Alberta Sports Betting 2024: Legal Online Underscoregs and Apps
Residents of Alberta have the opportunity to legally bet on sports using top Canadian betting sites. While the Edmonton Oilers may not have been victorious in Game 7 after an impressive comeback from a 3-0 deficit, there are numerous other sports for Albertans to wager on. Check out our reviews for a comprehensive analysis of the best sportsbooks available in the province, along with information on how to take advantage of various generous Canadian sportsbook bonuses.
Features
- Monthly new customer rewards
- Quick and easy deposits
- Mobile app available
FanDuel Faceoffis a new DFS platform from betting giant FanDuel. This US-based betting platform lets you get started right away with a welcome offer, and various games to play.
Features
ParlayPlay Review
Once you join the site, you’ll be treated to a two-tier welcome bonus — a $5 no-deposit bonus and a 100% match on your first deposit, up to $100.
Features
Features
- Free to play social sportsbook
- Mobile only
- Diverse gaming options
Thrillzz a new DFS platform for the free-to-play user. This US-based betting platform lets you get started right away with a welcome offer, and various games to play.
Features
Boom Fantasy Review
Boom Fantasy is a DFS platform that began its US operations in 2015. This New York-based betting platform lets you get started with a $100 welcome bonus by entering the Boom promo code.
Features
ThriveFantasy Review
Thrive Fantasy is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) platform launched in 2016. The NY-based operator offers a unique DFS experience, focusing on player props instead of setting salary caps for player drafts.
Features
Quick links On this page
- How to find the best Alberta sportsbooks
- Best Alberta sportsbooks
- Our top-rated Alberta sports betting sites
- Quick facts: Alberta sports betting
- Who can bet on sports in Alberta?
- Signing up with an Alberta sportsbook
- How we rate the best Alberta sportsbooks
- Popular Alberta bet types
- Alberta sports teams to bet on
- Other types of Alberta gambling
- Responsible gambling in Alberta
- Legal sports betting in Canada
- Alberta sports betting FAQs
How to find the best Alberta sportsbooks
On September 1, 2021, Alberta officially introduced single-game sports betting. PlayAlberta became the province’s sole regulated online sports betting platform, launching on the same day.
Speculation is swirling that Alberta may follow Ontario’s lead and permit third-party sportsbooks in the future. If this comes to fruition, over four million residents in the province could become prime targets for major players in the industry such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and theScoreBet.
Continue reading for comprehensive information on sports betting options in Alberta, such as top sportsbooks, tips for selecting one, and getting started.
Is sports betting legal in Alberta?
Alberta legalized sports betting in 2021 with the passing of Bill C-218, allowing for single-game sports betting in the province and across Canada.
PlayAlberta.ca is the only online regulated sports betting option for Alberta residents, managed by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC). Those looking to bet in person can visit authorized retail locations offering Sport Select, operated by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC).
Unlike Ontario, Alberta has not allowed third-party operators to enter the market. However, in December 2021, the AGLC invited proposals from sports betting operators looking to join the Alberta sports betting industry.
Since then, there has been limited news, but that changed recently when the Alberta government dedicated $1 million from its 2024 budget to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing gambling legislation. This will primarily focus on a thorough analysis of the Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act.
The aim of this review is to identify ways to decrease regulatory obstacles for businesses while also promoting increased support for the province of Alberta, including significant donations to local charities, recreational centers, and other community amenities.
In May 2024, a significant step was taken towards legalizing commercial sports betting with the passing of Bill 16 by a committee of the whole. The bill aims to oversee and regulate any future Alberta iGaming platforms.
During a speech at the Canadian Gaming Summit in June 2024, Alberta’s Minister of Service and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally reaffirmed the province’s commitment to launching a legal platform in the near future, further advancing the process.
While there are no guarantees, the province’s willingness to delve deeper into the issue is a positive step forward. If all goes well, Alberta may potentially legalize sports betting by 2025.
Best Alberta sportsbooks
PlayAlberta is the sole online sportsbook authorized and overseen by the Alberta government. It is owned and operated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC).
Online sportsbook operator | Mobile app | Online casino |
---|---|---|
PlayAlberta | Yes | Yes |
Our top-rated Alberta sports betting sites
Residents of Alberta have the option to participate in legally regulated online sports betting on PlayAlberta.ca. Additionally, they can still place bets on certain offshore online betting sites, despite the unclear legal status of these sites in Canada.
