It's so hard to believe that the holiday season is flying by so quickly, although with this unseasonably warm weather, it almost feels like we're still in October. Although Christmas and New Years have yet to pass, there's definitely no harm in planning for the upcoming year.
2017 was an insane year, with so many festivals, concerts, openings, closings, etc. Looking back, it's hard to believe how much we crammed into just twelve short months. Of course, that probably just means that 2018 is going to be even crazier, and we can't wait to see what it has in store for us.
January is already set up to be an exciting month in Edmonton. Just because the holiday festivities are technically over, doesn't mean you need to be done celebrating. There's always an excuse to celebrate, if you look hard enough 😉.
A big part of the New Year is New Years Resolutions, and one that we feel should be on everyone's bucket list is to get out, and explore your city more. Luckily for you, we're pretty much experts at that, and have done all the hard work and research for you.
No matter if you're broke, and looking for things to do for free this January, hoping to find a new love interest, or looking to treat yourself to something extra classy, we've got it all. All you need to do is read our lists, and start planning your first outings of 2018.
Things To Eat & Drink
Things To Do On A Date
Things To Do For Under $20
Things To Do That Are Classy AF
Things To Do For Free
For Things To Eat & Drink, Click "NEXT".
Brunch at Cafe Linnea
This modern, elegantly decorated cafe might just be the perfect spot to grab brunch while in Edmonton. Plus, there's no better cure for a post-holiday hangover than eggs benny.
Try an infamous burger from The Burger Joint
This spot has massive, delicious burgers that, get this, actually won't break your bank account. You and your wallet will be drooling.
Go back in time at Rockin' Robyn's Diner
If you ever wished you'd lived in the 60's, this spot will take you there, no problem. Grab a milkshake and some tasty brunch while enjoying the old-school vibes.
Try some tequila at El Cortez
You know what they say about tequila... It's a blast, duh. El Cortez is the best of the best in Edmonton, and is also a spot that makes for great IG pics.
Hop on the craft beer bandwagon at CRAFT Beer Market
The craft beer scene in Edmonton is already flourishing, and continues to grow. Even if you're not a beer fan, CRAFT may surprise you; definitely add it to your 2018 bucket list.
Try a crazy milkshake at Regrub
YYC's favourite has made it to Edmonton, and the milkshakes are just as crazy. Everyone's familiar with Regrubs insane concoctions, and if you haven't already, we recommend you try them.
Do some studying at District Cafe & Bakery
With a new semester starting in January, it's important to kick ass from the get-go. Find a great study spot, like District, and start cracking the books early.
Try the incredible Seoul Fried Chicken
This spot has been on my radar for awhile now, not only because it looks delicious, but also because it's a super interesting concept. Who would've thought we could combine Korean food with fried chicken?
For Things To Do On A Date, Click "NEXT".
Play some board games at Table Top Cafe
This can be a lot of fun, if you're not a sore loser. Table Top Cafe has a massive selection of board games, so you and your boo will never get bored.
Take some cooking classes at Sorrentino's
This is a super romantic idea, and you get some applicable life skills out of it as well. Killing two birds with one stone, while also impressing your date.
Couples Massage at Bliss Yoga Spa
After a long, stressful holiday szn, it's likely that you and boo need some R&R. Treat yourself, while also gifting your s/o, they'll thank you forever.
Lace up your skates at one of the cities' outdoor rinks
It may seem cliche, but it's actually pretty cute. A good skate date can be the perfect ice breaker (no pun intended) in that initial awkward, early dating phase.
Cheer on your hometown team at an Edmonton Oilers game
Even if you're not a hockey fan, the atmosphere and excitement at NHL games is contagious. It's something you should experience at least once in your life.
Take a day trip to Jasper National Park
If you want to get out of the big city for the day, pack your bags and head to Jasper National Park for a quick mountain trip. The views are incredible and there's so much adventuring to do.
Hit the slopes at one of Alberta's best ski resorts
Perfect for the outdoorsy date, you'll definitely want to take a trip to the mountains and spend the day snowboarding or skiing before the season ends.
Catch a movie at The Princess Theatre
You can't go wrong with dinner and a movie. The Princess Theatre plays some super unique stuff that your date probably hasn't seen before.
For Things To Do Under $20, Click "NEXT".
Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta
Museums are definitely worth checking out, if you have the time. The AGA offers unique programs, like adult drop-in art classes, and ever-changing exhibits for your enjoyment.
