Sports betting in Alberta has been identified as one of the most promising betting markets in Canada that has the potential for substantial growth.
Note: If based in Ontario, any content mentioning bonuses, promotions, wagering or free spins is not intended for you, following Ontario regulations. If located in that province, please go to Ontario Sportsbooks. Ignore this note if not based in Ontario.
Even before the introduction of Bill C-218, which legalized single-game sports betting, there was a strong hunger for online sports betting market in the Alberta, in both regulated and unregulated markets.
Boasting over 4.3 million residents, the Rocky Mountains, and two NHL franchises, Alberta is considered to be one of the bigger sports hubs in Canada.
The province is home to some of the oldest casinos in Canada, and the provincial lottery and gaming commission has seen millions in revenue through their SportSelect product that offers online sports betting in the form of parlay wagers.
Alberta is one of the wealthier provinces in Canada, with oil fields, natural gas, large city centers and more. Usually with wealthier provinces, comes more disposable income, some of which can be used to wager on sports or casino games. This is a great motivator for the province to regulate and legalize sports betting as soon as possible - and that's exactly what they did, launching the province's first sportsbook on August 27th - the day single-game wagering launched in Canada.
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19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
Regular Bettors Tournaments
Sport VIP Program
Ongoing 'Forecasts' Promotion
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
15
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
21
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
TonyBet offers over 1,650 sports betting markets and sports. Aside from being spoilt for choice, bettors can also enjoy difrerent promotions. Plus the platform is available on all operating systems.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
VIP Casino is a host to amazing selection of casino games. Additionally, those eager to place sports bet will find the brand offering plenty of sports betting options.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
20
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
The gamified VIP system elucidates what can sometimes be a vague sense of progress for players on other operators. The clarity and viewable rewards are uniquely exciting.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
32
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
ZetBet is a new to market betting site that includes an attractive sportsbook with excellent filters to enable you to find your bet quickly and easily.
19+ | T&Cs apply | Please gamble responsibly | Begambleaware.org. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
Long Established UK Bookmaker
Regular Bet Boosts
Use Bet Builder to Make Custom Bets
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
33
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
BetVictor is named after founder Victor Chandler (known as the 'Gentleman Bookmaker') and they boast superstar jockey Rachael Blackmore, plus football legends Michael Owen and Harry Redknapp amongst their brand ambassadors and betting experts.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
10
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
EmirBet Sports offers an exceptional looking platform with the top sports and markets. Get some of the best odds out there on this secure platform. Tournaments and bonuses on championships gives an immersive experience to bettors. There are a wide variety of payment options for Canadian players.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
30
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
Yes
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
GreatWin features a polished design that let's its users easily focus on broad selection of available sports. The platform offers competitive odds, but it stands out with ongoing promotions such as acca boosts. Players can also explore the casino section for more fun.
The "Sign-up offer” promotion will run from 13:00 (CEST) on 21.09.2021 to 05:59 (CEST) on 31.12.2022 (the "Promotional Period").
This offer is not available in conjunction with any other sign-up offer.
By taking part in this promotion, you hereby agree to these Specific Promotional Terms and Conditions and to our General Terms and Conditions
Bookmaker with 20+ years of experience
High-quality odds on various sports events
1,000+ Live Sporting Streams offered daily
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
18
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Bwin, live since 2001, is a long-standing, reputable and an award-winning online gaming company, also including live casino and slot games atop its online sports betting offering.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
34
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Leo Vegas Sports is the sportsbook from this multi-award-winning casino operator, with a focus on mobile users - including a sport betting app for Android & iOS Devices.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
C500
Min Deposit
20
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
32
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Named after its founder way back in 1934, William Hill is now one of the world's biggest bookmaker brands and operates over 1400 betting shops throughout the UK.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
30
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
Yes
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
35
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
FEZbet features a distinctive layout that makes platform easy to navigate on both desktop on mobile platforms. Bettors will find a big selection of sports available alongside several ongoing promotions.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
15
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
13
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
20Bet wants to amaze bettors with several interesting features. Users will find hall of fame and regular tournaments appealing. They'll be able to compete with others to stay at the top.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
30
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
ComeOn! is a popular international brand. It features a platform with clean design that's responsive and easy to use. ComeOn! Rewards make everything more interesting as players can enjoy benefits while betting on sports.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
500BONUS
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
Yes
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
14
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
888 Sportsbook offers a massive selection of sports betting markets and sports to its customers. In an US expansion effort, the brand has teamed up with Sports Illustrated.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
34
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Mr Green Sports is the sports betting offering from the award-winning Swedish casino operator, who offer both regular and syndicate betting (where you join forces with other players).
