Edmonton's Beloved Park Gets a New Name, a Major Refresh, and a New Reopening Date: March 2026

Well, folks, it looks like we’ll have to wait just a little bit longer to step foot into our beloved Hawrelak Park – or, as it’s now officially known, the North Saskatchewan River Park. The City of Edmonton has announced a revised reopening timeline, pushing the much-anticipated return of this vital green space to March 2026. Yes, that’s right, an additional few months beyond the previously hoped-for fall 2025.

It’s a big project, no doubt about it. The park, a jewel in Edmonton’s river valley system, has been completely closed since late 2022 for what can only be described as a monumental overhaul. We’re talking about an entire transformation of its core infrastructure, which, let’s be honest, was long overdue. The plans are ambitious, aiming to create a truly modern, accessible, and sustainable urban park for generations to come.

So, what exactly is happening behind those fences? A whole lot, it turns out. Imagine brand-new, multi-use trails perfect for a stroll or a bike ride, a completely revamped road network for smoother access, and significantly upgraded utilities – the kind of vital but unglamorous work that makes everything else function. Then there are the more visible delights: a stunning new central pavilion, state-of-the-art playgrounds for the little ones, inviting picnic areas, and dedicated outdoor fitness zones. Even access to the picturesque lake is getting an upgrade, along with extensive new landscaping to enhance the park's natural beauty.

Of course, with a project of this scale, bumps in the road are almost inevitable. City officials have cited a number of factors contributing to the delay, including the sheer complexity and scope of the work, some unforeseen site conditions (we’ve all been there with renovation projects, haven’t we?), and the usual suspects like unpredictable weather and ongoing supply chain challenges. What started as a roughly $65 million endeavour soon saw its price tag swell to an estimated $96 million, reflecting not just the expanded scope but also the relentless march of inflation and the rising costs of construction materials.

The closure has certainly left a void in our community, especially for the many iconic festivals that traditionally called Hawrelak Park home. Think of the vibrant colours and sounds of the Heritage Festival, the enchanting melodies of Symphony Under the Sky, or the joyous atmosphere of the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. These beloved events have had to scramble, finding new temporary homes at places like the EXPO Centre, Snow Valley, the Edmonton Convention Centre, and Gallagher Park. While these alternative venues have done a stellar job, there’s no denying the unique charm and expansive feel of the park that was sorely missed.

And it's not just the physical upgrades that mark a new chapter for this space. Speaking of the past, the city council made a significant decision last year, voting to rename the park to North Saskatchewan River Park. This move acknowledges the controversial legacy of former mayor William Hawrelak, ensuring that the park’s name now better reflects its natural setting and its role as a gathering place for all Edmontonians. It’s a thoughtful shift, aligning the park with the very river that defines our city.

Despite the slightly extended wait, the anticipation for the grand reopening remains palpable. When the gates finally swing open in March 2026, we’ll be welcoming back a truly transformed, more resilient, and perhaps even more beloved green space. It’s a place where new memories will be made, where festivals will once again thrive, and where Edmontonians can simply relax and connect with nature, right in the heart of our city. And if you ask me, that’s something truly worth waiting for.