Plenty of free summer fun on tap for families
It’s still summer. Do this stuff with your kids for free.
Summer in Edmonton has been marvellous. Hot and sunny since pretty much May 1. But as we arrive in August, so dawns the realization that it’s all coming to a screeching halt. One more month and we’ll find golden leaves on the trees.
In two months there could be snow. Before you know it, you’ll be begging your kid to put a ski suit on under that Halloween costume.
But let’s not think about that right now. Let’s think about the last few weeks of sunny heat. And all the free summer activities you should be doing with your kids right now.
1. Barbecue at Emily Murphy Park
Nestled among the trees and looking out at the river, you’ll almost forget that you’re still in Edmonton. Procuring a barbecue picnic site isn’t usually a problem, and the spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For an extra adventure, park at the west end of Kinsmen Park and walk the 1.5 kilometres on the trails to Emily Murphy. (You’ll probably want to do this once the leaves change, too.)
2. A picnic in Alexander Circle
I first stumbled upon this spot when I took a wrong turn while running. Smack in the middle of Glenora’s old, splendid streets, you’ll find a water fountain and a slice of tranquillity. Plus, some of the river valley’s best lookout spots lie to the south. Meanwhile, the patio at Vi’s For Pies is located just to the north, should you need extra refreshments.
3. Swimming at an outdoor pool
We couldn’t have been happier when the city announced that admission to the outdoor pools would be free again this summer. Our favourite is Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool for its awesome diving board and park location. And you get a great view of the High Level Bridge.
4. Scavenger hunt in the river valley
I was recently spending time with old friends and our children, who were running around while we were sipping coffee. One mom gathered her four kids and sent them off to the nearby woods.
“Come back with four leaves, three sticks and two different flowers.” Genius, I thought. Directed chaos. If just going for a walk in the river valley strikes your kids as a bit on the dry side, try exploring Edmonton’s nature trails with purpose. Ask them if they’re able to find and identify flowers, birds and trees (while leaving the living things in the ground and undisturbed, of course).
5. Powwow at Poundmaker’s Lodge
Make time to learn from Edmonton’s Indigenous communities as a family. The annual St. Albert powwow celebrates 45 years on Saturday and Sunday. Take in drum contests, dance competitions, Indigenous arts and crafts and the overall celebratory atmosphere. Shuttle buses run to and from Northgate Centre every 45 minutes.
6. Summer movies in the park
On Saturday, the Meadows Community League is showing Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle free of charge at Silverberry Park. Bring your own chair, blankets and bug spray — but leave your pooch at home. The show starts at dusk. And if that’s not enough outdoor Jumanji viewing for you, Ottewell Community League is showing the original Robin Williams version on Aug. 24. Also at dusk. (Admission costs $1 for non-community-league members.)
7. Cheer on the runners at the Edmonton Marathon (Aug. 19)
There’s nothing better when you’re competing in a race than seeing families by the side of the route cheering you on. And it’s even more fun to sit and cheer while the runners huff and puff as they pass by. The Servus Edmonton Marathon attracts international talent — so you can sit back and watch the greats.
8. Spend the afternoon at
Elk Island Park
The mosquitoes should have died down by now … right? But whether you take an afternoon to hike, visit the beach or do a quick tour of Bison Loop Road, Elk Island Park is worth the relatively short trip down the Yellowhead Highway.
9. Cariwest parade (Aug. 11)
Take part in one of the most colourful, joyful outdoor parties our city has to offer. Celebrating Edmonton’s Caribbean communities, the parade dances its way from Jasper Avenue and 97 Street to the Capital Plaza on the legislature grounds.