Baijiu has officially been named Canada’s Best Patio for 2026 🍹 Canada’s 100 Best has praised the downtown hotspot, Baiju, for its massive 230-seat courtyard, year-round heated glass patio, and energetic atmosphere that keeps buzzing long after sunset. The award shines another national spotlight on Edmonton’s growing food and cocktail scene just as patio season kicks into full swing.

Black bears are once again being spotted around Elk Island 🐻 Parks Canada says sightings are becoming more common this time of year, reminding visitors to give bears plenty of space, avoid stopping for roadside photos, and stay alert while hiking or cycling. It’s a good sign for local wildlife populations — but also a reminder that we’re sharing the outdoors with some very large neighbours!

Edmonton’s free forest bathing program is back 🌿 Here for a second season and starting May 14, the city is offering guided wellness sessions in parks across Edmonton all summer long. Led by certified guides from the City’s Community Forestry team, the experience combines slow walks, mindfulness, meditation, and quiet reflection to help people reconnect with nature and unwind from city life. Registration is available here.

Alberta is opening a new DNA and forensic laboratory in Edmonton 🧬 This is a move that the province says will help speed up criminal investigations and reduce reliance on out-of-province testing. Officials say the facility will process DNA evidence faster, helping police solve cases more efficiently while easing backlogs in the justice system. Expected to become operational over the next few years.

Windsor Park is getting a new 25-storey high-rise 🏗️ A major new building is coming to one of Edmonton’s most established neighbourhoods after city council approval. A 25-storey mixed-use tower near the University of Alberta. The project will bring hundreds of new rental homes, retail space, and increased density steps from campus and transit.

🆓 Community Bike Tune-Up (Friday, May 8th) Rolling into the Strathcona Community League tomorrow from 6–8pm. This is a free, drop-in chance to get your bike checked, tuned, and ready for a full season of riding!

🆓 Oddbird Art & Craft Fair (May 8-10) 🛍️ Back at the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre this weekend and bringing together 60+ local artists under one roof! This is a go-to spot for one-of-a-kind ceramics, textiles, and art prints; perfect if you’re looking to pick up something uniquely Edmonton!

🆓 Get Ready in the Park at Borden (Saturday, May 9th) 🚒 This free, family-friendly day all about emergency preparedness. Expect hands-on demos, interactive activities, and plenty of heavy equipment and emergency vehicles on display for kids (and adults) to explore. 10am - 3pm.

🆓 Lendrum Community League Pottery Sale (Saturday, May 9th) Returning to the Lendrum Community Hall this Saturday from 10am–2pm. Browse a wide selection of handmade ceramics from local artisans—perfect timing if you’re hunting for a unique Mother’s Day gift with a bit of Edmonton history behind it.

🆓 Kids Run Wild Free Try-It Session (Tuesday, May 12th) This is a free, drop-in family event at Mill Woods Park where you can learn map navigation and try orienteering together as a family! Swing by between 6:00–7:30 PM for a fun, low-pressure outdoor adventure (RSVP recommended).

🎟️ Triumph’s 50th Anniversary Tour (Thursday, May 7th) A high-energy night packed with classic hits and a full-scale production celebrating five decades of Canadian rock is coming to Rogers Place tonight! Doors at 7PM and the show kicking off at 8PM. Tickets still available!

🎟️ The SpongeBob Musical (May 7-9) The childhood favourite character comes to life just south of the city as the Leduc Drama Society takes over the Maclab Centre for the Performing Arts from May 7–9. A fun, family-friendly show packed with music, energy, and Bikini Bottom chaos, with evening performances at 7:30pm plus a Saturday matinee at 2:00pm. Tickets!

🎟️ Stars On Ice at Rogers Place (Friday, May 8th) ⛸️ Canada’s biggest figure skating stars hit the ice as Stars on Ice glides into Rogers Place tomorrow night. Expect a polished, enthusiastic, and artistic showcase of Olympic-level talent and crowd-favourite routines, with the show starting at 7:00pm. Tickets here.

🎟️ Teddy Bear Fun Fest (Saturday, May 9th) 🧸 Support the children’s hospital this weekend! Registration is required (around $25–$35), which includes a 5K walk/run, full access to activities, and even a teddy bear picnic lunch, all in support of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. Register here!

🎟️ The Edmonton Stingers Home Opener (Saturday, May 9th) 🏀 Tipping off this Saturday at the Edmonton EXPO Centre as they take on the Winnipeg Sea Bears. It’s going to be a loud start to the summer hoops season with a 1:30pm tip and plenty of playoff-calibre vibes right out of the gate! Get your tickets!

🎟️ The Edmonton Riverboat is open for the season! (May - September) One of the best ways to take in the river valley as it comes back to life for spring. Cruises depart from the dock at 9734 98 Ave NW, offering laid-back views, fresh air, and a front-row seat to Edmonton’s slow seasonal glow-up. Special Mother’s Day cruises are also happening this weekend! Tickets!

🎟️ Broadway Across Canada – Mamma Mia! (May 12-17) 🎭 Broadway Across Canada brings the feel-good ABBA musical to the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium starting May 12. A full week of singalong hits and high-energy performances, with nightly shows at 7:30 PM running through May 17. Tickets!

🎟️ Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour (Wednesday, May 13th) 👶 Rolling into the Edmonton EXPO Centre next Wednesday and bringing an interactive show that is perfect for younger kids! Music, dancing, and plenty of crowd participation when it kicks off at 6:00pm. Tickets for you.