Alberta Sports Betting: Legal Online Sportsbooks & Apps December 2024

How to find the best Alberta sportsbooks

Alberta officially launched single-game sports betting on September 1, 2021. Online sports betting went live the same day, with PlayAlberta as the province's lone regulated online sports betting site.

There are rumours that Alberta will allow third-party sportsbooks at some point in the future, as Ontario did in 2022. If that happens, the province's four million+ residents will be potential targets for industry heavy hitters like DraftKings and FanDuel. Popular Canadian books such as Sports Interaction and theScore Bet are also likely to be considered.

Read on for the all details on Alberta sports betting options, including the best sportsbooks, how to choose one, and get started.

Is sports betting legal in Alberta?

Sports betting is legal in Alberta. Single-game sports betting came to the province (and the rest of Canada) in 2021 following the passing of Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act.

The lone online regulated option for Alberta sports betting is PlayAlberta.ca, run by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC). In-person sports betting is available at authorized retail locations via Sport Select, run by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC).

Future regulation plans

Alberta has not opened its doors to third-party operators like Ontario. However, in December 2021, the AGLC did request proposals from sports betting operators interested in entering the Alberta sports betting market.

There hasn't been much news since then, but that all changed recently when the Alberta government allotted $1 million of its 2024 budget towards conducting a thorough legislative review of all current gambling laws. This will predominantly include a full analysis of the the Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act.

The goal of this review is to find out how to reduce the regulatory burden concerning business while simultaneously facilitating augmented contributions to the province of Alberta itself, meaning sizeable donations to various Albertan charities as well as recreation centres and other community facilities.

Another hurdle was cleared towards legalizing commercial sports betting during May 2024, when Bill 16 was passed by a committee of the whole. Formally known as the 'Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act', the goal of the bill is to 'conduct and manage' any impending Alberta iGaming platforms.

An important part of Bill 16 will also allow the provincial government to oversee gaming activities through a separate regulatory body, much like Ontario's current iGaming framework. This will, in turn, allow the AGLC to focus on its own online gaming operators.

The process took another step forward during a speech at the Canadian Gaming Summit in June 2024, where Alberta's Minister of Service and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally re-iterated the province's desire to go live with a legal platform in the near future.

At the end of the day, none of this guarantees anything, but the fact that the province is willing to further explore the possibility is absolutely a step in the right direction. If everything breaks right, Alberta could legalize sports betting by 2025 at the earliest.

Best Alberta sportsbooks

The only online sportsbook officially licensed and regulated by the Alberta government is PlayAlberta, which is owned and operated by the government itself, specifically the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC).

Our top-rated Alberta sports betting sites

Alberta residents can access legally regulated online sports betting through PlayAlberta.ca. However, they can still wager on some offshore online betting sites, which remain a legal grey area in Canada. 

While sports betting operators cannot technically operate in Canada without a license, Canadians are not forbidden from using offshore sportsbooks to bet. Our top-ranked offshore sportsbooks for Albertans are listed below.

1. Betway 🏒

SBR Exclusive: 100% Deposit Bonus up to $500

Terms and conditions apply.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

Betway is another terrific option for bettors from Alberta. With a huge betting market of 30+ sports, plenty of smooth banking options, and competitive odds across the board, Betway serves Canadian customers in all the most important ways.

New users can snag a 100% first deposit match welcome bonus, up to $500. The bonus funds come with a 10x playthrough, but you don't need a Betway promo code to activate this deal. 

Head over to our in-depth Betway review to learn more about one of Canada's best online sportsbooks. 

2. bet365 🟢

Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets

OR Bet $10, Get $50 in Bonus Bets

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

Bet365 is one of the best sportsbooks in Canada and around the world. It offers competitive odds on a vast range of sports from North America and all over the globe. 

Their in-game betting options are among the best in the industry and deliver lucrative odds boosts that often payout more than their competitors. New users can also choose between two different bet365 welcome offers, getting either a $1,000 first bet safety net or a bet $10, get $50 in bonus bets offer. Use our exclusive bet365 bonus code SBRPROMO to claim either deal. 