Although sports betting operators are required to have a license to operate in Canada, Canadians are able to use offshore sportsbooks for betting without any restrictions. Below are our top-ranked offshore sportsbooks for residents of Alberta.
1. bet365
Bet365 is recognized as a top sportsbook in Canada and globally, providing competitive odds on a wide variety of sports from North America and beyond.
The in-game betting choices offered by this company are top-notch, with attractive odds boosts that frequently outperform those of their rivals. Additionally, new customers have the option of selecting from two distinct welcome bonuses: either a $1,000 first bet protection or a bet $10, get $50 in bonus bets promotion.
Learn more about why bet365 is a top choice for Alberta sports betting with our in-depth review, highlighting their excellent reputation and easy-to-use website and app.
bet365 Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐ (266.1K reviews) |
Google Play Rating | 3.9/5.0 ⭐ (10K reviews) |
Current Welcome Offer | $1,000 first bet safety net |
Alternative Welcome Offer | Bet $10, get $50 in bonus bets |
Best Feature | Same-game parlay options |
Payout Speed | Some methods within 24 hours; 1 to 5 days. |
2. Sports Interaction
Sports Interaction offers Alberta bettors competitive lines and odds, along with lucrative welcome promotions. With a wide range of deposit and withdrawal options available, accessing your Canadian funds is made easy with no additional fees.
Originally established in Montreal, Sports Interaction is known for its wide variety of casino games and an online poker room. It has been a popular choice for Canadian sports bettors for many years, thanks in part to its generous welcome bonus for new customers – a 125% match on first deposits up to $250.
For a comprehensive review of one of Canada’s top online sportsbooks, explore our detailed analysis of Sports Interaction.
Sports Interaction Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | 4.4/5.0 ⭐ (2.6K reviews) |
Google Play Rating | 3.6/5.0 ⭐ (247 reviews) |
Current Welcome Offer | 125% first deposit match up to $250 |
Payout Speed | Fast payouts, settled in 1-5 days |
3. BetVictor
BetVictor offers a user-friendly sportsbook suitable for both novices and experienced bettors. They provide competitive odds on a wide range of sports and markets. BetVictor is known for its quick payouts, making it a top choice for those who strike it big on parlays.
Operating in over 50 countries worldwide, BetVictor has its roots in the U.K. dating back to the 1950s. With a head office in Gibraltar and regulation by multiple betting authorities globally, BetVictor is a reliable option for Albertans interested in sports betting. The 100% deposit match bonuses, totaling up to $600, make it even more enticing to give this book a try. Plus, you can claim this bonus without the need for a BetVictor promo code.
If you’re looking for more in-depth information, our BetVictor review provides comprehensive details for further investigation.
Responsible Gaming: Responsiblegambling.org
BetVictor Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(1K reviews) |
Google Play Rating | 3.6/5.0 ⭐(4K reviews) |
Current Welcome Offer | 100% deposit bonuses up to $600 |
Payout Speed | As little as 24 hours, 1-5 banking days |
4. Pinnacle ⚾
Pinnacle distinguishes itself by providing competitive odds compared to other Alberta sportsbooks. Instead of investing in advertising, sponsorships, or bonuses, Pinnacle focuses on offering high-quality betting lines across all markets, passing on the savings to their customers. While they may not have a dedicated mobile app, their mobile-friendly website effectively replicates the experience.
Pinnacle, established in 1998, boasts decades of industry experience. Originally catering to high rollers with high limits, the company has since evolved to be inclusive of both serious and casual sports bettors, making it a top choice in the market.
Check out our Pinnacle review to discover why this sportsbook is the top choice for experienced bettors, despite not having mobile apps or a welcome bonus.
Pinnacle Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | N/A |
Google Play Rating | N/A |
Current Welcome Offer | None |
Payout Speed | Quick payouts in 1-5 days |
5. Betway
Betway is an excellent choice for bettors in Alberta, offering a wide range of betting markets with over 30 sports, various banking options, and competitive odds. Canadian customers can rely on Betway to meet all their betting needs effectively.
New customers are eligible for a 100% match on their first deposit, up to $300. The bonus comes with a 10x playthrough requirement and no Betway promo code is needed to claim this offer.
Visit our comprehensive Betway review to discover more about one of the top online sportsbooks in Canada.
