Festival season is in full swing in Downtown Edmonton, and few events capture the energy of summer like Taste of Edmonton, returning to Churchill Square from July 16–26.
Known as the largest food festival in Canada, Taste of Edmonton draws more than 250,000 visitors each year to sample dishes from dozens of local restaurants, transforming the heart of downtown into a hub of food, culture, and community.
But beyond the crowds and vibrancy, the festival is also deeply rooted in giving back. Operated by Events Edmonton, Taste of Edmonton supports local non-profits, service groups, and community organizations in meaningful ways.
“I believe any organization that is in a position to give back has a responsibility to do so,” said Donovan Vienneau, executive director of Events Edmonton and Taste of Edmonton. “Taste of Edmonton has such a unique and powerful platform that allows us to connect with hundreds of thousands of people every year. That platform can — and should — be used to support our community in meaningful ways.”
One of the biggest impacts comes through partnerships with local service groups. Each year, between 16 and 22 groups help support the festival while fundraising for their own initiatives. Since 2021, more than $520,000 has been distributed back to local organizations through the program.
Taste of Edmonton also offers free exhibitor space to registered non-profits, helping organizations connect directly with the public.
“The goal is simple; provide organizations with a platform to connect with the public, share their message, recruit volunteers, and raise awareness without adding financial strain,” said Vienneau, who launched the program in 2021.
The initiative has grown significantly. Before the expansion, just three exhibitors participated in the festival. By 2025, that number had grown to 39 exhibitors, supporting 61 non-profit organizations over six years.
The festival’s support extends beyond Churchill Square. Since 2023, Events Edmonton has also provided festival infrastructure — including tents, sinks, cable mats, and other equipment — free of charge to local non-profits and community groups. Today, 17 organizations benefit from the lending program.
Quietly, Taste of Edmonton ensure it has a positive impact for vulnerable populations
“Every year, both myself and many of our staff quietly spend thousands of dollars purchasing food tickets for people in need,” said Vienneau. “Food has a way of bringing dignity, comfort, and connection, even if only for a moment, and I believe everyone deserves to feel welcome at our festival.”
So, as you take in this year’s festival, you can enjoy it even more knowing that the festival, which has felt the love from this city since 1984, is also giving that love back.