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
Big Selection of Live Betting Markets
Official Partner of NLL
Competitive Odds on Various Sports and Events
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
20
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
4
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Sports Interaction is a dual platform offering both sportsbook and casino games. The brand delivers a plethora of options on both sides, offering a smooth experience on all platforms.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
ZB100S
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Zodiac excels at providing many markets, live betting opportunities, banking options and promotions. It also has a solid reputation in its first few years of operation as one of a host of new Canadian betting sites.
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
96% Payout Rate On Top Leagues
Bitcoin And Other Crypto Payments Available
Higher Odds Than Other Betting Site Options
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
30
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
-
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Unlike other betting companies, Sportaza appeals to a new generation of customer by gamifying its offering. This means every week, the online bookmaker will host challenges and tournaments where bettors earn points to improve their VIP rank.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
20
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
Yes
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
With its unique Ancient Rome theme, Casinoly sets itself apart. The brand is a dual operator offering casino and sportsbook. It features a huge collection of sports betting options.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
20
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
11
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
CobraBet is a reliable online sportsbook with excellent backing (Dama N.V.). It offers an incredible number of markets and promotions, along with very competitive odds.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
30
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
Yes
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
0
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Oh My Spins offers a number of great features to its customers. It is certainly proud of the in-play betting and extra wagers options allowing users to get in on the live betting action even after the games have already started.
New Players Only. Free bet - one-time stake of $/€10, min odds 1.5, stake not returned. 1X wager the winnings. Wager from real balance first. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Max conversion: $/€200. Valid for 7 Days from issue. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill deposits. Full Terms Apply 19+ #AD
Dual Sportsbook & Casino Platform
10% Cashback on Sports Betting Losses
'Wager Wars' Leaderboard & Cash Prizes
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
17
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Monster Casino Sportsbook is the new sports betting offering from this long established casino brand, with a small but select selection of sports to bet on.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
36
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Shangri La is a dual operator offering both a sportsbook and online casino. It offers and abundance of sports and in play betting. Parlay boosts and regular promotions are big incentives for its users.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
32
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Well known in Europe and growing fast, NetBet offer some unique features, such as 'Snap Bet' - where mobile users can bet on a goal being scored in the next 30 secs, 1 min, 5 mins or 10 mins of live football matches.
Comprehensive Collection of Sports, Including Esports
Esports Video Streams
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
18
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Neo.Bet is a sportsbook that attracts users with its competitive odds and unique features. Personal bet configurator is one of them. The platform runs smoothly on devices with screens of all sizes.
19+ New customers, outside Ontario only, 1x 100% profit boost, max stake $25, max winnings $1000, min odds 1.50, paid out in cash, no wagering requirements. Please bet responsibly • BeGambleAware.org • T&Cs apply
Official Partner of Reading FC
Ultra-Fast & Easy To Use Interface
Daily Odds Boosts & Special Offers
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
20
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
35
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Casumo is one of the most distinctive and innovative online sportsbook (and casino) operators in Europe. They like to keep things as simple as possible, with a savvy sports betting user interface.
19+ New Canada customers only. Opt-in required. Bonus based on 1st deposit. 10x bonus wagering at odds of 1.75+. Terms apply
Esports Operator of the Year' 2019
Rewarding Parlay Club
Exclusive Esports Club
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
28
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Betway was founded back in 2006, making it one of the experienced brands in the market today. Aside from having a massive selection of sports, the brand excels with esports betting odds.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
8
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
VegasLand sports betting has a huge variety of markets with top licensing from Malta. Obscure, hard-to-find leagues are available here. Free bets and excellent odds on your favourite sports can be found.
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
Regular Tournament Leagues
Weekly Acca Rewards & Boosts
Bet Builder Feature
Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
30
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
15
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Powbet sportsbook run a distinctive theme with a unique design. The platform comes with all the features and rewards that newcomers and experience bettors will appreciate, some of which are bet builder, acca boosts and regular tournaments.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
32
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Mr.Play Sports has a fun style of its very own, with a memorable handlebar 'tache wherever you look, but it boasts a serious amount of betting markets, plus Premier League & 'Euro Elite' betting battle tournaments.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
10
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
23
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Casino players are not the only ones spoilt for choice with Parimatch, sports lovers are too. The betting platform features competitive odds on a big selection of sports.
