Edmontonians won't have to wait much longer for the re-opening of Fort Edmonton Park, which has been closed for over a year for a long-planned enhancement project.
Due to COVID-19, Fort Edmonton Park is slightly delaying the opening of the renovated park, originally scheduled for May Long weekend. Fort Edmonton Management Company has now set its sights on opening the doors on July 1 Canada Day, subject to AHS restrictions and guidelines.
The $165 million enhancement, funded by all three levels of government, includes new features and exhibits like the Indigenous Peoples Experience, new attractions added to the Johnny J. Jones Exposition, and a new front entry plaza and admissions area.
“We can’t wait for Edmonton to see what we’ve been building. It’s going to be a totally new and immersive experience. We’re so proud of the new 30,000 square-foot Indigenous Peoples Experience, and the midway will really be a chance for families just to have some old-fashioned fun which we could all use this summer,” said Darren Dalgleish, President & CEO of Fort Edmonton Management Company.
The highly-anticipated Indigenous Peoples Experience is the new signature exhibit at Fort Edmonton Park; a not-to-be-missed stop for visitors. The stories, music, artwork, and text in this experience comes from local Indigenous perspectives and voices, gathered through engagement with local Indigenous communities, historical documents, and research. Visitors will explore life through the diversity of First Nations' and Métis peoples' histories, cultures, experiences, and perspectives, local to Indigenous life in the Beaver Hills (Edmonton) region.
In the 1920’s-style midway, a new Ferris wheel, outdoor maze, Cabinet of Curios exhibit, funhouse, and expanded game selection join old favourites like the carousel and swing ride. There's also plenty of carnival-style foods to enjoy and a healthy serving of photo opps for visitors.
"We've got $160 million in brand new assets in this, the largest open-air museum in Canada," said Dalgleish. "We're focused on value and the customer experience; we want to deliver excellence."
Tickets to the park can be purchased online at fortedmontonpark.ca in coming weeks. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the public will be required to pre-book their tickets.
