Flying Canoë Volant Festival Returns to Edmonton's Mill Creek Ravine

Edmonton's cherished winter festival, the Flying Canoë Volant, is set to enchant residents and visitors alike from January 28 to 31, 2026.

 

This annual event transforms the Mill Creek Ravine and the French Quarter into a luminous wonderland, celebrating the rich tapestry of French-Canadian, First Nations, and Métis cultures.

 

Inspired by the legendary tale of the flying canoe, the festival invites attendees to immerse themselves in a unique blend of history, art, and winter festivities.

 

Festival Highlights:

 

Illuminated Trails:

 

Wander through the Mill Creek Ravine, where the trails come alive with mesmerizing light installations crafted by local artists.

 

These displays narrate stories from French-Canadian folklore and Indigenous traditions, offering a visual feast that bridges the past and present.

 

Live Performances:

 

Experience a diverse lineup of live music, storytelling, and dance performances.

 

From the rhythmic beats of Métis fiddlers to contemporary acts, the festival's stages showcase the vibrant cultural mosaic of Edmonton.

 

Interactive Activities:

 

Engage in hands-on activities that celebrate traditional skills.

 

Test your mettle in the Portage Relay, a spirited competition featuring canoe portaging, axe throwing, and buck sawing.

 

It's a playful nod to the voyageur spirit that defines the festival.

 

Family-Friendly Fun:

 

Families can delight in activities like ice slides, maple taffy tasting, and storytelling sessions tailored for younger audiences.

 

The festival ensures that attendees of all ages find something to enjoy.

 

Event Details:

 

Dates:

 

January 28–31, 2026

 

Time:

 

6:00 PM to 10:00 PM nightly

 

Locations:

 

- Mill Creek Ravine Park: 87 Avenue & 95 Street

 

- La Cité Francophone: 8627-91 Street

 

- École Rutherford School Yard: 8620 91 Street

 

Admission:

 

Free, with donations appreciated.

 

Portage Relay Registration:

 

$20 per team, with proceeds supporting the festival and the Centre Communautaire d’Edmonton.

 

Parking and Transportation:

 

Free parking is available at:

 

- La Cité Francophone: 8627-91 Street

 

- École Maurice-Lavallée: 8828-95 Street

 

- Bonnie Doon Mall: 8330-82 Avenue NW

 

On Friday and Saturday nights, a shuttle service will operate between Bonnie Doon Mall and the festival sites.

 

Public transit options include bus routes 004, 404, 500X, 501, and 524, as well as the LRT stations at Bonnie Doon, Holyrood, and Strathearn.

 

Community Developments:

 

Edmonton continues to thrive with new developments enhancing the city's vibrancy.

 

Notably, the O-day'min Park opened in November 2025, offering residents a new urban green space in the downtown core.

 

Additionally, the Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre is slated to open in early 2026, providing state-of-the-art facilities for fitness enthusiasts.

 

These developments reflect Edmonton's commitment to fostering community engagement and well-being.

 

Real Estate Activity:

 

The city's real estate market has seen a surge, particularly in the luxury segment.

 

Interprovincial migration has contributed to a 70% increase in sales over $1 million in early 2025.

 

Neighborhoods like Belgravia, Glenora, and Windermere have become hotspots for new luxury constructions, reflecting Edmonton's growing appeal.