Good Morning, Edmonton! ☀️
So many things going on this week. Easter is around the corner and there are plenty of family events popping up as a result. The Oilers had a big game on Tuesday and are set to play again tonight in Vegas. I am also buzzing after my visit to BE Coffee in South Edmonton (one of this week’s local finds).
River City Lights is almost 10,000 strong across the city. I’m so appreciative of your readership and support.
As always, respond to any newsletter and I’ll do my best to get back to you. I love hearing from everyone.
Have a wonderful day, and enjoy.
—Eric
Today’s Edition:
Proposed Whyte Ave changes with BRT + wider sidewalks 🚌
A bee-themed cafe bringing connection to the south side 🐝
McDavid hits 1,200 points as Oilers surge continues 🏒
Ballet performances, unique date nights & family outings! 🎟️
A local “Save the Whales” story that had global impact 🐳
This Week In YEG
McDavid Hits 1,200 Points (and 401 Goals) in Tuesday’s Oilers Win 🏒
Connor McDavid had a historic night, scoring twice in a 5–2 win over Utah to reach 401 career goals and 1,200 points in the process. The milestone moment came late, with his empty-netter sealing both the game and the achievement, as the Oilers continue their push up the Pacific Division standings.
Games this week 👇
TONIGHT, March 26th @ 7:30PM vs. Golden Knights (away)
Saturday, March 28th @ 1:30PM vs. Anaheim Ducks (Tickets)
Tuesday, March 31st @ 7:00PM vs. Seattle Kraken (Tickets)

Another record night for the best player on the planet. | Photo: Melissa Majchrzak
City of Edmonton wants your input on the next 4-Year budget 🏛️
The city is asking residents to weigh in on its 2027–2030 budget, with feedback open now through surveys, tools, and in-person sessions. Your input will help shape everything from city services and infrastructure projects to taxes and fees before council makes its final decisions later this year.Whyte Ave could get BRT + wider sidewalks 🚌
Big changes could be coming to Whyte Avenue, as city council moves closer to deciding on bus rapid transit (BRT) and major pedestrian changes. A new motion would bundle transit upgrades with wider sidewalks (potentially removing some parking) to make the area more walkable and transit-friendly. Final decisions will come during the city’s next budget discussions later this year.

Major changes being proposed to one of our most recognizable streets. | Photo: CBC Edmonton
Photo Radar Cuts Are Costing Edmonton Millions 💰
Edmonton is feeling the impact of reduced photo radar enforcement, with officials saying the city has lost tens of millions in revenue that used to fund traffic safety programs. That money typically supported initiatives like safer crossings, school zones, and road design improvements, meaning projects may now be delayed or scaled back. A tricky issue, indeed.

The issue aside, this does look slightly dystopian… | Photo: Edmonton Journal
Canada Strong Pass is coming back for 2026 making it easier (and cheaper) to explore the country this summer 🇨🇦. From June 19 to September 7, you’ll get free admission to all Parks Canada sites (no sign up required!), discounts on camping and stays, and reduced entry to museums across the country. There are even travel perks, like free train rides for kids and discounted fares for young adults.
Abby (my dog) enjoying the lake at one of our favourite places, Waterton Lakes National Park, many years ago. If you haven’t been, it’s worth the drive this summer!
Free Things To Do
🆓 Vintage/Streetwear Lost & Found Expo (Saturday, March 28th) is bringing one-of-a-kind finds together for a full-on treasure hunt experience at City Centre Mall! With 50+ vendors, you can dig through racks of curated pieces, discover hidden gems, and shop sustainably all in one place—perfect if you’re into fashion, thrifting, or just love the thrill of finding something unique. 12-6pm.

50+ vendors on City Centre Mall main floor this Saturday! Free! | Photo: @lostandfoundexpo.ca
🆓 Storytime: Wendell & Alice at Sherwood Park Mall (Sunday, March 29th) brings a little spring magic for families this weekend. Kids can gather for a short, magical story session at 11:00am with Alice and Wendell the Bunny, complete with laughs, imagination, and even a chance to win the featured book! It’s free to attend, no registration needed, and a great easy outing for little ones.

A simple, feel-good morning activity for families this weekend. | Photo: Sherwood Park Mall
🆓 History Explorers at the Little White School (March 31 & April 1) is a great drop-in activity for families looking to mix fun with a bit of local history. Running from 10 am to 2 pm, kids can take part in crafts, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on exploration of historical artifacts, all in a relaxed, community setting. Take the short drive to St. Albert and check it out!

The Little White School in St. Albert. | Photo: Historic Places Days
Maki Happy Comedy Jam (Wednesday, April 1st) is one of the liveliest midweek events (every Wednesday, 7:30pm-9:30pm) in the city, packing out the lounge at Kinshi Rinji with free stand-up, surprise guests, and a crowd that actually shows up to laugh. Expect a mix of local comics and touring acts, high energy, and a room that feels more like a party than a typical comedy show. Grab your free tickets here!

Every Wednesday at Kinshi Rinji, 8109 101 St NW. | Photo: Maki Happy Comedy Jam
Easter at Sherwood Park Farmers’ Market (Wednesday, April 1st) brings a full evening of family-friendly fun just outside the city. Running from 3-7pm, kids can meet the Easter Bunny, take photos, join a scavenger hunt, and even catch bunny-themed movies while you browse local vendors. It’s free to attend and an easy way to mix a market run with a bit of spring celebration.

