Before the chutes open at CFR, five Alberta performers will compete for their own shot at the spotlight.
The five finalists in the 2026 CFR Anthem Singer Contest will take the stage at Cook County Saloon on September 11, competing for the chance to perform the national anthem in front of thousands of rodeo fans at the Canadian Finals Rodeo, presented by ATB, at Rogers Place on October 8.
The finalists are Krista Lefebvre, Eden Taylor, Stephani Merkus, Kittanna Clark, and Rachel St. Amour. Each brings a different story and musical background to the competition, from emerging performers and music educators to seasoned singers who have performed the national anthem at major sporting and cultural events across Alberta.
For last year’s winner, Taylor Stevens, the opportunity became much more than one performance. After winning the 2025 contest, Stevens went on to perform the national anthem at Farmfair International, Edmonton Oil Kings and Edmonton Riverhawks games, along with additional performances throughout the region.
“Singing the national anthem at Rogers Place in front of all of those rodeo fans was honestly a dream come true,” said Stevens. “It’s given me a lot of confidence in myself as a singer.”
Now Stevens is looking forward to watching a new performer take the stage.
“I am so excited to pass the baton over and see someone’s dream come true,” she said.
The winner of the 2026 contest will receive $1,000, a CFR ticket package, additional performance opportunities throughout the following year, and the opportunity to perform ‘O Canada’ at CFR on October 8.
“CFR brings 43,000 fans and elite rodeo athletes to Rogers Place in the heart of downtown Edmonton each year. But the stage isn’t just for the competitors. We want local talent to have the opportunity to step into that spotlight too. The Anthem Singer Contest is one way we can do that, giving a local Alberta performer the chance to reach thousands of fans and be part of a national championship event. That’s the kind of community impact we want CFR to have, bringing people to Edmonton, putting local talent in the spotlight and creating opportunities that can last well beyond the event.”
- Amanda Frigon, Director, Canadian Finals Rodeo, Explore Edmonton
MEDIA & PUBLIC EVENT DETAILS
What: 2026 CFR Anthem Singer Contest — Final Competition
When: Friday, September 11, 2026 | 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Where: Cook County Saloon, Edmonton
What to expect: Live performances from all five finalists and winner announcement
The event is open to the public and free to attend. Door charge begins at 10:00 p.m. Media are invited to attend, interview finalists, and capture the performances and winner announcement.
About the Canadian Finals Rodeo
Hear the roar of the arena in Edmonton October 7–10, 2026, as the Canadian Finals Rodeo takes over Rogers Place. CFR is Canada’s national championship rodeo, bringing elite rodeo athletes together for four days of world-class competition.
First held in Edmonton in 1974, CFR generated $32.4 million in total economic impact and more than 18,000 hotel room nights in 2025 alone. CFR is a cornerstone of Alberta’s western heritage and a major event for Edmonton.
About Explore Edmonton
Explore Edmonton is the Destination Marketing and Management Organization for Edmonton, connecting experiences, events, venues, and stories to attract visitors and elevate the city’s profile. We drive economic, cultural, and community impact through the visitor economy, while stewarding key venues and producing iconic events.
For more information or to coordinate interviews, please contact:
Tya Waterman
Director, Communications & Connections
Explore Edmonton
Twaterman@exploreedmonton.com
780-616-2858