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Hey Edmonton!

Its another Thursday!

Today, we have an update on the affordable housing initiative in Edmonton.

Also,  a broad selection of 'Things to do this weekend'. :)

Lets get to it!

A major federal initiative is officially underway to address Edmonton's housing crisis.

A new agency, Build Canada Homes, is spearheading a project to construct up to 355 new homes in the north Edmonton community of Griesbach.

The development will rise on surplus public land, part of a national strategy to tackle housing affordability.

At least 40 percent of the new units must be offered at below-market rates, providing a lifeline for moderate and medium-income families struggling in the current market.

Officials are calling on developers with experience in innovative and rapid construction methods, like prefabrication, to submit their qualifications for the project.

The deadline for these crucial submissions is December 22, 2025.

This Griesbach initiative promises to create a more stable, mixed-income neighborhood and offer significant relief for hundreds of local residents.

1. Outdoor and Nature

Beginner Birding Workshop - Riverside Nature Trail: Join Bird Dreams for an immersive 3.5-hour outdoor birding adventure celebrating Métis Week. Look for Pileated Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, waterfowl on the river including Common Goldeneyes and Mallards. High-quality binoculars and harness provided. Learn birding ethics, field marks, and identification techniques. Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025, 9:00 AM Location: Amisk Waciw Meskanaw foot bridge parking lot, Riverside Nature Trail, Sherwood Park Cost: Paid event (workshop fee applies) Click for details

River Valley Winter Picnic: Experience a true Canadian winter barbecue at one of Edmonton's city park picnic sites. Bundle up, bring a hot drink from a local café, and enjoy a campfire barbecue under the stars. Emily Murphy Park offers playgrounds for families, while Rundle Park has disc golf trails. Date: November 14-16, 2025 (anytime) Location: Various River Valley parks including Emily Murphy Park and Rundle Park Cost: Free Click for details

Year-Round Patio Exploration: Brave the November chill at Edmonton's heated winter patios. Visit tented patios at Sea Change Brewing Co., Tiramisu Bistro, or Black Dog Wooftop, or classic winter patios at The Next Act, Little Brick, or Cafe Bicyclette. Nothing says Edmonton like a local beer by a campfire! Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Various locations throughout Edmonton Cost: Free to visit (food/drinks extra) Click for details

All Is Bright Festival - Light-Up Ceremony: Celebrate the winter season on 124 Street with a dramatic light-up ceremony, beverage gardens, campfire treats, and local businesses. Enjoy the glow of lights and warmth of community at Helen Nolan Park. Date: Friday, November 15, 2025 Location: 124 Street area, Helen Nolan Park, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Edmonton Valley Zoo - Regular Hours: While not a special event, the zoo remains open with conservation talks and animal exhibits to explore. November features conservation programming about various species. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Edmonton Valley Zoo, 13315 Buena Vista Rd, Edmonton Cost: Regular admission applies Click for details

2. Shows & Entertainment 📺

Adventure Club - Throwback Tour: The electronic music duo brings their high-energy dubstep and bass-heavy sound to Union Hall. Experience one of Canada's most successful EDM acts performing their biggest hits live. Date: Friday, November 14, 2025, 9:00 PM Location: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Paid admission (tickets required) Click for details

Sultaan - Rap God Tour: Experience Punjab's rap sensation Sultaan performing all his biggest hits live. This 18+ event showcases the rising star of Indian hip-hop and Bhangra fusion. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 10:00 PM Location: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Tickets from $46.38 Click for details

House of Hush Burlesque - Smoke Show: A glamorous evening of burlesque performed "in the round" at Smoke BBQ Bar in the Ice District. Styled after extravagant 1920s parties with glittery costumes, cocktails, and gin-soaked revelry featuring Edmonton's best burlesque artists. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025 - Doors 6:00 PM, Show 7:00 PM Location: Smoke BBQ Bar, 10266 103 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Tickets available (VIP includes complimentary cocktail) Click for details

