings celebrating a sporting, cultural, community or other type of unique occasion or theme, which occurs on, or impacts, City of Edmonton property (owned, leased or controlled by the City), which lasts for a limited or fixed duration, and provides the public with a unique opportunity to engage with the community.
These tend to be more complex events, both large and small, which could require approval from multiple City departments, require spaces that are not bookable through the City's other booking systems, or could have significant impacts on traffic, transit, pedestrians and the surrounding community.
Ready to Apply?
Once you have determined where and when you want your event, and what activities it will include, you are ready to learn more about the Civic Events Application Process and submit an application.
Application Form Selection Tool
The City of Edmonton is pleased to offer public space to organizations and individuals wishing to plan events. Our selection tool is designed to display the appropriate application form information based on your location choice.
Events on Parkland, Open Space or Roadways
Events in City parks and green spaces, including events too large for a standard picnic site, work with the Civic Events and Festivals Section or their Neighbourhood Resource Coordinators, depending on the location, to book space and obtain all necessary approvals and permits.
Events on City roads, sidewalks and alleyways, depending on the scope, will work with the Civic Events and Festivals section, or with Neighbourhood Services, to book the space, notify and engage the necessary civic services and obtain approvals and permits.
Events on Private Property
Events taking place entirely on private property do not typically require a City of Edmonton Licence; however, they do need to acquire all applicable permits for certain activities, and must obey all laws and bylaws. If the event may impact City property (roads, sidewalks or parks), an event application will need to be submitted. Please visit Event Planning for more information.
Civic Events Newsletter
Check the previous newsletters and subscribe to receive the latest news and updates from Civic Events and Festivals Section.
Contact Us
Civic Events and Festivals Section
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| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
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Before you email us: Please visit Neighbourhood Events to book neighbourhood gatherings or block parties. Civic Events and Festivals can only assist you with events taking place on roadways, or in plazas/squares, River Valley parks or Borden Park. |