With a stellar reputation and a user-friendly website and app, bet365 is a top choice for Alberta sports betting. Read our detailed bet365 review to find out more.

3. Sports Interaction 🏀

125% Deposit Match up to $250

Terms and conditions apply.

Claim $250

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

Sports Interaction delivers strong lines and odds, plus generous welcome promotions to Alberta bettors. A long list of convenient deposit and withdrawal options delivers easy access to your Canadian funds with no fees or surcharges. 

Sports Interaction, initially founded in Montreal, also offers a score of casino games and an online poker room. It's been a favourite among Canadian sports bettors for years, offering a generous welcome bonus for new customers — a 125% deposit match up to $250.

To learn more about one of the most popular online sportsbooks in Canada, check out our in-depth Sports Interaction review.

4. BetVictor 🔵

Safety Net up to $400

Terms and conditions apply.

Claim $400

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

BetVictor delivers an easy-to-use sportsbook for both beginners and seasoned pros. They deliver solid odds across the board, covering various sports and markets. BetVictor has also earned a reputation for being one of the sportsbooks with the fastest payouts, which is always a bonus when your hit that big parlay. 

BetVictor operates in over 50 countries worldwide, with roots in the U.K. since the 1950s. They have a head office in Gibraltar and are regulated by multiple betting authorities around the globe, making BetVictor a solid choice for Albertans looking to get started on sports betting. The safety net bet up to $400 welcome bonus is also a great reason to try this book. You can collect this bonus without needing a BetVictor promo code. 

Our BetVictor review offers much more detail, if you're interested in further research.

Responsible Gaming: Responsiblegambling.org

5. Pinnacle ⚾

High Limits and Quality Odds

Terms and conditions apply.

Play Now

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Pinnacle stands out by offering some of the best value odds of all Alberta sportsbooks. Pinnacle doesn't spend much money on ads, endorsements, sponsorships, or a welcome bonus. They don't even have a dedicated mobile app, although the mobile-friendly version of their website does an excellent job of imitating one. They pass those savings on to bettors by offering top-notch lines for all their betting markets.

Pinnacle has been in business since 1998, giving them decades of experience. It initially launched with high limits, aiming to attract high rollers. It's much more inclusive nowadays, making it a strong option for both serious and casual sports bettors. 

This is the go-to sportsbook for many seasoned betting veterans, even without mobile apps and a welcome bonus. Head over to our Pinnacle review to learn why.

6. LeoVegas 🦁

Bet $25, Get $50 in Free Bets

18+ LeoSafePlay.com, Promotional T&Cs apply. Please play responsibly.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

LeoVegas is another strong option for Canadian bettors, especially if you're into live betting. LeoVegas has a terrific live betting section, showing you all the current in-game action and up-to-the-second odds.

New customers can easily claim the bet $25, get $50 in bonus bets welcome offer. There are a few important terms and conditions to know about, like a 1.8 (-125) odds restriction and a limited timed window to make your bet. However, you don't need a LeoVegas sports promo code to qualify for this deal, which is a plus. 

If you want to know about this online sports betting site, head over to our detailed LeoVegas review.

7. Stake.com 🟦

200% Deposit Match up to $3,000

Terms and conditions apply.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

Stake is emerging as a popular option for bettors in Alberta, with partnerships with the UFC, Everton FC, and hip-hop icon Drake as its celebrity spokesman. 

Although Stake doesn't have native mobile apps yet, it's desktop website is perfectly optimized for mobile devices. You'll barely notice you're not actually using an app, which is a great thing. One of Stake's best features is offering instant deposits and withdrawals using cryptocurrencies, something many competing sportsbooks have stayed away from so far.

Stake welcomes new customers with a potentially massive bonus: a 200% first deposit match up to $3,000. You have to deposit at least $50 to qualify for this offer, which is more than the average minimum deposit. However, the maximum reward also outshines most competitors in terms of sheer dollar value. Remember to use the Stake promo code SBR3000 when you register and deposit. 

To learn more about this AB betting site, head over to our detailed Stake review.

