Events

12 fantastic things to do in Edmonton this long weekend: April 18 to 20

Allison Stephen
Allison Stephen
|
Apr 17 2025, 1:00 pm
12 fantastic things to do in Edmonton this long weekend: April 18 to 20
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The Easter long weekend has arrived in Edmonton, and with warm spring weather in the forecast, it’s shaping up to be the perfect time to get out and enjoy all there is to do around our city.

From Edmonton’s 20th annual Poetry Festival to an outdoor dance party, check out these 12 fantastic things to do in YEG this weekend.

Downtown Defrost

What:Ā Get ready for Edmontonā€™s coolest winter party! The Downtown Defrost is back, celebrating 10 years of dance music and culture. With headliners like Channel Tres, Yaeji, and Neil Francis, this two-day festival in Churchill Square promises non-stop energy and epic vibes.

When:Ā April 18 to 19
Where:Ā Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost:Ā General admission ticketsĀ start at $118.48

Edmonton Poetry Festival

What: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Edmonton Poetry Festival is an annual celebration of poetry and spoken word in Edmonton and Alberta. Events are taking place throughout April, so you have plenty of chances to check out some incredible authors, artists, and organizations!

When:Ā April 2 to 27
Where:Ā Various venues across Edmonton
Cost:Ā Free and ticketed events

Edmontonā€™s International Beerfest

What:Ā Every year, beer lovers from around the world gather and toast to tradition, the future, and all things that are beer at the Edmonton International BeerFest. The event features hundreds of beers from around the world, eight bands, roving entertainment (stilt walkers, magicians, street performers), two stages with live entertainment, Beer School, and so much more.

When:Ā April 18 to 19
Where:Ā Edmonton Convention Centre ā€” 9797 Jasper Ave. NW
Cost:Ā TicketsĀ start at $22.01

Telus World of Science

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What:Ā Head over to the Telus World of Science this weekend, 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:Ā Open on weekends
Time:Ā 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost:Ā $25.95 regular adult admission

Elk Island National Park

What: Whether youā€™re hitting the trails, stargazing, or trying to see some buffalo, this is well worth the short drive out there. Why not enjoy the outdoors this weekend at this prestigious national park?

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

Visit the Royal Alberta Museum

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

When: Open on weekends
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where:Ā 9810 103a Ave. NW
Cost: $10 to $21; tickets can be foundĀ online

Muttart Conservatory

What: Be amazed at the stunning Muttart Conservatory, with each glass pyramid showcasing a different environment for plants from around the globe. Itā€™s a relaxing, insightful, beautiful experience and a lovely thing to do this weekend in Edmonton!

When:Ā Open on weekends
Time:Ā 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 9626 96a St. NW
Cost: $14.95 adult admission

Old Strathcona Farmers Market

What: Thereā€™s no better way to start your Saturday morning than a trip to the Old Strathcona Farmers Market. Grab a coffee, browse through the stalls, pick up a home-baked treat, and take a morning stroll down Whyte Avenue when youā€™re all finished.

When: Every Saturday
Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where:Ā 10310 83rd Ave. NW

Hit up the WEM World Waterpark

What: Itā€™ll feel like 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, itā€™s a prime thing to do this weekend in Edmonton.

When: Hours vary throughout the week
Where: 8882 170th St. NW
Cost:Ā $40 to $54; get tickets

Bountiful Farmers Market

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

When:Ā Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round
Time: Fridays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 3696 97th St. NW
Cost: 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:Ā Hours vary throughout the week
Where: 8882 170th St. NW
Cost:Ā $64 general admission; get tickets

Check out the 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 are all finished!

When: Open weekends
Time:Ā 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where:Ā 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton
Cost: $14; purchaseĀ online

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