A uniquely Edmonton celebration, Community League Day is September 20, 2025.
By Dr. Joseph Tanti
A neighbourhood might be the place you live, but a community is a place where you belong: community is about the things that make us feel connected, that make us feel at home.
This September, Edmonton’s annual Community League Day returns with a message for everyone, old or new: you’re welcome here. No two Community League Day events are exactly the same, but they all share the same goal: making sure every Edmontonian knows they have a place to belong.
“For over 100 years, Edmontonians have known the best way to get to know your neighbours, the best way to explore what the city has to offer, the way to get the most out of your neighbourhood, is to be a part of their Community League,” said Laura Cunningham-Shpeley, Executive Director of the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues (EFCL). “We really want everyone to have that experience. We want to tell them that, no matter what you’re here for, we’re here, and you’re welcome to join us.”
This year, the EFCL is hoping to underscore the importance of reaching out to Edmontonians who may not yet know about the League in their area and encourage them to become members. Edmonton has welcomed hundreds of thousands of new residents in the past few years, who might not be familiar with Community Leagues — which are a one-of-a-kind, made-in-Edmonton institution for fostering community.
“I think one of the really amazing things about Community Leagues is that you shape them as you participate in them,” says Cunningham-Shpeley. “They’re all a reflection of their communities, which means all you need to do is show up, and you’re a part of it.”
So, as Edmonton continues to grow and change, Community League Day offers a chance to strengthen the roots that hold it together: neighbourliness, participation, and the simple joy of feeling welcome.
You can find more information, including a map of Community League Day events and how to find your local League, at CLDay.ca.
Note from the editor: You might be wondering specifically about events in the Riverbend Ragg-Times distribution area, so we’re happy to supply that information here:
- The Ridge Community League – Fall Festival at Haddow Park – Sept 13, 12-4 p.m.
- Brookview Community League – Drinks for the Rink at Brookview Recreation Park – Sept 13, 5-9 p.m.
- Riverbend Community League – Free coffee and donut at Ramsay Park – Sept 20, 9-11 a.m.
- Oak Hills Community League – Café in the Park 2008 Leger Rd – Sept 20, 10:30 a.m-1:30 p.m.
- Riverbend Community League – Concert at the Cage at Brander Community Garden (14710 53 Ave NW) – 6-8 p.m. – bring a blanket or chair