Ah, yes, the sweet, sweet promise of a long weekend. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your bonus day off, you’re in luck—we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Edmonton this Victoria Day weekend. Whether you’re after vintage pinball machines, live comedy, family-friendly carnivals or a literal royal tea party, it’s all happening.
Take a look.
Ready to go full tilt into nostalgia? YEGPIN is back with hundreds of pinball and arcade machines just waiting to be played—plus tournaments, vendors, and all-around retro vibes. Whether you’re a high score chaser or just in it for the neon lights, this is four days of pure arcade magic.
When: Thursday, May 15 to Sunday, May 18 (see timings above)
Where: Millennium Place — 2000 Premier Way, Sherwood Park
Cost: $15 to $105 (for a four-day pass)
Whoever said education can’t be entertaining had clearly not seen RAM’s latest exhibit. It’s all about our oceanic besties with big brains and even bigger personalities, aka Orcas. Expect immersive displays, cultural storytelling and a whole lot of inspiration.
When: Friday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Royal Alberta Museum — 9810 103a Ave.
Cost: $10 to $21
Listen up, comedy fanatics. T.J. Miller (yes, that guy from Silicon Valley and Deadpool) is bringing his unpredictable, high-energy show to The Comic Strip. It’s going to be weird, wild, and probably a little absurd. Exactly, the way we like it!
When: Friday, May 16 & Saturday, May 17, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.
Where: The Comic Strip – 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: $41.50
Celebrate 2SLGBTQ+ stories and filmmakers with powerful, thought-provoking cinema. Rainbow Visions is back with a lineup of feature films, shorts, and docs that explore identity, resilience, and everything in between. Grab some popcorn and prepare to feel all the feels.
When: Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18 (see schedule here)
Where: Metro Cinema at the Garneau Theatre — 8712 109th St.
Cost: $12 to $16
Step right up! The Mill Woods Carnival is rolling into town with rides, games, and more sugary treats than your dentist would ever approve of. Expect bright lights, loud laughs, and all the cotton candy your heart (and stomach) can handle.
When: Friday, May 16 to Monday, May 19 (see timings above)
Where: Mill Woods Town Centre – 2331 66th St. NW
Cost: $1 to $50
Kick off the unofficial start of summer with a splash—literally. Churchill Square’s fountains turn on this Saturday. And they’re celebrating with free family activities, DJs, food trucks, and an outdoor movie. Bring a towel and your best sidewalk dance moves.
When: Saturday, May 17, 11 a.m. onwards
Where: 1 Sir Winston Churchill Sq.
Cost: Free
Time to dust off your bonnets and suspenders ’cause Fort Edmonton Park is officially back for the season! Explore the historic streets. Hop on the streetcar. And catch a costumed character or two in the wild. It’s like stepping into a time machine, minus the whole “no internet” thing.
When: Saturday, May 17 to Monday, May 19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 1 Sir Winston Churchill Sq.
Cost: $22.25 to $27.90 (buy tickets here)
Calling all tea lovers and Disney princess fans. The Art of Cake is hosting a princess-themed high tea so fancy it might just make you speak with a British accent. Think towers of treats, dainty cups, princess spotting and serious main character energy.
When: Sunday, May 18, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Where: 11811 105th Ave.
Cost: $160 to $320
This heartwarming family dramedy at the Varscona Theatre has just a few shows left! Set on a quiet porch in the Ontario countryside, it’s packed with laughs, secrets, and some serious sisterly realness. Catch it before it’s gone.
When: Now until Sunday, May 18 (see timings above)
Where: Varscona Theatre — 10329 83rd Ave. NW
Cost: $25 to $38
Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel gets a fresh, theatrical twist at the Citadel. This stunning production brings the March sisters to life with heart, humour, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. Whether you’re a Jo, Meg, Beth or Amy, it’s a must-see.
When: Now until Sunday, May 25, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Citadel Theatre — 9828 101 A Ave.
Cost: $97 to $149
Now get out there, soak up the sun (hopefully) and have fun. Happy long weekend!
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