Festival Features
Aurora Lantern Parade
Friday • 8:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Meet in front of The Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave)
When the sun goes down, the lanterns light up! To kick off our Kaleido Family Arts Festival weekend, join our Lantern Parade, where performers and festivalgoers dance, sing, drum, and laugh together. Follow the light to the main stage for more performances!
FRIDAY NIGHT HEADLINER
My Son the Hurricane
Friday • 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Main Stage (119 Ave off 93 St)
My Son the Hurricane is multi-horn, multi-singer brass funk beast from Niagra, ON. The 12-piece brass-dance crew has toured over multiple countries and played some of Canada, US, and Europe's biggest festivals. Over 45 sold-out shows in 2022 proves that there is no live show like My Son the Hurricane. The band features trumpets, saxophones, trombones, drums, guitars, key, percussion and a wild front women. In 2023, the band will take on over 70 date Canada, United States, and Europe-wide tour and share the stage with acts like Foo Fighters, Jason Isbell, and Colin James.
Website: www.msthofficial.com
Instagram: mysonthehurricane
Facebook: mysonthehurricane
Youtube: My Son The Hurricane
SATURDAY NIGHT HEADLINER
Bird of Bellwoods
Saturday • 8:30 pm – 9:45 pm
Main Stage (119 Ave off 93 St)
Toronto-based alt-rock group Birds of Bellwoods is a Canadian music scene standout. Their hit ‘Victoria’ topped Spotify’s Canada Viral 50 Chart for 30+ weeks and earned them awards and festival performances. They toured arenas across Canada in 2019, opening for Olympic athletes Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue, captivating 100,000+ fans.
Wesbite: http://www.birdsofbellwoods.com/
Instagram: @birdsbellwoods
Facebook: Birds of Bellwoods
TikTok: @birdsbellwoods
Twitter: @BirdsBellwoods
YouTube: Birds of Bellwoods
Free Bluegrass Pancake Breakfast
Saturday • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Main Stage (119 Ave off 93 St)
On the main stage, Byron & Alfie Myhres will give you all the Bluegrass vibes you can ask for! Peter Nolan will follow with passionate storytelling and authentic acoustic blues. Be sure to support us at the Donation Tubes!
Over the Moon
Saturday • 11:00 am
Main Stage (119 Ave off 93 St)
Canada’s Juno nominee roots/swing duo Over The Moon are totally immersed in real cowboy country. Their music is a wild ride from 40’s western swing and Appalachian old-time to cowboy blues, all featuring their meant-to-be vocals and multiple acoustic instruments. Simple and sweet, their music speaks of the Canadian west. Learn More
Martin Kerr
Saturday • 5:00 pm
Main Stage (93 St & 119 Ave in the Grassy Field)
British/Canadian singer-songwriter Martin Kerr, known for his uplifting sound, played 400 live shows during the pandemic. He launched Stay Home Street Concerts to spread joy with music. His hit ‘You’re Amazing’ reached #4 on Spotify Viral Chart. Recently signed to Nettwerk records, he’s releasing a new EP this summer, featuring diverse musicians from around the world. Learn More
Folk Music Gathering: Elevate Your Sound
Sunday • 2:00 pm – 2:45
Main Stage (93 St & 119 Ave in the Grassy Field)
Attention all folk music aficionados! Join us at the Main Stage for a unique musical journey. Birds of Bellwoods, Over The Moon, and Jeremiah McDade will deliver a transformative shared performance.
Immerse yourself in the heart of folk music as these talented artists come together, creating a folkie symphony of shared experiences!
The Giants
Saturday & Sunday
Make way; the Giants are coming... Keep a lookout for the Maraca Man, Calypso – the Cha Cha Gal, the Aurora Dragon, Dr Au, and the Huge Hug Monster. They will wander the site all weekend, taking in the wonders and adding a few of their own.
Kaleido Balloon Backpacks!
Purchase at the Info Booths (while supplies last!)
Balloon backpacks are a must-have this year! Grab your Kaleido Sunburst balloon backpack ($12) and Firefly Balls with LED light ($7) and fill the Ave with colour!
Takwakin (“Autumn” in Cree) Village
Saturday & Sunday • 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
91 St & 118 Ave in the Grassy Space
Autumn is a welcoming time for communities to share the richness of their heritage and traditions. Join a cultural celebration that includes the artisans, music, and dance of Indigenous peoples. Join us Saturday at noon for Elder Tom Snow's Blessing.
Unity Project
Saturday & Sunday
At Takwakin Village!
UNITY is a circular arrangement of 32 poles. Each pole is labeled with an Indigenous focused identifier. With yarn, participants tie to each pole with which they identify. A canopy of interconnectedness forms as more people participate. In the end, we see that we are all connected by something. #UNITY
Family Fun Zone
Saturday & Sunday
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
92 St & 118 Ave
The whole family will love the interactive activities happening in the family fun zone! Special thanks to our very tall friends, the National Stiltwalkers of Canada!
