Summer break is right around the corner, and just like most students, you’re probably looking for something to fill your time without being too hard on your wallet. Lucky for you, we’ve got a list of the top five things to do this summer with friends or even by yourself!
- Go to local concerts! – There are a ton of local bands in Edmonton competing for their spots on the big stages downtown and on Whyte Avenue. Find a local band to support and go to a show! Meet people with similar music tastes to you and watch your favourite band grow from the ground up in the Edmonton music scene.
- The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market – Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is the largest indoor farmers’ market. It’s located just off Whyte Avenue, and it’s been operating every Saturday since 1983, now running on Sundays as well! If something really catches your eye, prices are usually quite reasonable and won’t break the bank too much.
- Have a night (or a few) out on Whyte Avenue – Once you’re all stocked up from the farmers’ market, why not stop in for a quick bite to eat at any of Whyte Avenue’s dozens of restaurants? With happy hour specials and daily features, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack and a drink while you watch the game, or you’re looking to let loose and have some fun with your friends, there’s always something to do on Whyte.
- Go to an Oilers playoff game at the Fan Park or Moss Pit – Playoff season is just over the horizon, and lucky for NAIT students, a lot of us have our semesters coming to a close. There’s no better way to start the warm season than to feel the buzz in downtown Edmonton before an Oilers’ playoff game. A reminder: get downtown early, as lines get very long very fast. You won’t regret it!
- Leave! – If nothing above really interests you, there are hundreds of campsites in Alberta that are the perfect weekend getaway for someone looking to disconnect from the stress that comes with life as a student. Hipcamp is an amazing website that puts together all the cheapest campsites in Alberta. Book your camping trip now, and claim your spots for as low as $15 per night at some sites!
People love to say that there’s nothing to do in Edmonton, but they just haven’t looked hard enough. Some honourable mentions include the Telus World of Science, the West Edmonton Mall with its World Waterpark and Galaxyland, and of course, festivals like the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, Taste of Edmonton and the Edmonton Heritage Festival. Make the most of your summer break, and see everything your city has to offer!