8. Bet99 🍁

First Bet Encore Up To $1,500

Terms and conditions apply.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

Bet99 has a strong Canadian appeal, which is made even more obvious by using UFC legend (and Montreal native) Georges St-Pierre in all of its marketing. Even if the former welterweight champ doesn't convince you, let us be the first to reassure you: Bet99 brings the goods.

Bet99 has a terrific user interface that makes finding your desired betting market a breeze. The odds have gotten more competitive in recent months, which is something Bet99 struggled with when it first launched. 

Although it took longer than we would have hoped, Bet99 finally released dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android devices in late 2023. These immediately pushed Bet99 back amongst the other leading sportsbooks in Alberta.

New users can use our exclusive Bet99 promo code SBRBONUS to claim a First Bet Encore of up to $1,500. Just register, use the code SBRBONUS, and make your first qualifying bet within seven days. 

9. TonyBet ⚽

100% Bonus up to $350

Terms and conditions apply.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

TonyBet (formerly known as OmniBet) technically launched in 2003, but was rebranded to TonyBet in 2012 after it was purchased by world-renowned poker star Antanas Guogo — aka 'Tony G'. As such, TonyBet has typically provided a much stronger casino product than it has sportsbook. However, the sportsbook side of TonyBet has notable advantages too.

Admittedly, we found TonyBet to have a somewhat messy layout and less competitive odds compared to the field. On the other hand, this operator has helpful 24/7 customer support as well as a large selection of live betting and esports markets. 

New bettors will begin their TonyBet experience with a boost as well, with the sportsbook currently offering a $350 free bet promotion. Click the link in the table below or see our TonyBet bonus code section to learn more.

10. 888sport 🎱

100% Bonus up to $500

Terms and conditions apply.

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Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission. 18+. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly

888sport's reputation is founded on its commitment to delivering an enriched betting experience. Renowned for its exceptional live betting, 888sport offers users an immersive platform for in-play wagers, and great payout options.

Incorporating innovative software enhances user navigation and interaction, setting it apart as a cutting-edge operator. The website is easy to navigate and has many cool features throughout.

As a trusted name in the industry, 888sport garners user confidence through its reliable operations and strong reputation. One of the better sportsbooks available to residents in Canada.

Use promo code 'SBRBONUS' when signing up today! Be sure to visit the 888sport promo code page for the full breakdown of how to claim the 888sport welcome offer.

Alberta sports betting summary

Who can bet on sports in Alberta?

Legal age for betting 🎂

The legal age to bet using Alberta online sportsbooks is 18 years old. You can use your mobile device or personal computer to access sports betting apps or websites, or use licensed lottery Sport Select retail locations.

You can bet at PlayAlberta.ca or any retail Sport Select locations if you are 18 or order. However, some offshore sportsbooks still require bettors to be 19 to create an account. Double-check the rules on your sportsbook of choice to ensure you're eligible. 

Tax on winnings 💵

There is no tax on gambling winnings in Alberta or any other Canadian province. The Canadian Revenue Agency does not consider gambling or lottery winnings as taxable income. 

Mobile betting 📱

Albertans can bet from anywhere in the province on their mobile devices using PlayAlberta.ca or through offshore apps that customers from the province. Unfortunately, some of the best sports betting apps in Canada in the industry, like FanDuel and DraftKings, remain off the table for Albertans.

Remote registration 💻

Alberta residents can sign-up for online sportsbooks from anywhere within or outside of the province. Many of these books have very accurate geolocation technology, but registering for an offshore operator that has been legally regulated elsewhere (like bet365) means you will be able to use your account in any Canadian province aside from Ontario.

The actual registration process for online books is quite simple, but be sure to check out the 'Signing up with an Alberta sportsbook' section of this page to ensure that you're able to fully take advantage of being a new user.

Retail sportsbooks 🏢

Alberta’s brick-and-mortar casinos currently do not have sportsbooks. All retail sports bets must be placed at officially licensed WCLC locations.

