Events at Government House

Public tours

Government House is pleased to welcome back visitors for public tours effective May 8, 2022. Government House’s historic architectural details, numerous original artifacts and furnishings and an extensive historical art collection will all be available for viewing to the public while on a tour.

No tours will be offered at Government House on June 5, July 1 (Canada Day) or July 3. The last scheduled tour date will be November 27, 2022.

Information about a Government House tour is as follows:

• all tours are free of admission
• all tours are guided and run from 11 am to 4 pm
• tours are offered on Sundays and holiday Mondays, starting in February and running through to November
• no tours are offered on Canada Day (July 1). Visit the Legislative Assembly of Alberta or City of Edmonton’s website for a list of activities available on July 1
• tour appointments are not necessary
• tours generally begin on the hour or half-hour, and last 30 to 45 minutes
• entrance to the building for a tour is through the West Entrance only

Tour highlights

Visitors can view Government House’s historic architectural details, original artifacts and furnishings dating from its time as a vice-regal residence (1913 to 1938), and an extensive art collection showcasing historic and contemporary Canadian artists.

The main floor was restored to resemble its original décor as closely as possible, with a large combination reception and dining area, a music room and a library.

The second floor’s central reception area is surrounded by a small study and 6 small conference rooms, each named after one of the Lieutenant Governors who lived here.

The outstanding Alberta Room, on the third floor, was the result of extensive renovations in 1976 that made Government House a site for government meetings, conferences and state occasions.

Outside on the facility grounds, enjoy a stroll through the award-winning gardens or a view of the original carriage house.

Tea with Lieutenant Governor

From 1913 through 1938, Government House was a centre of social life in Alberta. The Lieutenant Governor and spouse, the châtelaine of the house, were renowned for their gracious hospitality. As such, the Government House tradition of public teas was born.

Government House offers 2 teas with the Lieutenant Governor: one in Spring and one at Christmas.

To sign-up for updates on future teas at Government House, email: [email protected].

Spring tea

The 2022 Spring Tea is suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Any updates or general information will be posted on this site.

Christmas tea

The 2022 Christmas Tea is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Any updates or general information will be posted on this site.

New Year’s Day Levee

Sunday, January 1, 2023

The 2023 Levee at Government House is under consideration at this time due to COVID-19. Full event details, if going ahead, and updates related to the Levee can be found on the Lieutenant Governor's website.

Event background

Typically, each year, the Lieutenant Governor and spouse host the popular New Year’s Day Levee at Government House on January 1.

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, a tour of 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.

Contact

Phone: 780-427-2281