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Shop local Vermilion for laidback living, community—and win
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Win a $250 local shopping spree, in partnership with @ExploreVermilion, to open up the doors to local community in Vermilion.
It’s the everyday interactions, in local shops or on the street, that give Vermilion its signature rural Alberta prairie charm. Whatever you are seeking to help you relax and enjoy your getaway—coffee, outdoor gear, shopping, art galleries, restaurants—Vermilion has a place for you.
But how do you find out about these things as a visitor? There’s no substitute for real, in-person interaction.
But for the first-time visitor or anyone newer to Vermilion, you’ll need a cheat code, and this is it: follow along with Explore Vermilion's Instagram, including a chance to win a $250 local shopping spree.
Photo:
Spencer Vandermeer
Shopping for unique local finds at Lighten Up Shop.
ExploreVermilion is your guide to who’s who, things to do, places to visit and where to eat on a Vermilion visit.
There are no tumbleweeds rolling down this eastern Alberta prairie town, just under two hours from Edmonton.
Enter here to for a chance to win a $250 shopping spree.
Where many rural municipalities have been losing ground to the big cities for decades, Vermilion has found a way to thrive.
From local fashion retailers, to the local café, restaurants to drive for and the local cocktail joint that bring visitors from miles around, Vermilion nails prairie chic.
Taking a chill moment at local Red Brick Cafe in Vermilion.
And you can make your time in Vermilion even better by entering the contest here by July 30, 2026 for a chance to win $250 in gift cards to local Vermilion businesses. (See standard terms and conditions here.)
With a two-storey main street full of mid-20th century rural architecture, it just begs to be strolled leisurely, with your favourite coffee beverage or treat in hand.
Now picture all of that, with $250 in local gift cards burning a hole in your pocket. No doubt you’ll be feeling flush, which in local vernacular would make you a… Vermillionaire.
Enter to win a $250 Vermilion local spree
$50 x 5 local stores to explore and get to know Vermilion.
People here know how to live the good life—they even have a local institute, aptly named the Good Life Institute, dedicated to building out “new ideas for living.”
Hint: it doesn’t involve urban stress, screen anxiety or costly user fees. Think an awesome slate of community-based events, including the town's own version of an "Amazing" race, the Taste of Vermilion (featuring the bucket brigade splash party below) and the Vermilion Fair, among them.
Photo:
Paul Lavoie
Community events keep things exciting in Vermilion.
So while @ExploreVermilion won’t have your latest celebrity gossip, you will know things like:
When to check out the Vernilion Fair?
Or, what are the latest drink specials at Copper Cork Distillery?
What’s on the new charcuterie platter at The Cheesery?
Photo:
Angus Cockney
Strolling Main Street with a coffee from Red Brick Cafe.
And, when to swoop in for free, freshly baked cinnamon buns or homemade pizza from the community oven (yes, that is a thing in Vermilion).
We’d tell you more, but seriously, just follow enter the contest here and it could be you with $250 in local bucks to spend exploring Vermilion. Enough said?
