13 outstanding things to do this weekend in Edmonton: Dec. 26 to 28

Dec 25 2025, 3:00 pm

We’re into that strange period of the year between Christmas and New Year’s, where time (and weekends) don’t feel real, but if you’re looking for something to do besides stuffing yourselves full of leftovers, we’ve got you covered.

From festive light displays to PWHL games and beyond, here are 13 outstanding things to do around the city this weekend.

PWHL Takeover Tour: Vancouver Goldeneyes vs. Minnesota Frost

 

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What: Hockey lovers, are you ready?! The PWHL Takeover Tour returns to the Edmonton ice on Dec. 27, as the Vancouver Goldeneyes face off against the Minnesota Frost for an exciting neutral-site matchup. This marks the second time Edmonton will host a neutral-site game on the PWHL Takeover Tour™️, following a sold-out matchup during the tour’s inaugural season in February.

When: Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025
Where: Rogers Place — 10220 104th Ave. NW
Tickets: Start at $40

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

Zoominescence

What: Zoominescence, hosted by The Valley Zoo Development Society and presented by The King’s University, offers thousands of Edmontonians and winter travellers a special opportunity to visit the Edmonton Valley Zoo at night and see it in a whole new light. Make the most of December at Zoominescence as the zoo is transformed into a magical nighttime exhibition, featuring artistic animal light installations and custom local art pieces, all showcased within the unique and picturesque setting of the Edmonton Valley Zoo. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

When: Friday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026
Where: Edmonton Valley Zoo — 13315 Buena Vista Rd. NW
Cost: Find tickets 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.

Canadian Tire Magic of Lights


What: The Canadian Tire Magic of Lights Holiday Display is back at RAD Torque Raceway. Enjoy a cozy drive-through adventure from the warmth of your vehicle as over two million twinkling LED lights light up 2.5 kilometres of pure holiday magic.

When: Nov. 20 to Jan. 3, 2026
Where: RAD Torque Raceway — 50342 Range Rd. 253, Leduc County
Cost: Pass prices vary and can be purchased 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
Admission: Free

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

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 Square, Edmonton
Cost: $13.33 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. 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
Cost: $17.50 for family/group admission

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

Telus World of Science

 

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What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this December, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain and have plenty of fun doing it.

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

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