October 28 to November 8
Tough Guy, a new play by local playwright Hayley Moorhouse, follows a group of friends navigating the aftermath of a shooting at a queer nightclub. See this complex exploration of grief, healing and joy at Fringe Theatre Arts Barns.
November 5 to 8
One of Canada’s largest agricultural shows, Farmfair returns to the Edmonton Expo Centre. Exhibitors from across western Canada will showcase their livestock, compete for prizes and invite guests to learn more about Alberta’s rich agricultural community.
November 6
Edmonton Queer History Project marks the release of Cruising the Downtown: Celebrating Edmonton’s Queer History, a collection of essays and articles about legendary 2SLGBTQ+ people and events, with a book launch at Audreys Books. A collaborative history of the city, Cruising the Downtown enlightens readers about Edmonton’s often unacknowledged and vibrant queer community.
November 6 to 8
For fans of everything weird, creepy or mysterious, Yikes! Film Festival screens fantastical short and feature films. Focusing on horror, sci-fi and fantasy, Yikes is a celebration of strange and experimental art.
November 7 to 8
Symphony devotees and newcomers alike will find something to love with Pop Icons: From Prince to Whitney at the Winspear. In addition to symphonic tributes to the music of Prince and Whitney Houston, attendees can expect the ESO to pay homage to popular music legends Elton John, Elvis and Diana Ross.
November 7 to 8
Pair local eats with wines, beers and spirits at Rocky Mountain Wine and Food Festival. Celebrate all that Alberta’s food and beverage makers have to offer — just be sure to indulge responsibly.
November 8 to December 7
A new holiday tradition begins at the Citadel Theatre with Vinyl Cafe: The Musical. Adapted from some of Stuart McLean’s most beloved Vinyl Cafe stories, this original new work explores the highs and lows of the holiday season.
November 8 to 9
Appreciate local flavours at Nosh Food Fest, where Alberta bakers, distillers, coffee roasters and food producers offer guests a chance to try their goods and enjoy regional cuisine.
November 9
Alberta’s own Skinny Dyck brings his unique brand of country rock to Plaza Bowling for an intimate show. Stick around after the performance for a round of bowling and craft beers.
November 13
Join Sherbrooke Liquor and Bridgeland Distillery for Blend Your Own Whisky. This tasting event will expose you to five different whiskies before creating your own unique whisky. Best of all — Bridgeland will bottle your one-of-a-kind blend for you.
November 13
In support of the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts, Here’s Nina showcases the centre’s artworks by people with intellectual disabilities, and awards five outstanding artists for their achievements. Bid on the silent auction, enjoy a three course meal and take in live entertainment.
November 13 to 14
Brian Webb Dance Company (BWDC) brings BLOT – Body Line of Thought to the Roxy Theatre. This innovative work explores anatomy and language with the creative boundary pushing and artistry BWDC is known for.
November 13 to 16
The fourth annual Broad View International Film Festival returns to the Metro Cinema with eight new films directed by women — including an encore screening of All We Imagine as Light and the Edmonton premiere of Janis Ian: Breaking Silence followed by a Q&As with the filmmaker.
November 14
Catch one of Canada’s fastest rising comedy stars at the Grindstone Theatre’s The Stand Up Show: Alistair Ogden. He’s been featured on Just for Laughs shows across the country and appeared on CBC, and now he brings his Here for You tour to Edmonton.
November 15
Kick off the holiday season as All is Bright Festival returns to 124th Street. Live music, food and winter activities light up the block with seasonal magic.
November 15
Even for an improv show, this one is offbeat. Secret Secrets Club at Rapid Fire Theatre turns the audience’s confessions into improvised comedy.
November 19
Join Edify in toasting the city’s young leaders at this year’s Top 40 Under 40. Live music by Top 40 alums Don Berner and R.J. Cui, networking and celebrating Edmonton’s most promising figures — it’s a night to remember.
November 20
The Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra performs as part of the Edmonton Chamber Music Society’s season at First Presbyterian Church. As Canada’s premier early music ensemble, Tafelmusik brings new life to classic concertos.
November 22
Welcome the holiday season in downtown at Winterval on 104th Street, which lights up with music and winter patios and festivities for people of all ages.
November 23
Canadian country-rock artist Julianna Riolino brings her Laurel Canyon-meets-girl-group grooves to The Aviary with local musical openers as part of her ambitious three-month North American tour .
November 28
Step back to the ’40s at the Blatchford Boogie Woogie — an evening of swing dancing, live music and local brews, all in support of the Alberta Aviation Museum.
November 28
A bit of glam — for a good cause. The annual Silver Bell Soirée is a whimsical gingerbread-themed evening of music, cocktails, fine food and festive giving. The event and silent auction benefits the University Hospital Foundation.
November 28 to 30
The popular biannual art and makers fair OddBird takes over the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre for three days. Support local artists and crafters while getting a head start on your Christmas shopping.
November 29
Here’s one more seasonal kick-off to add to your calendar: Winter Whyte Light Up, at Dr. Wilbert McIntyre Park, is filled with festive lights, family activities and ice sculptures.
November 29
Time to wear your sunglasses at night — at the 80s Silent Disco at the Art Gallery of Alberta. Tune into one of three DJs in your headphones and dance the night away. It’s as close as you’ll get to holding the aux cord at a dance party.
