Every Thursday in May (May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29)
You don’t need an astronomy degree to appreciate the night sky. Drive a little ways outside the city and you’ll find the perfect opportunity for stargazing at Hesje Observatory’s drop-in astronomical observing.
May 1
The YWCA honours six extraordinary women at their Women of Distinction awards. Enjoy a luncheon at the Royal Glenora Club and celebrate these everyday heroes who make our city a better place.
May 2 to 3
Ballet Edmonton’s Precipice, takes the stage at Triffo Theatre this month. Choreographed by artistic director Kirsten Wicklund, this new work of contemporary ballet is sure to inspire and surprise.
May 3 to 25
A classic novel comes to life at the Citadel Theatre. Canadian playwright Jordi Mand adapts Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women for the stage.
May 3 to June 22
Dive into the Muttart Conservatory’s feature pyramid, Under the Sea, an exploration of all things oceanic, from ocean-themed topiaries to aquatic plant material. Don’t forget to check out the other pyramids while you’re there, and stop for a coffee at Cafe Bloom.
May 4
In the April 2025 issue of Edify, we shared the story about Barry Johns and his perspective of how backyard housing could provide ample housing infill while protecting existing neighbourhoods. It’s an idea that is growing in Edmonton, and you can be part of it. Start by attending YEGarden Suites Deep Dive Workshop and talk to experts about city bylaws, utility considerations, financing & budgeting, design principles, the building process and property analysis.
May 5
The Garneau String Quartet is set to play MacEwan University’s Muttart Hall, bringing the music of Enescu and Mendelssohn to the university’s annual conservatory series.
May 8 to 18
It’s a double header of a film festival at Metro Cinema this month. From May 8-15, Northwestfest International Documentary Festival screens Sally, featuring the complicated story of American astronaut Sally Ride, as told by her life partner Tam O’Shaughnessy. Then, from May 16-18, Rainbow Visions Film Festival showcases the best of queer cinema — with a lineup to be announced soon.
May 9 to 11
A little birdie told us where to find the coolest craft fair in Edmonton and it’s at the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre. The OddBird Art and Craft Fair is back for its spring market, with Balay Coffee onsite serving up Filipino pastries and coffee.
May 9
Jason Vieaux performs Spanish guitar classics at the Guitar and Gin concert at the Winspear. Part of the Winspear’s ESO Pairings series, the concert hopes to introduce a new generation of fans to the world of classical music.
May 10
Step aside, wine moms. This one is for the scotch moms — Mother’s Day Scotch and Chocolate tasting at Ch Cafeteria.
May 13 & 27
Spilt’s classes have the secret recipe to crafting delicious zero-proof beverages. This month’s class explores Street Drinks from Around the World, providing global inspiration for fresh summer drinks — no booze required.
May 15 to October 9
The 124 Street Grand Market returns for its 14th season this May. Every Thursday, stop by for food trucks, fresh produce, locally made goods and live music.
May 16 & 28
Edmonton Cocktail Streetcar Experience has all the tasty drinks and panoramic views for a perfect date night. Watch the sun set from the High Level Street Car while sipping on three themed cocktails.
May 17
Indulge in four chocolate-coffee flights with Delavoye Chocolate Maker. Owner and chocolate maker, Antoine Lavoie, and barista, Mavi Tolentino, host a guided Coffee & Chocolate Pairing experience featuring the word’s most interesting and delicious beans.
May 17
Some people see improv and stand-up as rival siblings of the comedy world — but not the people from Rapid Fire Theatre. Their Improv Stand-Up Friendship Fun Time Show brings together some of Edmonton’s best improvisers and stand ups for a raucous show.
May 20 to 25
From Cradle to Stage — Walterdale Theatre’s festival of new works — showcases emerging local talent. Each year is full of surprises and you might even catch the beginnings of the next great Fringe show or theatre sensation.
May 21
Our love for her is no hyperbole. Canada’s own Alessia Cara brings her Love and Hyperbole tour to the Jubilee Auditorium this month.
May 22
Science gets psychedelic! Explore the world of substances from caffeine to magic mushrooms at Dark Matters: Science is Dope. This adult-only event includes hands-on science activities and an opportunity to explore the Telus World of Science’s exhibits.
May 23 to 25
Grab your iPhone — the 48-Hour Mobile Phone Filmmaking Challenge is back. If you have a phone and a spare couple days to write, shoot and edit a short film, this is the challenge for you. Four winning films will be showcased at the annual Edmonton Short Film Festival in October. Who knows, you might just have the next Tangerine on your hands.
May 24
I see you shiver with antici….pation. Join the Metro Cinema and Lowdown Cheap Little Punks for the midnight movie classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. Boas, leather and red lipstick encouraged.
May 26
Head to Little Wolf’s monthly Vegan Dinner. This cozy Garneau spot, which made the Best New list in 2024’s Best Restaurants, is offering a special three-course plant-based menu on the last Monday of each month.
May 29 to June 1
For over 40 years, the International Children’s Festival of the Arts in St. Albert has inspired kids and grown-ups alike with creativity and fun. Laugh, learn and make new memories with your littles at this iconic festival.
May 30 to 31
Don’t wait for Heritage Festival this summer to enjoy perogies and traditional dance. Celebrate Ukrainian food, culture and arts at UFest Edmonton Ukrainian Festival in Borden Park.
May 31
Dig out your Vans and black skinny jeans — it’s Emo Night at the Starlite Room. Dance to nostalgic faves like Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance and Yellowcard. You know you still love them…
