- Edmonton has been recognized by Maclean's as one of the Best Affordable Places to Live in Canada, highlighting the city's affordability, thriving economy, and vibrant community. "Edmontonians are known for their innovative spirit and love for building community," said Eddie Robar, interim city manager at the City of Edmonton. "We have a saying: 'five minutes here and you're one of us,' and we really feel that way," Robar added.
- The Edmonton Folk Music Festival drew 100,000 attendees to Gallagher Park over four days, featuring performances by artists like Blue Rodeo, KT Tunstall, and Robert Plant & Alison Krauss. Festival producer Terry Wickham praised the event's success, noting the perfect weather, great audience, and dedicated volunteers. "I see family here, I see colleagues, I see friends that maybe I haven't seen for a year, and I think for everybody it's the same. It's a real reunion," said Wickham.
- New Alberta Health Services data indicates a significant rise in frostbite treatments and amputations among Edmonton's homeless population, linked to the city's accelerated removal of encampments. Experts say the increase cannot be attributed to weather changes or a rise in homelessness but coincides with the crackdown on encampments in January. In the four weeks following Jan. 17, Edmonton police removed 413 structures.
- Fort Road in northeast Edmonton has reopened after three years of major roadwork, easing traffic but leaving local businesses struggling to recover. While some business owners remain hopeful, others are still dealing with significant financial losses. A spokesperson for the City of Edmonton said traffic was "flowing through the area at all times," but thanked residents and local businesses for their patience during the construction.
- Motorcycle collision fatalities have significantly increased in Edmonton, with as many deaths so far this year as the last four years combined. The RCMP and the Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society are urging motorcyclists to get their speed fix at the racetrack instead of on public roads.
- The Edmonton Mural Festival kicks off this week, bringing new public art to the city, including in the downtown, 124 Street, and Whyte Avenue areas. The festival, which began during the pandemic to beautify neglected spaces, will feature tours hosted by Instagrammable Walls guide Linda Hoang and include stops for food and drinks. This year, six new murals will be added, selected from more than 900 artist applications.
- Edmonton Oilers fans rank ninth most positive according to an NHL Positivity Index published by students at the University of Alberta. Fans of the Florida Panthers scored highest, while the lowest ranking went to the Las Vegas Golden Knights. The index used data taken before, during, and after games from each team's Reddit community.
- Over the past 18 months, local private investors in Edmonton have purchased 12 office buildings for a combined $135 million, reflecting strong confidence in the city's commercial real estate market. "I think it's a real testament to those that are in the trenches here. They see an opportunity more so than those that aren't in the local community," said Cory Wosnack, principal and managing director at Avison Young.
- Residents of Jasper who were evacuated due to a wildfire will be allowed to return home on Friday, though officials warn that many homes and services may not yet be habitable. Emergency services are being restored, but residents should be prepared to assess their properties and plan for repairs. Tourists are urged to delay visits to allow the community time to recover.