Betway Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | 4.8/5.0 ⭐(34.6K reviews) |
Google Play Rating | 4.2/5.0 ⭐(12.5K reviews) |
Current Welcome Offer | 100% deposit bonuses up to $300 |
Payout Speed | 48 to 72 hours |
6. LeoVegas
Another great choice for Canadian bettors, particularly those who enjoy live betting, is LeoVegas. The site offers an impressive live betting section that displays all the latest in-game action and real-time odds.
New customers can take advantage of the bet $25 and receive $50 in bonus bets welcome offer without needing a LeoVegas sports promo code. It’s important to note the 1.8 (-125) odds restriction and the limited time window to place your bet.
For more information on this online sports betting site, check out our comprehensive review of LeoVegas.
LeoVegas Quick Facts | |
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App Store Rating | 4.3/5.0 ⭐(2.5K reviews) |
Google Play Rating | 4.2/5.0 ⭐(5K reviews) |
Current Welcome Offer | Bet $25, get $50 in bonus bets |
Payout Speed | Within 72 hours |
Quick facts: Alberta sports betting
Launch date | Sept. 1, 2021 |
Legal betting age | 18 (19 on some sites) |
Retail sports betting | Yes |
Online sports betting | Yes |
Online casino sites | Yes |
Online poker sites | Yes |
esports betting | Yes |
Best available sportsbook | bet365 |
Alberta Population | 4.4 million |
➡ B.C. regulator | Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis |
Who can bet on sports in Alberta?
Legal age for betting
In Alberta, individuals must be at least 18 years old to legally place bets on online sportsbooks. You can access sports betting apps or websites on your mobile device or personal computer, or visit licensed lottery Sport Select retail locations to place your bets.
If you are 18 years or older, you can place bets at PlayAlberta.ca or any retail Sport Select locations. However, some offshore sportsbooks may require bettors to be 19 years of age to create an account. It is important to verify the age requirements of your chosen sportsbook to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria.
Tax on winnings
Gambling winnings in Alberta and other Canadian provinces are not subject to taxation, as the Canadian Revenue Agency does not classify them as taxable income.
Mobile betting
Residents of Alberta have the option to place bets on their mobile devices through PlayAlberta.ca or offshore apps available to customers in the province. However, popular sports betting apps like FanDuel and DraftKings are not accessible to Albertans.
Remote registration
Residents of Alberta can register for online sportsbooks from anywhere in or outside the province. While many of these books have precise geolocation technology, signing up for an overseas operator that is legally regulated elsewhere, such as bet365, allows you to use your account in any Canadian province except Ontario.
Registering for online books is easy, but make sure to review the ‘Signing up with an Alberta sportsbook’ section on this page to maximize your benefits as a new user.
Retail sportsbooks
At present, brick-and-mortar casinos in Alberta do not offer sportsbooks. All retail sports betting must be done at officially licensed WCLC locations.
Signing up with an Alberta sportsbook
While Alberta residents have the option to bet online through the AGLC-regulated PlayAlberta.ca platform, the most favorable odds, bonuses, and extensive betting options can be found with offshore sportsbooks. Click the links provided to register for our top-rated international books.
1. Pick a sportsbook
Choosing a sportsbook requires more than just a quick search for “Alberta online sportsbooks” and selecting the first option. Prior to placing your bets, it is important to conduct thorough research by comparing different sportsbooks and reading reviews.
Find sportsbooks that provide your preferred deposit methods and ensure they offer fast and simple payouts. Compare odds from different books to maximize your potential winnings.
2. Sign up online
Residents of Alberta have the option to register with PlayAlberta.ca, a local platform, or choose from a variety of reputable offshore sportsbooks. Regardless of the choice, individuals must provide personal information and verify their identity in order to receive any bonuses or rewards.
3. Claim the bonus
Many offshore sportsbooks provide lucrative sign-up bonuses to give you a head start with a larger bankroll or bonus bets. At PlayAlberta.ca, you can receive a modest $50 casino sign-up bonus using the code CASINO50, but it cannot be used for placing sports bets.
If you sign up with an international sportsbook that accepts customers in Alberta, you can expect to receive a significantly larger bonus. These bonuses typically include 100% deposit matches, refunding your first bet in bonus credits if it loses, and various ongoing rewards programs. Keep in mind that in order to claim a bonus, you may need to make a deposit and place an initial qualifying wager.
