17 awesome things to do in Edmonton this week: Sept. 29 to Oct. 3

Sep 28 2025, 2:00 pm

As we move from September into October, Edmonton’s spooky season has arrived, and there are tons of frightening events to enjoy city-wide.

From Dark to Deadmonton and everything in between, here are 17 things to check out around the city this week.

Canadian Finals Rodeo 2025

What: The Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR), powered by ATB Financial, is stampeding into town. CFR 51 brings together top rodeo athletes vying for $1.65 million in prize money. Witness electrifying showdowns as elite athletes battle for glory. Immerse yourself in the heart-pounding action and vibrant Western vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or craving a wild adventure, CFR delivers unforgettable thrills and a taste of Alberta’s rich heritage.

When: Wednesday, Oct. 1 to 4, 2025
Where: Rogers Place — 10220 104th Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices start at $54.23; find them online

Observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

truth and reconciliation logo

City of Edmonton

What: The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation takes place on Tuesday, Sept. 30, and to help residents observe and reflect, the City of Edmonton has put together a guide with events and resources. And if you’re still looking for an orange shirt, we’ve highlighted where you can buy one made by the Orange Shirt Society.

Edmonton International Film Festival

What: Enjoy the best in short and feature-length cinema when the Edmonton International Film Festival returns later this week.

Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Art Gallery of Alberta (@youraga)

What: Right in the heart of downtown, the Art Gallery of Alberta 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.

When: Open Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Fridays to Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Cost: $13.33 regular adult admission (free from 4 to 7 p.m. on the final Thursday of every month)

Dark at Fort Edmonton Park

What: Edmonton’s Halloween Festival returns for its eighth year as Fort Edmonton Park transforms into the city’s largest haunted experience, featuring more haunts than anywhere else in Edmonton.

When: Friday, Oct. 3 to Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025
Where: Fort Edmonton Park — 7000 143rd St. NW
Cost: $50; find tickets online

Life of Pi

What: Follow the story of Pi Patel, a young boy who survives a shipwreck and ends up stranded in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with nothing but his wits, his faith — and a Royal Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. What unfolds is a breathtaking tale of survival, resilience, and the remarkable strength of the human spirit.

When: Saturday, Sept. 13 to Oct. 5
Where: Citadel Theatre — 9828 101A Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary; find them online

Deadmonton

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Deadmonton House (@deadmontonhouse)

What: Ready to get scared? Edmonton’s iconic Deadmonton is back, and the spooky haunted houses at this event will send chills down your spine. This year, the terrifying event has three new themes to be frightened by, including the House of Madame Tortura, Danse Macabre, and Biogen Organics: The Human Experiment.

When: Friday, Sept. 26 to Saturday, Nov. 8; the Lights Out event is Nov. 7 to 8
Where: 9300 47th St. NW, Edmonton
Cost: Regular admission to all shows is $43.99 to $48.99; reserve tickets online

Edmonton Corn Maze

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Edmonton Corn Maze (@yegcornmaze)

What: Grab your friends and family and get lost in a cornfield, because the Edmonton Corn Maze is open with a brand-new design for the season.

When: Open until Monday, Oct. 27, 2025
Where: 26171 Garden Valley Rd., Spruce Grove
Cost: Prices vary, and tickets can be found online

Bountiful Farmers’ Market

What: Bountiful Farmers’ Market offers a wide variety of fresh goods, including local vegetables and meat, coffee roasters, and beer and wine. It also has an ethnic food hall, a children’s play area, live entertainment, and more.

When: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round
Where: 3696 97th St. NW
Admission: Free

Cruise on the Edmonton Riverboat

What: For three decades, Edmonton’s iconic riverboat has offered unparalleled views of the Edmonton city skyline and the stunning river valley. This incredible, 90-minute excursion lets you indulge in fantastic dining options, drinks, and some awesome live music, and you get to experience Edmonton from a whole new vantage point.

When: On weekends until the end of October
Where:
 9734 98th Ave. NW
Cost: Starts at $75 for adults (buffet included); book online

The Music of Star Wars

What: Join the quest to a galaxy far, far away with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. Under the direction of conductor Bob Bernhardt, the ESO will perform the iconic Oscar-winning music of John Williams and Michael Giacchino and take you on a galactic musical journey!

When: Oct. 1 to 2 and Oct. 28 to 29, 2025
Where: Winspear Centre — 4 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary; find them online

Bike/hike in the River Valley

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 km of maintained pathways and 20 major parks, the River Valley is a gem and a natural wonder for all to enjoy. It’s the perfect place to spend a bright summer afternoon.

Happy Hour at Muttart Conservatory


What: Each Wednesday from 5 to 9 p.m., you can explore the stunning and ever-changing displays of the conservatory’s glass pyramids while sipping on a cocktail or two. It’s insightful, entertaining, and a lovely activity this week.

When: Wednesday evenings from 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Muttart Conservatory — 9626 96A St. NW
Cost: $14.95 for adult admission

Royal Alberta Museum

What: Marvel at the Royal Alberta Museum’s vast collections. From its archaeology, Indigenous studies, and work-life industry sections to Earth and Life Sciences that will wow you, it’s one of the most intriguing things to do in Edmonton.

When: Hours vary 
Where:
9810 103A Ave. NW
Cost: $10 to $21; tickets can be found online

Streetcar Cask Series

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Common (@thecommonyeg)

What: Hop aboard! One of Edmonton’s most exciting experiences combines all things beer and all things Edmonton on a scenic ride aboard one of the city’s historic streetcars. Every Thursday evening from May to October, The Common features a rotating lineup of Alberta breweries showcasing their beer. Each trip promises a unique brew available exclusively on the streetcar.

When: Every Thursday
Time: 6:45 and 8 p.m.
Location: 10910 100th Ave. NW, Edmonton
Admission: $63.10

Elk Island National Park

What: Located just 35 minutes east of Edmonton, Elk Island National Park offers rolling hills, glassy lakes, and some of the best stargazing around. Explore over 80 km of trails or paddle the lakes while spotting bison, elk, and hundreds of bird species.

When: Open 24 hours
Where: Improvement District No. 13, Alta.
Cost: Free admission until Sept. 2

ADVERTISEMENT