There are ten days every summer when Alberta doesn’t just show up. It comes alive. From the rush of the midway to the beat of nightly concerts and the scent of deep-fried everything, KDays is the high point of the season and a signature event for the province.
Whether you’re coming from Calgary, Red Deer, Saskatoon, British Columbia, just across the border from Montana, or even right here in Edmonton looking for an unforgettable staycation, this is a summer experience worth the drive or the quick trip across town.
And there’s no better way to do it than with Edmonton’s Best Hotels. When you book a one, two, or three-night stay during KDays with an EBH partner hotel, you’ll unlock up to $225 in free rewards like gas cards, meal cards, or prepaid Visas. It’s like getting paid to stay.
Let’s make the most of your day at KDays, whether you’re coming with the kids, planning a romantic escape, chasing thrills, following the music, hungry for everything, or treasure hunting through the markets. These itineraries are crafted by a local who knows how to do KDays right and wants you to fall in love with it too.
Enter to Win Your Ultimate KDays Experience
This summer, Edmonton’s Best Hotels is offering two VIP KDays prize packages you won’t want to miss.
Family Fun Day Contest
A one-night hotel stay, Ride All Day passes for four, front-of-the-line access, picnic in the park, midway game tickets, swag bags, VIP parking, front-row concert tickets to see Tom Morello, and an on-stage photo before the show.
Date Night Contest for Couples
A one-night luxury hotel stay, Ride All Day passes for two, picnic in the park, game tickets, swag bags, VIP parking, front-row tickets for the Tom Morello concert, and a professional on-stage photo.
Enter today for your chance to win. Contest closes July 9, 2025.
Family Itinerary: Big Smiles and Bigger Memories
Check into Sandman Signature Downtown, a family-friendly hub that makes exploring easy with quick access to transit and spacious rooms. Drop your bags, grab your sunscreen, and prep for a day your kids will talk about all year.
Start in the Kidway, where smaller rides deliver big thrills for little adventurers. With gentle coasters, spinning teacups, and kid-sized bumper cars, it’s the perfect way to ease into the day. Take a ride with them, wave from the sidelines, and let their excitement guide the pace.
Next, head indoors to the Discovery Zone. This space is packed with interactive exhibits and hands-on fun, blending learning with high-energy play. It’s also a great way to beat the midday heat without slowing the adventure.
Break for lunch at one of the many family-friendly food vendors. Classic hot dogs, mac and cheese bites, or mini corndogs are always hits. If you’ve booked your stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels, make sure to use your free reward gift cards to fuel the whole crew without stretching your budget.
After lunch, stroll through the Midway Games. Let the kids take their best shot at water guns, balloon darts, and ring toss. Whether they walk away with a prize or not, the joy is in the trying.
If you’re attending on July 19, don’t miss the Family Fun Day Contest. The prize includes ride-all-day passes, front-of-the-line access, a picnic for four, exclusive fan zone concert tickets to see Tom Morello, and a VIP hotel stay. Enter now at Edmonton’s Best Hotels.
Round out the evening with a treat — maybe a swirl of cotton candy or a family-sized root beer float — then settle in to watch the fireworks light up the sky.
Couples Itinerary: Your Perfect Date Night Starts Here
Begin with a check-in at Matrix Hotel, where contemporary style meets romantic atmosphere. Toast your getaway with a cocktail in the lounge before heading to KDays with anticipation in the air.
Ease into the festival with a relaxed walk through the Local Vendor Market in the Market Hall. Browse handmade jewelry, art, and artisan snacks. Every turn offers a new conversation starter and a memory in the making.
When hunger calls, make your way to BaconFest or one of the gourmet food trucks for something unexpected and decadent. Split a plate of duck-fat fries or challenge each other to try the wildest item you can find.
As golden hour approaches, find a spot near the Northern Lights Stage. If you’ve entered the Date Night Contest, this is your chance to win front-row fan zone access, a VIP hotel stay, and on-stage concert photo with Tom Morello on July 19. Enter at Edmonton’s Best Hotels.
Before the show, grab a drink served in a hollowed pineapple or a gourmet float. There’s something magical about dancing barefoot in the grass as the lights come up and the music kicks in.
End your evening hand-in-hand, walking beneath the glittering fireworks before retreating back to your suite. No schedules. No distractions. Just your perfect summer night.
Thrill Seeker Itinerary: Ride, Scream, Repeat
Base yourself at Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel, close to the action with a rooftop hot tub perfect for winding down after a day of heart-pounding fun.
Skip the slow start and head straight for the Midway. Start with the Zipper, hit the Outlaw rollercoaster, and race over to the X-Drive. This is the adrenaline capital of the city for ten glorious days, so ride like it.
Grab a snack you can eat on the go — maybe a turkey leg or deep-fried grilled cheese — and keep moving. Your mission is clear: conquer every major ride before the afternoon crowds peak.
