5 things to do in Edmonton this weekend
While many of you likely plan to spend the weekend hustling from store to store in the final days before Christmas, here are some other ideas for those not under the gun.
Have a skating party
What: Victoria Park Oval officially opened for the season on Wednesday morning and Castle Downs opens its outdoor rink on Saturday, making this the perfect weekend to pull on some warm socks and strap on those skates and have a skating party. Pack some hot chocolate in a thermos to warm up – or, if you’re adventurous, have a winter picnic and campfire in Victoria Park.
Cuddle up on the couch:
What: Take a breather from the holiday crowds and cuddle up in front of your favourite holiday movie – whether it’s A Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Story, Gremlins or Die Hard. Or, if you prefer your Christmas viewing to be a social experience, head to the Garneau theatre for It’s a Wonderful Life, The Muppet Christmas Carol or – my personal favourite – Meet Me in St. Louis. A full list of films and screening times is available here.
Bellow in unison
What: In the words of the organizer, “Who doesn't love singing Handel's Messiah? Who doesn't enjoy a festive cocktail? Why not combine them on one glorious evening?” If you likewise think this sounds like a great idea, head to the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Saturday night for a cash bar, nibbles and tipsy singalong.
When? Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.
Join the tweet storm
What: Make the most of the shortest day of the year with #YEGlongnight, back for its second year. Grab your smartphone and plan something colourful, fascinating or simply envy-inducing and tweet up a storm as part of this crowd-sourced storytelling – but don’t forget to add the hashtag!
When? From 4:16 p.m. on Dec. 20 to 4:16 on Dec. 21
Christmas odds and ends
What: Once again, there are plenty of opportunities to sing and enjoy Christmas carols this weekend.
- Sing along with the Edmonton Youth and Children’s Choir Saturday night at McDougall United Church
- See The Christmas Carol as interpreted by a group of local musicians Saturday at the Westury Theatre
- The Singing Christmas Tree will be belting out tunes all weekend at the Jubilee Auditorium
- Actors will perform a radio version of beloved holiday classic It's a Wonderful Life through the weekend at the Capitol Theatre
- And don’t forget to check out all those other events that have been going on for some time now: Candy Cane Lane, A Christmas Carol, lights at the Alberta Legislature and Christmas Reflections at Fort Edmonton Park!