4. Deposit
When depositing funds into your account on PlayAlberta.ca, you can only use credit and debit cards. In contrast, offshore sportsbooks offer a wider range of deposit options such as Interac e-transfers, ecoPayz, InstaDebit, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
5. Select your type of bet
PlayAlberta.ca provides a variety of betting options such as point spreads, moneyline, totals (over/under), and props. Offshore sportsbooks offer these bet types as well as additional options like same-game parlay and an extensive selection of game and player props.
Before placing your first bet, make sure to familiarize yourself with how to interpret odds and how to bet on sports if you are new to betting.
6. Place your wager
Before placing your initial bets, make sure you’re getting the most value for your money. Don’t just settle for the first line or odds you come across. Alberta sports bettors have the option to register at various sportsbooks and compare odds in order to increase their potential earnings.
7. Withdraw
After winning a substantial bet, you might be eager to receive your winnings promptly. Many online sportsbooks in Alberta typically have a brief waiting period before the funds are transferred to your bank account. The processing time for withdrawals can vary between one to five banking days, depending on the sportsbook and chosen withdrawal method.
Before processing your first withdrawal, you may be required to provide additional verification details. Online sportsbooks typically request a government ID or proof of address in order to complete the initial cashout.
How we rate the best Alberta sportsbooks
Looking for the perfect online sportsbook for you? Our expert review team is here to assist. Check out our criteria for evaluating sportsbooks and why it’s important when selecting your next Alberta sportsbook.
Odds Quality
Some bettors overlook the importance of comparing odds when selecting a sportsbook, potentially resulting in financial losses. For instance, betting on the money line at +100 with one sportsbook instead of +110 at another may not seem significant initially. Nevertheless, these small differences can accumulate and impact finances significantly in the long run.
Market Coverage
If you’re interested in betting on the NFL or the NHL, most sportsbooks will meet your needs. However, not all sportsbooks are equal when it comes to betting on international sports or finding unique props and futures for niche sports. When reviewing Alberta sportsbooks, we pay particular attention to the largest and most promising niche sports markets.
Esports betting has become increasingly popular, with many books now including markets for popular games like ‘League of Legends’ and ‘CS:GO’. Operators who offer markets for a wider range of esports are positioning themselves for success, as the industry continues to grow.
Betting Features
Key features such as complimentary live streaming, premature cash-out options, and live betting may appear to be standard, but not every sportsbook offers them. We thoroughly evaluated these features and assessed the betting interface to guarantee seamless navigation and efficient betting placement.
Bonuses
Bettors enjoy bonuses, but they are not everything. While receiving extra bonus bets or a boost in your bankroll is always appreciated, a bonus won’t feel rewarding if the overall betting experience is poor or difficult to access.
VIP Program
Similar to bonuses, a strong VIP program alone cannot compensate for a subpar betting platform. However, it can serve as a distinguishing factor between sportsbooks. VIP programs often utilize a tiered system, where players begin at the lowest level and progress by earning points through various tasks to reach higher tiers. The rewards improve as you ascend to higher tiers.
Security and Trust
The top sportsbooks prioritize transparency by openly displaying their licenses and security measures. If this information is difficult to locate, it may indicate a cause for concern. Rest assured that all the sportsbooks recommended on this page have been thoroughly vetted and are reputable.
Banking Options
Our reviewers search for sportsbooks that provide multiple deposit and withdrawal choices, as well as prioritize those with quick payout speeds to ensure seamless and efficient transactions.
Mobile Capabilities
Our reviewers expect the convenience of betting on the go, without any obstacles. Only sportsbooks with robust mobile apps or optimized websites will be considered for approval.
Customer Support
Reaching out to customer support at the leading online sportsbooks in Alberta should be a fast and seamless process. Dealing with an issue shouldn’t add to your stress. Every sportsbook featured on this page offers excellent support options, making it easy to get in touch with them.
Popular Alberta bet types
Moneyline
When placing a moneyline bet, your goal is to predict the winner, whether it’s the team in an NFL Monday Night Football game or the boxer in a boxing match.
In moneyline betting, the favorite is denoted with negative odds and the underdog with positive odds. For instance, the favorite may have odds of -200, while the underdog is at +150. A $100 bet on the favorite would yield $150, including the original stake, while the same bet on the underdog would result in a $250 return.
Placing a bet on the underdog carries greater risk but offers a higher potential payout.
