4. Sourdough River Festival

The Buzz -- One of Edmonton's most hilarious summer events, the Sourdough River Festival focuses on the North Saskatchewan River and the antics it can inspire. Ostensibly, this is a race, but in reality it's way more. Competitors design and build rafts and then proceed to race them down the river from Terwillegar Park to Rafter's Landing in downtown Edmonton. Rafts range from traditional log craft to dragons to floating cars. Imagination is virtually the only limit. Awards are given for fastest time, most innovative raft, and best skit or theme. The Titanic Award goes to the craft that had the most damage, or sank. The festivities also provide a good excuse for residents to have an all-out water fight, complete with balloons and super soakers – be prepared to get wet. The deadline for registration is usually about a week before the race, so plan accordingly!