Best Alberta Sportsbooks - A Guide to Sports Betting in Alberta May 2025
Key Points About Alberta Sports Betting
- Legal Since 2021: Single-game sports betting became legal in Alberta on September 1, 2021, following federal changes to Canada’s Criminal Code.
- 4.7 Million Residents: Alberta has a population of around 4.7 million, giving it one of the largest potential betting markets in Western Canada.
- 18+ Can Legally Bet: Alberta’s legal betting age is 18, which is lower than in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia where the minimum is 19.
- $2.9 Billion in Gambling Revenue (2024): In 2024, Alberta generated over $2.9 billion in total gambling revenue, with online betting becoming one of the fastest-growing segments.
- 80+ Retail Betting Locations: There are more than 80 retail lottery outlets across the province, allowing for in-person bets on major sports events.
A Closer Look at the Top Sportsbooks in Alberta
NorthStar Bets
NorthStar Bets is one of the few truly Canadian sportsbooks out there. It was created here, built for Canadian sports fans, and it shows in every part of the experience. Despite there not being a dedicated online sports betting license for brands in the province yet, Alberta bettors already have full access, and it feels like a natural fit for anyone used to betting on home turf.
We had a much better experience at NorthStar compared to other non-Canadian sportsbooks. They consistently have the best odds anywhere in Alberta. 90% of the time when we compared odds with other brands, NorthStar Bets won and gave significantly better odds on most betting markets.
Additionally, users don’t just get great odds and markets, they also get picks, previews, and commentary from voices in Canadian sports media. It’s familiar, it’s homegrown, and it actually understands what bettors in provinces like Alberta care about and are looking for.
The welcome bonus is solid too, with $100 up for grabs as a 100% bonus on your first deposit. Plus if you’re a casino fan you can get 100 bonus spins. This deposit bonus comes with all the staples you'd expect from a top-tier sportsbook: CAD support, Interac payments, and a clean, no-nonsense layout that’s easy to navigate.
Quick Facts About NorthStar Bets Alberta
📱 App Store Rating: 4.0
📱 Google Play Rating: 3.9
💰 Welcome Offer: 100% deposit match up to $100 plus up to 100 bonus spins
✅ Promo Code: Not required
💸 Payout Speed: 24 to 48 hours
Sports Interaction
Sports Interaction is a longtime favorite among Canadian bettors. Built specifically for the Canadian market, it offers a user-friendly experience with all the sports and betting options you’d expect. From NHL and CFL to international soccer and UFC there are plenty of big betting opportunities.
Sports Interaction has also done a fantastic job with how the site has been designed. It’s one of the more stunning betting sites we have seen in Alberta and easy navigation, clear odds, and quick bet placement are some of the highlights. While it may not have some of the bells and whistles of newer platforms, it wins points for reliability and simplicity, which many Alberta players appreciate.
Quick Facts About Sports Interaction Alberta
📱 App Store Rating: 4.5
📱 Google Play Rating: 3.5
💰 Welcome Offer: 125% first deposit bonus up to $250
✅ Promo Code: Not required
💸 Payout Speed: 24 to 48 hours
BET99
BET99 is a Canadian only sportsbook. Meaning Canada is the only market they operate in. This is great for Canadians as they know they will get an authentic experience with a brand that is solely focused on them and not one that is trying to juggle 20 different countries at once. Alberta bettors will appreciate how closely the site aligns with Canadian sports culture, especially NHL coverage and CFL promos. The layout feels familiar and the sign-up process is straightforward.
The site runs regular boosted odds, parlays, and ongoing promos that appeal to both beginners and high-volume players. The welcome bonus is one of the biggest in Alberta, making this a must use site for players looking to make their money go further.
Quick Facts About BET99 Alberta
📱 App Store Rating: 4.4
📱 Google Play Rating: 4.3
💰 Welcome Offer: 100% first bet insurance up to $800
✅ Promo Code: Not required
💸 Payout Speed: 24 to 72 hours
TonyBet
TonyBet is a favorite among bonus hunters and live betting fans. The platform is clean and efficient, offering a strong selection of sports, decent odds, and a very generous welcome offer. For players in Alberta looking to turn a solid deposit into extended playtime, TonyBet delivers on value.
It also runs frequent reload offers and tournaments, especially within its casino section. While the sportsbook interface isn’t the most modern, it functions well and supports Interac, Visa, and crypto. Customer service is generally responsive, which helps round out the experience.
Quick Facts About TonyBet Alberta
📱 App Store Rating: 4.8
📱 Google Play Rating: 4.3
💰 Welcome Offer: 100% first deposit match up to $350
✅ Promo Code: Not required
💸 Payout Speed: 24 to 48 hours
Casumo
Casumo brings a bright and colorful interface that’s easy to use and surprisingly powerful. Originally known for its online casino, Casumo has developed a sportsbook that feels modern and user-first. It’s not as deep as some other books in terms of obscure markets, but it covers the big leagues well and is great for recreational bettors.
