10 Things I’m Doing This Summer in Edmonton

By Maria Octano

Summer in Edmonton is like finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag short, a bit surprising,

but 100% worth enjoying while it lasts. After months of bundling up and scraping windshields,

the second that snow melts and the sun decides to stick around past 9 p.m., the city completely

flips the switch. Patios open. Trails fill up. And every weekend has something worth doing.

If you're wondering what to do besides binge Netflix or melt in your apartment, here are 10

things I’m planning to do this summer to soak it all in and maybe you’ll want to tag along.

1. Bike or Walk the River Valley Trails

You can go full Tour de France with your bike or just take a slow walk with iced coffee in hand.

Whether I’m biking or walking, I always end up somewhere unexpected, slightly sunburnt, and

weirdly proud of how far I went without trying too hard.

2. Hit Up a Farmers’ Market

Edmonton’s farmers’ markets have their own kind of magic. You wander through with a coffee

in hand, sampling local goodies, chatting with makers, and maybe picking up something you

didn’t know you needed, like the best sourdough or a bar of soap that smells like summer.

They’re more than markets, they’re little pockets of community.

3. Evening Walks Through the Legislature Grounds

There’s something magic about the Legislature Grounds in the evening. The fountains light up,

the skyline glows, and everything feels a little slower. I like grabbing a cold brew from a nearby

cafe and wandering around listening to a podcast. It’s low-key, but so peaceful, especially golden

hour near the High Level Bridge.

4. Catch the Street Performers Festival

This one’s a summer classic. Every July, downtown transforms into a big open-air circus with

fire jugglers, comedians, magicians, and acts you probably couldn’t explain even if you tried. It’s

weird, wonderful, and totally free (though tipping the performers is part of the fun).

5. Escape to the Muttart Conservatory

The Muttart Conservatory is one of those places that feels a little unreal, in the best way. Tucked

into the river valley, its glass pyramids are like a portal into totally different worlds. I’ve heard

great things about the vibe inside, something about it just sticks with people. I’m finally

checking it out for myself, partly out of curiosity, partly because it feels like one of those

Edmonton experiences you just shouldn’t miss.

6. K-Days (Obviously!)

KDays is pure chaos in the best way, rides, music, mini donuts, people-watching galore. It’s

loud, it’s bright, a whirlwind of color and noise that somehow feels like the heartbeat of summer.

It’s the kind of thing you go to for “just an hour” and end up staying all day. I’m going mostly for

the nostalgia, and the snacks. Let’s be honest, the snacks are half the point.

7. Folk Fest on the Hill

There’s something about Folk Fest that just feels right tarps on the hill, music floating through

the air, and that golden-hour light that makes everything look like a postcard. You show up for

the bands, but end up staying for the feeling. It’s chill, joyful, and somehow always exactly what

you need.

8. Visit (or Rediscover) Accidental Beach

Accidental Beach is exactly what it sounds like, a happy accident, and ever since, it’s been this

wonderful little escape. It’s not fancy, but that’s kind of the point. You roll up with snacks, a

towel, and end up spending hours there without even noticing.

9. Start a Summer Vlog or Podcast

Okay, hear me out, you don’t need to be a YouTuber. Just start filming little moments: a walk

through Mill Creek, a coffee run, your dog chasing a sprinkler. Or try voice-notes-as-podcast

episodes about summer memories or random thoughts. Even if you don’t want to publish

anything, filming quick clips on your phone of everyday summer stuff like brunches, festivals,

sunsets, your plants growing, it becomes a little time capsule you’ll be glad you made.

10. Cooking dishes from around the world

This summer, I want to turn my kitchen into a mini world tour. I’ll pick a country each week, try

making one of their popular dishes, and see how it goes. Might be a hit, might totally flop but

that’s half the fun. It’s a fun way to break out of the usual dinner rut and spend some quality time

with my friends and family.