Point spread
Placing a bet on the point spread requires more than just choosing a victor. It involves predicting the margin of victory, with the aim of leveling the playing field.
For instance, in CFL football, the Calgary Stampeders are predicted to defeat the Hamilton Ti-Cats by a significant margin. Odds makers may designate them as -12.5 favorites, indicating that they need to win by a minimum of 13 points for Stampeders bettors to win their wager.
On the other hand, if you place a point spread bet on Hamilton at +12.5, you will win if the Ti-Cats either lose by less than 13 points or if they win the game.
Totals (Over/Under)
When betting on totals, you are selecting the total number of points scored in a game. Bookmakers will establish the over/under number, aiming to attract bets on both sides, and it is up to you to decide which option to choose.
Imagine the Edmonton Oilers facing off against the Toronto Maple Leafs with a total set at 7.5 goals. If you choose to bet the over, you are predicting that the two teams will score a total of eight or more goals. On the other hand, selecting the under implies that you believe star players like McDavid, Draisaitl, and Matthews will have below-average performances.
You also have the option to wager on various prop bets involving totals. For example, you can bet on more than 5.5 strikeouts for the MLB starting pitcher you support, or less than 22.5 saves for the Canucks starting goalie.
Parlay
A parlay is a type of bet that combines two or more individual bets into one single wager, offering the chance for a larger payout. In order to win a parlay bet, each individual section (or leg) must be successful. If any pick is incorrect, the entire bet is considered a loss.
One example is a three-team parlay where you bet on the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Vancouver Canucks all winning on the moneyline. If all three teams win, the parlay is successful. But if even one team loses, the entire bet is lost.
Parlay bets are appealing due to the potential for significant payouts, especially with additional legs. Nevertheless, as you increase the number of bets in your parlay, the likelihood of winning them all decreases.
Props
Prop bets, short for proposition bets, involve betting on a specific aspect of a game, such as a player’s performance or a specific outcome.
An NFL quarterback’s passing yards can be the subject of a prop bet, as can a bet on a particular wide receiver scoring a touchdown.
Additionally, there are a variety of unique prop bets available, such as predicting if a game will go into overtime, determining which team will win the coin toss, or guessing the number of outs a pitcher will achieve.
Teasers
A teaser bet is a type of parlay bet that allows the bettor to adjust the point spread or totals in their favor, increasing their likelihood of winning. Teasers can only be made on parlay bets, requiring all two or more wagers to be correct in order to win.
The 6-point teaser is the most popular type of teaser bet, giving the bettor the ability to adjust a spread or total by six points. For instance, in a 6-point NFL teaser, a bettor could move the Dallas Cowboys from 9.5-point favorites to 3.5-point favorites and the Detroit Lions from 5.5-point underdogs to 11.5-point underdogs.
By teasing the lines, Dallas now only needs to win by four points instead of 10, while the Lions can afford to lose by up to 11 points. While this can make the outcomes more favorable, it typically results in a lower potential payout.
Futures
A futures bet is a wager on a future outcome, often predicting the long-term success of a particular team or player. This can include betting on the Kansas City Chiefs to win the Super Bowl or on Lamar Jackson to win NFL MVP.
Futures bets are available soon after major events, such as the Super Bowl LVIII, with odds for the Super Bowl LIX winner being released within a month. Some bettors prefer to place bets early on when odds may be less accurate.
It’s important to remember that when making futures bets, they may not be settled for weeks or even months. Once you place a futures bet, the odds are set and won’t change, regardless of any changes to the team or player. Consider it a long-term investment.
Live Betting
Live betting enables you to place bets on a game in real time, with odds that are continuously fluctuating in response to each play.
If the Dallas Cowboys are down by 14 points in the second quarter, but you believe they will make a comeback and win, you can place a live bet on their victory. By betting on the underdog, who is already losing, you can potentially win a larger payout due to the higher odds.
Live betting enables bettors to place wagers on real-time events, such as predicting whether the next play in a football game will be a run or a pass, which team will score the next goal in hockey, or if the next pitch will be a ball or a strike.
Alberta sports teams to bet on
Throughout the spring, all attention in Alberta was focused on the Edmonton Oilers as Connor McDavid and his team battled back from a 3-0 deficit against the Florida Panthers, forcing a Game 7. However, despite their efforts, they were unable to become the first Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup in over 30 years.