Its welcome bonus is one of the most unique in the market, offering a no-wagering requirement profit boost up to $1,000. That kind of promo appeals to players who don’t want to get stuck with rollover rules. Casumo also handles fast withdrawals and has a helpful customer support team. They are a well known global brand in the international betting industry and they have been nothing but amazing according to Albertan bettors.
Quick Facts About Casumo Alberta
📱 App Store Rating: 4.2
📱 Google Play Rating: 4.1
💰 Welcome Offer: 100% profit boost on your first bet up to $1,000
✅ Promo Code: Not required
💸 Payout Speed: 24 to 48 hours
Best Alberta Sportsbook According to Reddit
We spent some time digging through the Alberta subreddit to get a feel for what local bettors are actually using and recommending. Among the mix of opinions, one name came up more often than the rest: Sports Interaction.
A lot of Reddit users pointed to its easy-to-use layout and the fact that it covers just about every sport and competition you can think of. Whether you're into the NHL, CFL, UFC, or international soccer, the options are there. It also offers a solid range of betting markets like parlays, futures, and player props, which makes it appealing to more seasoned bettors.
One user summed it up by saying, "I use Sports Interaction. It's decent. They display the odds in fractional (some people don't like it), but you can do any sport or competition, lots of parlay options, futures and props." That kind of no-nonsense feedback shows that while the platform may not be flashy, it gets the job done and has earned trust from a lot of Alberta-based players.
That said, the subreddit wasn’t without a few mixed reviews. Some users felt the odds weren't always the most competitive, and a couple of posts mentioned delays with prop markets being released later than other sportsbooks. So while Sports Interaction is clearly popular, it’s worth knowing the pros and cons going in.
Still, if you’re after a sportsbook that’s been around a while, is made for Canadians, and comes recommended by everyday bettors in Alberta, Sports Interaction is definitely one to check out.
Best Alberta Sportsbook According to ChatGPT
We had a chat with our trusty sidekick ChatGPT to find out which sportsbook stands above the rest for Alberta bettors. One of the perks of asking an AI like ChatGPT is that it can scan through hundreds of reviews, forums, and expert opinions in seconds flat. It's like having a research assistant who never sleeps and never misses a detail.
After combing through all that info, ChatGPT came back with a clear answer: NorthStar Bets is the best sportsbook for players in Alberta. The number one reason? It's proudly Canadian. Not just in name, but in how it operates. From the banking options to the content, everything feels tailored to Canadians. That’s something most international sportsbooks just can’t replicate.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Alberta?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Alberta. As of 2025, residents aged 18 and older can legally place bets through the government-operated platform, PlayAlberta.ca, which is regulated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) .
In addition to PlayAlberta, many Albertans access internationally licensed online sportsbooks, often referred to as operating in the grey market. These platforms, such as TonyBet and Casumo, are not currently regulated by the AGLC but are legally accessible to Alberta residents. They are also hugely popular brands across the globe and completely safe to use, which is why we recommend them!
Alberta Sports Betting Licensing: Latest Updates
Here are all of the latest updates when it comes to sports betting and sportsbooks in Alberta. Since the very first mention of Bill 48, check out the biggest milestones that have been hit on the way to a fully legal and licensed gambling market in Alberta.
- April 23, 2025 - Projected Launch Timeline Announced
Officials projected that Alberta's regulated iGaming market could launch as early as late 2025 or early 2026, aligning with the province's efforts to modernize its gaming infrastructure.
- April 22, 2025 - Conservative Party's Continued Support
The Conservative Party, holding a majority in the Alberta legislature, reaffirmed its support for Bill 48, indicating a strong likelihood of the bill's passage and the establishment of a regulated iGaming market.
- April 21, 2025 - Advancement to Committee Stage
Bill 48 advanced to the committee stage, where it will undergo clause-by-clause review. This step is crucial for refining the bill's provisions and addressing any outstanding concerns before final approval.
- April 2024 - Alberta iGaming Corporation Proposed
The government shared more details about a new regulatory body that will oversee licensing, compliance, and consumer protection in Alberta's online betting market.
- March 2024 - Bill 48 Passes Second Reading
The iGaming Alberta Act successfully passed its second reading in the provincial legislature, moving it closer to becoming law. The bill now proceeds to the Committee of the Whole for detailed examination.
- November 2023 - Bill 48 Introduced in Legislature
The Alberta government introduced Bill 48, aiming to establish a regulated online gambling market. This legislation proposes the creation of the Alberta iGaming Corporation to oversee online gaming operations in the province.
How We Rate Alberta’s Sportsbooks
When we review sportsbooks for Alberta bettors, we keep things simple and focus on what actually matters to real players:
Safety and Trust: We only recommend sportsbooks that are properly licensed and have a solid reputation. If a site doesn’t feel legit or has a sketchy history, it’s off the list.
Odds and Betting Options: Good odds and a wide variety of markets make a big difference, especially if you like to bet on more than just the basics. We look for sportsbooks that offer plenty of choice, from the NHL to international leagues.
Ease of Use: A clean, user-friendly site or app makes betting way more enjoyable. We pay attention to how easy it is to place bets, find games, and manage your account.
Bonuses That Actually Help: Welcome offers are nice, but only if they’re fair. We check the fine print to make sure promos are worth claiming and not loaded with strings.
