11 fantastic things to do in Edmonton this week: May 5 to 9

May 4 2025, 1:00 pm

We’re heading into the first full week of May, and it’s feeling increasingly like summer in Edmonton, especially as the Edmonton Riverboat prepares to set sail for the season.

Check out these 11 fantastic things to do in Edmonton this week, from arts and craft fairs to film festivals and beyond.

NorthwestFest

 

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What: This massive film festival celebrates real-life stories at the Metro Cinema. Check out some of the hottest new non-fiction films in Canada’s longest-running documentary film festival.

Where: Metro Cinema — 8712 109th St. NW
When: May 8 to 15
Cost: $105 for a festival pass; individual ticket prices vary.

OddBird Art & Craft Fair

What: OddBird Art & Craft Fair is hosting a Spring Fair this weekend, with artists, designers and makers from Edmonton and beyond serving up all things weird and wonderful. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, the timing of this quirky fair couldn’t be better!

When: May 9 to 11
Where: Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre — 8426 Gateway Blvd. NW
Cost: $5 admission

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

Take a 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.

Where: 9734 98th Ave. NW
When: Open seven days a week beginning May 5
Cost: Starts at $75 for adults (buffet included); book online

Telus World of Science

What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this week, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain by navigating through mazes, and try your hand at some awesome games and challenges!

When: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays
Where: Telus World of Science — 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: $25.95 regular adult admission

Elk Island National Park

What: Whether you’re hitting the trails, stargazing, or trying to see some buffalo, this park is well worth the short drive out — no matter the season! Why not enjoy the outdoors at this prestigious national park?

When: Open year-round
Where: 54401 Range Rd. 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: A Parks Canada pass is required to enter

Art Gallery of Alberta

What: Wander through the thoughtful and beautiful artwork at the Art Gallery of Alberta and marvel at each exhibit. Grab a bite at a downtown Edmonton restaurant when you’re all finished!

When: Wednesdays to Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq., Edmonton
Cost: $14; purchase online

Hit up the WEM World Waterpark

What: It’ll feel like a bit of a summer vacation 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 thing to do this week.

When: Hours vary throughout the week
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St.
Cost: $40 to $54 for admission

Visit the Royal Alberta Museum

What: Spend the day exploring Alberta’s fascinating history! Stand beneath a mammoth, meet a tarantula, or dig into archaeological finds at RAM. Feed your curiosity with millions of years of Alberta’s remarkable stories.

When: Open year-round, Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays
Where: 9810 103a Ave. NW
Tickets: Admission ranges from $10 to $21

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

Galaxyland

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

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