Summer is in full swing and though we’ve already had an action-packed season, we can confidently say that the fun is just getting started. Looking for fun for under $20 this upcoming month? Here are the best FREE and cheap things to do in Edmonton this August.
The world’s largest three-day multiculturalism celebration takes place in Edmonton, and it is coming up in August. The Edmonton Heritage Festival showcases a diversity of cuisine, entertainment, interpretive materials, and crafts worldwide.
When: Saturday, August 5th to Monday, August 7th, 2023
Where: Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Park
Cost: Free to attend
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: Friday, August 11th until Sunday, August 13th, 2023
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Free to attend
THE GREAT ACCESSORY SWAP
Have stuff to swap or looking for pre-loved accessories? Check out the Great Accessory Swap Event! Discover hidden gems, reduce waste, and refresh your style.
When: Saturday, August 12th, 2023
Where: Alfred H. Savage Centre, 13909 Fox Drive, Northwest Edmonton
Cost: Free to attend and register
EDMONTON FRINGE FESTIVAL
For those looking for something a little more funky and indie, 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: Thursday, August 17th until Sunday, August 27th, 2023
Where: Venues around Edmonton
Cost: $10+
EDMONTON PRIDE FESTIVAL
Edmonton’s Pride Festival returns to Churchill Square this August! Celebrate love and diversity, and check out Alberta’s first 2-Spirit Powwow, then head back in time at Y2K @ Churchill, featuring a 90s-themed dance party with the legendary PROZZAK! And cap it off with Pride @ Churchill Square which features several artists including Ralph and Stereos.
When: Friday, August 18th until Saturday, August 26th, 2023
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Free, and some VIP options
Immersive Cinema Experience
Get ready for an Immersive Cinema Experience this August, once again taking place on a Saturday! You’ll be able to see some of the most popular cult classic movies, there will be food and drinks, and themed decor!
When: Saturday, August 19th, 2023
Where: ICE District Plaza
Cost: Free to attend
PRIDE CUP
Celebrating Pride 365 in Edmonton in true ICE District fashion, by playing hockey! The Pride Cup ball hockey championship proudly supports diversity, equality and inclusion through sport. Besides the championship game, the event will feature food & drinks, DJs, Oilers alumni and the presentation of the Pride Cup itself.
When: Sunday, August 27th, 2023
Where: ICE District Plaza
Cost: Free
ESO OUTDOORS
ESO Outdoors is 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: Pay what you can
ALBERTA AVENUE NIGHT MARKET
Ten Night Markets are taking place in the Alberta Avenue District this summer. Each market will have different vendors, entertainment and community partners. So bring the family, and enjoy some food outdoors!
When: August 11th, 18th, and 25th, 2023
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free to attend
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ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA
There’s lots to see at the AGA this month! They’ve got different exhibitions and installations in there right now, and later in August, August 19 to be precise, check out their first-ever Pride Market!
When: Open throughout August
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: $14
Al Fresco On 104th
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
Where: 104th Street Downtown
EDMONTON 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
HIT UP THE FARMERS’ MARKETS
Summer is a fun time to check out 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
Cost: Free
HIT THE BEACH
August means sunny days! 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
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
