Flying Canoë Volant Festival — Edmonton’s Winter Celebration of Light, Culture & Community
The Flying Canoë Volant Festival is a beloved winter tradition in Edmonton that transforms the Mill Creek Ravine, La Cité Francophone, and the surrounding French Quarter into a vibrant canvas of light, art, music, storytelling, and cultural celebration. Inspired by the legendary tale of the flying canoe and rooted in French-Canadian, First Nations, and Métis traditions, the festival invites visitors of all ages to embrace the magic of a long winter’s night in a truly unique outdoor experience.
A highlight for many is the Portage Relay and canoe races — playful, spirited competitions that bring the legend to life through obstacles like canoe portaging, axe throwing, buck sawing, and teamwork challenges.