The Calgary Flames faced off against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stanley Cup Finals two decades ago, with the Florida team emerging victorious in both encounters.
Usually, the Battle of Alberta is the main focus of professional sports in Alberta, featuring intense matchups between the Flames and Oilers that are the highlights of the NHL season. This rivalry is a popular choice for betting among fans, even those who support different teams.
Below are some of the top sports teams in Alberta for betting on:
Calgary Flames
The Flames were the first NHL team to leave Atlanta and relocated to Calgary in 1980. They captured their only Stanley Cup in 1989 with a talented lineup featuring Hall of Famers Lanny McDonald, Al MacInnis, Joe Nieuwendyk, Joe Mullen, and Doug Gilmour. In 2004, they made a return to the Cup Final but were defeated by the Tampa Bay Lightning in a seven-game series. Following a disappointing 2023-24 season, Calgary is looking to bounce back in the upcoming season.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers hung five Stanley Cup banners in Northlands Coliseum during the 1980s and 90s, but have not replicated that success in Rogers Arena. In 2024, they came closest to a championship since 2006, when the Carolina Hurricanes defeated them in seven games. With a talented roster set to return next season, could the Oilers become the first NHL team to win the Stanley Cup since the 1993 Montreal Canadiens?
The Oilers have a storied past filled with legendary players such as Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. Today, the team is led by Connor McDavid and Leon Drasaitl, who are considered two of the best players in the league. Despite their impressive point totals, they have yet to capture the Stanley Cup. Could this be their year? They came close last season and are definitely worth considering for a bet next season.
Calgary Wranglers
The Wranglers are a new team in the American Hockey League (AHL), having just completed their second season after entering the league in 2022. Previously known as the Stockton Heat and based in California, the team became the official affiliate of the Flames. The move to bring the Heat closer to home was made to reduce travel for players moving between the two teams. With many top draft picks from the Flames on the Wranglers for development, betting on AHL games is a great way to be a part of the excitement.
Calgary Stampeders
The Stampeders, named after Calgary’s renowned summer rodeo, have won the Grey Cup eight times, most recently in 2018. Founded in 1945, the team has a rich history but has never been considered a CFL dynasty. Despite this, they have produced several Hall of Famers, such as Allen Pitts, Doug Flutie, and Dave Dickenson.
The Stamps have shown promising signs in 2024 with a 2-1 start, including a flawless record at home. However, the offense still has room for improvement as Calgary’s 71 points in three games is the lowest in the CFL. With plenty of season remaining, it will be intriguing to see how the Stamps progress moving forward.
Edmonton Elks
In 2021, the Edmonton CFL team changed its name to the Elks after being known as the Eskimos since 1949. The franchise has won 14 Grey Cup titles, the second-highest in CFL history. Despite their success, the team has not won a championship under their new name. The most recent Edmonton CFL championship was in 2015.
Edmonton has struggled in recent years, with the Elks still seeking their first win of the 2024 season (0-4 record). While scoring hasn’t been a problem, as they are tied for third in the CFL in points scored (98), their defense has been lacking, ranking second in points against with 115, behind only the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (125). Despite their challenges, the Elks remain an entertaining team to watch, regardless of the outcome.
Calgary Roughnecks
The Calgary Roughnecks have been a mainstay in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) since 2002, boasting five division titles and three league championships. Their success has made them a fan favorite for both locals and visitors, and with Underscoregs now offering NLL betting markets, fans have even more ways to get in on the action.
Other Alberta betting markets
If you enjoy betting on specialized markets such as entertainment, politics, or eSports in Alberta, your only choice is the government-licensed PlayAlberta.ca. However, this platform only provides basic sports betting options, so you will need to turn to offshore sportsbooks for more unique bets.
You have the option to choose the Best Picture winner at the Oscars, place a bet on your preferred League of Legends eSports team, or predict the next U.S. president.
Other types of Alberta gambling
There are alternative ways to play in Alberta besides betting on sports online. Here are some other options available in the province.
Online and land-based casinos
Alberta has more than 25 physical casinos regulated by the AGLC. PlayAlberta.ca is the sole licensed online casino in the province, providing a variety of table games such as blackjack, roulette, five-play draw poker, and over 50 slot games.
