From an old-time travelling circus-type tent featuring local performers, to a handful of new rides, Indigenous experience, displays, vendors and and, of course, new wacky foods like ketchup and mustard ice cream, you guessed it: K-Days is back, with plenty of offerings for all ages. And the fun starts Fri. July 21 at the Expo Grounds.
“There are so many exciting new things happening this year--a new logo and our new vibe on social media, but this is just phase one of our work reimagining what K-Days is and has the potential to be," said Explore Edmonton strategic communications manager Quinn Phillips, adding everyone involved feels the annual exhibition has gotten 'spicier', and she's glad of it. "We have 300 local artists performing, with 200 of them showcasing their talents in one of our most exciting new additions, the Cristal Palace Spiegeltent. (Circus, burlesque, improv and more). There are new rides, 29 vendors in the new foods competition--falafal perogies, anyone?--even baby goat yoga."
As always, the annual fair is a community effort, highlighted by these big numbers: 160 full-time Explore Edmonton staff, 958 part-timers, over 450 temporary staff and 4,000 volunteer hours. Add to that the 325 vendors on the midway and in the market hall and it's understandable how the Expo grounds and exhibit halls become a small city at this time each July, one organizers are eager to show off.
New programming
Raffles and 50/50 jackpots are always a big draw for fair-goers. This year, K-Days partners with YWCA Edmonton--a historic first--which will benefit the Y's work with social progress and equity as it transforms the lives of women, girls and families in the capital region. What's in it for you? Prizes like a trip with Westjet, that's what.
New rides this year include the Outlaw roller coaster, X Drive, Euro Slide, Parker City Saloon, Elephants and Rocking' Tug--something for all ages. And what is called the world's biggest inflatable, The Monster, makes its way to Canada for K-Days. Don't forget food highlights which include midway newcomers (a peanut butter hot dog, koolaid chicken burger and plenty more) and the Taste of Paradise and Jerk Festival--a Caribbean-themed food event you won't want to miss. As well, this year features a drag brunch--Epress Millicent's Brunch Royale, to be precise--which is sure to be entertaining and delicious!
All sorts of exhibits happen in the Expo Centre, including a Memory Lane historical display, pride and naval reserve displays, an innovation zone and the results of K-Days Industrial design competition--enjoy a sit down on one of the competition's benches around the grounds.
Don't forget the mainstage concerts, with a lineup that includes: Three Days Grace, Tegan and Sara, Elijah Woods, Quiet Riot and James Barker Band with Doc Walker. There's a concert each of the 10-day exhibition, free with gate admission.
Safety and security for 2023
Safety issues have been more prominent in news of late, and K-Days is addressing it with increased safety measures that include a unified command centre--a hub for Explore Edmonton security, medical services and Edmonton Police.
“Safety is always a top priority for us at K-Days. We'll have additional policing resources, enhanced camera coverage and security footage, and additional fencing in key areas," said Arlindo Gomes, vice president of business development & venues management for Explore Edmonton. "We have metal detectors in place, but we are also implementing a no bag line this year, to speed things along. As well, we have dedicated lines for all employees, contractors and exhibitors, providing both quicker access to the grounds and shifting more resources towards security where we need it.”
Gomes says K-Days will also monitor air quality to ensure public safety, and is encouraging active forms of transportation to the site with bike lock-ups and e-scooter access too.
"Of course, attendance is weather dependent," added Phillips. "But we hope to exceed our numbers from last year, when over 700,000 people came through the gates. There's so much going on; we are so excited for Edmonton to get in here."
K-Days runs July 21-30. at the Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds, 7515 – 118 Avenue. See k-days.com for ticket and show information.