Fast, Hassle-Free Payments: Getting your money in and out smoothly is non-negotiable. We rate sportsbooks higher if they support Canadian-friendly payment methods like Interac and don’t drag their feet on payouts.
How to Use Alberta Sportsbooks
Getting started with an online sportsbook in Alberta is quick and straightforward. Whether you're going with a Canadian-focused option like NorthStar Bets or a well-known brand like BET99 or Sports Interaction, the process is almost always the same.
First, head to the sportsbook’s website or download their app. You’ll be asked to create an account by entering some basic details like your name, email, date of birth, and residential address. Make sure the info is accurate because you'll usually need to verify your identity to deposit or withdraw funds. Some sportsbooks may also ask you to confirm your location to ensure you're within Alberta or another eligible province.
Once your account is set up, you can choose a payment method to make your first deposit. Most sites support Interac, credit cards, and sometimes even crypto. At this point, you can also enter any available promo codes to claim a welcome bonus if one is being offered. After your deposit is confirmed, you're ready to browse the sports, check out the odds, and place your first bets.
Popular Alberta Sports Teams You Can Bet On
Calgary Flames (NHL)
Edmonton Oilers (NHL)
Calgary Stampeders (CFL)
Edmonton Elks (CFL)
Cavalry FC (CPL)
Calgary Roughnecks (NLL)
Popular Sports Events for Albertan Bettors
IIHF World Championship
- Dates: May 9–25, 2025
- Locations: Stockholm, Sweden, and Herning, Denmark
- Overview: The 2025 IIHF World Championship features 16 top national teams, including Canada, competing in a prestigious international tournament. The event offers numerous betting opportunities, from individual game outcomes to tournament futures
Junior Mixed Doubles Curling Championship
- Dates: May 6 – 11, 2025
- Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Overview: This junior-level championship brings together the top young mixed doubles teams from around the world. It’s a chance to see the next generation of curling talent in action, with fast-paced games and plenty of betting potential for those following the international scene.
Mobile Betting in Alberta
Mobile betting has quickly become the go-to choice for sports fans in Alberta who want the freedom to bet anytime, anywhere. Whether you're watching the game at home, out with friends, or on the move, placing a wager is as simple as pulling out your phone. You're not tied to a desktop or a specific location, which makes it a much more convenient option for everyday use.
Getting started is easy. Most sportsbooks let you register directly through your mobile browser or by downloading their app. Once your account is set up, you can deposit funds, explore betting markets, and place bets from your device. Many mobile platforms also offer live betting and in-game stats, which help you stay connected to the action in real time.
Albertans especially like mobile betting for the speed and flexibility it offers. There’s no need to line up, find a kiosk, or be near a computer. Everything can be done on your phone, including deposits, withdrawals, and tracking odds as they change. As the betting market in Alberta grows, mobile platforms are expected to get even better, with more features designed for how people actually like to bet.
Reviews of Alberta Online Sportsbooks
Other Types of Gambling in Alberta
Alberta offers more than just sports betting. The province has a wide range of legal gambling options, both online and in person, giving players lots of ways to try their luck.
Land Based Casinos: Alberta is home to more than 20 land-based casinos, scattered across cities like Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Red Deer. These casinos offer slot machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, poker rooms, and live entertainment. Popular spots include River Cree Resort and Casino, Pure Casino Calgary, and Starlight Casino Edmonton.
Online Casinos: Players can access online slots, table games, video poker, and instant win games. It’s the only regulated online casino option in the province as of now, and it’s open to all Alberta residents aged 18 and over.
Horse Racing and Off-Track Betting: Alberta has a small but active horse racing scene, with live races held at tracks like Century Mile in Edmonton and Century Downs near Calgary. There’s also off-track betting available at select locations throughout the province, along with online betting options for horse racing.
Lottery Games: Standard lottery products like Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, and scratch tickets are widely available through retailers across Alberta. These are run by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation and are among the most common forms of gambling in the province.
Poker: You can play live poker at several Alberta casinos, including Pure Casino Calgary, Pure Casino Edmonton, and Deerfoot Inn & Casino. These venues run cash games and tournaments regularly. Online poker is not officially regulated in Alberta yet, but many players still use international sites that accept Canadians.
Fantasy Sports: Daily fantasy sports are legal in Alberta. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel operate here, offering contests for NHL, NFL, NBA, and more. Traditional season-long fantasy leagues are also popular and fully legal.
Responsible Gambling & Player Protection
In Alberta, responsible gambling is taken seriously, with a range of tools and programs in place to help people stay in control. The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC), recommends that all players utilise features like deposit limits, time tracking and loss caps to encourage safer play. For those who feel their gambling is getting out of hand, there’s a voluntary self-exclusion program that blocks access to sportsbooks, casinos and racing venues for up to three years.
Albertans can also talk to trained advisors through the GameSense Info Line or contact the Alberta Health Services addiction helpline, which is available 24/7. These resources are all about keeping gambling fun, not harmful, and making sure players have the help they need if it ever stops feeling like a game. Find out more about responsible gambling in Canada here.
