It’s one of the world’s most beloved choral works, and this holiday season Edmonton Opera is bringing it back! Messiah at the Market transforms Handel’s iconic oratorio into a community sing-along inside EPIC Market, Edmonton’s vibrant two-story food hall.
Grab your score (and a drink) and celebrate the season in style – with $10 of your ticket going straight toward food or drink from any of EPIC’s restaurants or bars.
A Brief History of Messiah at the Sing-Along Tradition
Composed from Goerge Frideric Handel in 24 days in 1741, Messiah quickly became one of the most performed and cherished works in choral music. The piece premiered the following year in Dublin and has since become a global holiday tradition.
The famous Hallelujah Chorus is so powerful that audiences have been known to stand when it begins – a custom said to have started with King George II rose to his feet during it's London debut.
In the centuries since, Messiah sing-alongs have turned that grandeur into something personal and communal: a way for everyone from seasoned choristers to enthusiastic first-timers, to raise their voices together. Messiah at the Market brings that same joy into a fresh, modern setting. Complete with cocktails and community spirit.
Get in the Spirit
Listen to the music before you arrive!
Everything You Need to Know
LOCATION
EPIC Market – Edmonton's Food Hall
3rd Floor, 8115 Gateway Blvd #201, Edmonton
PARKING
MKT / Station Lot – South of MKT on Gateway Blvd.
Old Strathcona Theatre District Lot – 8484 102 St (10 minute walk to EPIC.)
If you’d prefer, you can be dropped off right at the front entrance on Gateway Blvd. Vehicles can stop briefly here for drop-off only before continuing to find parking elsewhere.
ACCESSIBILITY
An elevator is located on the south end of the building and provides access to both the 2nd and 3rd floors. Messiah at the Market is on the 3rd floor.
FOOD & DRINK
EPIC Market is split between two floors, each with its own restaurants and bars. The performance takes place on the 3rd floor, but you’re welcome to explore both.
Remember: $10 of your ticket = $10 food or drink voucher, redeemable at any of the following vendors.
Second Floor
ARRIVAL & SEATING
When you arrive, Edmonton Opera staff & volunteers will welcome you and hand out your $10 voucher.
If you’d like a physical score, ask at check-in – copies are available upon request and must be returned after the event.
Seating is first-come, first-served and tables are shared. To make room for everyone, please avoid leaving empty seats between parties.
SINGING ALONG
There’s no wrong way to enjoy this event – but if you want to sing, here’s how:
Download the songbook to your device or bring your own score
Physical copies available upon request.
Join in for all the chorus sections, and when a soloist steps up, sit back and let them shine.
ETIQUETTE
This isn’t your typical concert – its part performance, part party.
Eating and drinking will continue throughout the evening. Sing loudly, sip happily, and enjoy yourself!
WHAT TO WEAR
There is no dress code. Just wear what feels festive and comfortable. Some guests went all-out in sequins and holiday sweaters last year; others came cozy and casual. All are welcome.
50/50 RAFFLE
Edmonton Opera is raising the curtain on our holiday 50/50, and for two weeks only, every ticket purchased helps the jackpot rise as high as the anticipation before opening night. This special fundraiser invites our community to step into the spotlight and help shape the future of opera in Edmonton.
Licence # AGLC-761081