Some of North America’s best competitive climbers are heading to Edmonton this weekend for the city’s first turn hosting the North American Cup Series.

The 2025 event — held June 20 to 22 at Climb YEG in Louise McKinney Riverfront Park — will feature more than 150 elite climbers from Canada, the United States, Mexico and Colombia. It’s expected to draw around 6,000 spectators in person and another 25,000 online via Climbing Escalade Canada’s YouTube channel.

Making its Alberta debut, the competition is supported by a $105,000 grant from the province through the Major Sport Events program. The province estimates the event will generate more than $2.1 million in economic activity, benefiting tourism, hospitality and small businesses in Edmonton and beyond.

“We are so proud to welcome this international climbing event to our province for the very first time,” said Andrew Boitchenko, minister of tourism and sport. “With world-class facilities and a passionate community, Edmonton offers the perfect setting for athletes and fans alike.”

Edmonton is one of six North American cities selected to host a stop on the 2025 circuit. The series, which runs outside of the World Cup circuit, is designed to develop advanced and elite climbing talent across the Americas. The local competition is presented by Climbing Escalade Canada in partnership with Climb YEG, and will include international events in speed and lead climbing.

Christiane Marceau, executive director of Climbing Escalade Canada, said provincial support is helping build momentum for the sport.

“We’re deeply grateful to the Government of Alberta for its support, which plays a key role in building new infrastructure and creating meaningful opportunities for athlete development,” said Marceau. “This event marks a major milestone for climbing in Canada.”

Alongside the competition, a community festival will offer try-it climbing, sport demos, educational booths, a business expo, food vendors and family-friendly entertainment.

More details about the North American Cup Series are available online.