Discovering the Heart of Edmonton
Hello, Edmonton 👋
I’m Craig Wanless, founder and Clinical Director at Benchmark Counselling. Since moving to Edmonton (Westmount Area) early this year, I’ve been discovering the heart of this city. I’m happy to report that you’re bursting with energy, creativity, and a unique culture that makes it an incredible place to live, work, and play. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the city, there’s much to explore and enjoy. Here’s what’s been lighting me up.
Festivals Galore: A Celebration of Community
Edmonton is known as the Festival City, and it’s easy to see why! Throughout the year, Edmonton hosts a ton festivals that celebrate everything from music and film to food and culture. I checked out The Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival this summer, the largest fringe festival in North America, which attracts artists and performers from around the globe.
If you're a music fan, don’t miss Edmonton’s Folk Music Festival! We had a fantastic weekend watching local and international acts inspire the crowd. Also, check out the vibrant Beats on the Beach event. No matter your interests, there’s a festival for everyone here—and it’s awesome to see the local residents come out and gather and support.
A Hub of Arts and Culture
Edmonton's arts scene is thriving, with galleries, theatres, and cultural institutions that will inspire you. The Art Gallery of Alberta showcases impressive exhibitions, while local theatres like the Citadel Theatre and Winspear Centre offer a wide variety of performances throughout the year. We just caught one of our faves at the Winspear, and let me tell you, the acoustics and sound were unreal. Don’t forget to check out the Royal Alberta Museum, where you can immerse yourself in our province’s rich history. Arts and culture lovers will find endless opportunities to appreciate creativity in all its forms here!
Outdoor Markets: Shop Local and Connect
We live in the Westmount neighbourhood and were lucky enough to walk up the street every Thursday this summer for the 124th Grand Market. We spent many a sunny weekend wandering through Edmonton’s charming outdoor markets. The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is a must-visit, featuring local produce, handmade goods, and delicious food. Plus, the Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market offers a fantastic selection of vendors every Saturday, where you can find everything from fresh veggies to artisanal crafts. Shopping locally supports the community and allows you to connect with the incredible people behind these products. I loved getting to know the local vendors.
Explore the 124th Street Area and Westmount
The 124th Street area is one of Edmonton's hidden gems, offering a great mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy eateries. You can stroll through the area, pop into a café, and shop. Not far away, Westmount boasts charming streets filled with unique shops and friendly locals. Both neighbourhoods exude a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home! I'm seeing in-person clients right in the heart of these neighbourhoods. Some of my favourite spots so far include Tiramisu Bistro and Duchess Bake Shop.
Sip and Savor at Local Breweries
If you’re a craft beer fan ( I am), you’re in for a treat. Edmonton’s brewery scene is booming, with numerous spots to enjoy a cold one. Happy Beer Street is an area dedicated to beer enthusiasts, featuring a variety of breweries that offer unique brews and welcoming atmospheres. Spend an evening sampling local favorites like Armstrong’s or check out the Brewery District, and you’ll quickly discover why Edmonton is a haven for craft beer lovers! Some of my favourites so far are Irrational Brewery, Campio Brewery, and Sea Change Brewing Co.
Health and Wellness
The options for getting out and active throughout the year seem endless. We’ve been exploring Edmonton’s River Valley Parks, it’s the largest continuous urban parkland system in Canada, with more than 180 kilometres of maintained pathways and with this, biking is a pretty big deal here. Whether mountain biking, long country road cruises or commuting through the city, this town is a great place to explore by bike.
There’s a ton of gym’s to visit here also, but if you know me then you know I love CrossFit. Despite there being a great gym right by us, I found a new home gym a short drive to the west end. CrossFit Armoury offers a huge 4000 sq. ft facility, a welcoming and fun community and coaching staff that really know their stuff.
It’s true, Edmonton; you’re pretty cool.
At Benchmark Counselling, we believe that mental health and well-being are closely linked to our environment and community. And there’s lots to see and experience in Edmonton—from festivals to arts and culture, outdoor markets, and local breweries; this city is full of life and excitement.
As you embrace the vibrancy of Edmonton, remember that taking care of your mental health is just as important as enjoying these experiences. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Benchmark Counselling—we’re here to help you navigate life’s challenges.