KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Travelling to GO WEST from outside Canada? Here is everything you need to know about coming to Edmonton in February!

climate & Weather

Edmonton is located on the northern edge of the Prairies/Great Plains of North America, 300 kms (185 miles) east of the Canadian Rockies. In January, expect low humidity with an average high temperature of -6°C (21°F) and average low of -12°C (5°F). Expect that temperatures may fall below -20°C (-4°F) during your visit.

What to wear

Business casual attire is most appropriate for attending GO WEST functions. We recommend staying at our host hotel The Westin as it is connected to the Edmonton Convention Centre by an indoor heated pedestrian walkway (pedway). 

If you plan on sightseeing, it is recommended that you bring warm boots, a winter coat, hat, scarf and gloves. You can purchase these items in Edmonton. 

Time zone

Edmonton is located in the Mountain Time Zone. Mountain Daylight Time (UTC-6) is observed during the summer months (Mar-Nov). During you visit in January, Edmonton will be on Mountain Standard Time (UTC-7).

passports & TRAVEL VISAs

All visitors to Canada require a valid passport, including US citizens.

Visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to a Canadian airport require an Electronic Travel Authorization form (except US citizens). Please apply here. US citizens can visit Canada with just a passport. 

For information about visa requirements to visit Canada, please visit here.

Please familiarize yourself with the laws and customs of Canada and the rules surrounding what items may be brought into Canada.

CURRENCY

The official currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar. Denominations of currency are in 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1, and $2 coins and $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills. $1 coins are affectionately referred to as loonies and $2 coins as toonies. The 1¢ penny was discontinued in 2012 with all transactions now rounded off to the nearest 5¢.

Businesses do not accept foreign currency, including the US Dollar, for cash payments. However, foreign debit and credit cards can be used. Most businesses accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. 

Banks and currency exchange offices are available throughout Edmonton. For daily currency exchange rates visit here. 

Sales tax and tipping

A sales tax of 5% is applicable in the Province of Alberta and will be added to your purchases. This is the federal Goods & Services Tax (GST) which is charged on most goods and services purchased in Canada. more info

Tipping in Canada is much the same as in the USA. It is not mandatory but is generally expected (hotels, transportation, restaurants). A tip in the range of 18% - 25% of the pre-tax amount is recommended. more info