Refuel with high-protein street food or swing by the BBQ zone for smoky ribs and cold drinks. If you’re staying with an EBH partner hotel, use your 123 Deal rewards to treat yourself without slowing down.
Check out the Ride the Vibe Freestyle Show, featuring daredevil bikes, high-flying stunts, and wild tricks. It’s the perfect intermission before getting back in line for round two.
As the sun sets, climb back into your favourite ride and take it all in. The lights, the screams, the breeze. Cap off the night with fireworks from the top of the Ferris wheel if you time it right.
Music Lover Itinerary: Your Soundtrack to Summer
Stay at Varscona Hotel on Whyte, where boutique charm meets Edmonton’s cultural district. Have brunch in Old Strathcona, then take a quick ride to the KDays grounds to get your music fix.
Ease into the scene with a visit to the Indigenous Experience in Hall E. Music and storytelling go hand in hand here, and the performances will stir your heart as much as any headliner set.
Next, grab some street eats and head to the Bud Light Stage or Northern Lights Stage, depending on the lineup. With free concerts every night, there’s no shortage of rhythm and energy. You’ll hear local up-and-comers, big-ticket names, and maybe your next favourite artist.
Snack breaks should be quick and satisfying. Pick something portable like spicy perogies or deep-fried bao and keep your focus on the music. Between sets, head to Market Hall or chill out in Klondike Park with a cold drink.
If you scored Front & Centre Fan Zone passes, get there early to claim your spot and enjoy the upgraded amenities. If not, wander — the sound carries everywhere, and the atmosphere is electric no matter where you stand.
When the fireworks begin, it’s your encore. A ten-minute spark show that feels like a final beat drop. Let the crowd move around you as you soak it all in.
Festival Shopper Itinerary: Edmonton’s Ultimate Treasure Hunt
Check in at Hyatt Place Edmonton West, where modern comfort meets shopping convenience. With parking perks and transit nearby, it’s a smart base for a day of discovery.
Your mission? Explore every pocket of the Market Hall. Start with the Local Vendor Market and work your way toward the Pop-Up Shops. The rotating lineups mean there’s always something new to discover, from handmade soap to artisan jewelry to fashion that supports Alberta’s creative entrepreneurs.
Don’t skip the Indigenous Artisans area in Hall E. This is where stories are stitched, beaded, carved, and painted into every piece. Ask questions. Learn. Shop meaningfully.
Fuel up with light bites between booths. Try a dill pickle grilled cheese or boba tea fusion drink — these quick snacks are designed for people who want to keep moving but still enjoy the flavour of KDays.
Later, revisit your favourite finds and treat yourself to something you passed up earlier. Use your 123 Deal rewards for meal cards or cash-back perks that let you splurge without guilt.
End your day watching the fireworks with a bag full of treasures and the feeling that you’ve supported something real and local.
Foodie Itinerary: Come Hungry, Leave Glorious
If your favourite way to explore a city is through its food, KDays is your dream day out. This is Edmonton’s ultimate culinary playground, where deep-fried classics meet bold new creations, all served with a backdrop of live music and carnival energy.
Start your adventure at Chateau Lacombe, perfectly placed with skyline views and a quiet room to return to after a day of indulgence. A light breakfast at the hotel will set you up nicely — just don’t fill up. You’re about to graze through Edmonton’s biggest summer festival.
At the KDays grounds, follow the aroma of cinnamon sugar and smoke. Begin with a nostalgic favourite: mini donuts or hand-squeezed lemonade. Then dive into BaconFest, where you’ll find maple-glazed sliders, bacon pierogies, and inventive twists on comfort food from top Edmonton chefs.
Next, head to the Market Hall in the Explorium. It’s a paradise for small-batch food lovers — sample hot sauces, craft sweets, and Alberta-made treats. Chat with vendors for local insight and maybe a secret tip or two.
Around midday, settle into a picnic lawn near Klondike Park. If you booked with Edmonton’s Best Hotels, your 123 Deal picnic is ready to enjoy — and the bonus rewards (up to $225) are perfect for snacks, meals, or a dinner upgrade.
Spend the afternoon chasing the wildest bites you can find. Deep-fried coffee? Dill pickle lemonade? Cotton candy tacos? Ask around and try what’s new. KDays is where food trends are born.
End the night with a treat in hand and a concert on stage. KDays offers a full lineup of free shows, and the music pairs perfectly with a pineapple smoothie or caramel apple. Stay for the fireworks, then return to your hotel satisfied and smiling.
Your Best KDays Starts with Edmonton’s Best Hotels
No matter your travel style, Edmonton’s Best Hotels offers comfort, rewards, and local access that helps you make the most of your KDays adventure. Book your 1, 2 or 3-night stay and unlock up to $225 in free rewards through the 123 Deal.
Start planning now at edmontonsbesthotels.com
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