Why the arts matter now: 2026 public survey highlights
May 21, 2026
The Edmonton Arts Council’s survey project is one of the major ways we are fostering a culture of evidence-informed decision-making and demonstrating short and long-term change in Edmonton’s arts ecology with our research and data and delivery of Connections & Exchanges.
Today, we’re highlighting the 2026 Edmonton Arts Council Public Survey. Conducted every two years, the public survey helps us evaluate the effectiveness and impact of our programs and services through the collection of information from the general public about their connection to the arts in Edmonton; their perception, barriers to participation; and their awareness and expectations of the Edmonton Arts Council.
The public survey was launched in 2022 and is now in its third wave. While the results have largely remained steady over the three waves, some noteworthy trends and patterns are emerging, with the potential for the emergence of longer-term trends over the ensuing years.
This survey is conducted with the general public (i.e., a representative sample of Edmontonians) and is one of a series conducted with four key stakeholder groups. The other groups surveyed include artists and arts or festival organizations that have applied for at least one EAC program or service (i.e., grants) in the previous year, and artists or organizations who have interacted with the EAC Shop & Services team. (All of our survey results are available on the Research & Impact section of our website.)
2026 public survey highlights
Connection to the arts
85% of Edmontonians attended at least one type of live performance or arts event in Edmonton in the past 12 months (no change since 2024), and 58% of Edmontonians attended one or more arts or cultural festival in Edmonton in the past year (no change since 2024). 44% of Edmontonians feel they have some connection to the arts in Edmonton.
Overall perception
83% of Edmontonians agree that participating in arts and cultural activities builds a shared sense of community identity. 69% (an 8% increase from 2024) agree that a thriving arts and culture scene is something they would watch for when considering moving to a new community.
Arts and festivals
The public’s perceptions towards Edmonton’s festival and arts scene has gradually increased over the three survey waves. 84% (4% increase from 2022) of Edmontonians feel that Edmonton has a strong and vibrant festival scene and 69% (up from 63% in 2022) think Edmonton has a strong and vibrant arts scene.
Public art
80% of Edmontonians agree that public art adds to the vibrancy of Edmonton. About three out of four agree they enjoy public art in Edmonton. Similarly, around three out of four agree there should be more public art throughout the city.
Barriers to participation
82% have encountered some barriers to taking part in arts and cultural opportunities in Edmonton in the past year (up from 77% in 2024). The most frequently mentioned barriers are the activity or event being too expensive (41%), and it being difficult to find time to participate (40%). Compared to 2024, a greater proportion indicated they had concerns over discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or religion (6%; +3pts).
Awareness and expectations of the EAC
32% of Edmontonians are at least somewhat familiar with the Edmonton Arts Council as an organization. Of those that are familiar with EAC, 76% are satisfied with the EAC’s works, programs and services.
Why the arts matter now: We want to hear from you!
Click here to join the conversation and share your story about the arts — how they’ve made a difference in your life, what arts funding means to you, and what we gain as a City when we fund the arts in Edmonton.
