William Hawrelak Park, Riverside park in Edmonton, Alberta.
Description
William Hawrelak Park covers 68 hectares (170 acres) alongside the North Saskatchewan River and features artificial lakes, walking trails, and picnic areas. The space blends open green areas with water features and recreational facilities throughout the river valley.
History
The site was acquired by the city in 1922 and development began in 1954 following Mayor William Hawrelak's vision. The artificial lakes were created between 1959 and 1964 and have shaped the park since then.
Culture
The park hosts the Silver Skate Festival every year and provides a stage for performances at the Heritage Amphitheatre. It functions as a gathering place where local communities and visitors come together for celebrations and outdoor events.
Practical
The park is open daily from 5 am to 11 pm, though it is undergoing rehabilitation work until early 2026. Trails along the river valley remain accessible while construction continues.
Did you know?
The park contains five pavilions designed in the West Coast Modernist style by Bittorf & Wensley between 1967 and 1973. These buildings are being evaluated for inclusion on Edmonton's Inventory of Historic Resources.
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Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, offers a range of attractions for visitors. The city mixes history with modern entertainment and natural spaces. History comes alive at Fort Edmonton Park, where buildings show what life was like in earlier times. Shopping and recreation centers draw crowds, while...
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