Just a short drive from Edmonton, Elk Island National Park offers a world-class natural escape right in our own backyard.

This vital sanctuary is a renowned conservation success, famous for its role in saving both plains and wood bison from the brink of extinction.

Visitors can often spot these magnificent creatures along the Bison Loop Road.

The park boasts over 80 kilometers of trails for all abilities, from the accessible Living Waters Boardwalk to longer, more challenging hikes.

Paddle the peaceful, motor-free waters of Astotin Lake or enjoy a family picnic at one of the many scenic sites.

As part of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, it’s also one of the best local spots for stargazing and watching for the Northern Lights.

It remains a cherished gem for nearby communities like Sherwood Park and Fort Saskatchewan.

Test your Edmonton IQ!

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Edmonton?

A: Some popular outdoor activities in Edmonton include hiking in Elk Island National Park, exploring the River Valley parks, and cycling along the city's numerous bike trails.

Q: What are some must-visit attractions in Edmonton?

A: Some must-visit attractions in Edmonton include the West Edmonton Mall, the Alberta Legislature Building, and the Muttart Conservatory.

Q: What is the weather like in Edmonton throughout the year?

A: Edmonton experiences all four seasons, with hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall seasons. Temperatures can range from -30°C in the winter to 30°C in the summer.

Down By The River Music Festival: Soak up the last of the season at this open-air festival on the banks of the North Saskatchewan. The event blends indie, folk, rock, and alternative sounds from Canadian and international musicians in a beautiful park setting.

Date: September 13–14, 2025 

Location: Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, Edmonton 

Cost: Ticketed event

Click for details: https://www.downbytheriverfest.ca/ 

Rooftop Yoga Flow & Brunch Sesh: Start your morning with movement, fresh air, and good vibes. This all-levels yoga flow allows you to connect, stretch, and breathe deeply on a beautiful patio overlooking the city.

Date: September 13, 2025 

Location: The Canadian Icehouse Patio, Edmonton

Cost: $25 

Click for details: Icehouse patio

Edmonton Mural Festival: Take a self-guided tour around the city and discover stunning large-scale murals. This ongoing festival turns Edmonton's streets into a vibrant, open-air art gallery, perfect for an afternoon of exploration.

Date: August 15 – September 15, 2025 

Location: Various locations throughout Edmonton

Cost: Free

Click for details: https://www.edmontonmuralfest.com/

Elk Island National Park: Just a short drive from the city, you can spend a day hiking, canoeing, and spotting wildlife like bison and over 250 species of birds in this beautiful national park.

Date: Open year-round

Location: Lamont County, Alberta

Cost: Park admission fee applies

Click for details: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/elkisland

AsiaFest Night Market: Experience Edmonton’s largest Asian night market, featuring over 50 vendors. Enjoy delicious street food, browse unique handcrafted goods, and take in live music and cultural performances.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: Currents of Windermere, southwest Edmonton 

Cost: Free admission 

Click for details: https://www.asiafestyeg.ca/ 

Beer, BBQ, Bourbon & Blues: Indulge in an enticing blend of flavours with a special Southern-influenced menu of BBQ dishes, accompanied by live blues music and a great selection of drinks.

Date: September 13, 2025 

Location: The Mill Craft Bar + Kitchen, Edmonton 

Cost: $25 

Click for details: https://www.edmonton.events/blog/25-things-to-do-in-edmonton-under-25-in-september 

BarrelFest in Ritchie Park: Join local breweries for an afternoon of unique beers from across Canada, poured by the brewers who made them. It's a great opportunity to sample a wide variety of craft brews in a fun, outdoor setting.

Date: September 13, 2025 

Location: Ritchie Park, Edmonton 

Cost: $7 (includes commemorative glass) 

Click for details: https://www.edmonton.events/blog/25-things-to-do-in-edmonton-under-25-in-september 

Down By The River Music Festival: This annual riverside music gathering features live performances, dancing, and community vibes. The all-ages event showcases indie, folk, rock, and alternative musicians from Canada and beyond.

