Arts District Day

WHAT TO EXPECT

Watch the Arts District transform in an all-access creative playground where the next discovery is just a doorstep away. From a drop-in community choir to an exciting Pre-Show Chat with The Wizard of Oz music director, to face painting, balloon artistry, and more. Every corner is packged with unexpected moments. Bring the family and grab a friend to dive into the downtown arts scene!

Grab your Art Hop Passport at any one of the three venues to start your day and make your way around the Arts District to collect stickers at each station! When you’ve filled your passport, enter online for the draw to win one of several incredible prizes!

SCHEDULE

Face Painting by Miss Ye

11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Ghostlight Landing

The talented team from Face Painting by Miss Ye will be onsite at Arts District Day offering professional, creative face-painting for kids and adults alike! Miss Ye brings vibrant designs, quality non-toxic paints, and an engaging experience for all ages.

Balloon Artists

11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Ghostlight Landing

Philease Flash Balloons

Entertainment and art take centre stage at Arts District Day with Phileas Flash and his incredible balloon creations. From unicorns to unicycles, challenge him with your most imaginative request or choose one of his signature designs — either way, you’ll be amazed by this brilliant balloon artist and his larger-than-life creations.

Dan the Balloon Man

We’re doubling the balloon magic at Arts District Day! Joining Phileas Flash is Dan the Balloon Man, bringing his own high-energy style and creative flair to the festivities. Known for his crowd-pleasing designs and quick-twisting skills, Dan crafts everything from classic favourites to imaginative custom creations. With two incredible balloon artists onsite, expect even more colour, creativity, and larger-than-life fun throughout the day!

Roving Magic with Jay Flair

11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Jay Flair is an award winning magician whose acts make use of her experiences in life. She’ll make you laugh, she’ll make you cry; from circus stunts to sleight of hand, her show is full of mind melting moments that leave the crowd at the edge of their seats!

Drop-in Community Choir with Steven Greenfield

11:30 am – 12:00 pm

Tucker Amphitheatre

Celebrate the joy of singing together at Arts District Day with a special Community Choir experience on Saturday at 11:30am in the Tucker Amphitheatre at the Citadel Theatre. Led by Music Director Steven Greenfield, this lively and welcoming session will guide guests through a fun, feel-good rehearsal of “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz, building toward a joyful group performance you won’t want to miss. Open to the public and perfect for all ages, this is your invitation to raise your voice — whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned singer. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to connect, participate, and share in the magic of music together.

The Wizard of Oz Pre-Show Chat

12:30 pm – 1:00 pm

Shoctor Lobby

Go behind the curtain this Arts District Day with “Lines, Timbres and Bars, Oh, My!: Music Directing The Wizard of Oz“, a special pre-show chat led by Music Director Steven Greenfield from 12:30 pm to 1:00pm in the Shoctor Lobby at the Citadel Theatre. Open and free for everyone to attend, this lively conversation invites you to explore the role of a music director and the artistry that shapes a production from the first rehearsal to opening night. Join Steven for an engaging look at the craft, collaboration, and musical storytelling behind The Wizard of Oz, and deepen your appreciation for the magic that happens both onstage and in the orchestra pit.

The Wizard of Oz

1:30 pm Matinee Performance

Shoctor Theatre

Tickets required

The Citadel will transport audiences to the magical Land of Oz in this enchanting retelling of the timeless classic. Follow Dorothy, a young dreamer swept away by a whirlwind adventure, as she journeys down the Yellow Brick Road to find her way home. Alongside her unforgettable companions—the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Cowardly Lion—she encounters dazzling wonders, wicked witches, and the promise of courage, heart, and wisdom. With iconic songs, vibrant characters, and heartwarming lessons, this production celebrates the enduring power of friendship, bravery, and believing in oneself. A spellbinding adventure for all ages, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss!

Edmonton Public Library – Drop in Activities

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Tucker Amphitheatre

The EPL – Stanley Milner Library will be onsite with engaging, hands-on activities for all ages! Drop by to try robot coding, create your own custom buttons, and bring artwork to life with colouring sheet animation. It’s a fun and interactive way to explore creativity and technology right at Arts District Day!

PlayWright Restaurant

Open 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

PlayWright Restaurant will be serving a special Arts District Day feature menu, including The Burger with cheddar, bacon, and horseradish aioli; a Cajun Chicken Sandwich; classic poutine (GF); mac & cheese; and fries. All feature items will be available in convenient grab-and-go containers, with guests welcome to enjoy their meals in the dining room. The regular lunch and bar menu will continue to be available in the Bar and Library area. (Please note: alcoholic beverages must remain on site, but non-alcoholic drinks can be packaged to go.)

Ghostlight Cafe

Open 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Ghostlight Café will be offering its current café menu, along with a selection of house-made cookies and delicious bagel bombs — perfect for a quick treat while exploring the festivities.