Paid Events You’ll Love
🎟️ AGA x Ballet Edmonton: Soft Currents (March 26–28) invites you to experience dance in a completely different way. This immersive performance lets you move through the gallery as the show unfolds around you—blurring the line between audience and art. It’s easily one of the most unique cultural events happening in Edmonton this week. 6:30pm-9:30pm, Thursday-Saturday. Grab your tickets right here!

Soft Currents, an interactive dance performance inspired by bird murmurations. | Photo: AGA
🎟️ Alberta Ballet presents Swan Lake (March 27–28) at the Jubilee Auditorium, bringing one of the most iconic ballets of all time to Edmonton with a fresh new vision. This Canadian premiere blends Tchaikovsky’s legendary score, a live orchestra, and stunning choreography into a powerful, emotional performance that’s stood the test of time. If you’ve never seen it live, this is the one to start with. You can find tickets here!

A timeless story of love, deception, and unforgettable world-class performance. | Photo: Alberta Ballet
🎟️ Spring Garden Party at JW Marriott (Saturday, March 28th @ 4:30PM-7:30PM) invites you to step into an evening of connection, seasonal flavours, and beautifully curated dining. Set around a long shared table, this intimate experience features a chef-crafted menu infused with fresh rosemary from the JW Garden—paired with wine and a welcome cocktail to match. If you’re looking for a refined, elevated night out, this is one of the most unique dining events this week. Reserve your seat here!

Great company, elevated atmosphere, and exceptional food this Saturday at the Marriott! | Photo: JW Marriott
🎟️ Record Swap & Artist Jam Night at CKUA (Saturday, March 28th) is a two-part evening celebrating Edmonton’s music and arts scene—past and future. Kick things off at 6pm with a classic vinyl swap featuring local vendors and CKUA selections (wraps at 8pm), then head into the Arts Den where live music, dance, and a free-to-use art table bring the space to life. You can even tour CKUA’s historic music library while you’re there. $5 in advance, $10 at the door. Grab your tickets!

🎟️ GOBFest Board Game Festival (March 27–29) takes over the Edmonton Expo Centre this weekend with hundreds of games, tournaments, and open play tables! Whether you’re a serious strategist or just looking for something fun and social to do indoors, there’s something for everyone. Check out their Instagram and get your tickets here!

Join the fun and play some games at GOBfest this weekend! | Photo: Edmonton Journal
Worth Your Time
How the 1980s Whale Society of Edmonton made a difference 🐳
Edmonton once had a “Save the Whales” movement (and it actually worked). It might sound surprising for a landlocked city, but Edmonton once played a small role in the global anti-whaling movement.
A new piece from the Let’s Find Out Podcast, a publication of Taproot Edmonton, dives into the story of the Whale Society of Edmonton, a small but passionate group from the 1980s that helped raise awareness and push for change far beyond Alberta. Through grassroots organizing, education, and persistence, they proved that even a handful of people—thousands of kilometres from any ocean—can influence global conversations.
You can listen to the conversation and read more about this fascinating piece of Edmonton history by 👉 clicking here.

(Left to right) Chris Chang-Yen Phillips (host of the Let’s Find Out Podcast; Taproot Edmonton), Kathryn Ivany (City of Edmonton Archivist), Candas Jane Dorsey (activist, author, teacher, and sister of Jaclyn Dorsey; a key member of the whale society). | Photo: Let’s Find Out Podcast
Local Finds
Edmonton’s bee-themed Cafe: BE Coffee 🐝
BE Coffee (Beginning to End) in South Edmonton is more than just a café…it’s built around one simple idea: connection. This locally owned spot near Century Park focuses on quality coffee, thoughtful design, and creating a welcoming space where people can slow down, meet, and actually spend time together. Bees, honeycombs, and honey-flavoured drinks to boot! 🍯
Owners Deb (the coffee lover), Jason (the custom home builder), and their four children have built a lovely, welcoming atmosphere with the self-stated goal of “…hoping to extend our love of coffee and community to the people residing nearby, in the city and neighbouring communities.”
Let’s help them do it! Follow BE Coffee on Instagram and stop in for your next latte to say hi to Deb, Jason, and the family. 👇
📍 Located in Century Park, 11015 26 Ave NW
🕒 Mon-Friday 7:30am-8pm | Sat & Sun 8am-6pm

The relaxing, family-run, community-oriented atmosphere at BE Coffee.
🌲 Hard Luck Canyon (just 2 hours from Edmonton) is one of those hidden Alberta gems that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another world. Located just outside Whitecourt, this sandstone canyon was carved by a creek over thousands of years, creating towering cliffs, a small waterfall, and a scenic bridge overlooking it all.
A short, easy trail (about 10 minutes) takes you to the viewpoint, with stairs leading down to the canyon floor if you want to explore up close. Pack a lunch, wander the trails, and you’ve got a perfect low-effort day trip that feels like you’ve gone much farther than you actually have!
My solution for the snow yesterday is to dream of warmer days and epic hikes—I hope this week’s local find helps you do the same.

An accessible trail that everyone can enjoy, just a couple hours away. | Photo: Woodland County
Before You Go…
Don’t fear, everyone. Winter will end…eventually. 🥶
Things are a bit cold right now, with highs around -8°C. Friday will be closer to 0°C with a bit of sun. The weekend stays cool and mostly cloudy, just below freezing. And early next week brings a chance of light snow with temperatures around -1°C to 0°C.
Whatever the temperature, I look forward to connecting with you then.