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Min Deposit
15
Acca Insurance
Refund or free bet when one selection in an accumulator lets the bet down
No
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
No
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
8
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
No
Mr Mega Sports boasts an impressive and easy to use online betting interface, with markets on all major sports and events, plus a wide range of Esports betting markets.
Gambling has been in Alberta since the 1920s, where horse betting and bingo turned into lotteries, charitable gambling, and more. The 1980s saw the boom of casinos in the province, starting with the independently-owned Calgary Cash Casino popping up in 1980. In fifteen years, the province saw over 11 casinos open its doors, and to this day, you can find 24 commercial casinos and five First Nations casinos throughout the province.
Currently, the only forms of legal sports betting in Alberta is through the lotteries and gambling commissions, with the existing SportSelect software owned by the WCLC (Western Canada Lottery Commission) and the newly created PlayAlberta sportsbook which is owned by the AGLC (Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis).
Until now, Alberta sports betting enthusiasts have weighed the pros and cons of an offshore betting site and SportSelect. While SportSelect is regulated in Canada, it simply could not compete with an online sports betting site that offers much better odds, huge bonuses, loyalty programs, and a wider selection of betting options. We expect the SportSelect product to remain consistent, but we expect the new PlayAlberta sportsbook will fill the void.
Legal Sports Betting in Alberta
Now that single-game sports betting is here and legalized, it will be up to provincial governments and gambling regulators in the province to come up with a strategy to roll out the products and license operators.
Currently, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) regulates and licenses all sports betting and casino activity, as well as other gambling functions in the province. The AGLC has long expressed their support for Bill C-218, and it was no surprise they had their PlayAlberta sportsbook ready to launch when the lights turned green.
What Will Alberta Sports Betting Look Like?
AGLC representatives have started offering single-game betting on their existing PlayAlberta product online and in physical venues, however, it is unclear if they will be looking into licensing popular online sportsbook operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel now that Bill C-218 has become law.
There has been no mention of what the future holds for SportSelect and whether the AGLC will continue to offer the Western Canada Lottery Commission’s product alongside their PlayAlberta sports betting platform. It’s expected that the rollout of the product will follow quickly on from the introduction of sports betting in Ontario.
While the SportSelect product is conveniently sold at gas stations, lottery kiosks, and grocery stores, we simply don’t think it stands a chance against PlayAlberta. Unless there are huge improvements by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation to the SportSelect product, we don’t expect it to be a popular option especially if operators start buying up sports betting licenses in Alberta one day.
The only U.S. state that borders Alberta is Montana, and they have had legalized sports betting since May 2019, which allowed the opportunity for Southern Albertans to cross the border and take advantage of single-game betting in-person before Bill C-218 was passed.
Sports Betting Apps in Alberta
While there are no independent sportsbooks available in Alberta, there are no mobile sports betting apps aside from PlayAlberta's. We’ll provide more insight and reviews of the best betting apps as they come available in Alberta.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Alberta?
Yes, online sports betting has been technically legal in Alberta since 1985, however there was a ban on single-event sports betting until Bill C-218 was passed in June 2021.
The Criminal Code was updated in 1985, adding a section that made sports betting, bookmaking and other gambling acts illegal. Several years after, in 1992, the Gaming Control Act was put in place which allowed provincial lotteries and gaming commissions like the Western Canada Lottery Commission to regulate multi-leg sports betting through the provincial lottery.
This gave the Western Canada Lottery Commission the ability to provide Alberta residents with the SportSelect Pro-Line offering, which allowed sports betting as long as bet slips had parlay wagers. Parlay wagers are multi-leg bets that link the game outcomes together so that all legs of the bet slip must be correct for a winning ticket.
You could bet on the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers to win on a Saturday night, but you couldn't just bet on one team. Parlays take the odds on the Flames and the Oilers and combine them to make the bet riskier, but ultimately will create an opportunity for a larger payout.
The Canadian government gave sports betting fans an olive branch in 1992. While they weren’t ready to legalize sports betting altogether due to the probability that there could be match-fixing implications, they allowed multi-leg sports betting as it would be difficult to fix two or more matches.
