The dog days of summer are here, folks! And naturally, we’re going to squeeze all the fun out of them that we possibly can. Luckily, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in and around Edmonton, whether you’re looking for concerts, festivals, arts & culture… the list goes on, you know the deal!
Here are the best things to do around Edmonton this August.
FESTIVALS/LIVE EVENTS/CONCERTS
EDMONTON FOLK MUSIC FESTIVAL
Easily the biggest draw of the month, the Edmonton Folk Music Fest is coming back in a big, big way this summer. Country, indie, rock, folk (of course)… there are dozens upon dozens of amazing names coming, so we recommend getting a full pass to make the most of it.
When: August 4th to August 7th
Where: Gallagher Park, Edmonton
Cost: $90+ for GA, tickets on sale June 4th
ESO OUTDOORS
Less a festival and more a series, ESO Outdoors is also coming back this August. Treat yourself to a concert in the heart of the city, enjoy one in one of the suburbs with the family- whatever you pick, you’re in for a treat!
When: Concerts throughout August
Where: Click the link above for all locations
Cost: Free+
THE GREAT OUTDOORS COMEDY FESTIVAL
Not a concert, well, not really, but still amazing! Some huge names in the comedy game are coming to Edmonton, including Tom Segura, Amy Schumer, and Nick Swardson.
When: August 12th to 14th
Where: Edmonton Exhibition Lands
Cost: $59+
PAUL BRANDT
Next up for (kinda) festivals, we’ve got the Together Again Concert Series! While the entire weekend is filled with big names, there’s no denying that Albertan country star Paul Brandt might be the best of them.
When: August 19th
Where: Edmonton Exhibition Lands
Cost: $79
CARIWEST
While the main draw for Edmonton’s Caribbean festival is the parade, there’s a whole lot more to look forward to as well. A marketplace, live music, and even a rum garden will have you loving every second of your visit!
When: August 5th to 7th
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Free to attend
EDMONTON FRINGE FESTIVAL
For those looking for something a little more, let’s call it funky, you’ll feel right at home at the Edmonton Fringe Festival. Check out dozens of local and touring shows from all walks of the theatre and performance world.
When: August 11th to 21st
Where: Venues around Edmonton
Cost: $5+
BACKSTREET BOYS
Yeah, one of the most iconic bands, well, ever is in Edmonton next month! The only problem? If you want it that way, it’ll set you back hundreds.
When: August 26th
Where: 10220 104 Avenue NW
Cost: $295+
GRETA VAN FLEET
If you just feel like rocking out, this is the pick for you. More or less the evolution of Led Zeppelin, the band has become synonymous with hard rock over the past few years.
When: August 27th
Where: 10220 104 Avenue NW
Cost: $60+
ARTS & CULTURE
THE GRINDSTONE THEATRE
For something a little more homegrown, we’ve got the Grindstone! Comedy nights, one-act plays, “professional” karaoke… yeah, this is a great option for a night out.
When: Shows throughout August
Where: 10019 81 Avenue
Cost: Varies
ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM
The end of spring also means some rainy days, but we’re fine with it! First option- check out the Royal Alberta Museum, which holds some amazing collections and is a great family-friendly option.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 9810 103a Avenue NW
Cost: Varies
ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA
There’s lots to see at the AGA this month! They’ve got 10, yes 10, different exhibitions and installations in there right now, from contemporary to classic and everything in between.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: $14
IMAGINE MONET
After over a year of waiting, this acclaimed immersive art exhibit has finally come to Edmonton! Enjoy the works of one of the world’s best painters, in a level of detail that rivals actually, you know, booking a flight to France to see them in person.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 7515 118 Avenue NW
Cost: $34.95+ for GA
SPORTS
2022 WORLD JUNIORS
After a cancellation in the winter, the World Juniors will be coming to Edmonton next month! See the best junior squads around the world go head to head in what is a left-field pick for summer sports, but nonetheless very exciting.
When: Starts August 9th
Where: Rogers Place, Edmonton
Cost: $40+
WORLD DODGEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS
If you can dodge a wrench… you can watch the World Dodgeball Championships! They’re touching down to wrap up the summer, and their round robin games are free to check out.
When: Starts August 28th
Where: 11610 65 Avenue NW
Cost: Free+
EDMONTON ELKS
Next up for our professional sport picks are the Elks, who are looking towards a return to form after a rocky start to the season.
When: Games throughout August
Where: 11000 Stadium Road
Cost: $32.53+
EDMONTON RIVERHAWKS
Take us out to the ball game! No seriously, a day eating outdoors, enjoying the sun, and hearing the sweet crack of the bat is a perfect summer option.
