Soaking Up the Cultural Scene in St. Albert, Alberta
Who knew that just a short drive from Edmonton there was a charming little town with a big heart? Well, you know, besides all the people that live there. They knew. And probably everyone in Edmonton knew. And we knew too, so… there’s that. But take it from the team at Mini Mall Storage! St. Albert, Alberta, is a hidden gem! Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle, St. Albert’s cultural scene has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this little burb so special.
The Arts
St. Albert may be a small suburb of a much larger city, but it has a surprisingly active arts scene all on its own. Here are our top picks for local arts:
- Art Gallery of St. Albert: This contemporary art gallery, museum, and heritage site features a range of exhibitions, from local and national artists to international works.
- Adren Theatre: Recognized as one of the best venues in Canada for over 40 years, the Adren is your destination for music, dance, comedy, and film. And with a ton of family-friendly programming, there’s always something going on that everyone will enjoy.
- Public Art: The municipal government has done an excellent job of encouraging public art throughout this suburban community. The dedication to creating a sense of wonder and belonging is apparent as you wander through St. Albert and encounter various public art installations, including sculptures and murals, that add a touch of creativity to the city’s streets.
Local History
If it’s a little taste of history you’re after, St. Albert doesn’t disappoint. There are a couple of spots in the small town that are worth checking out, including:
- Musée Héritage Museum: Take a look back in time at the history of St. Albert and region. Explore exhibits on the first settlements, First Nations culture, and the historical diversity of the region.
- The St. Albert Mission: This historic mission is worth a look for local history buffs. Established in 1861, it offers guided tours and special events throughout the year where you can learn more about the historic site.
Festivals
We love a good festival. And there are so many to choose from in the area! From family-friendly events to summer celebrations, here are some of our favourites:
- Rotary Music Festival: Held every spring towards the end of March and beginning of April, the Rotary Music Festival supports and encourages young, local musicians while entertaining locals. Musicians of any age are encouraged to participate.
- Rock ‘n August Festival: This famous festival features a can’t-be-beat combo of cars and music that festival-goers can’t resist. Debuting in 1996, the goal was to raise money for Diabetes Research, and the rest is history. Year after year, the festival draws crowds from all over, as people gather for good music and classic cars while supporting an important cause.
- St. Albert Children’s Festival: The International Children’s Festival of the Arts is an annual event that takes place at the end of May. This annual shindig is a delight for families with kids of all ages. Enjoy live performances, hands-on activities, and educational workshops that your kids will look forward to year after year.
- St. Albert Farmers’ Market: While technically not a festival, the St. Albert Farmers’ Market is the largest outdoor market in western Canada—attracting 10-15 000 people every Saturday throughout the summer. And it’s a great place to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies.
That’s not even the full list of all this vibrant little suburb has going on. St. Albert hosts various other events throughout the year, including winter festivals, cultural celebrations, and community events. Check their events calendar for all the details. So now you know! St. Albert is a warm and welcoming community that’s full of opportunities for entertainment.
Need storage solutions in the area? With convenient access to Edmonton, St. Albert is the perfect place to store all your seasonal or excess goods. Not sure what size unit you need? Mini Mall Storage would be happy to help you find the right storage solutions for your unique situation. Contact us today to learn more or to get started.