Signing up with an Alberta sportsbook

Alberta residents can easily bet online through the AGLC-regulated PlayAlberta.ca platform. However, the best odds, bonuses, and a more comprehensive range of betting options remain with offshore sportsbooks. Use the links provided to sign up for our top-ranked international books.

1. Pick a sportsbook

Picking a sportsbook isn’t as simple as searching for "Alberta online sportsbooks" and mindlessly clicking the top result. Do some due diligence before making your bets by comparing books and checking out reviews. 

Determine which sportsbooks offer the deposit options you prefer and also deliver quick and easy payouts. You'll want to see which books offer the most competitive odds so that you can get the most out of your winnings. 

2. Sign up online 

Alberta residents can register with the locally based PlayAlberta.ca or take their business to one of many reputable offshore sportsbooks. No matter where you sign up, you must provide your personal information and confirm your identity to accept any bonuses and rewards.

3. Claim the bonus

Most offshore sportsbooks offer generous sign-up bonuses that can start you off with a bigger bankroll or bonus bets. You can get a small initial casino sign-up bonus at PlayAlberta.ca for $50 with the code CASINO50. However, you can't use it to make sports bets.

You'll receive a much larger bonus from almost any international sportsbook that accepts customers in Alberta. Popular welcome bonuses include 100% deposit matches, refunding the amount of your first bet in bonus bet credits if it loses, and other ongoing rewards programs. In some cases, you may have to make a deposit and initial qualifying wager first before you can claim a bonus.

4. Deposit

If you’re depositing to your account through PlayAlberta.ca, you’ll be limited to credit and debit cards. Offshore sportsbooks have more extensive deposit options, including Interac e-transfers, ecoPayz, InstaDebit, and crypto assets like Bitcoin.

5. Select your type of bet

PlayAlberta.ca offers several bet types: point spreads, moneyline, totals (over/under), and props. Offshore sportsbooks also have all these bet types and often much more, including same-game parlay options and a huge variety of game and player props.

If you're new to betting, be sure to brush up on how to read odds and how to bet on sports before you slap down your cash for the first time.

6. Place your wager

When you place your first bets, ensure you get the best bang for your buck. You don’t have to settle for the first line or odds you find. Alberta sports bettors can sign up at multiple sportsbooks and compare odds to maximize profits. 

7. Withdraw

When you win a big bet, you may want to get your hands on those winnings as soon as possible. Most online Alberta sportsbooks have a short waiting period before your money hits your bank account again. Depending on the sportsbook and withdrawal method, processing may take one to five banking days.

You may have to submit additional verification details before your first withdrawal. Online sportsbooks often ask for a copy of your government ID or proof of address before processing your initial cashout. 

How we rate the best Alberta sportsbooks

So, how do you choose the right online sportsbook for you? Our expert review team can help you out. Here’s a quick rundown of what we look for when evaluating sportsbooks and why it's crucial when choosing your next Alberta sportsbook.

Odds Quality 📈

Not all bettors look closely at the odds when choosing their sportsbook, which could cost them money. For example, betting the money line at +100 at one sportsbook when +110 odds are available at a different book may not seem much different. However, those extra few dollars can add up quickly over time. 

Market Coverage ⚽

If you’re simply looking to bet on the NFL or the NHL, most sportsbooks will suit your needs. However, not all books are created equal if you want to bet on international sports or look for unique props or futures on more niche sports. When evaluating Alberta sportsbooks, we place special value on the biggest up-and-coming niche sports markets.

For example, esports betting is a lot more frequent than it once was, with many books now offering markets for the most popular choices such as 'League of Legends' and 'CS:GO'. Operators with available esports markets beyond these options are definitely setting themselves up for success, given the consistent growth of the industry.

Betting Features 🤑

Critical features like free live streaming, early cash-out, and live betting may seem common, but that doesn’t mean every sportsbook has them covered. We looked for these features and tested the betting interface to ensure you can navigate it easily and make your bets quickly. 

Bonuses 💰

Bettors love bonuses. Getting additional bonus bets or a boost in your bankroll is always a nice touch. However, bonuses and rewards aren’t everything. That bonus won’t seem like a great reward if the rest of the betting experience is lousy or it's tough to claim.