Vinyl Cafe: The Musical: This funny and heartwarming holiday musical based on Stuart McLean's beloved Vinyl Cafe stories runs at The Citadel Theatre. A celebration of the highs and lows of the holiday season featuring stories like "Dave Cooks the Turkey." Date: November 8 - December 7, 2025 (including this weekend) Location: The Citadel Theatre, Edmonton Cost: Paid admission (tickets required) Click for details

Cineplex Community Day: Enjoy a FREE movie at local Cineplex theatres celebrating Community Day, with proceeds supporting BGC Canada. The Rec Room and Playdium also offer free one-hour game bands. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Cineplex Theatres, The Rec Room & Playdium locations Cost: Free movie admission / Concessions $3 Click for details

3. Arts, Crafts & Culture 🎭

A Very Indigenous Holiday Market: Shop from over 100 Indigenous artists and vendors at this FREE three-day cultural gathering. Features live entertainment including an Indigenous Fashion Show (Friday), Pow Wow Showcase (Saturday), and Métis Fiddle & Jigging (Sunday). Emceed by LaDonna Cree. Accepting donations and warm clothing for Edmonton Native Healing Centre. Date: November 14 (3-9pm), November 15 (10am-8pm), November 16 (10am-5pm), 2025 Location: Alberta Aviation Museum Event Hanger, 11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton Cost: FREE admission (cash donations accepted) Click for details

Fall Métis Market: Celebrate Métis Week at Kingsway Mall with handcrafted goods from talented Métis artists. Experience the warmth of fall through art, tradition, and community visiting during this vibrant cultural celebration. Date: Friday, November 15, 2025 Location: Kingsway Mall, 109 Kingsway NW, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Edmonton Potters' Guild Annual Sale: Browse beautiful handcrafted ceramics from local potters. Find unique holiday gifts including bowls, mugs, plates, and decorative pieces. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025 Location: Alberta Avenue Community Centre, 9210 – 118 Avenue, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Just One World Craft Market: Support local artisans at this craft fair in Old Strathcona. Discover handmade goods, art, and unique gifts for the holiday season. Date: Saturday-Sunday, November 15-16, 2025 Location: Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre, 8426 Gateway Blvd, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Beverly Heights Christmas Craft and Gift Show: Browse through local vendors selling handmade crafts and holiday gifts. Perfect for early Christmas shopping in a community setting. Date: Saturday-Sunday, November 15-16, 2025 Location: Beverly Heights Hall, 4209-111 Avenue, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Cineplex Community Day: FREE movie screenings for the whole family supporting BGC Canada. The Rec Room and Playdium locations also offer free one-hour game bands from 9-11am. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Cineplex Theatres, The Rec Room & Playdium venues throughout Edmonton Cost: Free movie / Concessions $3 Click for details

A Very Indigenous Holiday Market: Family-friendly event with over 100 Indigenous vendors, live entertainment, throat singing demonstrations, and cultural performances. Kids can learn about Indigenous culture while parents shop for unique gifts. Date: November 14-16, 2025 (see schedule above) Location: Alberta Aviation Museum Event Hanger, 11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton Cost: FREE admission Click for details

Edmonton Public Library Events: Various free in-person programs, activities, and storytimes for children and families. Check your local branch for specific programming this weekend. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Various EPL branches throughout Edmonton Cost: Free Click for details

All Is Bright Festival: Family-friendly winter festival on 124 Street featuring light displays, beverage gardens (non-alcoholic options available), campfire treats, and entertainment. Kids will love the dramatic light-up ceremony. Date: Friday, November 15, 2025 Location: 124 Street area, Helen Nolan Park, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Free Recreation Drop-In Programs: City of Edmonton offers various free drop-in activities for families. Check When & Where guide for swimming, skating, and sports programs available this weekend. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Various Edmonton Recreation Centres Cost: Free Click for details

House of Hush Burlesque - Smoke Show: An adults-only (18+) evening of extravagant burlesque performed in-the-round at Smoke Bar. Features cocktails, glittery costumes, and roving performers. Order off the "Hush Menu" for personalized performances. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025 - Doors 6:00 PM, Show 7:00 PM Location: Smoke BBQ Bar, 10266 103 St NW, Edmonton (Ice District) Cost: Tickets required (VIP includes cocktail) Click for details

