10 exciting things to do this weekend in Edmonton (Aug. 7-9)

This weekend in Edmonton has a slate of activities, and we couldn’t be more excited to get straight into them.

From the annual folk festival and Caribbean cultural celebrations to year-round farmers markets, there’s a great variety of plans ahead.

No matter what you and your group chat land on for the upcoming days, a good time is guaranteed.

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: Now until 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+

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+

From June until September, the downtown streets will be bursting with electric energy, all in the name of community. Live music, patio vibes, and local businesses are what this Summer Block Party series is all about. You won’t want to miss out on these Saturdays, because it’s going to be a blast, for sure.

When: Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Rice Howard Way Entertainment District, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

This market in Old Strathcona has been around for ages, and it’s Edmonton’s premier farmers market. Being the original year-rounder, this place offers the best locally grown and made goods as well as trinkets you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays
Where: 10310 83rd Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Queen Mary’s Market is located in the heart of Edmonton and offers over 130 vendors, as well as five individual restaurants within the building. This market features strong local vendors with a selection of antiques, rare collectibles, local produce, artisanal goods, and services.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays
Where: 12011 111th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Whether you’re eight years old or bordering on 100, this skateboard competition is open to all.

The Clareview Skateboard Skillsfest has been in Edmonton for three years now, allowing people across Edmonton to showcase their riding skills during the summer. If you have a trick to show off on your board, there’s no better opportunity than this community event.

When: Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 3804 139th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

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

Grand Market Edmonton was established in 2012, and now it’s grown into something bigger than we could’ve ever imagined. If you’re looking for the greatest market to visit on weekdays after work, you might have just found it.

There’s a market from Grand Markets on Thursdays as well, but this is a great way to start off the week.

When: Every Sunday now until Oct. 11, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 102nd Avenue and 124th Street, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

Get ready, metal and rock lovers, because this Hall of Fame band is making its way to Edmonton for an unforgettable performance.

When: Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Commonwealth Stadium — 11000 Stadium Rd. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $133+

Recent posts:
Step aboard this vintage 1920s-style trolley for an Edmonton-wide tour
This Alberta park has one of the only boreal bird observatories in the world

Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

Read articles