Discover Black-owned YEG: Explore with Purpose

Explore Edmonton acknowledges those who came here as settlers – as migrants either in this generation or in generations past – and those of us who came here involuntarily, particularly those brought to these lands as a result of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and Slavery. Explore Edmonton would like to pay tribute to those ancestors of African origin and descent and acknowledge their contributions towards building Edmonton as a vibrant, inclusive. and diverse community.

As an Edmonton enthusiast I’m excited to share ways to explore art, food, festivals, entertainment, shopping, wellness and so much more from Edmonton’s Black communities. Your support for the community is important now more than ever and a way to learn that generations of Black Edmontontians have contributed to building a city that is attractive, vibrant, and diverse for visitors and local adventurists.

This guide offers socially conscious visitors some of my favourite tastes, spaces and places that support the future of Black tourism in Edmonton. This is your invitation to join the celebration of Black culture and support Black-led businesses, events, and experiences that have created my own memorable moments.

Edmonton Cocktail Week

March 2025, Locations throughout Edmonton

Edmonton Cocktail Week invites you to the downtown core to check out our burgeoning cocktail culture scene. For an entire week in March, you’ll find yourself exploring Bartender competitions, participating in tours, and learning from industry professionals. Enjoy a libation or two as you explore specially-curated cocktails featuring locally-produced ingredients and spirits.

Feed the Soul Dining Week

February 2025, Locations throughout Edmonton

Fill yuh belly, feed yuh soul! Feed the Soul Dining Week is an annual Black Futures Month celebration of Edmonton’s Black food scene. The dining week invites curious diners to experience the rich cultural and fusion flavours that Black foodpreneurs have to offer. Throughout the festival, you’ll find special meal deals and food walking tours.

Allegro Italian Kitchen

10805 95 Street and 9650 142 Street

Since 1998, this timeless Italian eatery has been a staple in our food community. In recent years, the Little Italy location expanded its offerings to include Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. So when you can’t agree on what you’d like to eat, check out this fusion dining experience.

Iland Vybes Cafe

10807 Jasper Avenue

The hospitality you’ll find at Island Vybes is as warm as the flavours of their traditional and fusion dishes. Known for their house-made jerk sauces and dips that will leave you salivating, you’ll want to bring a bottle home.

Langano Skies

9906 72 Avenue

Let your tastebuds discover the unique taste, style, and tradition of Ethiopian cuisine at dine-in events hosted by Chef Amsale. Or, for a night in you can try their take-out menu offered on Thursdays and Fridays. Plus, all meals can be made gluten-free!

LAYERED By Rissa

Inquire to order

Order early as you won’t want to miss out on enjoying handmade treats from LAYERED by Rissa. Known for being a less sweet alternative to traditional baking, their mini cakes are a perfect way to treat yourself and unwind after an adventurous day.

Lock Stock Coffee/Red Star

10534 Jasper Avenue

By day, Lock Stock Coffee serves delicious breakfast sandwiches, creamy coffees, and perfect pastries. By night, the space transforms into Red Star, a lively hotspot with great drinks and tasty Italian fare.

Old Beverly Cafe

3908 118 Avenue

Step back in time during your visit to Old Beverly Café. The neighbourhood of Beverly is full of rich Edmonton history and while you’re there, stop in at the cafe to relax and enjoy afternoon tea or try a classic menu feature like a burger, sandwich or sweet treat.

Sauce Modern Caribbean Cuisine

13655 St Albert Trail NW

When you step into Sauce Modern Caribbean Cuisine you’ll be transported to the Caribbean through enticing aromas, rich flavours, a cozy atmosphere, and lively island melodies. Be sure to check out their Instagram account so you don’t miss out on their famous events such their parking lot jam and gospel brunch.

VIP Kilimanjaro

12433 97 Street

Kilimanjaro VIP takes you on a culinary journey to the heart of the Swahili Nations. Experience the finest Swahili cuisine in Edmonton where a thoughtfully-curated menu showcases the bold and intricate flavours of the region.

Afrodisiac Natural Shop

11445 124 St Unit 211

Afrodisiac Natural Shop is a community hub known for its laid back vibes and knowledgeable hair stylists. They also offer small-batch, handcrafted hair and skincare products formulated for the melanated kings and queens of the world. You might luck out and catch an impromptu concert as bands frequently rent the community space for rehearsals.

BLK ROSE Candle

Visit their website or find them at a pop-up market

BLK ROSE aims to inspire through scent and stories using luxurious hand-poured candles made in small batches. Each candle is inspired by an iconic Black woman in history and the owners select local grassroots organizations to donate a portion of their sales to.

Buno Design

Visit their website or find them at a pop-up market

If you’re looking for statement accessories that will stop people in their tracks, you will want to explore the upcycled creations from Buno Design. As an ethical brand, each piece is handcrafted locally. These versatile statement pieces can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Mojo Jojo Pickles

9627 82 Avenue

Mojo Jojo Pickles packs a ton of unique flavour pairings into every jar, bag, and bottle. Whether you’re into creating charcuterie boards, showing off your mixologist skills or adventurous enough to try one-of-a-kind items like their pickled grapes, your curiosity is sure to be piqued.

