12 incredible things to do in Edmonton this weekend: August 18 to 20
We can feel the summer beginning to wind down here in YEG, but that doesn’t mean the fun is coming to an end!
From Fringe Fest to a wild river raft race, check out these incredible things happening in Edmonton this weekend:
Alberta Avenue District Night Markets
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What:Â Each family-friendly and inclusive market offers different vendors, entertainment, and community partners to check out. There will be tons of vendors to grab a bite to eat, explore local spots, and sit and relax with friends.
When: August 18
Where: Mona Lisa Pub — 9606 118th Avenue
Cost:Â Free
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
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What:Â This massive celebration of theatre is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Enjoy 10 days of theatre, food, and community, all in the heart of Old Strathcona.
Where:Â Old Strathcona
When:Â August 17 to 27
Tickets: Find show tickets here
Go see a $2.99 movie at Cineplex
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What: Movies for just $2.99 are playing this summer at Cineplex theatres across Canada, running every Saturday morning throughout the month. This weekend, Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir – The Movie will be on the bargain big screen. A full listing of screening times and films is available on the official Cineplex website.
When: Saturday, August 19
Where:Â Various Cineplex locations
Edmonton Sourdough Raft Race
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What: The 64th annual Edmonton Sourdough Raft Race is set to take place on Sunday, August 20. This wild event sees DIY rafts of all shapes and sizes race down the North Saskatchewan River while fighting each other with water. It’s a great spectator sport, too!
Where:Â Terwillegar Park
When:Â August 20; The day begins with a pancake breakfast at 9 am
Cost:Â $2 for the breakfast
Chinatown Summer Festival
Chinatown Business Association
What:Â Enjoy performances, lucky draws, shops, food, drinks, and fun activities for kids at the Chinatown Summer Festival. This one-day event is free to attend and showcases the best this historic neighbourhood has to offer.
Where:Â 97th Street between 105A to 107th Avenue
When:Â Sunday, August 20 from 11 am to 7:30 pm
Cost:Â Free
Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
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What: There’s no better start to your Saturday morning than with a trip to the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market or any of the incredible markets Edmonton is home to. Grab a coffee, browse through the stalls, pick up something home-baked, and take a morning stroll down Whyte Avenue when you’re finished.
Fort Edmonton Park
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What: Fort Edmonton Park is the largest living history museum in Canada, and it’s the perfect long weekend activity. Visitors can experience the history of Edmonton before their very eyes, with a recreation of a fort from 1846 that was on the grounds during that time period to streets detailing each time period from 1885 to 1920.
Where:Â Fort Edmonton Park
When:Â Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Cost: $26.20 adult admission; tickets here
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
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What: Just a short 40-minute drive east of Edmonton, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an open-air museum telling the story of a Ukrainian settlement in east-central Alberta from 1892 to 1930. Its history is brought to life through interpreters, costumes, museums, food, and more.
Where:Â 195041 Highway 16 East, Lamont County
When:Â Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Cost:Â $15 adult admission
Edmonton Pride Festival
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What:Â Celebrate Pride in August with the Edmonton Pride Festival! Don’t miss the chance to witness Alberta’s first 2-Spirit Powwow, then step back in time at Y2K @ Churchill, featuring a 90s-themed dance party with the legendary PROZZAK. It’ll be a blast just outside Edmonton City Hall!
Where:Â Sir Winston Churchill Square
When:Â August 18 to 26
Cost:Â Varies
Zoobrew 2023
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What:Â This one-of-a-kind experience grants you access to the Edmonton Valley Zoo in an 18+ setting. Try some craft brews, enjoy live music, and learn about all of the zoo’s incredible residents with educational talks and demonstrations throughout the evening.
Where: Edmonton Valley Zoo – 13315 Buena Vista Road
When:Â August 19 from 5 to 11 pm
Cost:Â Tickets cost $33.96; get them here
Elk Island National Park
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What: Whether you’re hitting the trails, stargazing, or trying to see some buffalo, this national park is always worth the short drive out there. Why not enjoy the outdoors at this prestigious national park? It’s sure going to be a nice weekend to do it!
When:Â Open year-round
Where:Â 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost:Â Free; Parks Canada pass is required to enter
Go swim in a lake
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What: As we head into the final stretch of summer, take advantage of some gorgeous nearby lakes as something free and fun to do. Check out our roundup of some of the best nearby lakes and enjoy those sandy beaches and cool waters.