Christina VarvisEdmonton may have an eclectic mix of free summertime events, yet the winter months lack the same draw. With nearly -30 degree weather, it’s understandable that people are less likely to get out as much. But those who are keen on leaving the house face several barriers beyond dismal weather conditions in finding affordable fun around the city.
Due to the sheer size of the city, it’s nearly impossible to get anywhere without driving or taking the bus: a necessary expense on its own. With inconsistent arrival times, rides that can often last as long as a half hour and a steadily increasing bus faire (daily passes currently sit at $3.20), public transit is hardly an ideal mode of transportation around the city if you don’t have a car at your disposal. As for entertainment itself, museums such as the Art Gallery of Alberta and the Royal Alberta Museum cost $11-12.50 for admission and other attractions including Fort Edmonton Park and the Muttart Conservatory are less accessible in terms of location.
The biggest problem is, students in particular are strapped for cash and often need something to blow off steam and keep their minds off the stress of studying. Yet the majority of free events and attractions advertised throughout the city seems to appeal almost exclusively to retired seniors and families with young children. Despite this, there are a few hidden gems to appeal to everyone:
1. The Lee Pavillion.
Right in the heart of the Citadel theatre resides a little slice of greenery you would only ever find in the Muttart Conservatory. The difference is, while it takes $12.25 worth of regular admission to get into the Muttart’s pyramids to see the lush plant life, the Lee Pavillion is entirely free and open to the public. Grab a coffee from the Citadel’s Second Cup with a friend for a quiet locale to catch up, or take the time to enjoy a good book in solitude.
2. Edmonton Public Library Film Series
The Stanley A. Milner library downtown hosts a number of free movie viewings every Wednesday and Friday. Expect themed movie nights every Friday at 6 p.m. (January was full of vibrant musicals), as well as independent, foreign and classic films on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. February’s indie films include Canadian political documentary, Danny (2005), and the Julianne Moore-led drama, Safe (1995), playing on February 4 and 11, respectively.
3. Winter Sports
For those eager to brave the chilly temperatures outside for a little exercise, public trails don’t just stop with the River Valley. In fact, several of Edmonton’s parks are free for public use for skiing, snow shoeing, hiking and skating. Emily Murphy and Hawrelak Park are both within walking distance or a quick drive from the university — a simple option for students.
4. Swing N’ Skate
If you’re suffering from festival withdrawal, City Hall’s Swing N’ Skate may just tide you over until spring with live jazz music and skating on the square every Sunday afternoon throughout February. If skating isn’t your thing, you can try a little something new with free dance lessons from the Sugar Swing Dance Club.
5. Edmonton Book Swap
Every six months, the literary fanatics of the city gather together to exchange their unwanted books for new reads. An unconventionally popular event, you have the chance to walk away with anything between classics, beach reads, and Marvel comics. Past swaps have been hosted by The Artery and the Edmonton Journal and are open to anyone with a passion for reading, or simply looking to clean out their bookshelves.
