If pesky bugs could survive an Edmonton winter, there would be flies lazily droning away from my wallet right now. It seems to me that from the time school starts until well after Christmas, there’s just one bill and expense after another! What we could all use, I dare say, is some good, old-fashioned cheap fun! Here’s where you can find Winter Fun for $5 or Less in Edmonton!
Outdoor Skating in Edmonton – Get outside, get some fresh air and exercise, and enjoy an activity that ranges in cost from FREE to ultra cheap! Keep our Family Fun Edmonton Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Skating handy so you can keep tabs on ice times at your favourite outdoor rink!
Tobogganing – There’s something magical about sleds. Kids just don’t seem to feel the cold when there’s a sled involved! So grab yours (sleds AND kids) and head to these amazing hills for some of the best tobogganing this side of the Rocky Mountians!
Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skiing – If you have your own gear, you can just grab it and head out to one of these great city parks! If you don’t, renting can be a relatively inexpensive way to get some exercise and spend an day in the great outdoors!
Art Gallery of Alberta – Did you know that everyone under the age of 18 gets in free – any day, any time?!? Adults can also take advantage of the free admission program on Thursday evenings between 5 pm and 8 pm!
To Be Discovered – Explore the Alberta Legislature grounds with this free program that runs every Thursday evening at the Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre. The last Thursday of the month is always a screening of a family-friendly animated favourite!
Year Round Farmers’ Markets – Delicious baked goods, locally made items, and yes, even some fresh produce, can be sourced at a handful of Year Round Farmers’ Markets that operate in Edmonton and area!
Kidzone at the Marketplace at Callingwood – This popular outdoor shopping centre hosts the free Kidzone event once per month. In the colder months, activities happen in the lobby of the Callingwood Professional Centre.
Alberta Aviation Museum – Explore the province’s high-flying past! The last Thursday of every month is Servus Free Access Night, from 5 pm to 8 pm, at the Alberta Aviation Museum!
Stargazing – Cold, clear winter nights are the best for viewing the stars – but we’ve found an even better way! Every Thursday evening head to the U of A Observatory for amazing sky views you won’t find anywhere else. Best of all – it’s free!
Cineplex Family Favourite – Speaking of movies, Cineplex offers $2.99 tickets to their Family Favourite flick of the week every Saturday morning!
Reel Family Cinema – Most Saturday afternoons, kids 12 and under can get in free to see a family-friendly flick at Edmonton’s popular Metro Theatre.
Michaels Kids’ Club – The supplies are endless and the fees are low at Michaels Kids Club! Every Saturday morning, crafters aged 3 and up can tackle a $2 or $5 project. And who said the kids need to have all the fun?? Michaels also offers Make Breaks, projects for crafters of all ages, on select Saturdays and Sunday!
Home Depot Kids Workshops – Foster a love of tools and a do-it-yourself spirit in your kids by introducing them to woodworking projects at Home Depot Kids Workshops. Register in advance for these free monthly builds!
Free LEGO Build – Have a kid who loves LEGO? Check out the monthy free make and take at the LEGO store in Southgate Centre! Just remember to wake up early on the 15th of each month to register for the next month’s event.
