It’s so sunny in our lovely city! As Northerners, we must take the opportunity to soak up as much of this summer sun as we can. But…have you tried to go to a lake around Edmonton this summer? Even if there aren’t water quality warnings (eek), every beach is packed by late morning, even on a weekday. So much for that idea! And yet…there are so many other ways to have fun in the sun in our lively outdoor city. Bonus – you don’t have to wear a mask outside (but do keep your distance!). Let’s talk about what outdoor fun Edmonton has to offer.
Mural Walking Tour
Have you noticed recently how many beautiful murals there are around Edmonton? Never have the sides of so many buildings looked so good! Why not pop over to my neck-of-the-woods for a little tour of some of Strathcona’s finest murals this weekend? You get a little exercise, some much needed sunshine, see some unconventional art, as well as hear the stories behind these works of art.
Get your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/edmonton-mural-walking-tour-old-strathcona-tickets-114241146344
Edmonton Ghost Tours
Feeling like something a little spookier than a painted wall? Then this tour is for you. You can spend the day browsing all the wonderful shops and patios on Whyte Ave, and then spend your evening doing a walking tour of the haunted world of Old Strathcona! Whether it be tales of ghosts or murders or mysteries, you’ll learn a lot about the history of this area, all while enjoying the warm evening outdoors.
Get your tickets or learn more here: http://edmontonghosttours.com/
A Little Bike n’ Eat n’ Listen
Not into ghosts or murals? How about biking, live music, and food trucks? The Edmonton Ski Club has a variety of either free or cheap live music events, as well as a food truck bike-thru. The food trucks include Drift Food Truck, Lemongrass Grill, Jackie O’s Mini Donuts (Death by Donut, anyone??) and Sweet Stix Ice Pops, and a variety of live bands are ready to perform for you (though one of the shows is already sold out!)
You can find out all about what music is happening on what days, and get your tickets at: https://www.edmontonskiclub.com/summer-events
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
Looking for some outside fun that is a little more family friendly? How about doing an outdoor scavenger hunt? All you need is a smart device for the app-led adventure that will guide you around Edmonton. It will even teach you things about our great city. With photo challenges and trivia questions, there is something for everyone in the family. And it’s a great excuse to exercise both your legs and your brain.
Get all the details and your tickets here: https://www.letsroam.com/scavenger_hunt/Edmonton_Scavenger_Hunt?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=todocanada
Theatre – In Your Literal Backyard
Are you a theatre buff who is missing live performances? Well, the Citadel has come up with an ingenious idea – they are taking their shows on the road and performing in your backyard, or from your front porch!
I know – sounds a bit wild. But how cool would it be to mix it up by watching a Porchside Prom performance from your literal porch?
If you are interested, check it out at: https://www.citadeltheatre.com/2019-2020/road-shows
Outdoor Yoga
Looking for less drama and more relaxation? Why not some outdoor yoga? You can either go out of town and enjoy some centering in the Botanical Gardens or stay in the city (well, sort of – the outskirts of the west end) and do your stretching in Glastonbury Park. Either way, I can’t think of a better place to do yoga than in nature.
Picnic In The Park
Speaking of the University of Alberta’s Botanic Garden, what if you had a lovely picnic there? You order your gourmet picnic boxes and enjoy the evening in the gorgeous gardens. The picnic basket is filled with local, Canadian goodies. You also get a blanket, flowers and everything you need to make pretty much the best outdoor date happen. From charcuterie to dessert, this won’t be a boring ol’ limp, hot sandwich picnic – this is luxury. All while enjoying the beauty of the botanical gardens.
I don’t know what else to say if I haven’t convinced you – check it out at https://botanicgarden.ualberta.ca/visit/shop-eat/the-picnic-box-experience/
Be sure to book quickly though, as it’s almost sold out!
These are just some of the ideas I have for how to spend a beautiful August weekend. I’d love to hear what your favourite thing to do in the city this summer is!