16 amazing things to do in Edmonton this week: Dec. 29 to Jan. 2

Dec 28 2025, 4:00 pm

As we prepare to say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026 this week, there is no shortage of things to see and do around Edmonton, whether you need to get out of the house or want something fun to do with friends and family.

From hockey games and festive light displays to markets and more, check out these 16 amazing events happening in Edmonton this week.

Boston Bruins vs. Edmonton Oilers

 

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What: Grab your jersey, head down to Rogers Place, and cheer on the Oilers this week as they face off at home against the Boston Bruins for one final time in 2025!

When: Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Rogers Place — 10220 104th Ave. NW
Cost: Varies; find tickets online

Candy Cane Lane

What: Candy Cane Lane is one of Edmonton’s must-see holiday events and has become a staple over its more than 50-year history. You can check it out from your vehicle or walk along the sidewalks and admire each home’s decadent displays.

Where: 148th Street from 99th to 92nd Avenue
When:
Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, to Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
Tickets: Free

Go ice skating

 

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What: Lace up those skates and wear your warmest winter jacket. Skating during the holidays is perfect, and there are several spots across Edmonton you can go to. It’s some of the best fun you can have for free in the city.

Where: Various locations
Tickets: Free

Edmonton Symphony Orchestra: Hollywood for the Holidays

What: Hear your favourite music from the big screen brought to life in concert, from KPop Demon Hunters to Wicked to The Godfather, plus the Disney hits you know by heart. Vocal powerhouse Ariana Whitlow returns to the Winspear stage to light up your favourite movies with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. If you love movies, this is pure magic for every generation and a night your whole family will be talking about!

When: Monday, Dec. 29 to 30, 2025
Where: Winspear Centre — 4 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Cost: 
Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online

Go tobogganing

What: Whether you’re an adult or a child, tobogganing is one heck of a way to pass the time during the winter. Check out our roundup of some of the best tobogganing hills in Edmonton to visit for some sliding fun. Nothing beats some sledding over the holiday and winter break in Edmonton, that’s for sure.

Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta

 

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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)

WEM World Waterpark New Year’s Eve Beach Ball

 

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What: Ring in the new year at World Waterpark with the largest indoor fireworks show for an unforgettable start to 2026! Bring your family and friends to enjoy endless live entertainment, a delicious buffet, character appearances, and a massive hourly beach ball drop.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m.
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be found online

Christmas lights at the Alberta Legislature

What: For more than 30 years, the grounds have been a festive haven for many, with a massive Christmas tree placed on the grounds and numerous surrounding trees being adorned with lights. It’s a lovely spot to go for a stroll with friends, on a date, or for the perfect holiday Instagram photo. Check it out ASAP.

When: Evenings until the end of January
Where: Alberta Legislature – 10800 97th Ave. NW, Edmonton
Cost: Free

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
Cost: Free

Telus World of Science

 

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What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this week, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain, and so much more!

When: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Mondays
Where: 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: $24.95 general adult admission

Galaxyland

 

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What: You can never go wrong with a trip to the amusement park, and Galaxyland is North America’s largest indoor amusement park. It features 27 Hasbro-themed rides and more for all ages.

When: Hours vary throughout the week
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: $64 general admission; get tickets online

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

Elk Island National Park

 

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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

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