Date: September 13–14, 2025 

Location: Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, Edmonton 

Cost: Ticketed event

Click for details: https://www.downbytheriverfest.ca/

National Video Games Day at EPL: Celebrate National Video Games Day with tournaments, scavenger hunts, and gaming fun at various Edmonton Public Library branches across the city.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: EPL branches across Edmonton

Cost: Free

Click for details: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/edmonton/national-video-games-day/

4. ARTS, CRAFTS & CULTURE 🎭

AsiaFest: A vibrant celebration of Asian culture in the heart of Edmonton. Along with food and shopping, the festival features a rich program of cultural performances, offering a taste of Asia's diverse traditions.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: Currents of Windermere, southwest Edmonton 

Cost: Free admission 

Click for details: https://www.asiafestyeg.ca/

Edmonton Mural Festival: Explore the city's streets to discover magnificent murals painted on buildings. This month-long event celebrates street art and transforms public spaces into a dynamic and colourful gallery.

Date: August 15 – September 15, 2025 

Location: Various locations throughout Edmonton

Cost: Free

Click for details: https://www.edmontonmuralfest.com/

Moss Art Design Workshop: Learn how to create your own stunning moss art to liven up your space. This workshop guides you through the process of creating your own unique piece of art using natural materials.

Date: September 14, 2025 

Location: The Fourth at Southgate Center, Edmonton 

Cost: $12 

Click for details: https://www.edmonton.events/blog/25-things-to-do-in-edmonton-under-25-in-september 

AsiaFest Night Market: A fun event for the whole family, with a lively atmosphere, delicious food that appeals to all ages, and cultural performances that are both entertaining and educational.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: Currents of Windermere, southwest Edmonton 

Cost: Free admission 

Click for details: https://www.asiafestyeg.ca/

National Video Games Day at EPL: Kids and teens can join in on video game tournaments, scavenger hunts, and other gaming-related fun at their local library branch.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: EPL branches across Edmonton

Cost: Free

Click for details: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/edmonton/national-video-games-day/ 

Night life

AsiaFest Night Market: As Edmonton's largest Asian night market, this is the premier nightlife event of the weekend. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with street food, shopping, live music, and cultural performances under the stars.

Date: September 12–14, 2025 

Location: Currents of Windermere, southwest Edmonton 

Cost: Free admission 

Click for details: https://www.asiafestyeg.ca/

Adult 'Try It' Quadball Event: Come try quadball, a chaotic and fun sport that mixes handball, dodgeball, and flag football. This event is open to everyone, from seasoned athletes to complete beginners.

Date: September 14, 2025 

Location: Edmonton (email for specific location)

Cost: Free 

Click for details: https://www.edmonton.events/blog/25-things-to-do-in-edmonton-under-25-in-september

Down By The River Music Festival: With its relaxed community vibe and beautiful riverside setting, this music festival is an ideal place to bring a blanket, gather with friends, and meet other music lovers.

Date: September 13–14, 2025 

Location: Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, Edmonton 

Cost: Ticketed event

Click for details: https://www.downbytheriverfest.ca/ 

Adult 'Try It' Quadball Event: A fantastic way to meet new people while learning a new and exciting team sport. The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all skill levels.

Date: September 14, 2025 

Location: Edmonton (email for specific location)

Cost: Free 

Click for details: https://www.edmonton.events/blog/25-things-to-do-in-edmonton-under-25-in-september 

Visit the Muttart Conservatory on a Thursday evening for half price admission and enjoy the stunning botanical displays in a quieter atmosphere.

The weekend weather in Edmonton looks to be pleasant, with warm temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night . Expect sunny conditions to start the weekend, with a possibility of some rain by Sunday

Here is a day-by-day breakdown of the forecast:

Friday, September 12: You can expect a high of 24°C and a low of 17°C . Another source suggests a high of 18°C and a low of 5°C

Saturday, September 13: The day will be sunny with a high of 26°C and a low of 13°C . Other sources predict a high of 22°C and a low of 16°C , or a high of 17°C and a low of 6°C

Sunday, September 14: There is a chance of patchy rain with a high of 19°C and a low of 15°C . Other forecasts suggest a high of 20°C and a low of 16°C , or a high of 17°C and a low of 5°C

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