VIP Program 🥇

Like bonuses, a good VIP program can't make up for the inadequacies of a poor betting platform. That said, it can help set similar sportsbooks apart from competitors. Most VIP programs use a tier system, meaning you will typically start at the lowest level and complete tasks to gain points in order to work your way up to higher tiers. The higher your tier, the better the rewards will be.

Security and Trust 🔐

The best sportsbooks are transparent with their licenses and security features. It could be a red flag if this info is hard to find. All the sportsbooks mentioned on this page are verified and legitimate.

Banking Options 💳

Our reviewers look for sportsbooks that offer several deposit and withdrawal options. We also looked for the sportsbooks with the fastest payouts to make all transactions quick and easy.

Mobile Capabilities 📱

Our reviewers want to be able to bet anywhere, anytime, without issue. Only sportsbooks that offer comprehensive apps or optimized mobile sites make the grade.

Customer Support 📞

Contacting customer support should be quick and easy for all of the top Alberta online sportsbooks. Addressing a problem with support shouldn't create new headaches. All sportsbooks listed on this page have top-notch support, with multiple ways to contact them.

Popular Alberta bet types

Moneyline

When betting on the moneyline, you’re simply trying to pick the winner. It could be the victor on NFL Monday Night Football or the pugilist who will beat their opponent in a boxing match. 

Moneyline bets are listed with minus odds for the favourite and plus odds for the underdog. For example, the favourite to win a match might have odds of -200, while the underdog is at +150. In this case, a $100 bet on the favourite would only return $150 (including your original stake), while the same bet on the underdog would return $250.

Betting on the underdog comes with more risk but returns a larger payout.

Point spread

Betting on the point spread is more involved than simply picking a winner. You're actually predicting the margin of victory. Point spread betting is meant to even the playing field.

For example, the Calgary Stampeders might be expected to beat the Hamilton Ti-Cats by a large margin in CFL football. Sportsbooks might list them as -12.5 favourites, meaning they must win by at least 13 points for Stampeders bettors to succeed.

Conversely, a point spread bet on Hamilton at +12.5 means your bet wins if the Ti-Cats lose by less than 13 points or win the game.

Totals (Over/Under)

Betting on totals means picking the combined number of points scored in a game. Sportsbooks will set the over/under number where they think they can get action on both sides and then you have to make a choice.

Let's say the Edmonton Oilers are playing the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the total is set at 7.5. If you bet the over, you think the two teams will combine for eight or more goals. Betting the under means you think McDavid, Draisaitl, and Matthews will all have off-nights.

You can also bet totals on several different prop bets. You could bet on over 5.5 strikeouts for your favourite MLB starting pitcher or under 22.5 saves for the Canucks starting goalie.

Parlay

A parlay is when two or more individual bets are grouped into a single wager to deliver a potentially higher payout. Every section (or leg) of a parlay bet must win. If a single pick is wrong, the entire bet is graded as a loss.

A simple example is a three-team parlay on the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks to all win on the moneyline. If all three teams win, the parlay bet is a winner. However, if one of the teams loses, the entire bet is lost. 

Parlay bets are popular because they can have huge payouts if you win, especially as you add more legs. However, the more bets you add to your parlay, the harder it is to win them all.

Most sportsbooks now offer same-game parlays (SGP), which are increasingly popular with bettors. An SGP lets you combine multiple picks into a single bet slip, often creating long odds that have exponential payouts. For example, you could bet on the Oilers to cover 1.5 goals on the puckline, Connor McDavid to record 2+ points, and the game to feature OVER 49.5 total shots, getting +450 odds. If every outcome hits, you could more than quadruple your stake. But if even one leg misses, your entire SGP is a loss. 

Props

Prop bets, or proposition bets, are wagers on a specific part of a game. You wager on a particular player's performance or a specific game outcome. 

For example, you can make a prop bet on how many yards an NFL quarterback will throw for. Or you can bet that a specific wide receiver will score a touchdown.

