I’ve always been a huge fan of the International Children’s Festival. Whether it’s been taking my son for the past 3 years or when I used to work with schools that took classes of kids, it is a one of a kind event that is sure to please. I’ll be honest, the festival can get a little overwhelming for first time parents, there are so many options! To simplify, we’ve created a list of our top choices for performances and activities for those with the little ones- we’re talking babes to preschoolers. Enjoy and let us know which ones you liked the best!
Toddler Town– A Festival Within a Festival!
My son was about 6 months old for his very first Children’s Festival. I was nervous, since it was one of the first summer festivals I had ever been to with a child of my own and I had no idea what to expect. Toddler Town was the bomb! We stayed entirely in this area (because you know, naps happen like every 3 hours at this age so you never get to stay anywhere for too long!) and I remember feeling so relived that there was an area just for the little guys. We will have much more coming soon about Toddler Town and all the fun that can be had, but in the meantime you can check it out here!
Toddler Town Stage 2015
Sheldon Casavant– Magician!
I recently took my 3 year old to a magic show and he was mesmerized the entire time. I can’t wait to do it again, this time at the Children’s Festival!
Afrique en Cirque– Acrobatics Show!
All children, but especially the youngest, are so attracted to bright colours and movement. With drums, singing, acrobatics and dancing it’s one of my must see shows this year.
Fred Penner– A Classic!
I think some of us might just be attending to re-live our own childhoods, but I also think it is SO cool to share it with my kid:)
Moovin’ to the Rhythm– Percussion Tent!
What young child doesn’t like banging on things to make noise? We checked this out last year and it was a blast watching the little guys make their own sounds as well as hearing some cool and unique percussion instruments.
Save On Foods Tent– The Sandbox!
This year Save On will be doing a fun puppet show about healthy eating and then kids get to enjoy playing in St. Albert’s largest sandbox all under a shady tent! I had a hard time getting my then 2 year old out of this one last year!
Save On Foods Giant Sandbox 2015
Education Station– Play!
By the front plaza concessions Education Station sets up a play area filled with all of their high quality toys! Simple and fun.
Activities at the Education Station Tent 2015
Things to know about pricing:
- There are a lot of free things to see and do if you want to just come and walk around beautiful downtown St. Albert.
- Toddler Town is FREE for adults and $10 for 0-4 year olds. Pay when you arrive at Todder Town.
- Feature Shows (like Fred Penner and Afrique en Cirque) are $11. Babies 24 months and under are allowed to sit on your lap at shows for no additional charge. If you want them to have a seat, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. Buy these in advance.
- Site Activities (like Moovin’ to the Rhythm and Save On Foods Tent) are $3.
- Kids Butterfly Pass- save some money this year and buy this pass for $20. It includes access to Toddler Town (reg $10), a ticket to a Feature Performance (reg $11), unlimited access to site activities (reg $3 each), PLUS professional face painting and a bag of popcorn! It works out to a minimum $10 savings. Only available for Friday evening and Saturday.
The 35th Northern Alberta International Children’s Festival runs from May 31-June 4th in and around St. Albert Place. More information about the International Children Festival can be found here.
Have you been to the festival before?
XO,
Modern Mama is a proud sponsor of the Mommy Lounge in Toddler Town at the Children’s Festival. In the Mommy Lounge you will find a comfortable and quieter place to relax as well as diaper changing facilities.