Lots of local on KDays menu, even before the fair

KDays may not start until July 17, but there are already ways to indulge in carnival-style food at local businesses. Diners get two free tickets for the fair if they buy a featured menu item or make a minimum purchase, depending on the establishment. This writer snagged tickets just by buying a pint of ice cream at Little Bon Bon. To lean into the spirit of KDays, one might opt for a cake topped with mini-doughnuts from The Art of Cake, the bison bacon corn dog from RGE RD, or a kettle corn latte at Felice Cafe.

Once tickets are secured, it's time to test out the outrageous creations featured in the New Foods Competition — if you dare. Calorie bombs include an Area 51-inspired taco-burger hybrid made with Doritos by The Burger Joint; maple bacon-fried cheese curds from Curly's Curds; and a Samyang-noodle stuffed takoyaki from Takopo.

A beer may be in order after consuming that much salt. Luckily, the Craft Beer Fest features local brewers at Klondike Park. Ale Architect, Alley Kat Brewing Co., Bent Stick Brewing, Campio Brewing, Long Roof Brewing, Odd Company Brewing, Sea Change Brewing Co., Southbound Brewing, and the non-alcoholic Tuesday Brewing from Calgary will all be on hand. The festival within a festival takes place from 4pm to 8pm until KDays concludes on July 26.