Downtown Edmonton is bustling with summer activities and events as the City encourages people to come and have fun. From May to December, there are more than 1,000 events and activities for people to experience in the downtown area. The City wants residents and visitors to feel like downtown is a fun and safe environment to be in. “Last night I was biking through O-day’min Park … it was probably about 9:30 at night and there were still people out on the benches, there were people out playing basketball, using the workout equipment, and that’s how you create an environment where more and more people want to choose to live in, as well as be visiting on a regular basis,” said Mayor Andrew Knack. One of the kickoff events for the Turn Up Downtown campaign is the block party series, starting on June 20. There are also events aimed at having residents get to know their neighbours and learn more about the local stores in the area. Parks like Alex Decoteau, Michael Phair and Beaver Hills will also have activities, fitness programming and family-friendly programs on offer throughout parts of the year. In an effort to increase “transit vibrancy,” the city also has ridership appreciation pop-up events like live performances and interactive activities at LRT stations. With the Oilers out of the playoffs and not drawing in massive crowds to the core, the campaign has “added value,” Knack says. “We want people coming out to events at Rogers Place, but we also want people just coming downtown to take in the great atmosphere, to enjoy the great restaurants, to experience the community that exists, or to go into the parks.” If you’re worried about finding a parking spot, Knack says there’s plenty of space, including at city hall. “I always hate to give up the secret, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen the city hall parking lot full,” he adds. More information on the campaign and events is available on the city’s website. With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Darcy Seaton
