EventsChristmasHoliday

20 outstanding things to do in Edmonton this week: Dec. 1 to 5

Allison Stephen
Allison Stephen
|
Nov 30 2025, 4:00 pm
20 outstanding things to do in Edmonton this week: Dec. 1 to 5
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December has officially arrived in Edmonton, and as we gear up for what looks to be a cheery holiday season ahead, there’s no shortage of fun to be had around Edmonton this week.

From holiday markets and craft fairs to art parties and festive light-ups, check out these 20 outstanding events happening in Edmonton this week.

Art Party: Studio

 

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What: Head to the AGA on Dec. 5 for an unforgettable Art Party: Studio! Skip the usual holiday party—dance, explore immersive exhibitions and live figure drawings, join art battles and workshops, and sip cocktails late into the night.

Whether you’re there for the art or the vibes, this is one holiday night you won’t forget.

When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Where: Art Gallery of Alberta — 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Cost: Tickets cost $100 per person

A Christmas Carol

What: David van Belle’s adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic is making its return to the Citadel. Watch the story unfold of Ebenezer Scrooge as he faces a single transformative night, guided by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Step into the nostalgic charm of the mid-1950s with beloved tunes like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “White Christmas,” and immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the season.

When: Nov. 22 to Dec. 24
Where: Citadel Theatre — 9828 101A Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online

Oddbird Art & Craft Winter Fair

What: Edmonton’s quirkiest new indie art market, OddBird Art & Craft Fair, is flocking to Old Strathcona this winter! With over 100 talented artists and community arts groups from Edmonton and beyond, this is your chance to snag one-of-a-kind finds and support local creativity.

When: Friday, Dec. 5 to 7
Where: Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre — 8426 Gateway Blvd. NW
Cost: $5 admission

Butterdome Holiday Craft Sale

What: The Butterdome Holiday Craft Sale has been Edmonton’s premier holiday shopping event since 1990 and is one of Alberta’s largest craft sales.

When: Thursday, Dec. 4 to 7
Where: Butterdome, University of Alberta — 87th Avenue and 114th St. NW
Cost: Ticket prices range from $5 to $10

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)

Cheer on the 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 against the Minnesota Wild and Seattle Kraken.

When: Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. vs. Minnesota and Thursday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. vs. Seattle
Where: Rogers Place — 10220 104th Ave. NW
Cost: Varies; find tickets 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

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: Lights up Wednesday, Dec. 3
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

Edmonton Christmas Market

What: Returning for its seventh year, the Edmonton Christmas Market is three weeks of market venues with local Alberta vendors, light displays, culinary experiences, roving performances, live theatre, family-friendly workshops, tasty treats, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a healthy dollop of holiday cheer.

When: Saturday, Nov. 29 to Sunday, Dec. 21
Where: Fort Edmonton Park — 7000 143rd St. NW
Cost: Starts at $20.95; find tickets online

Telus World of Science

 

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What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this November, 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. every day except Mondays
Where: 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: $24.95 general adult admission

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.

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; 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

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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