Things are heating up, lovebirds! With summer upon us, now’s a great time to check out the best free and cheap dates available around Edmonton. And let us be the first to tell you that you’ve got tons of options, from festivals to a little culture to the great outdoors.

Here are some great cheap date ideas in Edmonton this summer.

THE WORKS & STREETFEST

For the first time ever, two major Edmonton festivals will be joining forces this July, which means even more excitement for you. Get your arts fill with The Works, then be amazed by the performers at Streetfest! The best part? They’re both free to check out.

When: July 8th to 17th
Where: Churchill Square, Edmonton
Cost: Free to attend!

K-DAYS

While it’s not free, it’s very easy to ball on a budget at K-Days. Our advice? Check out their lineup of free concerts, pick one that sounds good, and head down there to enjoy it! Maybe keep a little extra cash on hand for some snacks while you’re there, too.

When: July 22nd to 31st
Where: 7515 – 118 Avenue
Cost: $15+

TASTE OF EDMONTON

Speaking of snacks, Taste of Edmonton is a great way to enjoy some of the city’s best cuisine without breaking the bank. Plus, they’ve also got free concerts in the lineup, adding even more to your experience.

When: July 21st to 31st
Where: Churchill Square
Cost: $5+ for tickets

EDMONTON HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Well, Edmonton didn’t get the nickname of ‘Festival City’ for no reason. To cap off July and kick off August, the Edmonton Heritage Festival is coming back to Hawrelak Park! We’re talking free concerts, food trucks, entertainment and more to enjoy.

When: Starts July 30th
Where: Hawrelak Park
Cost: Free to attend

EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO

Even with summer pricing in effect, the zoo remains one of the cheapest date ideas for attractions in Edmonton. And for this summer, they’ve got a super cool LEGO exhibit, with sculptures located around the grounds!

When: On throughout the spring
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $15.95 for GA

HIKE AROUND

From inner-city gems to full on day trips, there’s no shortage of amazing hikes to check out around Edmonton. A solid choice if you’re looking for a date that’s a little more outdoorsy than most.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

The AGA has got a serious amount of stuff to check out this summer. If you’re curious, there will be as much as 10 temporary exhibitions and installations on view! General admission ain’t so bad, but head down on the final Thursday of every month for admission by donation night.

When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: $14 (Free every final Thursday of the month)

GO ON A BREWERY TOUR

Who says you need to drop big money to go on a brewery tour? With our guides to the best breweries in both the north and south of the city, it’s easy as heck to plan a walkable route that’ll have you trying 2 or 3 different spots, no problem.

Where: Click the links above for our picks

SCOOP UP A LITTLE ICE CREAM

Best paired after a day trip or another outdoor activity, 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

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
Cost: Free to attend!

FC EDMONTON

Who said pro sports have to be expensive? Edmonton’s own soccer team has kicked off their 2022 season, with matches against names from across North America.

When: Games throughout the spring
Where: 11000 Stadium Road NW
Cost: $10.50+

THE GRINDSTONE THEATRE

For live entertainment that’s sure to be worthwhile, this is our recommendation. Comedy shows, small plays, fun satires… the Grindstone has it all, and wants you to come see for yourself.

When: Shows throughout the spring
Where: 10019 81 Avenue
Cost: $13+

That’s what we have in mind for the best cheap and free dates to go on around Edmonton this summer!