Vibe Fest will return to the University of Lethbridge next year after its debut event in 2025 was deemed a success. (Photo: U of L)

By David Opinko

U of L Vibe Fest to return after inaugural event a ‘resounding success’

Jun 16, 2025 | 12:38 PM

The University of Lethbridge is looking to bring its big, new spring festival back next year.

Vibe Fest 2026 is set for Saturday, April 18, at the University Centre for the Arts.

Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, says 1,600 community members, friends and family attended the inaugural event in 2025.

“The success of Vibe Fest highlights how the Faculty of Fine Arts contributes to the arts ecosystem of Lethbridge and southern Alberta, and how much our community supports our students and alumni,” says Davis-Fisch. “We are excited to continue growing Vibe Fest as an outstanding celebration that connects students and alumni to the arts communities and affirms the important role that arts education plays in society.”

Vibe Fest featured hallways filled with art, tours of rarely seen spaces, live music, and soundscapes.

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The 2026 event will showcase exhibits, performances and works for all areas of fine arts, including the Departments of Art, Drama, Music and New Media.

Also making a return is the Faculty’s signature fundraising dinner, Abbondànza. This year’s dinner brought in a record $120,000, including $70,000 for the Fine Arts endowment fund.

READ MORE: U of L event raises $70,000 for Fine Arts endowment fund

As well, Vibe Fest will feature a local artisan market, activities for all ages, snacks and refreshments. Applications for the artisan market and project proposals from ULethbridge artists are now being accepted at go.uleth.ca/vibe.

Next year, the hours will be extended to 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

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