How To Fringe

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This year the Fringe will host over 800 artists who will bring you more than 1,800 theatrical performances. With so many shows to choose from, where does one begin?

Here are some pointers to help you get started:

Choose a Play

Follow your curiosity. Try out the exotic. Part of the Fringe experience is to see something bold and outrageous. The Festival Program Guide is your primary resource for both show descriptions and the Fringe master schedule. Find out information regarding last-minute program changes at Festival Box Offices.

Buy A Ticket

Tickets can be purchased at the Fringe Box Office, online, in person, by phone or at Tix on the Square.

Getting to your Venue

Most of our venues are within walking distance of the main Fringe site, but take note of the address — some are further away. Check our venue map to find the location of each venue.

Be sure to take into account travel time when planning your Fringe outings, as we will not admit latecomers to performances.

Parking is limited around the Fringe site so car travel is not recommended. Public transit, cycling and walking are all great methods for you to maneuver your way to the Fringe Festival.

Transportation Tips

Parking at the Fringe site is extremely limited, so car travel is not recommended. Consider the following travel options when coming to the Festival:

By Foot

Hoof it! Most venues are within walking distance from one another.

By Bike

Edmonton Bicycle Commuters’ Society (EBC) bicycle parking lots are located south of 85 Avenue on 104 Street (by Knox Church), and at 104 Street /84 Avenue (the Edmonton Public Library's Strathcona Branch). [map] Come by the EBC tent at Knox Church on Fridays between 3 PM and 7 PM for free bicycle tune-ups and how-to’s. Be advised that parking areas are not always monitored.

By Public Transit

ETS would like to thank you for taking transit by offering a ticket to get you home from the Fringe.

  • HOW? -  Exchange a voucher from page 23 of the Program Guide any time after 4 PM at any Information Services Booth [map] on-site for an ETS ticket to ride home after 6 PM!
  • GETTING THERE - Routes 4, 7, 52, 57 and 94 stop along Whyte Avenue close to the Fringe site.
  • ETS INFO - Call 311
  • ETS TRIP PLANNER - Visit www.takeETS.com

Hear and be Heard

Gossip and word of mouth are sometimes the most valuable sources of information. Say “hello” to the person next to you in line, find out what other patrons have enjoyed, and pass on tips on what to see.

Visit the Wine and Spirits Tent [map] located on 83 Avenue, grab a coffee, read reviews and listen as others talk about shows. View links to reviews, read and post your own reviews on our Facebook page, and join the conversation on Twitter @edmontonfringe, hashtag #yegfringe.

Take It All In

There are so many ways for you to experience the Fringe! You can attend or experience indoor ticketed performances, outdoor performances, KidsFringe, Fringe Forums, artisan and food vendors, beer tents, and more! Enjoy!

2012 Festival Program Guide

The Festival Program Guide is the official source for information on all shows taking part in The Fringe. It’s a must-have resource for Fringers, and is your guide to getting the most out of your Fringe days.

You can purchase your $7 Program Guide at:

  • All Edmonton and area Safeway locations
  • Chapters, Indigo and Coles locations; and
  • Select independent retailers, including Audreys Books, Greenwoods’ Bookshoppe and TIX on the Square.
  • E-version is available for purchase online

Village Bylaws

Fringe staff and volunteers are happy to answer your questions.

Look for staff and volunteers on-site or visit an Information Services Booth [map]

1) Arrive early.
All shows begin on time and once a performance has started, we will not admit latecomers. Sorry, no exceptions.

2) Everyone needs a ticket
To enter a Fringe venue everyone needs a ticket; this includes infants and children. All ticket sales are final and there are no refunds or exchanges unless a show is cancelled or unforeseen circumstances change the schedule.

3) Turn off all cell phones and electronic devices.
Prior to each performance please ensure that all cell phones and electronic devices are off. Cameras and other recording devices are not permitted.

4) No animals allowed.
 Animals are not permitted in theatres unless they are service animals.

5) Show your appreciation.
Outdoor performers work hard, entertaining you in the hot sun and the pouring rain because they love the Fringe. Please be generous with your support.

6) Respect The Village and our neighbours.
The Fringe Festival is thankful to the surrounding community, businesses and area residents for their support of the Festival. Please help us spread this gratitude by being respectful of the areas in and around The Village of the Fringed.

Keep noise levels reasonable, especially late at night. Don't litter or loiter. Treat the neighbourhood as if it is your own. A Village needs to maintain a good relationship with its neighbours in order to survive and grow. We thank you for playing your part in this important endeavour.

Have you ever heard of wing walking? Head to the Edmonton Airshow and see Canada's only wing walker do her thing! Get all the details here.