14 outstanding things to do in Edmonton this week: May 4 to 8
The Edmonton Riverboat is back on the water for its first sail of the season this week, and if that isn’t a sure sign that summer is on the way, we don’t know what is.
From craft fairs and cat festivals to science exhibitions and more, check out these 14 outstanding things to do in our city.
Oddbird Art & Craft Fair
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What: Edmonton’s quirkiest indie art market, OddBird Art & Craft Fair, is flocking to Old Strathcona this May. This spring lineup features 65+ artists and community arts organizations from Edmonton and beyond. Expect colourful ceramics, intricate beadwork, handcrafted textiles, art prints, indie literature, and so much more.
When: Friday, May 8 to Sunday, May 10, 2026
Where: Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre — 8426 Gateway Blvd. NW
Cost: $5 admission
Dark Matters: Science is Dope
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What: Explore the science behind altered states, everyday cravings, and the plants and compounds that influence the mind. Interactive activities, expert talks, laser shows, liquid nitrogen ice cream, an artisan market, and more make this a night you won’t want to miss.
When: Friday, May 8, 2026, from 7 p.m. to close
Where: Telus World of Science — 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: Tickets cost $34.95 or $45.90 and can be purchased online
Jabulani Arts Festival
Theatre Network
What: Celebrate creativity, connection, and culture at the third annual Jabulani Arts Festival hosted at the iconic The Roxy Theatre. This vibrant four-day festival brings together African, Caribbean, and Black artists in a powerful showcase of music, visual arts, dance, poetry, storytelling, and interactive theatre.
When: Thursday, April 30 to Wednesday, May 6
Where: The Roxy Theatre – Theatre Network — 10708 124th St. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
Cruise on the Edmonton Riverboat
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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: Opens for the season May 7
Where: 9734 98th Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
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.
Right now, you can step into a dog’s world in “Dogs! A Science Tail,” an interactive feature exhibition running this summer. Discover how dogs experience life through their powerful senses and explore the science behind the remarkable bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
Through hands-on exhibits and playful challenges, you can train a virtual dog to follow your commands, test your speed against some of the world’s fastest dogs, and explore how dogs see, hear, and smell the world around them. The exhibition runs until Monday, Sept. 7.
When: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Mondays
Where: 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: $24.95 general adult admission
Edmonton International Cat Festival
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What: This event combines elements of already-existing cat-themed events to create a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating all things cat-related. It’s like part cat show, cat/pet expo, and cat conference, all while supporting animal rescue organizations. Plus, there will be a TON of cats and kittens at events for you to see, cuddle and hold.
When: Saturday, May 2 to 31, 2026
Where: Various locations around Edmonton
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
The Citadel Theatre: Cyrano de Bergerac
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What: This bold reimagining of a timeless classic brings a fresh, witty edge to a story of love, poetry, and self-discovery. This show follows a brilliant and fiercely romantic soul whose sharp wit and swordplay mask a tender heart and deep insecurities. Filled with daring duels, lyrical wordplay, and unspoken longing, this adaptation delves into the complexities of courage and vulnerability in a world fixated on appearances.
When: Saturday, May 2 to 24, 2026
Where: The Citadel Theatre: Citadel Theatre — 9828 101A Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
Visit 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.
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
Bountiful Farmers Market
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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
Muttart Conservatory
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What: Be amazed at the stunning Muttart Conservatory, with each glass pyramid showcasing a different environment for plants from around the globe. It’s a relaxing, insightful, and beautiful experience and a lovely thing to do in Edmonton.
When: Hours vary
Where: Muttart Conservatory — 9626 96A St. NW
Admission: $14.95 adult admission
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, no matter the season. Explore over 80 km of trails while spotting bison, elk, and hundreds of bird species.
When: Hours vary
Where: Improvement District No. 13, Alta.
Cost: Free admission
Royal Alberta Museum
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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
Hit up the WEM World Waterpark
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What: It’ll feel like a bit of a tropical getaway when you visit the World Waterpark at West Edmonton Mall. Shoot down some massive slides or relax in the wave pool. Whatever you choose, it’s a prime way to spend the day.
When: Hours vary throughout the week
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be found online
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
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: $64 general admission; get tickets online