ATC Cultural Festival in Wood Buffalo to be held every two years

The Athabasca Tribal Councils Cultural Festival will move to a biennial schedule, with the next gathering planned for September 2027.

In a statement, ATC says the change reflects the continued growth of the festival and plans to expand cultural programming throughout the year in Fort McMurray.

The new approach will allow the council to host additional cultural celebrations during the spring, summer and fall seasons, supplementing the larger festival planned for 2027.

The ATC Cultural Festival has grown in recent years, with increased attendance, partnerships and participation from across the region.

Council officials say the expansion reflects strong interest in Cree and Dene culture and a growing desire for opportunities to gather, learn and share cultural traditions.