Annual street performers festival starts Friday at Churchill Square

Performer Sharon joins Kim Wynn to talk about the 2026 Edmonton International Street Performers Festival.

The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival begins Friday at downtown’s Churchill Square. — It’s back for its 40th year in the heart of the city.

The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival begins Friday at downtown’s Churchill Square.

The 10-day event, which was founded in 1985, will feature 38 artists from eight countries this year, including 10 performers making their Edmonton debut.

Performances include circus, comedy, music, magic and family-friendly entertainment.

The kickoff show begins at 5 p.m.

Admission to the July 3-12 festival is free, with artists using the traditional ‘passing the hat’ for tips following their shows.

Organizers are advising attendees to take transit to the festival. There is an accessible drop-off and pick-up zone for drivers transporting festivalgoers in front of the Art Gallery of Alberta at 102 Avenue and 100 Street.