Afro Music Fest

7507 Borden Park Road

Starting in June we’re back outside! Experience the uplifting beats of Afro music through the sounds of Amapiano, Afrobeats, and Reggae. The immersive lineup offers workshops, dance lessons and panels meant to promote unity across our diverse communities.

Edmonton Drag Festival

9999 Grierson Hill

Unleash your fabulous for Pride Month! Louise McKinney Riverfront Park comes alive as local drag queens present fierce, fabulous, and fearless numbers alongside Canada’s top drag performers. Kick off your weekend with a Two Spirit Pow Wow, enjoy endless performances and walk away with knowledge from the 2SLGBTIQA+ community.

Edmonton Jerk Festival

10844 - 117 Street

To kick off July, Edmonton Jerk Festival hosts a kid-friendly cookout where you can experience Jamaican jerk culture, local performances, and an artisan’s market. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, there are plenty of games and prizes to be won.

Cariwest

9918 102 Avenue, Sir Winston Churchill Square

In August we on de road! Cariwest is known for infectious sounds, energetic performances, and savoury cuisine. If you miss the road march, make your way down to the Caribbean village to join the fun and be sure to secure your ticket to their infamous Saturday night fete.

Cocktails & Jerk Festival

8331 - 104 Street

It may be in September, but summer isn’t over. Escape to paradise in a family-friendly atmosphere at Cocktails and Jerk Festival, located in the heart of Old Strathcona. Experience a local rendition of Caribbean Island culture by immersing yourself in artistic performances, exclusive beverages, and a cultural village. Prepare to be amazed by the work of local and international artists who will surely find their way onto your playlists.

Suya Hause

10018 106 Street

Suya Hause is your VIP nightlife destination offering the latest tracks in Afrobeats and Amapiano. While there you can enjoy African BBQ and if you can swing it try upgrading to table service.

The Bower

10538 Jasper Avenue

The Bower is the ultimate spot for drinks with friends. Classic cocktails, or libations with a twist pair perfectly with their snack menu. The lively atmosphere makes this the perfect place to spend a night out on the town.

Zero Percent Crew

Check their Instagram for their location lineup

If you’re looking for a bumpin’ evening of throwbacks, underground and viral hits, you’ll want to catch members of the Zero Percent Crew spinning at nightlife venues and events across Edmonton. This DJ trio is made up of Jaylin January, Lugz and ShayneStartedIt.

Edmonton Brewery Tours

Various breweries around the city

Add a little hoppy-ness to your day with Edmonton Brewery Tours. This locally owned company offers private brewery tours and bookable tastings for you to enjoy. Bottoms up!

I'll Call You Tomorrow

Visit their Instagram for their event schedule.

I'll Call You Tomorrow (ICYT) is an art collective and lifestyle brand founded in the worlds of fashion and nightlife and built by a team of artists, designers, musicians and multi-hyphenates.

Soul Search Canada

Visit their website for their event schedule.

Soul Search Canada curates multimedia experiences centred around creativity, Black culture and travel at stunning venues around the city.

YEG TheComeUp

Visit their website for their event schedule.

YEG TheComeUp is a youth-led collective that caters to Edmonton's African, Black, and Caribbean youth communities. Kick back with the community at curated socials, workshops and immersive learning gatherings.

Buff Wax Spot

Visit their website to see their three locations.

This full-body wax bar offers quick, clean, and professional services in a welcoming and hyper-inclusive environment. Whether interacting with their friendly technicians, listening to their curated playlists, or taking a selfie at their art walls, you’re sure to leave feeling fresh, clean and well taken care of.

Crème de la Crème Beauty Lounge

150 Chippewa Rd #182, Sherwood Park

Crème de la Crème Beauty Lounge offers you an opportunity to create a made-for-you make-up line that you can take home as a souvenir. Options range from lipstick, lip gloss, eye shadow or fragrances. You can also select from their made-in-house line of beauty products.

Sudanese Body Smoking Spa

17203 62 Street

For a truly unique experience, treat yourself to a unique smoke bath at Sudanese Body Smoking Spa, which offers an enriching cultural experience!

The Melanin Studio

12068 104 Ave NW, Suite 213

Pamper yourself at the Melanin Studio - experts in skin and body care for all! Enhance your inner and outer glow with facials and body treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and radiant.

Socafit

Visit their website for the latest class schedule

Make sure to stretch before attending this high energy Caribbean dance class that explores movement and music from the Caribbean islands. Class environments are inclusive and suitable for all skill levels.

Vibe Mvmt

Visit their website for the latest class schedule

Get ready to experience an electrifying HIIT workout class from Vibe Mvmt that will have you sweating and grooving with good vibes and music.

5 Artists 1 Love

Various Locations

Consume Black culture through art, design, theatrical music, poetry and other forms of artistic expression as you take in two celebrations of Edmonton’s artistic Black communities. 5 Artists 1 Love is a multi-disciplinary production held annually during Black Histories and Futures Month that will have you in awe and leave you in good spirits.

