15 awesome things to do this weekend in Edmonton: Jan. 2 to 4
We’ve reached the first weekend of 2026, and whether you’re in the mood for something chill to do or want to keep the New Year’s party going, there’s plenty to do around Edmonton.
From dinner theatre and NHL games to the last chances to see magical holiday light displays, here are 15 awesome things to do around the city this weekend.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Philadelphia Flyers
View this post on Instagram
What: Grab your jersey, head down to Rogers Place, and cheer on the Oilers this weekend as they face off against the Philadelphia Flyers!
When:Â Saturday, Jan. 3 at 1:30 p.m.
Where: Rogers Place — 10220 104th Ave. NW
Cost:Â Ticket prices start at $140 each; find them online
Candy Cane Lane
View this post on Instagram
What:Â 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 for one final time this Friday evening.
Where: 148th Street from 99th to 92nd Avenue
When: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, to Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
Tickets: Free
Barbie and Ken Save Christmas
View this post on Instagram
What: Enjoy dinner and a show this weekend! Ken is usually happy to cheer on Barbie from the sidelines, but things get real when she suddenly disappears along with all her big plans for the Christmas party. Can Ken learn to fly a plane and save Christmas? And even bigger, can he get over his fear of heights?
Where: Jubilations Dinner Theatre —  2061, 8882 170 St. NW
When:Â Runs Saturday, Dec. 6 to Saturday, Jan. 10
Cost:Â Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online.
Zoominescence
View this post on Instagram
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: Open until Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026
Where: Edmonton Valley Zoo — 13315 Buena Vista Rd. NW
Cost:Â Find tickets online
Go tobogganing
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
What: The Canadian Tire Magic of Lights Holiday Display is on for one final weekend 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:Â Pass prices vary and can be purchased online
Hit up the WEM World Waterpark
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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:Â Lights on until the end of January
Where: Alberta Legislature – 10800 97th Ave. NW, Edmonton
Cost:Â Free
Bountiful Farmers Market
View this post on Instagram
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:Â Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round
Where:Â 3696 97th St. NW
Admission:Â Free
Go ice skating
View this post on Instagram
What: Lace up those skates and wear your warmest winter jacket. Skating during the holidays is perfect, and there are several spots across Edmonton you can go to. It’s some of the best fun you can have for free in the city.
Where:Â Various locations
Tickets:Â Free
Royal Alberta Museum
View this post on Instagram
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
- You might also like:
- Alberta to pilot 120 km/h speed limits on select rural highways
- Edmonton traffic really isn't that bad compared to most cities around the world
- 6 stunning buildings in Edmonton that'll have you snapping photos
Art Gallery of Alberta
View this post on Instagram
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
Cost: $13.33 adult admission
Elk Island National Park
View this post on Instagram
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:Â $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:Â Hours vary throughout the week
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: $64 general admission; get tickets online
Telus World of Science
View this post on Instagram
What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this January, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain and have plenty of fun doing it.
When:Â Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Mondays
Where:Â 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost:Â $24.95 general adult admission