Edmonton’s River Valley has never seen a damp squib!
City of Edmonton photo
Every year, on July 1st, folks can enjoy magnificent fireworks over Edmonton’s River Valley parks and the North Saskatchewan River. For many Edmontonians, summer isn’t quite complete without these spectacular pyrotechnics. Did you know that the birth of fireworks can be traced back to 7th century China?
Indeed, there is further evidence that primitive Chinese firecrackers date back as far as 200BC. It is thought that a Chinese cook accidentally invented gunpowder by mixing three common kitchen ingredients! Today, it is estimated that China produces around 90% of the world’s fireworks.
Although fireworks were probably used in the UK from the late 13th century onwards, they didn’t become popular until at least 200 years later. The first documented use of fireworks in the UK is at the wedding of King Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, in 1486.
Nowadays, fireworks have also trickled into our everyday vernacular. For instance, we use the expression “damp squib”(commonly misquoted as “damp squid”) to describe a disappointing event that is not as exciting or impressive as expected. But a squib is literally a miniature explosive device, or form of firework, usually cylindrical in shape and with a paper fuse at one end, which fails to ignite if it gets wet. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4gGSvzclrSpt07tRzhrmykB/eight-fizzling-facts-about-fireworks
YEG hosts North American climbing competition for the first time in RV
Lena Drapella & IFSC photo
Last weekend, rock climbers across North America gathered in Edmonton for the 2025 North American Cup Series. It was the city’s first time hosting the competition, and it was held at Louise McKinney Park.
Adam Luciuk, one of the event organizers for the competition, told CTV News Edmonton how the competition could open doors for more sporting events to come to Canada. “We’re excited to be able to help build the sport in Canada and in North America,” said Luciuk on Friday.
“With it being the first year, we wanted to showcase everything that Edmonton has to offer and give a good experience for the athletes, as well as the people who are traveling from all over to come here and compete.” According to Luciuk, there were around 75 competitors and more than 100 volunteers and staff at this year’s event.
Hannah Breen, a young climber from Colorado, said Edmonton’s set up made for “a really cool climb.” “I did a bunch of technical things and some heel hooks. A lot of the holes are pretty good, better than I expected and the last move was fun to jump,” Breen told CTV News Edmonton. https://www.ctvnews.ca/edmonton/article/edmonton-hosts-north-american-climbing-competition-for-first-time/
Have a say in how Edmonton mitigates wildfire risk
Rod Maldaner photo
Fires in the Wildland-Urban Interface are now one of the leading causes of natural disaster losses in Canada, and the impact that they are having on communities is increasing. The City of Edmonton is creating a plan to manage the risk of wildfire in areas where urban developments meet undeveloped vegetation areas - the wildland-urban interface.
The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Wildfire Risk Strategy will proactively address the increasing threat of wildfires in urban areas due to climate change and expanding urban development. A long-term strategy would prioritize reducing the potential of physical and economic losses from wildfires, protecting people, property and the environment.
The City invites Edmontonians to share feedback on ways to mitigate wildfire risk, including vegetation management, public education and land-use planning. Visit https://engaged.edmonton.ca/WildfireStrategy to participate until July 21.
RVA’s meditation nature walk is just what your soul needs this summer
On Saturday, July 5 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, join the River Valley Alliance (RVA) for a peaceful morning in the river valley on their next Community Engagement Committee (CEC) Walk. During this walk, folks will get a chance to explore the beautiful RVA trails between Lamoureux and Fort Saskatchewan.
This 5 km round-trip walk (2.5 km each way) follows even terrain, with a mix of pavement and gravel—making it accessible for most abilities. You’ll begin in Lamoureux, walk across the scenic pedestrian bridge, and connect to Heritage Park Trail in Fort Saskatchewan.
Along the way, Maryann will share insights into the local ecology and native plant life, helping folks deepen their connection to the land. Once everyone reaches the pond, Amanda will guide you through a meditation practice focusing on breath, mindfulness, and the restorative power of time in nature.
More information and registration here https://mailchi.mp/rivervalley/this-weeks-highlights-17354292?e=d85c7df243
Parade I, Alberta Wildlife by Gabe Wong, Meadows Transit Centre https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/parade-i-alberta-wildlife
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