YouAlberta
Summer as a student at the U of A isn't always about beaches, travel and doomscrolling reels all day long. It's also about balancing work, classes and squeezing in a bit of life in between (it’s my second summer with a full course load).
If you’re spending the summer in Edmonton while juggling a full-time job or summer courses, it’s still possible to have a great experience. Edmonton's long days and vibrant culture offer plenty of ways to make the summer memorable without impacting your responsibilities (and avoiding a 6+ hour screen time).
Here’s how to make the most of Edmonton as a busy summer student.
Explore the outdoors!
This one’s kind of obvious, but something I failed to do my first summer here. Start with the river valley. Early morning walks, after-work bike rides or weekend hikes fit easily into your schedule. You don’t need a gym membership to stay active; just a water bottle and decent shoes.
On weekends, explore local farmers’ markets like Old Strathcona Farmers' Market, City Market Downtown and 124 Grand Market. They offer more than just fresh produce, including local art, handmade goods, food trucks and live music. It’s an affordable way to support local, grab a coffee and feel connected to the city.
And if you want more of a getaway without taking time off, Elk Island National Park is less than an hour away and packed with wildlife, trails and stargazing spots. For water lovers, Sylvan Lake or even Pigeon Lake make a great day trip.
Attend festivals.
Edmonton isn't called the Festival City for nothing. Between June and August, the city runs back-to-back festivals. Some staples include:
- The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival – jugglers, musicians and magicians take over Churchill Square (really fun to attend)
- Taste of Edmonton – food stalls from across Edmonton for local dishes
- K-Days – part carnival, part music fest, part food truck heaven.
You don’t need to spend the whole day there. A couple of hours in the evening is enough to catch a show, try a new dish or people-watch in downtown Edmonton.
For something more relaxed, check out free outdoor movies at "Movies on the Square" in Churchill Square.
Be productive outdoors.
Why stay stuck inside your study spot when you could have fresh air and a river view? Switch up your routine by studying outdoors. Constable Ezio Faraone Park offers U of A views, while Emily Murphy Park provides a more relaxed vibe.
Prefer a busier vibe? Head to Whyte Ave. Cafes like Block 1912, Coffee Bureau, or ACE Coffee Roasters have reliable Wi-Fi and even better iced lattes. Patio seating means you’re working, but it doesn’t feel like a grind.
Edmonton summers are short; why not enjoy them while staying on track academically?
Use your student perks!
Still have your student ID? Use it. The Art Gallery of Alberta offers free admission on certain days for students. Also, the Telus World of Science has discounted tickets and rotating exhibits.
Be more social.
Being social doesn’t mean late nights or expensive bills over at Whyte Ave. Campus & Community Recreation offers drop-in leagues in volleyball, soccer, spikeball and even ultimate frisbee. You don’t need to commit to a full season. Just sign up when you’re free.
My personal go-to is a late-night lime scooter ride, joining a running group or just walking to a new ice cream spot (Yelo’d, Made by Marcus, or Kind Ice Cream are my favourites).
Volunteer and build experience.
Volunteering doesn’t need to take up your whole weekend. Many Edmonton festivals and organizations offer 2 - 4 hour shifts. Whether it’s helping run a booth, managing the crowd or setting up chairs, you get experience, meet people and maybe a free T-shirt or food voucher.
For those thinking long-term, volunteering at events related to your field is a great way to build a resume while still giving back.
Embrace the late sunsets
One of Edmonton’s biggest summer perks? The sun sticks around until 10 p.m. Use it. Post-work picnic in the park? Do it. Quick hike before sunset? You’ve got time. Hit up a late-night market or walk downtown while it’s still warm and light (the high-level bridge has amazing sunset views).
Even a small change in your routine, like grabbing a coffee and people-watching on Whyte Ave can improve your mood. These little moments make summer feel like summer, even when you have a ton of assignments due.
You don’t need a plane ticket or a three-month break to enjoy summer. Edmonton offers enough small adventures, local events and spontaneous moments to make every week feel full, even with a packed schedule. Work hard and stay focused, but carve out time to enjoy Edmonton before the winter hits again.