August is packed full of opportunities to experience and explore Alberta. Check out theatre performances, look up at the skies for some meteors, and celebrate the cultures and history that have shaped our province.
Fun at Fringe
It’s time to check out some of the most original theatre you can imagine, because Fringe is about to kick off in both of Alberta’s major cities.
The 2026 Calgary Fringe Theatre Festival will see performers hitting the stage in that city from July 31 to Aug. 8, as the boutique event presents more than two dozen unique shows through the week—which also marks the 20th anniversary of the festival.
Meanwhile, Edmonton’s massive fringe takes place Aug. 13-23, and this world-renowned event brings 209 theatre productions to audiences in 37 venues. The Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is North America’s largest, longest-running fringe, and transforms the Old Strathcona neighbourhood (and beyond!) into a vibrant hub of theatre, street performances, and art.
Star-gazing Season
Every year, the night skies in the Northern Hemisphere are lit up by the Perseids meteor shower, which peaks each August. When the Earth passes through the wake of the comet Swift-Tuttle, it leads to a beautiful “shooting star” display, visible in Alberta and expected to peak Aug. 12 and 13 this year.
Some of the best spots to observe them are in the province’s dark sky preserves, or areas with minimal light pollution. In Alberta, options include the Jasper National Park Dark Sky Preserve, the Bon Accord Dark Sky Community, or the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve.
Learn About Alberta’s Cultures and History
The August long weekend is a great chance to learn about the many cultures that make our province unique. The Edmonton Heritage Festival returns to Hawrelak Park Aug. 1-3, bringing more than 70 cultural pavilions with food, music, dance, and traditions.
In Calgary, the Heritage Day Festival at Eau Claire Plaza takes place Aug. 3, and features multicultural performances, artisan booths, and a food pavilion.
For a deeper dive into history, visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village east of Edmonton, where AMA members save 10% on regular admission. The open-air museum features costumed interpreters who interact with visitors, teaching them about the way Alberta’s early Ukrainian settlers lived.
AMA’s Centennial Exhibit
Add a little more history to your summer adventures with AMA’s centennial exhibit, A Road Well Travelled, at Heritage Park in Calgary. The interactive experience tells the story of transportation and mobility in Alberta over the past century. Visitors can explore interactive displays, historic artifacts, and hands-on experiences that showcase of a century of change on the roads. AMA members save 15% on regular adult admission onsite at Heritage Park. When you arrive, don’t forget to scan your AMA membership card at the check-in station for a chance to win a bucket-list trip from AMA Travel, valued at $15,000! The exhibit will also head to Edmonton in the fall and to Wetaskiwin in early 2027.
Explore Alberta’s Farms
Get out of the city and experience Alberta’s agricultural roots during Alberta Open Farm Days, Aug. 15 and 16. Farms and ranches open their gates to visitors for tours, demonstrations, local food experiences, and a behind-the-scenes looks at where Alberta’s food comes from. It’s a great excuse to take a summer road trip and discover communities you may have never visited. Remember, if you’re gassing up before heading to the farm, members can save 3¢/L off fuel at any participating Shell location across Alberta—plus, save 10% off in-store purchases and car washes.