Edmonton

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Nightlife and Entertainment

An overview of Edmonton's nightlife scene, including bars, live music venues, and entertainment options.

Sections

1. Bars and Pubs

Edmonton boasts a thriving bar and pub scene, ranging from cozy craft beer spots to upscale cocktail lounges. Here are some standout options:

Craft Beer and Breweries

  • Situation Brewing (10308 81 Ave NW): A microbrewery in the heart of Old Strathcona offering a relaxed atmosphere and a rotating selection of house-made beers. Try their beer flights to sample multiple brews.

    • Cost: $6–$8 per pint; $15–$20 for a flight.
    • Tips: No reservations needed; casual dress code.

  • Campio Brewing Co. (10257 105 St NW): Known for its creative beer offerings and hearty food menu, this brewery is a favorite among locals.

    • Cost: $7–$9 per pint.
    • Tips: Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for larger groups.

Cocktail Bars

  • Bar Clementine (11957 Jasper Ave): A chic, Parisian-inspired cocktail bar with an intimate ambiance. Their expertly crafted cocktails are a must-try.

    • Cost: $14–$18 per cocktail.
    • Tips: Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating. Dress smart-casual.

  • The Common (9910 109 St NW): A trendy gastropub offering creative cocktails, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere with occasional DJ nights.

    • Cost: $10–$15 per drink.
    • Tips: No strict dress code, but smart-casual is preferred.

Irish Pubs

  • O’Byrne’s Irish Pub (10616 82 Ave NW): A traditional Irish pub located on Whyte Avenue, known for its warm atmosphere, live music, and Guinness on tap.
    • Cost: $6–$8 per pint.
    • Tips: No reservations needed; casual dress code.

2. Nightclubs

Edmonton’s nightclub scene is concentrated in areas like Jasper Avenue and Whyte Avenue, offering a mix of dance floors, DJs, and themed nights.

  • Union Hall (6240 99 St NW): A large venue hosting live music, DJ sets, and themed parties. It’s popular among younger crowds and EDM fans.

    • Cost: Cover charge $10–$20; drinks $8–$12.
    • Tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines. Dress code is casual but trendy.

  • The Ranch Roadhouse (6107 104 St NW): A country-themed nightclub with a massive dance floor, live country music, and line dancing.

    • Cost: Cover charge $5–$15; drinks $6–$10.
    • Tips: Cowboy boots and hats are welcome! No strict dress code, but country attire is encouraged.

  • Y Afterhours (12404 118 Ave NW): An after-hours club for night owls, open until the early morning hours. It’s a hotspot for electronic music lovers.

    • Cost: Cover charge $15–$25; drinks $8–$12.
    • Tips: No alcohol is served after 2 a.m., but the music keeps going. Dress code is casual.

3. Live Music Venues

Edmonton has a rich live music scene, with venues hosting everything from indie bands to international artists.

  • The Starlite Room (10030 102 St NW): A historic venue offering an eclectic mix of live music, from rock and punk to electronic and hip-hop.

    • Cost: Tickets $20–$50, depending on the artist.
    • Tips: Check their website for event schedules. Tickets can sell out quickly, so book in advance.

  • Winspear Centre (4 Sir Winston Churchill Square): Home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, this venue also hosts jazz, classical, and contemporary music performances.

    • Cost: Tickets $30–$100, depending on the event.
    • Tips: Dress code is business casual to formal for orchestra events. Book tickets online in advance.

  • Blues on Whyte (10329 82 Ave NW): A legendary spot for blues and live music lovers, located in the Commercial Hotel on Whyte Avenue.

    • Cost: Cover charge $5–$10; drinks $6–$10.
    • Tips: Arrive early for good seating. Casual dress code.

4. Theaters and Performing Arts

For a more cultural night out, Edmonton offers a variety of theaters and performing arts venues.

  • Citadel Theatre (9828 101A Ave NW): One of Canada’s largest and most respected theaters, offering a mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and musicals.

    • Cost: Tickets $30–$100, depending on the production.
    • Tips: Dress code is business casual. Book tickets online or at the box office.

  • Varscona Theatre (10329 83 Ave NW): A smaller, intimate venue in Old Strathcona, known for its local productions and improv comedy shows.

    • Cost: Tickets $20–$40.
    • Tips: Check their website for showtimes. Casual dress code.

  • The Grindstone Comedy Theatre & Bistro (10019 81 Ave NW): A hub for comedy, improv, and cabaret performances, paired with a cozy bistro.

    • Cost: Tickets $10–$25.
    • Tips: Arrive early to grab a bite before the show. Casual dress code.

5. Seasonal and Special Events

Edmonton’s nightlife is enhanced by its seasonal festivals and events, which often extend into the evening.

  • Edmonton International Fringe Festival (August): The largest and oldest fringe theater festival in North America, featuring late-night performances, street acts, and food vendors.

    • Cost: Tickets $10–$20 per show; free outdoor performances.
    • Tips: Purchase tickets early for popular shows. Dress for the weather, as many events are outdoors.

  • Ice on Whyte Festival (January): A winter festival featuring ice sculptures, live music, and outdoor bars serving hot drinks.

    • Cost: Entry $5–$10; drinks $6–$10.
    • Tips: Dress warmly and bring cash for food and drinks.

6. Practical Tips for Navigating Edmonton’s Nightlife

  • Transportation: Edmonton has a reliable public transit system (buses and LRT), but service may be limited late at night. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
  • Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Alberta is 18. Be prepared to show government-issued ID.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in Canada. Tip 15–20% on drinks and food.
  • Weather Considerations: Edmonton can get very cold in the winter, so dress appropriately if you’re heading out at night.
  • Safety: Edmonton is generally safe, but stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups if possible.

7. Summary of Costs

| Category | Typical Costs | |------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Craft Beer | $6–$9 per pint | | Cocktails | $10–$18 per drink | | Cover Charges (Clubs) | $5–$25 | | Live Music Tickets | $20–$50 | | Theater Tickets | $20–$100 | | Rideshare (one way) | $10–$25 |

Edmonton’s nightlife and entertainment scene is as diverse as its population, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink, or immerse yourself in live performances, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your preferences. Enjoy your time in Edmonton!