Jenga
Twister
Snakes & Ladders
11 o’clock Number
Friday & Saturday • 10:00 pm • Rated: 14+
In the Community Hall (9210 118 Ave)
Grindstone’s award-winning improvised musical comedy! Based on suggestions from the audience, the cast improvises a brand new musical on the spot, complete with twisting plots and show-stopping numbers. Licensed Event.
Barony of Borealis
All Weekend
On the Street
Unto the people who read these words, do we, Jean & Guillaine, Baron and Baroness Borealis, send our warmest regards and welcome to our Barony of Borealis, where all are welcome to
come together for fellowship and fun!
Chalktastic!
Saturday & Sunday
Along 91 St & 118 Ave
This year, we’re elevating our street chalk art by turning it into an exciting competition. See you on the Ave for an explosion of vibrant imagination and chalktastic talent! Be sure to take photos of your favourite, post them on social media and tag us! @kaleidofestival
1000 Cranes Workshop & Installation
Saturday & Sunday
On the Street
Fold your own origami crane and join our collaborative masterpiece. Your unique creation contributes to an installation that celebrates shared imagination and unity. Learn More
Snap Your Joy
Saturday & Sunday
On the Street
Make your smile contagious this weekend as you and your loved ones smile in front of this unusual photo booth. Special thanks to The Edmonton Shutterbugs.
Artisan Village
All Weekend!
92 St & 118 Ave and 93 St near Main Stage
Shop for made-in-Edmonton gifts and wares. Find local craftspeople selling their one-of-a-kind items for every budget and occasion. Tap options available. ATM machines are located by the Info Booth for your convenience. Learn More
Bhangra!! Punjabi Folk Dance Academy
Saturday • 4:10 pm
Main Stage (93 St & 119 Ave in the Grassy Field)
Immerse in the vibrant allure of Bhangra dance, an exuberant folk tradition from Punjab, blending lively movements, rhythmic beats, and vibrant costumes—a celebration of cultural unity in a dynamic showcase transcending borders. Learn More
Hong De Lion Dancers
Friday
On the Street
Hong De Lion Dancers will be sharing the lion’s blessings, which are believed to bring happiness, longevity, and good luck!
Compliment Booth
Saturday & Sunday
On the Ave
Give and receive a compliment to a new or old friend. Call it a compliment confessional! Set your heart free and let it all out.
Presented by Campus Saint-Jean - University of Alberta
Jazz Alley
All Weekend!
Jazz Alley | (Alley) 93 St & 118 Ave (Southside of 118)
Please sit back, enjoy a drink and listen to our local jazz musicians Friday, Saturday and Sunday! Jazz Alley features a lineup of Edmonton’s prominent jazz scene, playing all your favourite jazz music while you sip your drinks and enjoy the ambiance! Click for Performance Schedules
The Misery Mountain Boys
Sunday • 1:00 pm
Jazz Alley | (Alley) 93 St & 118 Ave (Southside of 118)
The Misery Mountain Boys: A 4-piece band (guitar, bass, clarinet, sax, drums) revives '30s/'40s swing and blues. Catch their playful, nostalgic tunes in a speakeasy-like ambiance, delivering classic and innovative sweaty jazz and love songs. Learn More
Jeremiah McDade
Saturday • 2:00 pm
Jazz Alley | (Alley) 93 St & 118 Ave (Southside of 118)
Jeremiah McDade, acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer, shines on stages worldwide with "The McDades" group. Versatile, he collaborates widely and enriches symphony performances, blending saxophone tradition with modern jazz. Learn More
Sari Sari Goes to Kaleido
Saturday & Sunday • 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Alberta Avenue Community League Parking Lot
Mabuhay and welcome to Sari Sari Mercado, filled with cultural immersion, culinary delights, heartwarming connections and a taste of the Philippines. Experience the warm hospitality that Filipinos are known for.
Cirque Kalabanté Productions
Saturday • 7:45 pm
Main Stage (93 St & 119 Ave in the Grassy Field)
Cirque Kalabanté Productions blends African arts in explosive drumming, dance, and acrobatics, captivating audiences with mesmerizing percussion and mind-blowing precision. Learn More
The Trollsons
Saturday & Sunday
On the Street
The Trollsons are a magical and comedic family of Trolls from the Canadian forest. The Trollsons have been entertaining at festivals and special events around Canada since 1995, as well as touring to Singapore, China, and Japan.
Family Beer Gardens
All Weekend!
