K-Days runs July 21-30, 2023 in Edmonton. (Submitted photo/Explore Edmonton)

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Unleash the magic of K-Days for the whole family

Jul 19, 2023 | 2:59 PM

Embody your spirit of adventure and ignite a sense of excitement and exploration at one of Canada’s largest summer fairs.

K-Days is a 10-day long festival from July 21 – 30, 2023 that combines thrilling rides and captivating entertainment from today with some of the oldest traditions dating back to the Klondike Gold Rush.

“It’s more than just a fair. Much like the gold rush prospectors who sought treasures in uncharted territories, attendees at K-Days can experience the thrill of discovery,” said Quinn Phillips, Manager, Strategic Communications with Explore Edmonton. “Whether that’s trying out a new ride, discovering a talented performer or indulging in unique culinary delights, every moment is an opportunity for fun and memories made.”

The annual event is held in and around the Edmonton EXPO Centre and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. K-Days actually began over 140 years ago when the Edmonton Agricultural Society held an exhibition to celebrate technology and innovation in the late 1800’s. Then, in the 1960’s the event was renamed ‘Klondike Days’ as a nod to the history of the Canadian Gold Rush when Edmonton served as a stopping point for prospectors headed to the Yukon Territory. Despite the renaming over the years, K-Days has always celebrated the spirit of camaraderie and community.

“Generations of families return year after year to share new experiences and create more cherished memories,” said Amanda Frigon, Director of Fair for Explore Edmonton.

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(Submitted photo/Explore Edmonton)

Thrill seekers of all ages can brace themselves for a whirlwind of exhilaration on the midway which features the Tea Cup, Elephant ride and the Parker City Saloon funhouse – all new attractions this year.

The adventures don’t stop there. You can tantalize your taste buds with the culinary wonders of K-Days that feature a peanut butter pickle dog, ketchup and mustard ice cream and a cotton candy lightsaber. There’s even a Kool-Aid chicken burger!

“Go ahead! Have the mini donuts,” Phillips laughed. “But I would say that the falafel perogies are also a must and I suggest coming back daily to try all of the new food the midway has to offer.”

After the midway, you can spend time shopping through the Market Hall with local vendors or strolling through the streets lined with exquisite artworks and handmade crafts. There’s an Innovation Zone that showcases technology with industry panels and demonstrations. Or, you can take in roaming entertainment at the Golden Garter Speakeasy while sipping on a signature drink. For the first weekend, K-Days will also feature GDX – the largest independent celebration of game development and games culture in Canada.

(Submitted photo/Explore Edmonton)

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures through the Four Winds powwow showcase, Indigenous vendor market, bannock competition or entertainment from hip-hop fusion artist Rellik at the Indigenous Experience venue.

“We are also pleased this year to introduce the Cristal Palace Spiegeltent. Straight from the heart of Belgium, it is an authentic mahogany mirror tent built 75 years ago that will transport you back to a time of glamour, mystery and excitement. It’s one of only three actively touring Spiegeltents in all of North America,” said Phillips.

The Cristal Palace will have both free and ticketed events with arts community partners like Firefly Theatre & Circus, House of Hush, aerial artists and contortionists, spoken-word poetry and a drag queen brunch.

“What is incredible is that we’ve taken this international delight and filled it with all local performers; throughout the 10-days 200 local artists will be on the stage at the Spiegeltent,” said Phillips.

For families, K-Days is a wonderland of endless possibilities. From whimsical plays to baby goat yoga and a Ninja Warrior obstacle course, the Discovery Hall will feature plenty of programming for kids. New this year is the Monster Obstacle Course which is the largest inflatable obstacle course in the world. You can run, bounce and jump your way around 300 metres of mayhem! Tickets are $25 and include gate admission.

“In the Flair Airlines Hangar, we have the fan-favourite SuperDogs with a new show called ‘Barkade’. These canine athletes will celebrate the greatest video games of all time in a live-action show that’s a game of its own,” said Frigon. “Come cheer on Doggie Kong, Petris and the Super Mario Barkers.”

As the sun sets on the day and the stars begin to twinkle, the rhythm of music takes centre stage. From rising stars to renowned artists, K-Days will have you dancing and singing the night away. Concert headliners include Three Days Grace, Quiet Riot, Tegan and Sara, James Barker Band with Doc Walker and Shawn Desman just to name a few.

(Submitted photo/Explore Edmonton)

A musical display of fireworks is the perfect way to cap off a stellar K-Day. The optimal viewing area is located on the tarmac of the Exhibition Lands. Gates open nightly at 10:30 p.m. and the night sky will light up around 10:45 p.m.

“Amidst the whirlwind of excitement, I love to just sit each night and watch families and friends come together, sharing laughter and creating memories under that magical canopy of colour in the sky,” said Frigon. “It really reveals the magic that is K-Days.”

So, unleash your inner explorer, ignite your sense of wonder and embark on an unforgettable journey at K-Days in Edmonton this summer!

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