Adventure Club at Union Hall: Electronic dance music party featuring the Canadian dubstep duo. Expect bass-heavy beats and a high-energy dance floor atmosphere. 18+ event. Date: Friday, November 14, 2025, 9:00 PM Location: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Paid admission Click for details

Sultaan - Rap God Tour: Late-night hip-hop concert featuring Punjab's rap sensation. 18+ event with high-energy Bhangra-rap fusion performances starting at 10 PM. Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 10:00 PM Location: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Tickets from $46.38 Click for details

Ice District Nightlife: Explore Edmonton's entertainment district with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Check out venues like On The Rocks for live music and party atmosphere. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Ice District, Downtown Edmonton Cost: Varies by venue Click for details

Union Hall Events: Multiple concerts and events throughout the weekend including Freddie Dredd (Nov 14), Adventure Club (Nov 14), and NorthsideBaby (Nov 15). Check their calendar for full lineup. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton Cost: Varies by event Click for details

PBR Canada National Finals: Canada's best bull riders face the rankest bulls for the 2025 PBR Canada National title at Rogers Place. This elite Cup Series event awards $250,000 including a $100,000 bonus to the Champion. The richest international PBR finals returns to Edmonton! Date: Friday-Saturday, November 14-15, 2025, 7:00 PM Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton Cost: Tickets start at $40 Click for details

Edmonton Oilers (Check Schedule): The Edmonton Oilers may have home games this weekend. Check the official schedule for games at Rogers Place. Join the passionate fan base at the Ice District or local sports bars. Date: Check NHL schedule for November 14-16, 2025 Location: Rogers Place or local sports bars Cost: Varies Click for details

University of Alberta Golden Bears & Pandas: Catch university-level hockey, basketball, or volleyball games. Experience the electric campus spirit while supporting local student-athletes. Date: Check schedule for November 14-16, 2025 Location: University of Alberta venues Cost: Low-cost admission Click for details

MacEwan Griffins Sports: Cheer on MacEwan University teams in various sports. Affordable family entertainment with exciting collegiate competition. Date: Check schedule for November 14-16, 2025 Location: MacEwan University venues Cost: Low-cost admission Click for details

NAIT Ooks Athletics: Support the NAIT Ooks in hockey, basketball, volleyball and other sports. Great atmosphere and affordable tickets. Date: Check schedule for November 14-16, 2025 Location: NAIT venues Cost: Low-cost admission Click for details

Edmonton Speed Dating - Ages 34-43: Meet new people at this straight speed dating event hosted by Flare Events. Structured format to connect with multiple singles in one evening. Date: Friday, November 14, 2025 Location: Boxcar Coffeeshop, Edmonton Cost: Tickets required Click for details

Meetup Groups - Various Activities: Edmonton has numerous active Meetup groups for hiking, social activities, sports, networking, and making friends. Search "Edmonton Meetups" for groups meeting this weekend. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Various locations Cost: Usually free or low-cost Click for details

All Is Bright Festival Community Gathering: Meet neighbors and community members at this winter festival on 124 Street. Great opportunity to connect with locals while enjoying lights and entertainment. Date: Friday, November 15, 2025 Location: 124 Street area, Helen Nolan Park, Edmonton Cost: Free Click for details

A Very Indigenous Holiday Market - Community Gathering: Connect with Indigenous artists, performers, and community members. Three days of cultural celebration and networking opportunities. Date: November 14-16, 2025 Location: Alberta Aviation Museum, 11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton Cost: Free admission Click for details

Edmonton Outdoor Club Activities: Check their calendar for hiking, biking, and social activities scheduled for this weekend. Regular outdoor activities plus social events. Date: Check website for weekend schedule Location: Various locations Cost: Varies Click for details

Our Food & Drink, and Happy Hours sections are now featured exclusively in our sister publication Edmunchie.com : Click here

A Guide to Unforgettable Adventures

The Talus Dome - a public art installation located in Edmonton, Alberta.

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Thank you!