The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival returns to Sir Winston Churchill Square from July 3 to 12, 2026, bringing 38 artists from eight countries to entertain crowds with juggling, acrobatics, aerial acts, and more. This year's festival includes a Busker Academy where passersby can learn skills like juggling, stilt-walking, and aerial acrobatics from professional performers.
Busker Academy Offers Hands-On Learning
Street performer Charlie Peters, who uses the pronouns ze/hir, will be one of the instructors at the Busker Academy. Peters, who transitioned from traditional acting to clowning, emphasizes that the academy is open to everyone. "Literally anybody who's passing by is welcome to come and we'll show them how the props work or in the case of some of my colleagues, they'll teach some aerial stuff," says Peters. "But it's a joy, and I think that that joy of discovery and learning something new and challenging yourself isn't limited to our childhood."
Peters demonstrated juggling techniques, advising learners to focus on timing and trajectory rather than catching. Other Busker Academy instructors include Flyin' Bob Palmer, who teaches stilt-walking, and Cirquetastic, offering aerial acrobatics.
Diverse Lineup of International Artists
Liz Hobbs, Programming and Communications Director for the festival, highlights the inclusion of 10 debut acts this year. "I'm actually really excited about the number of emerging, or evolving might be a better word, artists at the festival this year," says Hobbs. Notable debutants include Conrad Rivalland, a veteran with over 25 years of street performance, and Sean Arceta, who returns with Rhythm Speaks, a street dance show featuring Edmonton's top B-Boys. Lyne Gosselin will present a new high-flying acrobatics and rodeo-themed show.
The festival offers a wide range of performances, including juggling, rollerblading, clowning, and acrobatics, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Attendees can enjoy free shows throughout the day, with the Busker Academy providing a unique opportunity to learn directly from professionals.