When: Games throughout August
Where: 10233 96 Avenue NW
Cost: $19.99
FC EDMONTON
Edmonton’s own pro soccer team have got a lot of games this month… but they’re on the road. In fact, if you wanna see them in action you’ve only got one chance, at the very end of things.
When: August 28th
Where: 11000 Stadium Road NW
Cost: $10.50+
HIT THE LINKS
We love golf, so we’re going to go ahead and recommend that this month as well. Get out for a full round, or just go mess around on the driving range! It works well, especially since this city’s municipal courses are top-notch.
When: Open throughout August
Where: Locations around Edmonton
Cost: $20+
TRY YOUR HAND AT DISC GOLF
Not ready for the immense frustration that golf without practice brings? Take things a little easier with a round of frisbee golf! This free activity is a great way to get outside all around Edmonton, and it’s no wonder our friends love it! Once you’ve toured the city, we recommend this crazy option outside Drumheller.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: Click the link above for locations
OUTDOORS
HIKE AROUND
From inner-city gems to full on day trips, there’s no shortage of amazing hikes to check out around Edmonton.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
BE COOL IN THE POOL
Whether you’re just looking to splash around with some pals on the weekend, or get a few serious laps in before the work day begins, you won’t have to wait too long until you can once more!
Where: Locations around Edmonton
PICK A FEW BERRIES
Meanwhile, the U-pick farms around Edmonton are entering their prime seasons! Whether you’re baking a pie, freezing them for smoothies, or just stuffing your face immediately after, a fresh berry (or a hundred) is always a nice summer treat.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
HAVE A LAKE DAY
Summer means sunny days, folks! If you’re not scared of the water temps, then go check out some of the most amazing lakes and beaches around the city.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
HIT THE BEACH
August means sunny days, folks! If you’re not scared of the water temps, then go check out some of the most amazing beaches around the province.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
HOP ON THE EDMONTON RIVERBOAT
One of the summer’s most beloved activities is back in action! The Edmonton Riverboat first set sail a couple of weeks ago, and we’ll be cruising into the fall.
When: Click the link above for next cruises
Where: 9734 98 Avenue NW
Cost: $27.95+
GET LOST AND FOUND IN A CORN MAZE
That’s right, the Edmonton Corn Maze is back for the season as well! Head down and quite literally lose yourself in acres upon acres of corn. Sounds like a Stephen King novel, but we assure you, it’s much more fun than that.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 26171 Secondary Hwy 627, Spruce Grove
Cost: $12+ for GA
U OF A BOTANIC GARDEN
In our opinion this is one of the best day trip options in the summer, full stop. Pair it with a picnic experience to make things extra special!
When: Open throughout August
Where: 51227 AB-60, Parkland County
Cost: $19.75 for GA
ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
For those feeling a little more adventurous, then the hikes/walks/lakes at Elk Island are always enticing. Plus, you might spot a few (hundred) bison!
When: Open throughout August
Where: 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: $7.90 for admissions
GO ON AN ADVENTURE
For those craving a little more excitement, we’ve rounded up some of the best adventures and extreme activities around the province as well!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
FOOD AND DRINK
AL FRESCO ON 4TH
Al Fresco on 4th is back! This fantastic outdoor experience rolls a market, food trucks and expanded patios into one convenient location. So, whether you’re looking for a beverage on a patio, the hustle and bustle of the market, or something fresh from a local food truck, this is the place to be.
When: Saturdays throughout the summer
STREET CAR CASK PARTY
Ah, summer is in the street… cars. The Common’s Street Car Cask Parties are back, and will be on practically all summer long! Enjoy some unique brews, eat some treats, then return to The Common itself for a little live music!