There are several popular live casino gaming options in Alberta, such as:
- River Cree Resort and Casino – Enoch, Alberta
- Stony Nakoda Resort and Casino – Morley, Alberta
- Eagle River Resort – Enoch, Calgary
- Starlight Casino – Edmonton, Alberta
- The Grey Eagle Resort and Casino – Calgary, Alberta
- Casino Lethbridge – Lethbridge, Alberta
Horse racing
Alberta is known for the renowned Calgary Stampede, but it also boasts a vibrant horse racing tradition with two popular tracks: Century Mile Racetrack and Casino in Edmonton, and Century Downs in Calgary.
Additional horse racing tracks in Alberta are Evergreen Park in Grande Prairie, Millarville Racing in Millarville, and Rocky Mountain Turf Club in Lethbridge. The WCLC provides on-site betting on horse racing with Sport Select, and numerous offshore sportsbooks feature racebooks that cover races in Alberta.
Fantasy sports
In Alberta, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) are legally accessible to residents. The leading DFS platforms in the region are DraftKings and FanDuel, although neither of these companies offer their main sportsbook services to Alberta residents. DFS contests involve wagering on the individual performances of a selected group of players, rather than betting on the overall success of a team, setting them apart from traditional sports betting.
Different sports have different numbers of rostered athletes and positional restrictions. For instance, in NFL DFS contests on DraftKings, participants must select one quarterback, one tight end, two running backs, and three wide receivers, along with one flex player (who must be a WR/RB/TE), a team defense, and a kicker. Each player is assigned a salary based on their skill level, and the total salary of the roster must not exceed the salary cap.
Charitable gaming
Alberta is leading the way in charitable gaming in Canada, being the only province that permits both charitable and religious organizations to hold and oversee lottery schemes, such as raffles and bingo games. The condition is that all funds raised must be used solely for charitable or religious purposes.
Lottery
In Alberta, lottery games are offered and regulated by WCLC. The most well-liked lottery game is Lotto 6/49, which is also played nationwide in Canada and frequently gives out million-dollar jackpots.
Poker
In Alberta, live poker rooms are legal and can be found in various brick-and-mortar casinos across the province. While PlayAlberta.ca does not provide online poker options for residents, many offshore sportsbooks like PokerStars and PartyPoker offer their customers access to poker rooms.
Responsible gambling in Alberta
The AGLC creates a variety of policies, regulations, programs, and resources aimed at educating Alberta residents about responsible gambling.
The GameSense program, run by the AGLC, is an online resource accessible to all Alberta residents that offers guidance on safe and responsible gambling practices.
If you are struggling with addiction, mental health concerns, or gambling-related issues, Alberta Health Services provides a toll-free helpline for support and assistance.
Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission
For assistance, please call the Alberta Health Services Toll-Free Help Line at 1-866-332-2322.
Legal sports betting in Canada
In September 2021, Canada officially legalized sports betting with the passing of Bill C-218, also known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. Prior to this legislation, Canadians could only place parlay bets through their provincial-regulated sportsbooks.
Alberta residents can legally place bets with offshore sportsbooks, where they can access improved odds and attractive bonuses compared to domestic sportsbooks.
Sports betting in other provinces
Provincial Sports Betting | ||
---|---|---|
Alberta sports betting | British Columbia sports betting | Manitoba sports betting |
Nova Scotia sports betting | Quebec sports betting | Ontario sports betting |
Alberta sports betting FAQs
Can I bet on sports legally in Alberta?
Yes, it is legal to bet on sports in Alberta.
Are there Canadian betting operators in Alberta?
The AGLC runs PlayAlberta.ca, an online sportsbook, while the WCLC oversees Sport Select, the in-person sports betting option. Additionally, there are numerous offshore sportsbooks accessible to Alberta residents.
What is the legal minimum gambling age in Alberta?
In Alberta, sports bettors must be at least 18 years old, but some international online sportsbooks may have a minimum age requirement of 19+.
Do I have to pay taxes on bet winnings in Alberta?
You are not required to pay taxes on gambling winnings in Alberta.
Can I place an online sports bet in Alberta?
Yes, you can place sports bets online through PlayAlberta.ca as well as various reputable offshore sportsbooks.
Do all online sports betting sites in Alberta have mobile apps?
PlayAlberta.ca does not provide a mobile betting app, however, there are multiple offshore sportsbooks with mobile apps available for Alberta residents to utilize.
Can I bet with DraftKings in Alberta?
No, DraftKings Underscoregs is not currently available in Alberta. You can only play in their daily fantasy sports contests.