A new month is right around the corner, and you know what that means! As always, it’s time for a roundup of the best free and cheap things to do around Edmonton this April. Get outside, enjoy some arts and culture, indulge in a delicious meal… you’ve got options, and none of them are going to hurt your wallet!

Here are the best free and cheap things to do around Edmonton this April.

ROGERS HOMETOWN HOCKEY

Our first pick is also one that goes down this weekend! A big (and free) festival stops in Edmonton this weekend! Over the next few days, you can enjoy live music, autograph opportunities from NHL alumni, and even a ‘puppy parade’!

When: Friday, April 1st to Monday, April 4th
Where: 10340 102 Street NW
Cost: Free!

WINTERRUPTION

Focusing primarily on local artists, Winterruption is an amazing option for enjoying live music this month. And, it’s made even better by the fact that some of the shows are free!

When: On until Saturday, April 9th
Where: Venues around Edmonton
Cost: Free+

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

The AGA has got a serious amount of stuff to check out in April. In addition to the ongoing exhibitions, two more are set to join the party this month. For those counting at home, that’s 10 temporary exhibitions and installations on view! General admission ain’t so bad, but end down on the final Thursday of every month for admission by donation night.

When: Open throughout April
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: $14

ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

Feeling outdoorsy? Springtime is a great time to check out Elk Island. Do a little walk here or there, maybe spot some bison, and stick around after the sun goes down for some top-tier stargazing.

When: Open throughout April
Where: 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: $7.90 for admissions

FC EDMONTON

Who said pro sports have to be expensive? Edmonton’s own soccer team kicks off the season this month, with matches against names from across North America.

When: Starts Sunday, April 10th
Where: 11000 Stadium Road NW
Cost: $15+

DOWNTOWN DINING WEEK

A cheap dinner out can still be amazing! Especially during Downtown Dining Week, when some of the city’s best restaurants offer multi-course meals are some seriously good prices.

When: On until Sunday, April 10th
Where: Locations around Edmonton
Cost: $20+

CAPITAL CITY VINTAGE MARKET POP-UP

Sure there’s spring cleaning, but what about spring shopping? A vintage market pop-up comes to the Downtown Farmers Market, with some 30 vendors ready to show off the best of the best. What’s more, it’s free to attend!

When: Saturday, April 9th and Sunday, April 10th
Where: 10305 97 Street NW
Cost: Free!

EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO

April is the last full month to take advantage of off-season prices at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Wait for a nice day, then go enjoy all the amazing animals lounging around down there.

When: Open throughout April
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $10.95

MUTTART CONSERVATORY

Alternatively, the Muttart Conservatory is a great pick no matter the weather. After all, who can resist a trip to an indoor botanical garden in one of the city’s coolest buildings? Not us, that’s for sure.

When: Open throughout April
Where: 9626 96a Street NW
Tickets: $14.95 for GA

METRO CINEMA

As much as we love a state-of-the-art theatre, we might like this local option even more! Metro Cinema has always got a great selection of movies to check out, from cult comedies to art-house to things even we’ve never heard of!

When: Showtimes throughout April
Where: 8712 109 Street
Cost: $13 for GA

THE GRINDSTONE THEATRE

If live entertainment is more your speed, this is our recommendation. Comedy shows, small plays, fun satires… the Grindstone has it all, and wants you to come see for yourself. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this is one of the most reasonably priced options on our list.

When: Shows throughout April
Where: 10019 81 Avenue
Cost: $8+

Those are our picks for the best free and cheap things to around Edmonton this April! Have some frugal fun, folks!