10 of the best free and cheap things to do in Edmonton this August

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 $15 this upcoming month? Here are the best FREE and cheap things to do in Edmonton this August.
Edmonton Heritage Festival
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 3rd to Monday, August 5th, 2024
Where: Edmonton Exhibition Lands and Borden Park
Cost: Free to attend
Cariwest 2024
While the main draw for Edmonton’s Caribbean festival is the parade, there’s a whole lot more to look forward to as well. There will be three days of music, energetic performances, and savory cuisine.
When: Friday, August 9th until Sunday, August 11th, 2024
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square, parade starts at 108th St and 99 Ave
Cost: Free to attend
Alberta Avenue Night Markets
Three night markets are taking place in the Alberta Avenue District August. Each market will have different vendors, entertainment and community partners. So bring the family, and enjoy some food outdoors! Wondering what to expect? On August 9, Serengeti BBQ, Savannah Serenade Twilight at 8815 118 Ave. Then on August 16th, it’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Night at 8108 118 Ave.
Finally on August 30th, The Wrap Up Hosted by AFRICARNIVAL taking place at 9210 118 Ave.
When: August 9th, 16th, and 30th, 2024
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free to attend
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
For those looking for something a little more funky and indie, you’ll feel right at home at the Edmonton Fringe Festival. The 43rd annual Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is “set to spotlight 216 theatre productions across 38 venues, with performances by more than 1,600 Artists from right here at home, across Canada, and more than 11 countries!”
When: Thursday, August 15th to Sunday, August 25th, 2024
Where: Venues around Edmonton
Cost: TBA /generally $10+
Friday Nights at the Grand Night Market
Check out Friday Nights at the Grand Night Market on two nights this month. Expect live performances, DJs, a licensed beverage garden, and fun for all.
When: August 16th and August 30th, 2024
Where: 78th Ave between 99 and 100 Street on the 16th, and on the 30th at 9330 80 Ave NW
Cost: Free to attend
Edmonton Pride Festival
Edmonton’s Pride Festival returns to Churchill Square this August! Celebrate love and diversity, and check out a movie night, a retro dance party, or Pride Cup at Ice District Plaza. PRIDE @ Churchill Square takes over Edmonton Saturday Aug 24th, with Dragonette.
When: Saturday, August 17th until Saturday, August 24th, 2024
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Free, and VIP options
ESO Outdoors
ESO Outdoors is coming back for several dates 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: August 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, and 25th, 2024
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free/Pay what you can
AGA100 Birthday on the Square
Be part of history as the AGA celebrates 100 years of art, culture and community at its big birthday bash! Admission is free – no ticket required! You can expect a cake cutting ceremony, live music and performances, and interactive art stations.
When: Sunday, August 18th, 2024
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Free
Symphony in the Square-Disney in Concert
On August 30 & 31, head to Churchill Square for a magical journey brought to life by the talents of four Broadway calibre singers and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra! Disney in Concert Once Upon a Time features high resolution Animated Feature Film sequences, and will include sounds from Encanto, Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, The Lion King, and many more.
When: Friday, August 30th and Saturday, August 31st, 2024
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: Freee
Edmonton Corn Maze
That’s right, the Edmonton Corn Maze is back for the season , opening on July 24th! Head down and quite literally lose yourself in acres upon acres of corn.
When: Open throughout August
Where: 26171 Secondary Hwy 627, Spruce Grove
Cost: $11.50+ for GA
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