Illuminate Returns: Youth Talent Takes Centre Stage Downtown This July

Art. Music. Light. Energy. It’s all happening downtown again this summer as Illuminate returns on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 5 to 9 p.m. — and this year promises to be brighter and bolder than ever.

“We have wonderfully creative young residents in St. Albert and our goal is to ‘illuminate’ that fact,” explains Kathleen Bell, Community Cultural Coordinator and Amplify’s City liaison. “You can have an inspiring arts experience right in downtown St. Albert.” Hosted by Amplify, the City’s youth arts development program, Illuminate is a one-of-a-kind evening celebrating the creativity and talent of local youth. Set along the river behind St. Albert Place, the all-ages outdoor festival features live music, visual art installations, hands-on activities and the return of a crowd favourite: the live art battle.

The live art battle invites young visual artists to face off in a creative showdown — each is given just 30 minutes to transform a blank canvas into something bold, expressive and unexpected. The audience votes after each round, and the top artists move forward, paintbrushes blazing.

“What surprised me the most about watching the artists live was the raw passion they had for their craft,” shared Avalina Zenari, a Youth Advisory Committee member who helped co-host the battle. “It was incredible to me that these young artists were able to create stunning art pieces in front of an audience with limited time and remain full of energy. A sense of community runs deep within St. Albert, and this was on full display at Illuminate.”

But that’s just the start. Guests can enjoy a musical lineup of emerging singer-songwriters, explore a youth photography showcase and take part in an array of interactive activities like chalk art, a community art project, a quick-and-easy drop-in “stained glass” hearts workshop and custom button creation. Even face painting will be on site — not to mention popcorn and ice cream.

“Year after year, I’ve seen the confidence of young artists grow when they are given an opportunity to share their talent—simply having a community member stop to enjoy their work creates such a positive impact,” says Bell. “Plus, it’s the perfect way to kick off summer—for both youth and the community at large. What could be better than strolling along the river, ice cream in hand, enjoying free music, an art battle and more? The setting is beautiful, and the work is illuminating.”

Bring your friends, lawn chairs and a sense of adventure, and get ready to experience an evening of creativity in full colour.

“Events like Illuminate allow youth artists to build up their confidence to take on bigger challenges and be motivated to put their art out into the world,” said Zenari. “It’s about more than just showing their work — it’s about being seen, supported, and celebrated.”

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of youth creativity.

Learn more and plan your visit to Illuminate

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