Check out as many restaurants on this Edmonton bucket list as you can
A true Edmontonian has been to enough YEG restaurants to know what's good and what isn't. Check out as many of these spots as you can in the new year.
Conquer this Edmonton pizza bucket list
Being a broke uni student myself, I know how easy it can be to live off of pizza. With this list, you'll never run out of new and original spots to check out that won't leave you broke.
Head to one of Edmonton's coolest escape rooms
Escape rooms are the new wave, and now it's your turn to jump on the bandwagon. Edmonton has a huge selection for you to choose from, maybe you can visit them all in 2018.
Explore the beautiful Muttart Conservatory
The Muttart is a popular spot in Edmonton, and it's simply because it's so beautiful and interesting. The botanical gardens will make you forget all about winter, and keep you entertained for hours.
Get drunk with your crew for super cheap
We know nights out aren't cheap, but luckily, Edmonton has plenty of dive bars that will let you enjoy yourself without breaking the bank.
Tour Alley Kat Brewing Company
If drinking is your thing, this is your spot. Taste and tour the amazing brewery that is Alley Kat. Who knows, you may leave a bigger beer fan than when you came in.
Visit The Rec Room
You can have plenty of fun here, no matter your age, or if you're drunk or sober. The Rec Room is making waves all across Canada, and if you haven't visited yet, you'll want to ASAP.
For Things To Do That Are Classy AF, Click "NEXT".
Book an appointment with one of YEG's best hairstylists
A new hair do can completely change your life. Take on the new year with confidence, and book an appointment with an amazing stylist who can give you the best hair of your life.
Get your face beat by a professional Edmonton MUA
Nothing gets you more prepared for a night out on the town than a perfect face. Edmonton is full of super talented MUA's who are ready to contour and highlight.
Plan a relaxing getaway at one of these super cute Airbnbs
You're stressed, we get it. You deserve a vacation outside of the big city, but you don't need to splurge. Book an Airbnb and save the extra cash to treat yourself to something extra special.
Book a shoot with an amazing Edmonton photographer
Photography is an up and coming business in our city, and there's no shortage of talent to choose from. Book a shoot, that way you always have some incredible pics to post on your IG.
Treat yourself to a shopping day at West Edmonton Mall
It's likely that you've got some gift cards to use up from Christmas, or returns and exchanges to do on presents. Might as well get them done this month, before you forget about them!
Visit the Miette Hot Springs in Jasper
You deserve to relax, and we want you to. Not only are the mountains of Jasper super calming and beautiful, the hot springs here will leave you feeling totally rejuvenated.
Work on your #2018Bod at Barre Studio
Nothing says classy quite like taking care of yourself. Try out a new and unique workout at Barre Studio. Even if fitness isn't really your thing, you may leave a total Barre guru.
Book a manicure with one of YEG's best nail artists
A good manicure can really change your life. Thankfully, all the wonderful nail artists of YYC are here to help you keep your hands on point.
For Things To Do For Free, Click "NEXT".
Visit one of our beautiful Provincial Parks
Alberta is full of wonderful sights to be seen, and we recommend you make a point in the new year to get outside and go see them. There are plenty of parks, just a few hours away from Edmonton.
Explore some of Alberta's most haunted spots
Halloween is long gone, but the ghosts are still out and about. Something about ghost hunting is super thrilling, and definitely worth doing if you need some excitement in your life.
Do an impromptu photoshoot around YEG
It may be cold outside, but that shouldn't stop you from posing for the camera. Grab your besties, dress up, and start snapping pictures.
Go snowshoeing around the River Valley
Snowshoeing is a great way to get outside and stay active in the winter months. If your new years resolution is to get fit, try your hand at this.
De-stress before the new semester starts at some of these super unique places
You just finished finals, and are about to enter back into the start of a new semester. De-stress during your break, and go in with a totally clear head.
Skate on the Victoria Park IceWay
This is always an Edmonton favourite, so if you've never gone, you have to try it this year. It's like every other outdoor skating spot, only 10x more beautiful and IG worthy.
Check out Deep Freeze Fest
From January 13th - 14th, keep the Winter festivities going. Deep Freeze is all about celebrating the cold season, completely free of cost. Bundle up, and make sure you're there!
Stargazing at the UofA Observatory
Thursday evenings offer a free stargazing session at the Observatory. Bring a date, or roll solo; either way, you'll definitely see some gorgeous Edmonton nighttime sights.
CPKC Holiday Train.