10 THINGS TO DO IN EDMONTON THIS WEEK - NOVEMBER 17-21
Edmonton is serving up a full menu of entertainment this week — from risqué expos and world-class theatre to cocktail pop-ups, comedy nights, charity screenings, and festive kickoffs. Whether you’re easing out of the weekend with a wander through the Taboo Show or gearing up for a week packed with culture, flavours, and fun, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your days (and nights!) in the city.
From the highly anticipated arrivals of Guys and Dolls and Castle Spectre on local stages, to one-night-only culinary and cocktail experiences, to community festivities and unique screenings, this week brings something for every mood. So bundle up, step out, and start planning - it’s a packed week of theatre, food and pop-up events in Edmonton.
Here’s the best things to do in Edmonton this week
Kick off your week - or end the weekend - with a trip to The Taboo Show in Edmonton. Sunday is the last day of this three-day adult playground adventure where you can discover new passions through workshops and educational experiences, get inspired in the marketplace and be part of the first-ever Taboo Teaser Wet T-Shirt contest! Sunday, 12-5. Tickets on sale, here.
FEATURED: Guys & Dolls Hits the Stage in Edmonton
Join Foote in the Door in their 13th season for the classic comedy musical Guys and Dolls, playing November 21-30, 2025 at the Theatre Servus Credit Union at La Cite Francophone. Guys and Dolls has music and lyrics by Frank Loesser with a book by Jo Sweling and Abe Burrows.
This dazzling, high-energy musical comedy, winner of 5 Tony Awards for its original production is set in the bustling streets of 1940s New York City. Guys and Dolls follows the unlikely romances between a high-stakes gambler and a strait-laced missionary, and a showgirl desperate for marriage and her commitment-phobic fiancé. With unforgettable songs like “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” this timeless classic is a witty, heartwarming tale of love, luck, and the dicey game of chance.
FEATURED: Catch Castle Spectre on Stage
Experience a gripping gothic melodrama by M.G. Lewis, adapted by Edmonton artist Lauren Tamke. This haunting tale explores trauma, redemption, and resilience through eerie castle scenes, dramatic lighting, and a talented local ensemble. Performances highlight Treaty 6 Territory’s rich arts heritage.
In an isolated castle, the tyrannous Lord Osmond now reigns after the suspicious death of his brother two decades ago. After years of hiding in the shadows, Osmond captures a young villager named Angela intent to make her his wife. When Angela refuses, the haunting mystery of the former ruler is revealed in both violent and supernatural ways.
Charity Screening of Antartica
Anton Ptushkin embarks on a special charity tour with his travel documentary Antarctica, which tells the story of Ukrainian polar scientists working at the remote Vernadsky Research Base.
This cinematic journey invites you to board the Noosfera icebreaker with Anton, cross the infamous Drake Passage, and experience the majesty of glaciers and the charm of penguins on the big screen. You’ll discover why researchers spend an entire year in isolation, what scientific missions they undertake — and why they need a crossbow to do it.
An Adult Spelling Bee Hits Stanley A Milner Library
Bzzz bzzz! That's the sound of EPL's Eighth Annual Adult Spelling Bee! This year we're holding the Bee in person at the Stanley Milner Branch of Edmonton Public Library. Spellers - Join us for your chance to win glory as the 2025 Spelling Bee Champion. We have 30 spots in our line up - claim your spot today! Instructions: Registering guarantees you a spot in the 2025 Bee, which takes place on Tuesday, November 18 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Spellers are required to arrive 30 minutes early (6:30 PM) for set-up and orientation.
Free Wednesday Night Open Mic at Grindstone
Looking for a laugh — or your chance to make a room full of people laugh? Every Wednesday night at 10 PM, The Grindstone hosts one of Edmonton’s only Stand-Up Comedy Open Mics.
Whether you’re a first-timer ready to take the plunge or a seasoned comic testing fresh material, this stage is yours. Each performer gets 5 minutes (with a light at 4) to bring the funny.
Atwater Cocktail Club x Bar Nero One Night Only Pop Up
Bar Nero is excited to welcome Damian Herrera Li of Montréal’s @atwatercocktailclub, ranked #5 on Canada’s 100 Best Bars 2025, for a guest shift on Wednesday, November 20th | 5 PM – Late.
For one night only, Damian brings the creativity and flair of one of the continent’s top bars to the prairies, featuring an exclusive cocktail menu with some of Atwater’s top hits and a few collaborative mashups.
Take a Winter Sips Cocktail Class at Alchemy Bar
This hands-on cocktail workshop, led by a seasoned mixologist, will have you shaking, stirring, and sipping your way to mastery. Craft four expertly paired cocktails, each matched with bites curated by Chef Allen, while uncovering the secrets of premium spirits and perfect pours. Leave with a custom gift bag, new skills, and a final toast at the bar—because every great bartender deserves a great sendoff.
Wine and Dine with this Wine Dinner at Ampersand 27
Enjoy a four-course culinary journey thoughtfully crafted by our culinary team, each dish perfectly paired to highlight Rustenberg’s unique terroir, balance, and elegance.
Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Cape Winelands — from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to the luxurious depth of Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon — alongside exquisite plates inspired by global techniques and local ingredients.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Tree Lighting Ceremony
On Friday, November 21, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald will launch the start of Edmonton’s festive season with its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The celebration will include fresh cookies, hot chocolate and plenty of festive cheer! We look forward to seeing you at our open-to-the-community event!
Try this: Sake Tasting with Sherbrooke Liquor
Taste the essence of Japan with Sake Gami! Authentic, elegant, and unforgettable! Explore the vibrant world of Japanese craft sake in an intimate tasting event brought to you by Sake Gami , Alberta's premier importer of artisan sake and spirits. From shimmering, silky junmai ginjo to bold, rich daiginjo expressions – each pour tells a story of heritage, terroir, and the masterful hands that bring it to life.
