Public tours
Government House is now closed for tours and will reopen on Sunday, February 17, 2019.
Starting on Februrary 17, 2019, visitors can view Government House’s historic architectural details, numerous original artifacts and furnishings, and an extensive historical art collection.
About the Government House tour:
- all tours are free
- visiting hours are from 11 am–4 pm
- tours are offered on Sundays and holiday Mondays
- no tours June 17 and July 1 (please visit the Alberta Legislature for activities)
- no appointments are necessary
- tours generally begin on the hour and the half hour, and last 30–45 minutes
View more information on planning your visit.
Christmas Tea
On Sunday, December 2, 2018, Government House hosted its annual Christmas Tea. An afternoon of light refreshments, entertainment, guided tours and seasonal cheer was enjoyed by all at this sold-out event.
From 1913 through 1938, Government House was a centre of social life in Alberta. The Lieutenant Governor and his wife, the châtelaine of the house, were renowned for their gracious hospitality. From a January 16, 1914 Edmonton Journal article:
“The tea table in the handsome Georgian dining room was set out with a Cluny lace centerpiece and doilies, broad streamers of pink moiré ribbon running diagonally across the table, and centred with a tall, silver candelabra shaded in pink and baskets of pink roses and white hyacinths at either end.”
Updates on future tea events
To sign up for updates on future teas at Government House, email:
exc.clientsupport-facilities@gov.ab.ca
New Year’s Day Levee
Each year, the Lieutenant Governor and spouse host the popular New Year’s Day Levee at Government House.
The levee is a tradition in Canada dating back to the 1600s. It’s based on an older tradition in Europe that saw subjects visit the monarch to pay their respects and pledge allegiance. Today, the Levee at Government House is a chance for Albertans of all ages to meet the Queen’s representative in a relaxed social setting.
Levee guests can enjoy light refreshments, tour Government House, send a postcard to Canadian troops serving overseas, and join in celebrating the start of a new year.
The event is free of charge and advance booking isn’t required.
For details about the Levee event, contact 780-427-7243.
Contact us
Phone: 780-427-2281