There are also more exotic props, like whether a game will go to overtime, which team will win the coin toss, or how many outs a pitcher will record.

Teasers

A teaser bet is a variation of a parlay in which the bettor can move the point spread or totals in their favour to improve their chances of winning the bet. You can only make teasers on parlay bets, which means two or more wagers must all be correct to win. 

The most common teaser is a 6-point teaser, which allows a bettor to add or subtract six points from a spread or total. An example of a 6-point NFL teaser would see the bettor move the Dallas Cowboys from 9.5-point favourites to 3.5-point favourites and the Detroit Lions from 5.5-point underdogs to 11.5-point underdogs. 

After teasing the lines, Dallas only has to win by four points instead of 10, while the Lions can lose by as many as 11 points. Teasing the lines can make the outcomes more favourable but usually reduces the potential payout.

Futures

As the name suggests, a futures bet is a wager on a future occurrence. This type of bet typically applies to the longitudinal success of a specific team or player. For example, wagering on the Kansas City Chiefs to win the Super Bowl outright, or betting on Lamar Jackson to win NFL MVP.

Futures bets can be placed very early on, as sportsbooks don't waste much time before getting them out. For example, the odds for the outright Super Bowl LIX (2025) winner become available within a month of the Super Bowl LVIII (2024) ending. Some bettors like to take a chance this early on, as oddsmakers will be at their least accurate when setting lines this far in advance.

On that note, remember that most futures bets won't settle for weeks or even months. When you place a futures bet, the odds are also locked in, no matter what happens to the team or player from that point onward. Think of it as a long-term investment.

Live Betting

Live betting allows you to wager on a game as it's happening. The odds will constantly change, adjusting with every single play. 

For example, if the Dallas Cowboys trail by 14 points in the second quarter, but you think they will come back to win, you can place a live bet on that outcome. Since they are already losing, you'll get longer odds and therefore a more significant potential win.

Live betting also allows bettors to wager on immediate action, like if the next play in a football game will be a run or a pass, which team will score the next goal in hockey, or whether the next pitch will be a ball or a strike.

Alberta sports teams to bet on

For much of this spring, all eyes in Alberta were squarely on the Edmonton Oilers, as Connor McDavid and company erased a 3-0 deficit and forced the Florida Panthers into Game 7 action. Unfortunately, they did not become the first Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup in over three decades.

Ironically, the Calgary Flames battled the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stanley Cup Finals exactly 20 years ago, with the Florida-based team getting the last laugh in both instances.

Typically, the Battle of Alberta dominates the professional sports landscape in Alberta, with clashes between the Flames and Oilers highlighting the NHL season. Even for fans of other teams, this is a popular rivalry to wager on through the best NHL betting sites.

Here are some of the best sports teams in Alberta to bet on:

Calgary Flames 🏒

The Flames were the first NHL franchise to abandon Atlanta and arrived in Calgary in 1980. The team won its lone Stanley Cup in 1989 behind a tenacious roster that included Hall of Famers Lanny McDonald, Al MacInnis, Joe Nieuwendyk, Joe Mullen, and Doug Gilmour. The Flames returned to the Cup Final in 2004, only to fall to the Tampa Bay Lightning in seven games. After a disappointing 2023-24 season, Calgary is hoping to rebound this season.

Edmonton Oilers 🏒

The Oilers filled the rafters of Northlands Coliseum with five Stanley Cup banners in the 1980s and 90s, but they’ve yet to taste that kind of success in Rogers Arena. In 2024, the team got as close as it has been since 2006, when the Carolina Hurricanes also dismantled the Oilers in seven games. With a strong roster returning next season, will the Oilers be the first NHL team to hoist Lord Stanley's Cup since it was last done by the 1993 Montreal Canadiens?

The history of the Oilers is littered with hockey's greatest names, like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri. Now, the current roster boasts arguably the two best players of their time in Connor McDavid and Leon Drasaitl. They rack up hundreds of combined points yearly, yet are still chasing that elusive Stanley Cup. Think this will be their year? They were one win away, and will certainly be worth placing a bet on this season as well.

