This Edmonton festival offers three days of lion dances, Asian cuisine, and local vendors

The Edmonton Dragon Festival is taking over the city this August, with Chinatown being home to three days of championship lion dance, authentic Asian cuisine, and community celebration.

Edmonton’s Chinatown is going to be absolutely bursting with energy during this August weekend. From Aug. 21 to Aug. 23, you’ll be able to watch international teams compete in a beautiful dance championship, dance and sing along to live Cantonese music, or watch an outdoor film beneath the stars.

Even if it’s been in Edmonton for a while, this festival has gotten a complete upgrade from last year. With free admission for all, there’s nothing better than a hot summer night at a bustling community event.

What to discover during the Edmonton Dragon Festival

Over these three days in August, you’ll get to see a variety of different performances, foods, and market vendors. It’s up to you to decide how you tackle them.

However, the biggest highlight of the festival has to be its lion dance competition. According to the festival itself, they proudly host two of North America’s premier lion dance championships: the Canada National Lion Dance Championship and the Pan America Traditional Lion Dance Championship.

All three days will have lion dances in some way, shape, or form, but Saturday, Aug. 22, will be the day of the championship finals for both competitions.

In addition to the lion dances, there will be an outdoor screening of Shaolin Soccer presented by the FascinAsian Film Festival as well as more main stage entertainment (like martial arts and cultural performances) to watch.

If you’re looking to eat while you watch a performance or walk around, no problem. Taste of Chinatown is a culinary celebration ready to satiate your appetite. Here, you’ll be able to discover authentic flavours from Chinatown restaurants, local food trucks, and guest food merchants from across Alberta.

For those 18 and over, you’ll be able to take a step into the Beer Gardens as well. From this spot, you’ll be able to catch great views of the stage, grab a drink, and relax.

There will also be a marketplace to explore throughout the weekend. Featuring local artisans, entrepreneurs, cultural organizations, and small businesses, you’ll be able to discover unique products and handcrafted goods wherever you look.

Looking for a festival map or parking tips? We’d suggest checking out the festival’s website. There, they have outlined everything to know ahead of arriving.

Whether you just find yourself in the area or you’re looking for something to do this upcoming weekend in August, the Edmonton Dragon Festival will be patiently awaiting your arrival.

When: Friday, Aug. 21, to Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026
Time: Noon to 10 p.m. on Friday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday
Where: 10249 96th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Recent posts:
This small Alberta town was just recognized as a stress-free spot for a weekend retreat
Here’s what’s open and closed in Edmonton this long weekend

Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

Read articles