This made it legal to offer SportSelect alongside lottery offerings in grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and other kiosks around the province. The legal gambling age in Alberta is 18 years old for any activity, which is lower than other, more strict provinces.
While Canada has always been a bit of a grey area when it comes to sports betting, where some forms are legal (parlays) and others are not (single-game sports betting), we now have a light at the end of the tunnel for Alberta sports betting fans.
Single event sports betting has been a topic of discussion in Canada for the better part of a decade, and finally, in June 2021, Bill C-218 passed, making single-game wagering legal in Canada. Now, the Alberta Government has the ability to regulate and manage sports betting in the province, through their PlayAlberta software and also have the ability to allow operators to obtain licenses.
Betting on Alberta Sports Teams
NHL
The two NHL teams in Alberta have had a huge rivalry since the 1970s, and games between the two teams can be intense, earning the nickname ‘The Battle of Alberta’.
Calgary Flames
Hockey is one of the biggest sports in Canada and in Alberta, and the Calgary Flames have a pretty substantial fanbase in the province. The Flames franchise was established in 1972 as the Atlanta Flames and moved to Calgary in 1980. Home games are played at the Scotiabank Saddledome in the heart of Calgary – the arena boasting the iconic saddle-shaped roof. The Flames have only one Stanley Cup championship under their belts, hoisting Lord Stanley in the 1988-1989 season. They have two other Stanley Cup Finals appearances, in 1985/1986 and 2003/2004.
The franchise is owned by Calgary Sports and Entertainment, who own other prominent Calgary-based professional teams like the Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League and the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League.
Edmonton Oilers
If we head North, we will find the Edmonton Oilers, originally a World Hockey Association team under the name of the Alberta Oilers; upgraded to the NHL in 1979. The Oilers are distinguishable by their brightly coloured orange and blue uniforms, and loyal fans. The Edmonton Oilers have won five Stanley Cups in their time in the National Hockey League, only losing in the Stanley Cup Finals two of their seven appearances. All five Stanley Cup Championships occurred in the 1980’s – 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988 and 1990 – famously called their ‘dynasty years’ thanks to Wayne Gretzky, Glenn Anderson and Jari Kurri. The 1984-1985 Edmonton Oilers were voted as the greatest NHL team of all time recently in 2017. While the Oilers haven’t had much luck in recent years, Team Captain Connor McDavid continues to put up huge numbers for the franchise year after year, yet the team cannot manage to make it to the Stanley Cup Finals.
CFL
Edmonton Elks
Until June 2021, the Edmonton-based CFL team was called the Edmonton Eskimos but was renamed the Elks due to the former being culturally insensitive to Indigenous Canadians. The Edmonton Elks were established in 1949 and are currently in the West Division of the CFL. The Elks have fourteen Grey Cup championships, winning three consecutive titles in the mid-1950s and five consecutive titles between 1978 and 1982. The Edmonton Elks lead the Canadian Football League in attendance, proving that Canadian fans love the CFL and love the Edmonton-based team. Like the NHL, the Calgary and Edmonton teams have a rivalry, which makes for an intense match-up each time the two clubs meet.
Calgary Stampeders
The Calgary Stampeders are another West Division team in the Canadian Football League with a handful of Grey Cup titles. They are the third-oldest franchise in the CFL, with the active franchise dating back to 1945. The Stampeders have won eight Grey Cup titles, with their most recent in 2018 where they beat the Ottawa Redblacks 27-16.
Soccer
FC Edmonton (Canadian Premier League)
While there are no Major League Soccer teams in Alberta, there is a Canadian Premier League football club based in Edmonton. The Edmonton team has been a part of the league since its inception in 2019, previously competing in the North American Soccer League. The team’s existence dates back to 2010, playing exhibition soccer matches against teams from the United States and Canada. Now, in the Canadian Premier League, FC Edmonton competes against eight teams from five provinces, to earn a spot in the CPL Finals. The winner of the CPL Finals will receive a berth into the CONCACAF League and earn the opportunity to play against top talent from Central America and the Caribbean.
FC Cavalry (Canadian Premier League)
Based in Calgary, FC Cavalry is one of the newest professional soccer teams in the CPL. In 2019, the team qualified for the CPL Championship by winning the CPLA Spring season, and shocked the CPL community when they beat a Major League Soccer Club – the Vancouver Whitecaps FC. After coming out of the gate extremely hot – we expect big things from this small club – and we expect the Cavalry FC to become a huge favourite in the Calgary community.
