Stadium Information
Commonwealth Stadium is one of Canada’s largest outdoor stadiums and a central sporting landmark in Edmonton. Opened in 1978, the stadium was built to host major international athletics events and has since become best known as the long-time home of the Edmonton Elks.
Located north of downtown near the North Saskatchewan River valley, the venue features a large horseshoe-style bowl with steep seating and expansive concourses designed to handle very large crowds. With a maximum capacity exceeding fifty-six thousand, it remains one of the biggest stadiums in the country. The stadium has hosted Commonwealth Games athletics, Grey Cup finals, international football and large-scale concerts, giving it a reputation as a venue for major occasions.
On game days, the atmosphere is driven by scale and tradition rather than intimacy, with crowd noise rolling around the open bowl. Sightlines are generally strong across the lower and middle tiers, while the upper levels emphasise the sense of occasion and size. Commonwealth Stadium is well served by Edmonton’s LRT system, with Stadium Station providing direct access on event days, alongside bus routes and road connections.
Large surface parking lots surround the complex, making it one of the more car-accessible major stadiums in Canada. Accessibility features include step-free routes, ramps, wheelchair seating areas, adapted toilets and assistance services. The surrounding parkland and sports facilities create a traditional stadium precinct. Commonwealth Stadium remains a cornerstone of Edmonton’s sporting identity and a regular host for Canada’s biggest events.
