Laugh, learnandcreatelastingmemoriesat the InternationalChildren'sFestival of theArts
Embark on a wondrous adventure as the International Children’s Festival of the Arts returns to downtown St. Albert from May 30 to June 2. Celebrating its 43rd year, this four-day extravaganza is not just about entertainment. It’s a unique gateway for children to delve into the arts, nurturing their creativity and development.
“We see the best theatre and read the best books when we are young because we are still open to magic, wonder and possibility,” says Andrea Gammon, festival coordinator. “Our desire is to have kids view and participate in as many art forms as possible while creating lasting memories.”
One of North America’s largest and longest-running children’s festivals, the event includes feature performances, paid and free activities, and much more.
The festival welcomes seven feature international acts to its stages. Among them are fan favourites Koo Koo, a high-energy dance party; fable dance-pop sensations Grimmz Fairy Tales; the captivating one-person performer The Libravian; and The Bighetty & Bighetty Puppet Show, with its Cree-speaking puppets. Each act offers a different experience, so there’s something for every child.
“Our world is diverse, and our performances reflect that,” says Gammon. “Everyone needs to see themselves represented. We also need to open children’s minds to new ways of thinking, doing and expression.”
Offstage, paid activities immerse kids in everything: art, crafts, music, puppetry play, hula hoop workshops and even a photo exhibition. A community-inspired munchkin metropolis, Toddler Town, is designed especially for the littlest festivalgoers. While access to the grounds is free, Gammon says the Performance Plus Pass is the ultimate value for experiencing the festival. At $33, it grants adults and children ages two or older access to one pre-selected feature performance and unlimited paid activities throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, those seeking free options can take in an open art studio, education station, coding and robotics activities, a kid-sized maze and more.
“Poke through the website and look at the schedule,” advises Gammon. “Once you determine which performances and activities will interest your kids, you can plan around them to really take advantage of all the fun. We have various ticket packages, park-and-ride that drops you off in the middle of the action and food vendors.”
All venues are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that kids of all abilities can fully enjoy the festival’s attractions. Additional supports, such as calming areas and inclusion kits equipped with noise- and light-dampening devices, create a comfortable experience for everyone.
To plan your visit and purchase tickets to the International Children’s Festival of the Arts, visit childfest.com.