Calgary Wranglers 🏒

The Wranglers have only been around for a pair of season so far, entering the American Hockey League (AHL) at the start of the 2022-23 season. Before the move, the team was called the 'Stockton Heat' and was based in Stockton, California. As the official affiliate team of the Flames, it made sense to move the Heat closer to home in order to ease the travel itineraries of players shuffling between franchises. Many of the Flames' top draft picks are currently on the Wranglers for development purposes, and placing a wager on an AHL game is a great way to get in on the action. 

Calgary Stampeders 🏈

While Alberta residents can place bets through NFL betting sites, they also have two CFL teams to wager on.

Named after the world-famous rodeo that takes over Calgary every summer, the Stampeders are eight-time Grey Cup champions. They last drank from the CFL’s holy grail in 2018. With a long history dating back to their founding in 1945, the Stamps have never been a CFL dynasty. However, they boast several CFL Hall of Famers, including Allen Pitts, Doug Flutie, and Dave Dickenson.

In 2024, the Stamps have shown early signs of life, evidenced by the team's 2-1 start which includes a perfect 2-0 record at home. Despite this, the offence still needs to improve quite a bit to get on track. Calgary's 71 points through three games is the lowest clip in the CFL. With plenty of season left, it'll be interesting to see how the Stamps fare going forward.

Edmonton Elks 🏈

The Edmonton CFL team rebranded as the Elks in 2021 after playing as the Eskimos since its 1949 inception. The franchise has 14 Grey Cup victories, the second-most in CFL history. However, they haven't won under their new moniker yet. The last Edmonton CFL championship was in 2015.

Recent years haven't been kind to Edmonton either. Currently, the Elks are still searching for the team's first win of the 2024 season (0-4 record). Scoring hasn't been an issue, as Edmonton sits tied for third in the CFL in points scored (98). On the other hand, the defence has been abysmal, trailing only the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (125) in points against with 115. The Elks may have a long way to go, but they're always an entertaining team to watch regardless of the score.

Calgary Roughnecks 🥍

The Calgary Roughnecks have been a staple of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) since 2002. With five division titles and three league championships on the team's resume, the Roughnecks are a popular ticket for locals and visitors alike. Sportsbooks are also beginning to carry NLL betting markets, giving players even more options to choose from.

Calvary FC ⚽

Calvary FC plays in the Canada Premier League, the nation's top domestic soccer league. Although the league only began in 2019, it already boasts nine teams with strong followings, from Pacific FC on Vancouver Island to HFX Wanderers in Halifax. Not every online sportsbook posts CPL odds, but there are a handful that do, including bet365.

Other Alberta betting markets

If you’re into betting on niche markets like entertainment, politics, or eSports, you only have one option in Alberta. The government-licensed PlayAlberta.ca only offers basic sports betting, so you must look to offshore sportsbooks to place those quirkier bets. 

You can make a pick for what movie will win Best Picture at the Oscars, bet on your favourite League of Legends eSports team, or who will be the next U.S. president. 

Other types of Alberta gambling

Betting on sports online isn't the only way to play in Alberta. Here are some of the other options you can find in the province.

Online and land-based casinos 🏢

There are over 25 brick-and-mortar casinos in Alberta, all overseen by the AGLC. PlayAlberta.ca is the only regulated online casino site in the province and offers table games like blackjack, roulette, five-play draw poker, and over 50 slot games. That said, if you search for online casino Alberta, you'll find other platforms that accept Alberta customers based on gaming licenses held in other markets.

Some popular Alberta choices for live casino gaming include:

• 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 home to the world-famous Calgary Stampede, but it also has a rich horse racing history across the province. The province's two most popular horse racing tracks are Century Mile Racetrack and Casino in Edmonton and Century Downs in Calgary. 

Other live horse racing tracks in the province include Evergreen Park in Grande Prairie, Millarville Racing in Millarville, and Rocky Mountain Turf Club in Lethbridge. The WCLC offers in-person betting on horse racing through Sport Select, and many offshore sportsbooks also offer racebooks that include horse races in Alberta. 

