It’s the weekend before Halloween, Edmonton! And that can only mean one thing- we’re about to completely shift into spooky mode. Why do we love Halloween so much? It’s a good question, and one we’re not quite sure we know the answer to. What we do know is that we want to share the spirit with you.

Here are the 10 best things to do in Edmonton this weekend.

DARK: FORT EDMONTON PARK

This year, Fort Edmonton Park has gone with 3 different concepts, each of which is spooky in its own right. Check out ‘Under the Big Top’ to see Midway attractions (and employees) that have taken a decidedly wrong turn. Or, get a little industrial at ‘Core Industries’, as you try and retrieve a fungus sample that has ‘mutated’ the workers inside. Our top pick, though, is ‘Blood Harvest’, which is set on a farm and has some serious ‘Children of the Corn’ vibes going for it.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 7000 143 Street NW
Cost: $45 for GA

DEADMONTON HAUNTED HOUSE

Alongside Dark, the super-popular Deadmonton Haunted House has returned, with not one but two super scary experiences. Warped is their main attraction, and offers a twisted look at Area 51, while Dusk is an outdoor experience inspired by a New Orleans cemetery haunt.

When: On throughout the weekend
Where: 7031 Gateway Boulevard
Cost: $29.99+

GO FOR A HAUNTED HIKE

After a years-long hiatus, this terrifying haunted experience is back! Now located in Vegreville, the Haunted HIke will be taking place indoors, as guests wind through a terrifying warehouse space. Plus, it comes from the original creators, so you know it’s good.

When: On throughout the weekend
Where: 5228 52 Avenue, Vegreville
Cost: $15

SPOOK YOURSELF ON A GHOST TOUR

Feel more like dipping your toes into spooky season? A great option comes from Edmonton Ghost Tours, which offers a variety of tours showcasing the less-than-savoury history of the city. But hey, if you’re looking for a great mix of spooky and informative, this is it!

When: Tours throughout the weekend
Where: 10322 83rd Avenue
Cost: $22.23

GET YOURSELF A COSTUME

Still looking for a Halloween costume this year? Of course, everybody you know will be trying to get their hands on a Squid Game-esque fit, but that’s just the tip of the 2021 costume iceberg. If you need a little more inspiration, we’ve rounded up some of the best options.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

WATCH A HALLOWEEN MOVIE

While staying at home at binging Netflix is always an option, it’s fun to be able to see some Halloween classics on the silver screen. The Metro Cinema is showing some absolutely top tier movies this weekend, including the original Bride of Frankenstein and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2.

When: Showtimes throughout the weekend
Where: 8712 109 Street
Cost: $13

CHECK OUT A GHOST TOWN

Alberta has got no shortage of spooky ghost towns to check out, and Edmonton is a great launching point! See some abandoned buildings, travel down some backroads, and maybe share a few creepy stories of your own with your friends!

Where: Click the link above for our picks

VISIT A HAUNTED PUMPKIN U-PICK FARM

Finally, for a truly family-friendly option we’ve got Prairie Gardens! This massive u-pick farm just outside Vancouver offers everything from pumpkin displays to ghost town walks and even a pumpkin cannon. If we get some nice weather this week, this is a great option.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 56311 Lily Lake Road, Bon Accord
Cost: $17+

CHECK OUT AN IN-PERSON PLAY

The dark comedy Bears is set to land later at the Citadel Theatre this week. The show uses a “stunning cast of performers and dancers to tell the story of one man’s perilous quest through the Rockies”. Sounds fun, and kinda spooky!

When: Showtimes throughout the weekend
Where: 9828 101 A Avenue
Cost: $34.65+

HIT THE EDMONTON CRAFT BEER FEST

After an extended hiatus, this amazing craft beer fest is back this week! Go taste some of the best beers from right here in Edmonton and around the world, with delicious food to go alongside it. Anyone who’s been will tell you- this is a great option.

When: Starts Friday, October 22nd
Where: 7515 118 Avenue NW
Cost: $19.99+

That’s our roundup for this weekend, folks! Have fun out there and stay safe!