Main Stage (119 Ave & 93 St in the Grassy Field)
Jazz Alley (Alley) 93 St & 118 Ave (Southside of 118)
Improv Stage (The Community Hall 9210 118 Ave)
Discover the Family Beer Garden at this year's festival! We've expanded the zone behind the community league for a relaxed liquor consumption experience. Located near the main stage, feel free to bring blankets and enjoy the ambiance—sit on the gentle hill, groove at the dance party, or simply unwind.
Sip on a variety of alcoholic beverages and nonalcoholic while exploring the area. Wander around with your favourite beverage and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss other fantastic bars like Jazz Alley and Improv at Kaleido after dark, offering both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage options.
This inclusive space welcomes all ages, ensuring everyone can partake in the festivities. Join us at the Family Beer Gardens and create unforgettable memories with loved ones!
Main Stage: Fri: 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Sat: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm Sun: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Jazz Alley: Fri: 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm Sat: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm Sun: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Improv Stage: Fri: 9:30 pm – 11:00 pm Sat: 9:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Deck Out a Lamppost Showcase
Saturday • 11:00 am to Sunday • 4:00 pm
Along the Ave
Witness whimsical artists transform lampposts into vibrant installations, turning the mundane into extraordinary and redefining boundaries, one lamppost at a time. Wander the Ave and watch them work. Be sure to take photos of your favourite, post them on social media and tag us! @kaleidofestival
Colour Me Quack
All Weekend!
On the Street
Interactive and collaborative, festival-goers bring a blank canvas sculpture to life. People from diverse backgrounds unite to paint the duck with vibrant colors, symbolizing togetherness in a stunning display.
Rhythm Speaks Hip Hop Stage
Saturday & Sunday • 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
118 Ave between 92 & 91 St
Dropping beats and speed speech, no one does Hip Hop like Edmonton’s MCs Don Welsh, Jon Jon Rivero, and many more!
If These Walls Could Talk
Guided Art & Heritage Tour
Uncover Alberta Avenue's charm as you immerse yourself in captivating art, rich heritage, and stories while strolling vibrant streets. Experience the district's diverse cultures and community pillars, forging a profound connection to its soul. Don't miss out on this unique art and culture experience! Our next walk is happening September 23. Use code PEACELOVEKALEIDO for 50% off. Register today
Artist Trading Cards
Saturday & Sunday • 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
On the Street
For the kids and kids at heart! Drop by the Nina for some EPL Hearts a Bustin' crafts.
Roaming Balloon Creatures
Parade, Saturday, & Sunday
On the Street
Spontaneously throughout the weekend, you will see curious balloon creatures (and strawberries) — catch them if you can! Make sure to get a photo with our featured balloon friends!
Be sure to tag us @kaleidofestival
PEPPER
Saturday • 8:15 pm
Main Stage (93 St & 119 Ave in the Grassy Field)
Pepper, crowned Edmonton's 2022 Drag Entertainer of the Year, leads a mesmerizing, dance-fueled, pop-culture flipping performance. Hold your tips for after the show, and meet Pepper in person. Learn More
Local Heroes Film Festival
Saturday • 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
In the Community Hall (9210 118 Ave)
Local Heroes Film Festival, presented by Edmonton Short Film Festival, is pleased to bring the visual art of film to Kaleido Family Arts Festival with short films the whole family will love.
Everyone can enjoy this curated lineup of independent short films by Alberta filmmakers. See what’s playing
Vancouver Biennale on 118
All Weekend
In the Family Fun Zone (9219 118 Ave)
Arts on the Ave has brought a series of transient art from the Vancouver Biennale to Alberta Avenue.
Love Your Bean is a delectably fun and candy-coloured grouping of two enormous, larger-than-life jelly beans by Canadian artist Cosimo Cavallaro.
Let’s heal the divide, public art by queer artist Toni Latour calls on all of us to take action toward healing. Toward reconciliation. Toward anti-racism. Toward equality.
Front Porch Music Series in the Hood
Thursday Preview Performance, Saturday & Sunday
In the Alberta Avenue District
The Front Porch Music Series invites local musicians to perform a 45-minute set on the porches and balconies of homes in the neighbourhood. Be sure to check it out! Thank you to our hosts for opening their porches! See Schedules
The Nina Pop-Up Market
Saturday • 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
The Nina (9225 118 Ave)
The Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts supports a collective of artists with developmental disabilities in their studio on Alberta Avenue. The Nina artists have been learning about selling and marketing their art and are excited to share their work with you! There will be a variety of unique ceramics, jewelry, textiles, paintings, and hand- printed art available. Be sure to stop by their studio to see where the magic happens after checking out the market.
Free Little Street Art Galleries
All Weekend!
In the Alberta Avenue District
Explore the neighbourhood and find treasure along the way. The Free Little Street Art Gallery is a series of custom-built wooden boxes designed and created by local artist Olena Ingerova. Leave a little art, take a little art. Learn More