Afrikan Diaspora History Library

10440 108 Avenue

Find books, poems and oral history containing Alberta’s hidden history of Black settlement in Canada told by Black individuals who call Canada home.

Afro-Bliss Gallery

2666 Donaghey Crescent

If you’re looking for handcrafted paintings and sculptures from emerging artists of African descent you’ll want to book a tour of Afro-Bliss Gallery. Tours are free and offer an intimate way to engage with the art pieces as you learn behind the scenes details from the gallery’s curator. For the best experience, I recommended booking ahead using their website.

Fort Edmonton Park

7000 143 St

Step back in time and learn about the often overlooked and hidden history of Edmonton and Alberta’s Black communities. From May to October, Fort Edmonton Park’s Black History Interpreters share narratives about Black existence as told from the voices and stories of the community.

Mary Burlie Park

10465 97 Street

This public park is named in honour of the late Mary Burlie who was a Black Edmonton community advocate and social worker known as “the Black angel of Boyle Street”. The park is a symbol of Edmonton’s past and the contributions made by the local Black community.

Melafrique

View the latest schedule online

Edmonton's favourite Afro-fusion ensemble weaves a tapestry of inspiring global influences through Soul, R&B, Reggae, Jazz, and African rhythms. Music is the medium they use to leave you feeling more united with the community.

New Standards Music

9910 109 Street

A home for musicians, artists, and fans to come together through imaginative and improvised music. Every Wednesday, New Standards Music offers a new line up of local musicians and bands.

Timothy Noel

View the latest schedule online

Blending Motown, Soul, and Funk influences, Timothy Noel offers an euphoric musical journey that will leave you singing along. You’re likely to find Timothy gigging at Blues on Whyte, but I recommend you check his latest schedule before heading out.

Ni Lo

11445 124 St Unit 211

NiLO is a Natural Hair Care Specialist and author who wrote Harriet's Humongous Hair, an adventure story all about a little girl who doesn't want to sit still to do her hair and lets her imagination get the best of her.

Titilope

10702 Jasper Avenue

Titilope Sonuga is a writer and performer whose work has graced stages and pages across the globe. Through her practice, she grasps for moments of tenderness and persistent joy at the intersection of blackness and womanhood. You can find her three collections of poetry and two spoken word albums at Audrey’s Bookstore.

AJA Louden Studios

Visit this map for a list of locations.

AJA Louden Studios create inspiring, memorable interior and exterior artworks, boldly transforming everyday walls into landmark locations. You’ll notice Louden's art is a fusion of contrasts, blending freehand spray-painted portraits of pop culture icons with graffiti-inspired patterns and hand-lettered designs.

JD Art

JD is a vibrant artist hailing from London, England who infuses his work with a love for street art, blending pop-art with realism to create captivating masterpieces. You can find his murals at the following locations:

• Della Notte – Located at Ayco Cafe (10551 Jasper Avenue)

• casa con i colori – Located at La French Taste Bakery (11401 95 Street)

• Kobe Bryant Out the Spider Verse Basketball Court – Located at Duggan Community Centre (3728 106 Street)

• Lulu Lane – Located in the alleyway between 103 and 104 Street, south of Jasper Ave

• Black Panther Basketball Court Court – Located at Duggan Community Centre (3728 106 Street)

Keon Courtney

Keon Courtney is a self-taught portrait artist who started drawing in his twenties. As a portraiture artist he brings life and soul to his artwork through several mediums. You can catch Keon’s murals at the following locations:

• Rado Alley – Located in the alleyway between 107 and 108 Street, north of Whyte Ave

• Power Lounge – Located at 10061 152 Street

• Alex Decoteau Park – Located at 10230 105 Street

Macha Abdallah

Macha Abdallah is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work explores identity, culture, and faith, using various mediums such as acrylic painting, pastels, digital art, and murals. Visit her murals inspired by people, places, and colours that give her work new meaning by visiting the following locations:

• Lulu Lane – Located in the alleyway between 103 and 104 Street, south of Jasper Ave

• Dignity Mural – Located in the Pedway at City Centre LRT station to City Centre Mall

• Diversity banner – Located at the intersection of 113 Street and Jasper Avenue

1909 Media Productions

1909 Media Production is skilled in capturing your cherished memories and specializes in photography and video services for weddings, branding and documentaries.

FO Photography

If you’re looking for candid and portrait photography you’ll trust your vision to the team at FO Photography. This team is knowing for transforming your treasured moments into vibrant portraits.

Optical Opium

Brand or business, individual or institution, Optical Opium will help you connect your story to your family, friends or clients in a compelling way.

Samjay & NOWLYVE Studios

Samjay is one of the artistic directors behind NOWLYVE STUDIO, a creative space located downtown. Samjay specializes in events, lifestyle and commercial projects and the NOWLYVE team is motivated to take your vision to new heights.

After years of working with Black community builders, organizers and entrepreneurs this guide offers a snapshot into the community. Use it as a way to get started on your journey towards making new connections, supporting, and participating in the incredible opportunities waiting to be discovered.