William Hawrelak Park is finally open and it has a sweet new playground
After its closure back in 2023, Edmonton’s William Hawrelak Park has finally reopened to the public.
The iconic 68-hectare park opened today following the completion of a major rehabilitation project at one of the city’s most popular green spaces.
Construction on the William Hawrelak Park Rehabilitation Project began in 2023 to address utility, transportation and facility infrastructure, while enhancing the park’s open spaces.
City of Edmonton
“The modernized park amenities, improved accessibility, and enhanced connections to the River Valley will ensure the park continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for generations to come,” the City touted in a news release.
Once again, visitors can access most of the park and enjoy various amenities and activities, such as walking, biking, snowshoeing and hosting winter picnics, as well as a new playground, a new lakefront promenade, a modernized pavilion and updated washroom facilities. The new perimeter path and multi-use trails are fully paved, supporting safe, inclusive and accessible use for people of all ages and abilities.
The popular Tiramisu Bistro has been selected as the food and beverage operator for the newly renovated William Hawrelak Park Main Pavilion. Operating as “Lift Me Up on the Lake”, the restaurant will provide services later this spring to guests while creating a destination space within the park.
City of Edmonton
An official celebration will be held on Saturday, May 30, to mark the park’s grand reopening.
Festivals, events and picnic bookings will return to William Hawrelak Park beginning June 1. The Edmonton Heritage Festival has already announced it will return to its long-running home in the park Saturday, Aug. 1 to 3.
Are you excited about the opening of William Hawrelak Park? Let us know in the comments.