Photo via Angela Ostafichuk/Shutterstock
With August in full swing, Edmonton is officially in the peak of festival season, meaning there are countless things to do in the city this week.
From Cariwest to Folk Fest, the festivals happening this week are going to be absolutely incredible. Whether you’re interested in the music, the food, or just the amazing vibes, it’s guaranteed to be a good time. Even if a festival isn’t exactly your crowd, we have loads of things to do lined up that might be more your vibe.
Let’s jump into things, shall we?
If you’re familiar with Fort Edmonton Park‘s Where Dark Things Dwell, its highly anticipated sequel has arrived.
Teams of four will work together in this escape “room” experience to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and complete challenges throughout the park’s 1885 Street, racing to break a mysterious curse before time runs out.
When: Now until Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026
Time: 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Where: Fort Edmonton Park — 7000 143rd St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $35
The summer brings back the best deals at the Metro. It started on June 2, and it’ll last throughout the summer, meaning $5 Tuesdays are officially back at the theatre.
When: Every Tuesday now until the end of August
Time: Various showtimes
Where: 8712 109th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $5
Every week on Wednesdays, The Grindstone hosts one of Edmonton’s only stand-up comedy open mic nights. Open to both first-timers and seasoned comics, each set is five minutes for some good laughs.
When: Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026
Time: 10 p.m. to midnight
Where: Grindstone Theatre — 10019 81st Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free
Located at Salisbury Greenhouse in Sherwood Park, this market comes around every Thursday, rain or shine. You can find a wide variety of offerings here, no matter if it’s food, trinkets, or something entirely different.
When: Every Thursday
Time: 4 to 7 p.m.
Where: 52337 Range Rd. 232, Sherwood Park, Alta.
Cost: Free
124th Grand Market takes over the streets on Thursdays. Each week, there is a selection of over 60 rotating vendors with fresh produce, handmade goods, and trinkets, as well as food trucks that are going to satisfy your taste buds in every way.
When: Every Thursday now until Oct. 18, 2026
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: 108th Avenue and 124th Street, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free
Since 1980, the Edmonton Folk Fest has become a staple in the community, supporting folk music both locally and globally. The festival is a four-day, fun-filled, affordable experience which highlights incredible artists from around the world and puts a spotlight on local food and sales vendors.
When: Thursday, Aug. 6, to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: 4:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday
Where: Gallagher Park — 9505 96th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $47.10+
All aboard the High-Level Streetcar for the Street Car Cask series, where folks hop aboard the historic streetcar and take sips from exclusive brews — made just for these trips. As you experience a scenic ride above Edmonton, you’ll be able to enjoy the brews from Alberta’s finest.
When: Every Thursday
Time: 6 and 7:20 p.m.
Where: 10910 100th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $63.10+
Get ready for an unforgettable night of laughs at The Grindstone Theatre!
This improv night is an evening of top-tier comedy featuring the city’s best improvisers, performing hilarious, unscripted scenes based on your wildest suggestions.
When: Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026
Time: 7 to 8 p.m.
Where: Grindstone Theatre — 10019 81st Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $15.34+
Cariwest takes three days out of the year to show Edmonton the rich history, traditions, and contributions of the Caribbean diaspora through a powerful festival.
Each year, Cariwest gets bigger and better. With a parade and a village for folks to explore, this festival introduces people to Caribbean culture and delves deep into what makes it so special.
When: Friday, Aug. 7, to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: 5 to 11 p.m. on Friday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9 p..m on Sunday
Where: Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free
For any anime lovers and manga weebs, you might be familiar with this annual convention. Animethon has been around for many years, having popular Vocaloid artists and voice actors as guests, as well as hosting panels and events for fans in the city.
From music to panels to meet-and-greets, there’s going to be no shortage of excitement here.
When: Friday, Aug. 7, to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday
Where: 9797 Jasper Ave., Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $50+
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