Horse Racing in Alberta
If you prefer betting on horses and are looking to place a few horse betting wagers in Alberta, there are a few great racetracks that offer on-site betting as well as off-track betting on major American races. Most of the excitement of betting on horse racing is getting to watch the races live, and you can do so at any of the following Alberta racetracks:
Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
Name:
City:
On-site Horse Racing?
Balzac, AB
Yes
Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
Leduc, AB
Yes
Evergreen Park
Grand Prairie, AB
No
Millarville Racetrack
Millarville, AB
No
Rocky Mountain Turf Club
Lethbridge, AB
Yes
The Track on 2 Horse Racing and Event Center
Lacombe, AB
Yes
Casino Betting in Alberta
Alberta is home to some of the oldest casinos in Canada, and to this day, the establishments still get lots of love. As one of the wealthiest provinces in Canada, there is plenty of disposable income, and usually, those with disposable income enjoy heading to a casino to bet a few dollars on their favourite games.
There’s a great selection of casinos in Alberta located all around the province. They offer slots, table games, entertainment and more.
Casino
City
Canadian National Exhibition Casino
Toronto
Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
Balzac, AB
Casino Calgary
Calgary, AB
Cash Casino Place
Calgary, AB
Deerfoot Inn and Casino
Calgary, AB
Elbow River Casino
Calgary, AB
Century Casino Calgary Inc.
Calgary, AB
Cowboys Casino
Calgary, AB
Camrose Resort Casino
Camrose, AB
Baccarat Casino
Edmonton, AB
Casino Edmonton
Edmonton, AB
Casino Yellowhead
Edmonton, AB
Century Casino
Edmonton, AB
Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
Edmonton, AB
Grand Villa Casino Edmonton
Edmonton, AB
Starlight Casino Edmonton
Edmonton, AB
Boomtown Casino
Fort McMurray, AB
Evergreen Park
Grand Prairie, AB
Great Northern Casino
Grand Prairie, AB
Casino Lethbridge
Lethbridge, AB
Rocky Mountain Turf Club
Lethbridge, AB
Copper Coulee Casino
Medicine Hat, AB
Cash Casino Red Deer
Red Deer, AB
Jackpot Casino
Red Deer, AB
Century Casino St. Albert
St. Albert, AB
There are also five First Nation casinos in Alberta that are located on reserve land, owned directly by Indigenous groups. Much of the revenue from these casinos go toward charitable and religious programs within the First Nations community.
Casino
City
Grey Eagle Casino owned by TsuuT’ina First Nations
Calgary, AB
Casino Dene owned by Cold Lake First Nation
Cold Lake, AB
River Cree Resort and Casino owned by Enoch Cree Nation
Enoch, AB
Stoney Nakoda Resort and Casino owned by Stoney Nakoda First Nation
Morley, AB
Eagle River Casino and Travel Plaza owned by Alexis Sioux Nation
Whitecourt, AB
In terms of online casinos in Alberta, we’ve discussed the PlayAlberta site that is regulated by the AGLC, which will be the main sports betting offering in Alberta. They currently offer casino games through GameSense software, which is a reputable and fair gaming platform. The money gambled on PlayAlberta goes directly back into the community through the Alberta General Revenue Fund to support programs for Alberta residents.
Yes, sports betting in Alberta is completely legal and you can place a wager at any regulated sports betting site or venue.
The minimum age to bet on sports in Alberta is 18 years old. Alberta's age of majority is one year less than most other provinces.
There are 24 commercial casinos and five First Nations casinos in the province of Alberta. Several of the horse racing tracks are combined as casinos as well to have a great selection of land-based casino game play in the province.
Yes, thanks to Bill C-218 passing the Senate in June 2021 and launching in August 2021, single event sports betting is now legal in Alberta, making all sports betting activity available.
Currently the first and only sportsbook available in Alberta is their lottery-owned PlayAlberta sportsbook. We are unsure whether there will be independent operators at this time.
"I'm an avid sports fan and content creator from Nova Scotia, Canada. I have over 14 years of experience in the gambling space, specifically in the sports betting industry specializing in sportsbook reviews and sports betting educational content."
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