When: Select Thursdays in August
Where: 10910 100 Avenue NW
Cost: $53.50+
BITE INTO BURGERS
We’ve got a few guides that we’re going to use at least a few times ourselves this summer. First up is the classic lunch/road trip snack- the humble burger. Of course, Edmonton’s burger scene has a lot to brag about, from longtime favourites to gourmet options and new concepts.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
SCOOP UP A LITTLE ICE CREAM
Ice cream is without a doubt the yin to the burger’s yang, and luckily Edmonton has no shortage of that, either. Best paired after a day trip or another outdoor activity, a trip for a delicious scoop of ice cream is something we can’t go without. Especially when somewhat healthier options (like plant-based) are available.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
DISCOVER A NEW BAR
And when we say discover we mean it. We recently rounded up all the best hidden bars and speakeasies around the city, which offer the perfect spot to grab an after-dinner nightcap, or even just some drinks with friends.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
GRAB A BEER
Quick patio brew? You’ve got no shortage of options. Click the link above for all the breweries in the southern half of the city, and here for those in the north.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
TAKE SOME PALS TO THE PATIO
Whether it’s weekend brunch, an afternoon snack, or a full blown multi-course meal, Edmonton has an amazing variety of patios to check out this summer. And with our list, you’ll be the go-to friend for picking!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
BALL AT THE BUFFET
Speaking of nice meals, those looking to get the most bang for their buck should know about all the amazing buffets and all you can eat spots around Edmonton. Once again, we’ve got you covered.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
HIT UP THE FARMERS’ MARKETS
We will literally never tire of a weekly or monthly trip to one of Edmonton’s farmers markets. Get some great groceries, maybe treat yourself to a snack… it’s a couple of hours well spent.
When: Open throughout August
Where: Locations around Edmonton
ATTRACTIONS
SPEEDERS EDMONTON
While the name isn’t new, this facility sure is! The three-tier track offers some 1,250 ft. of raceway as you wind through the complex. If that wasn’t enough, they’ve also installed some fun LED lighting on the side of the track, which we’re getting a real Tokyo Drift vibe from.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 12808 170 Street NW, Edmonton
Cost: $30+
FORT EDMONTON PARK
The already iconic destination got a major renovation last year, and this is its first full season back! Family-friendly options that double as date ideas are few and far between, but we definitely think Fort Edmonton Park is a great example of it.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 7000 143 Street NW
Tickets: $26.20
SNOW VALLEY
Family friendly fun abounds, with a ropes course, a panning area, and even a little bit of target golf to check out.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 13204 Rainbow Valley Road
Cost: Varies per activity
TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE
There’s always something fun going on at the Telus World of Science, but we’ve got two things in mind here. First, their IMAX theatre is a great way to experience a classic movie, a new blockbuster, or a stunning documentary. Second, the Zeidler Dome has laser shows that are, frankly, out of this world.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 11211 142 Street NW
Cost: $31.45 for GA
EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO
What’s new at the zoo? Lego, that’s what! In addition to the regular exhibits, a world-renowned Lego artist (yes, that’s a thing) has installed some absolutely incredible sculptures.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $15.95
WORLD WATERPARK
Splish-splash, pals! If the weather heats up a little too much this month, then take a day and go hang out at one of Edmonton’s most iconic attractions.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 8882 170 Street NW
Cost: $59 for GA
MUTTART CONSERVATORY
Speaking of iconic, everybody recognizes those pyramids jutting out above the Muttart Conservatory. Luckily, inside you’ll find an amazing botanic garden to explore.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 9626 96a Street NW
Tickets: $14.95 for GA
TRAVEL
GO CHASING WATERFALLS
Safely, of course. But Alberta is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Canada, and they’re just waiting for you to enjoy them. Whether you’re seeing an iconic spot for the first time or taking a trip off the beaten path, we’ve got picks for you.
Where: Click the link above for more info
BOTTOMLESS PADDLE BOARD RENTALS
New for this summer, the ‘bottomless’ paddle boards are exactly what the name implies. Rather than the classic option, these are built with a see-through plastic, offering practically immediate access to the downright stunning waters of Lac Beauvert, which the Jasper Park Lodge sits on.
When: Now available for the summer!
Where: 1 Old Lodge Road, Jasper
Cost: $75 per hour
SYLVAN LAKE AQUA SPLASH PARK
Located just outside of Red Deer, Alberta, the Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash park is THE place for sizzling summer days and they’ll be open all month long!
When: Open throughout August
Where: Bay #1, 5100 Lakeshore Drive– Sylvan Lake, Alberta
CANYON SKI RESORT ALPINE COASTER
Now open for the summer, the Canyon Coaster is approximately 1,300 metres and can travel up to speeds of 40 km/hr – though guests will be able to adjust the ride with a brake.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 38433, Range Road 264A, AB
GO CAMPING
While we are personally city-slickers, even we can admit that Alberta has some absolutely fantastic options for camping and glamping this spring.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
OR CHECK OUT AN AIRBNB
This is more our speed. After all, you can still be a stone’s throw away from some gorgeous areas of the province, while enjoying all the modern day comforts we’ve grown so used to.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Those are our picks for the best things to do this August in Edmonton! Now, go have some fun for us!
