5 things to do in Edmonton this weekend

Whether you’re indoors or out, wordy or lazy, the city is your Easter egg this weekend, with plenty of art, adventure movies and markets.

What: As usual, spring seems to be taking longer than we would like this year, giving us snow when many would prefer snowdrops. However, the Art Gallery of Alberta has your back with four exhibits sure to get you in the mood to explore nature:

Check out early photos and films from the Rockies at High Adventure: Byron Harmon on the Columbia Icefield, 1924

Celebrate the Group of Seven with Lawren Harris and A.Y. Jackson: Jasper / Robson, 1924

Learn a little by checking out Flora and Fauna : 400 Years of Artists Inspired by Nature

When? All three exhibits run through until the summer

What: Put on your rain boots and head over to Fort Edmonton for Sweet Treat: Whimsy and Wonder. See the excitement of spring through Victorian eyes, complete with storytelling, performances, games, crafts and the obligatory Easter egg hunt. Tickets cost about $10.

When? April 18 and 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What: Nothing brings us together today like marriage … I mean the Princess Bride. And you’re in luck! The Rob Reiner cult favourite is coming back for two special shows at the Metro Cinema this weekend, so go revisit your childhood,or introduce a new generation to one of the most timeless cinematic gems of all time. I mean it. (Anybody want a peanut?)

When? April 19 at 9:30 p.m. and April 21 at 4:30 p.m.

What: The Edmonton Poetry Festival kicks off this weekend, celebrating verse in all its forms for the ninth year running. With events planned for all over the city and local participation encouraged, this may well be your big chance to try out some of that material you’ve been scribbling for years -- or at the least, learn more about the poets living in your own neighbourhood.

When? Events daily from April 20 to 27

What: I don’t know about you, but the variable weather and wait for (real) spring is wearing me down -- so why not take advantage of the long weekend and recharge those batteries? Go for brunch or hit the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market (the 104th Street Market opens next month). Or, better yet, nestle in and catch up on some new releases and eat some Easter chocolate.

Have a great weekend!