Fantasy sports 🏈

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) are legal in Alberta. Top DFS platforms DraftKings promo code and FanDuel promo code are the most popular for Alberta residents. However, neither of these companies has its main sportsbook open to Alberta residents. DFS contests differ from most forms of traditional sports betting. Essentially, you are betting on the performance of a roster of players as opposed to on the success of an entire team.

The number of rostered athletes, as well as positional restrictions, vary between sports. For example, NFL DFS contests on DraftKings require picking one quarterback, one tight end, two running backs, and three wide receivers in addition to one flex player (must be a WR/RB/TE), a team defence, and a kicker. Each player is given a salary price based on ability, and every roster must be equal to (or less than) the salary cap.

Charitable gaming 🎰

When it comes to charitable gaming, Alberta is ahead of the rest of Canada, meaning it's the only province that licenses both charitable and religious organizations '...to conduct and manage a lottery scheme in the province...'. This includes anything from raffle tickets to bingo games. The only stipulation is that all proceeds must only be used for religious and/or charitable purposes.

Lottery 🎫

Lottery games are available in Alberta and overseen by WCLC. The most popular lottery is Lotto 6/49, also available across Canada, which regularly awards seven-figure jackpots.

Poker 🃏

Live poker rooms are legal in Alberta and can be found in many of the province’s brick-and-mortar casinos. PlayAlberta.ca does not offer online poker to Alberta residents, but many offshore sportsbooks offer their customers poker rooms including PokerStars and PartyPoker. 

Recent Alberta sports betting news and updates

Although nothing is set in stone, it certainly appears that Alberta is favorite to be the next Canadian province to potentially regulate and license third-party sportsbooks. As we wait for further confirmations, here's a look at the most recent developments in the Alberta betting scene:

Nov. 12, 2024: There is still no definite launch date for Alberta sports betting to launch, with key figures involved merely claiming "sometime in 2025" as the target.

Oct. 18, 2024: Alberta Minister Dale Nally suggests that Alberta would "pool liquidity" with Ontario's already-established iGaming market. This would help preserve Daily Fantasy Sports contests and online poker games. 

Oct. 1, 2024: The Canadian Senate is considering new legislation, Bill S-269, which would change how sports betting companies can advertise and market their products in Canada. Many sports fans, even those who do choose to bet on sports, have grown weary of the over-aggressive ads.

Aug. 9, 2024: PENN Entertainment CEO Jay Snowden says he expects Alberta to be a "very strong market" for the company's ScoreBet product, when full regulation kick in. 

June 26, 2024: Jordan Bender, stock analyst at Citizens JMP Securities, says Alberta could generate over $700 million in annual revenue from a more competitive iGaming market.

June 11, 2024: A recent report from the Alberta's Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission says that approximately 55% of Alberta's online gambling is with illegal operators.

June 7, 2024: The Edmonton Oilers make the Stanley Cup Finals, driving a surge in NHL-related betting in Alberta. 

May 24, 2024: Alberta passes Bill 16, the Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act. The bills could eventually help the province usher in a fully regulated iGaming market, similar to the one in Ontario. 

Responsible gambling in Alberta

The AGLC develops a score of policies, regulations, programs, and resources to educate Alberta residents on responsible gambling. 

The AGLC operates the GameSense program, an online portal available to all Alberta residents and provides information to gamblers on how to gamble safely and responsibly.  

Alberta Health Services offers a toll-free helpline for anyone experiencing problems with addiction and mental health concerns, including gambling-related issues.

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis

GameSense Alberta

Alberta Health Services Toll-Free Help Line: 1-866-332-2322

Legal sports betting in Canada

Canada sports betting became legal in September 2021 following the adoption of Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. Before signing the bill into law, Canadians were only allowed to make parlay wagers using their provincial-regulated sportsbooks.

Betting with offshore sportsbooks remains legal for Alberta residents, who often find better odds and lucrative bonuses from international sportsbooks.

Sports betting in other provinces

For a more in-depth breakdown, including a full list of legal DFS states, check out our guide to the best DFS sites.