9 free and fun things to do in Edmonton this spring
It feels great to get out and enjoy all of this extra sunshine now that spring is on its way, but these days it seems like we can’t even get past the end of the driveway without having to pay for something.
For those looking to get up to something this season but don’t want to put a dent in their pocket, check out some of these awesome and totally free things to do in Edmonton this spring.
MARCH Equinox Illumination
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What:Â Join CO*LAB for the 10-year anniversary of GLOW, now named MARCH. For one night, the streets of downtown Edmonton will light up with lovingly crafted and stunningly beautiful lantern creatures! After the parade, catch a full night of performances.
The parade night kicks off with a free mini lantern-making workshop from 5 to 7:30 p.m., so be sure to show up early.
When: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Where: CO*LAB — 9641 102A Ave. NW
Go for a stroll around the Alberta Legislature
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What: Gorgeous historic architecture? Check. Loads of natural beauty? You got it! The Alberta Legislature is a lovely place to spend time in Edmonton for free, especially once spring rolls around and the surrounding grounds turn lush and green. Stroll the manicured gardens, relax by the fountains, and while you’re there, take a free tour to admire the building’s beautiful interior.
Where:Â 10800 97th Ave. NW
ArtBus 2026
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What:Â Hop on the Artbus and discover the creative side of downtown! ArtBus is a free, all-ages, one-day event that takes riders across downtown Edmonton to galleries and artist-run centres via special ETS buses. On March 21st, hop on at any designated Art Stop across downtown Edmonton to experience art, get creative with hands-on activities, and shop local.
When: Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 12 to 5 p.m.
Where:Â Various stops around downtown Edmonton
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UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival
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What: Western Canada’s largest multi-day Ukrainian festival, UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival, returns to Borden Park this May. UFest is a free, two-day celebration of Ukrainian culture, food, music, dance, and plenty of fun.
Hundreds of performers, including dancers, choirs, and bands, take the stage for non-stop entertainment all day long. The festival also features Ukrainian food vendors, food trucks, cultural workshops, beer gardens, a vendor marketplace, and a kids zone.
When: Friday, May 29 to 30, 2026
Where: Borden Park — 7507 Borden Park Rd. NW
Explore murals in Old Strathcona
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What: Old Strathcona is known for its eclectic, artsy vibe, and the Old Strathcona Business Association has put together an illustrated guide to more than 70 works of art scattered through its side streets and alleyways. Pack yourself a snack at home and spend the day exploring the vibrant works of art. Each mural is numbered on the map, so you can easily track down exactly what you’re looking for.
Go for a hike
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What: Spending time in the great outdoors is great for your health and wallet, but with all of this snow melting, we think we’ll pass on trekking through rough and muddy terrain for now. For those dying to get outdoors, however, check out our curated list of 10 easy hikes around the Edmonton region.
Help with the River Valley Clean-Up
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What: Help give the river valley a fresh start at the annual River Valley Clean-Up at Emily Murphy Park. It’s free, a great way to get outside, get some steps, and help out the community by sprucing up one of Edmonton’s most beloved river valley parks. Clean-up kits are provided, and volunteers can enjoy a free BBQ and prizes afterward (pre-registration is required).
When: Sunday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to noon p.m.
Where: Emily Murphy Park — 11904 Emily Murphy Park Rd. NW
Free admission at the Art Gallery of Alberta
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What: Right in the heart of downtown, the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) has been Edmonton’s go-to for art and culture for 100 years. With rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events, it’s the perfect spot to get inspired, learn something new, or just soak up some creativity. The Art Gallery of Alberta offers free admission from 4 to 7 p.m. on the last Thursday of every month.
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Bike/hike in the River Valley
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What: Edmonton’s River Valley is vast, and boy, are we ever lucky to have the largest urban park in North America. With more than 160 kilometres of maintained pathways and 20 major parks, the River Valley is a gem and a natural wonder for all. It’s the perfect place to spend a bright spring afternoon.