There’s lots to do in the city of Edmonton, especially with children. Going out and exploring can get expensive though, so we wanted to share a list of some of our favorite free Edmonton kids activities that can be done throughout the year (keep checking back as we add more). If you’re looking for some free activities for kids, here are a few to make note of:
Art Gallery of Alberta
On the last Thursday evening of the month, at 6pm, admission to the Art Gallery of Alberta is free. This means that you can check out the exhibits and installations, for free. Not only is a great way to cool off during the summer, but a fantastic way to get out of the house in the winter.
Free Yoga + Dance Classes
Kids between 4-9 (not just girls) can take part in free Yoga + dance classes that are changed up every week at the Ivivva store in Southgate and West Edmonton Mall. The classes are held right before the store opens, starting at 10am-11am.
Free Kids Building Workshops
Both Home Depot and Lowes’ stores have free kids workshops once a month. You have to sign up in-store or online, but kids entering the workshops get kits for a new theme every month and perks like aprons, pins and goggles for completing the class. It’s a fun way to have a quick dad/mom/kid time and you can start around age 4.
Cool off at the Spray Park
During the summer months, checking out one of the local spray parks is an easy way to spend the day – and it’s an inexpensive way to entertain the kids. Bring your own drinks and snacks, find a shady spot or bring a pop up tent and you’re good to go for the entire day.
Kids Cooking Classes
Jr. Chef classes where kids can assist with a themed kitchen recipe or activity, are held every Saturday at Williams Sonoma stores. Starting at 10am, you can register your child ahead of time over the phone and come into the store to take part in the class. Kids interested in being in the kitchen will learn something new and it’s a great chance for parents to splurge, while saving, as 10% off coupons are given out in the class.
Storytime at Chapters
Local Chapters Indigo stores host storytime on a weekly basis. At our local store, it’s 1pm on a Saturday. Kids can come in, listen to a quick story and do a coloring sheet or quick activity. Kids that come to the session are given a stamp on their stamp card, and when it’s full, they earn $5 to spend in-store. Contact your local store for the details.
Biking through the River Valley
Families interested in cycling can head to River Valley, Rundle Park and that entire area to find trails and trails and trails galore. It’s an easy afternoon out in the spring and summer time, even the fall, making it a great activity to get active, on a budget.
Lego Build Night at the Lego Store
On the first Tuesday of the month, children and parents can visit the Lego store where there is a limited supply (usually 250) kits for a mini build. Kids ages 6+ can take it home, or build it in-store, for free. It’s always packed, so get there early at around 4pm to get your ticket to redeem for a free mini build.
Stargaze at the U of A
Between 12-1 on Thursdays there is solar gazing, and at 8pm in the evening there’s a public lecture and star gazing. For planet obsessed older kids, a great way to introduce them to the solar system and different constellations like the Andromeda or Cephus. Note: star gazing times change through the year in the evening, so check out the Observatory website for the operating hours.
Movies on the Square
During the summer months, there is lots of activity to be found at Sir Winston Churchill Square. Movies on the square is one of our favorite activities, as there are great movies, a fun chance to bring along a picnic and bouncy castles with kids activity before the movie starts.
Kids Playtime at the Mall
Momstown and Box Social plan regular events for kids in the local malls. From box forts to tot yoga, there are some fantastic options for moms + little kids to get out there, for free, to play at these events.
Take a Trip to the Disney Store
Just because you’re going to the Disney store doesn’t mean that you have to spend a fortune, or anything at all. At the stores, there is a fun coloring area that our kids love, and movies and songs playing. Then, they can play in the interactive kids area, or run under a tree while you browse and get inspired for future gift-giving.
Library Drop In Programs
From Lego building, to learning about bats, and rhyme and signing learning for infants and toddlers, there are hundreds of free programs at all of the branches of Edmonton Public Library. These programs are designed for infants to teenagers, and with a little research parents can create enriching experiences, for free, with the click of a register button.