Categories: Things To Do

10 fun things to do this weekend in and around Edmonton (Oct. 16-18)

Edmonton is packed with some excellent things to do this weekend, including film festivals, massive Halloween festivals, and so much more festive fun.

Are you ready for another stacked weekend in Edmonton? We sure are, and we’ve done the duty of rounding up some of the best things to do in the city. From classic Edmonton horror experiences to spooky pop-up markets, we’ve got you covered.

Northwest Fearfest

This week, Edmonton is getting five days of the year’s hottest genre films, retro favourites, restorations, and shorts you’ll want to check out on the big screen. For those who are fans of the horror genre, this festival is definitely one you won’t want to miss, especially when it’s prime time for all the spooks and scares.

When: Now until Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026
Time: Varies
Where: Metro Cinema — 8712 109th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $129 plus fees and taxes for all-access passes (individual ticket prices vary)

Edmonton Corn Maze

This corn maze sits west of Edmonton and features outdoorsy, family-friendly fun from August to October. Complete with farm animals, spud gun launches, mini golf, a popular sunflower stroll, photo opportunities, and a pumpkin patch coming this fall, this experience truly offers it all.

When: Now until Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday; 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays
Where: 51529 Range Rd. 262, Spruce Grove, Alta.
Cost: $15+

Pumpkins After Dark

Pumpkins After Dark is back for more Halloween madness, and this year, it has rebuilt the experience for the most immersive, memorable, and magical season yet. This upcoming weekend will be its first time operating in Edmonton in 2026.

When: Now until Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 11 p.m.
Where: Borden Park — 7507 Borden Park Rd. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Varies depending on date

DARK

Fort Edmonton Park hosts this huge scare event each year in Edmonton with several haunts, roving entertainment, food and drink to enjoy, and a live DJ spinning tunes all evening. This year, four different haunt experiences will take over the park: three returning from past years, and one being an all-new nightmare.

When: Now until Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Time: Gates open at 6:30 p.m.; Haunts open from 7 to 11 p.m.
Where: 7000 143rd St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $50+

Deadmonton

If you aren’t familiar, Deadmonton is easily one of the creepiest, scariest, and most exciting haunted houses in Edmonton during Halloween season. With three new haunts ready for your arrival, you’re going to have your socks absolutely knocked off. Invite some friends, grab your coat, and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime.

When: Now until Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Time: Varies
Where: 9300 47th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Varies based on time and date

The Witchery Market

The Witchery Market only pops up four times a year, and it’s finally coming back this month. With artisans, tarot readers, jewelry, and everything encompassing the magical vibes of the season, this market is perfect for those wanting to get in tune with their witchy side.

When: Friday, Oct. 16, to Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026
Time: 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday
Where: 10433 83rd Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

The Boo-tique Hotel Market

Malla Market is embracing the season with their Boo-tique Hotel Market, featuring over 35 local vendors with things like mini tattoos, tooth gems, a bracelet bar, and so much more.

Guests are even encouraged to show up early, as the first 20 shoppers get a free tote and cool swag.

When: Saturday, Oct. 17, and Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday
Where: Kingsway Mall — 109 Kingsway NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Screams for Dreams

This day of Halloween fun is all in support of Alberta Dreams, a charity organization dedicated to making dreams come true for children facing severe chronic or life-threatening illnesses across Alberta.

In addition to live music, games, prizes, and more, you can take a walk through the terrifying Haunted Shop. According to Integra Tire, the Haunted Shop experience will be scary and is intended for adults, with parents using their own discretion for children.

When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026
Time: Noon to midnight
Where: 11402 89th Ave., Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.
Cost: $10 per person plus a food donation

Edmonton Short Film Festival

Since 2012, the Edmonton Short Film Festival (ESFF) has been showcasing independent filmmakers outside of what may be considered typical for festival markets. This includes projects like trailers, music videos, web series, commercials, and, of course, short films.

This weekend, Edmonton Short Film Festival is returning to the city with a full slate of great movies from Alberta and across the globe.

When: Saturday, Oct. 17, to Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026
Time: Doors at 6 p.m. on Saturday; Doors at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday
Where: Landmark Cinemas 9 City Centre — 10200 102nd Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Tickets starting at $15

Callingwood Farmers Market

This is Edmonton’s largest and longest-standing outdoor market, offering over 200 vendors and a wonderful variety of handmade goods and locally produced treats. It’s a great community-driven market that’s perfect for those looking to get closer to bakers, chefs, artisans, and more.

When: Every Sunday until Oct. 11, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 6655 178th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Recent posts:
Banff’s mountain film festival is returning with over 80 screenings this month
There’s a short film festival coming to Edmonton with its own red carpet experience

Recent Posts

You can grab Halloween treats and enjoy a spooky skate at this Calgary rink

Calgary's Olympic Oval is hosting a Halloween-themed public skate this month, so if you've been…

1 hour ago

This Alberta town is hosting a Halloween movie night at a historic grain elevator

As the weather gets colder, outdoor movie nights are becoming harder to find. But before…

2 hours ago

10 of the best things to do in Toronto this weekend (Oct. 16-18)

Another week has come and gone, and suddenly... IT'S THE WEEKEND! Scared? Spooked? Not really…

2 hours ago

Cozy Vancouver coffee shops and bakeries to visit depending on your fall vibe

For romanticizing your life and enjoying a fall sip

20 hours ago

Banff’s mountain film festival is returning with over 80 screenings this month

The Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival returns to the Rockies this month with…

20 hours ago