The Taste of Vermilion returns to Main Street on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, bringing an evening of family fun, music, and food bank fundraising to downtown Vermilion, Alberta. Organized by the Good Life Institute, the free event runs from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and aims to bring the community together while supporting local businesses and the Vermilion Food Bank.
This year’s event features a Family Fun Zone with a petting zoo from Fields Like Home, where kids can meet pigs, goats, bunnies, ducks, chickens, and ponies. DJ Mazz from Maz Entertainment, based in Lloydminster, will provide music throughout the evening. “This is an event that really showcases what makes Vermilion special,” said event coordinator Paige, who can be reached at [email protected] or 780-549-9084 for vendor inquiries. “Our local businesses, our community spirit, and our willingness to help each other out.”
One of the highlights is the annual RCMP Food Bank Challenge, where community members are encouraged to stuff a police vehicle with donations for the Vermilion Food Bank. The challenge takes on added significance with Vermilion’s new RCMP Detachment Commander, Sgt. Jeff Shamblaw, who has made food bank fundraising a personal priority. Sgt. Shamblaw raised nearly $10,000 for the Consort food bank over two-and-a-half years before arriving in Vermilion. “My passion in towns has always been the food bank,” Sgt. Shamblaw said in a previous interview.
The Bucket Brigade kicks off at 4 p.m., and street games will be set up along Main Street. Local food and beverage vendors will offer samples, giving residents a chance to taste what Vermilion businesses have to offer. The Good Life Institute, a non-profit organization, follows three guiding principles for all its events: Local First, featuring Vermilion businesses and talent; Open to Everyone, keeping events free or low cost; and Worth the Drive, attracting visitors from across central Alberta.
The Taste of Vermilion is one of five signature events the Good Life Institute runs each year. Others include the Race of Vermilion in March, Show & Shine in June, Art in the Park in September, and SAVOR in November. For more information on the Taste of Vermilion or to register as a vendor, visit the Good Life Institute’s website.
