Edmonton's Weekend Calling: November's Best Bets, Rain or Shine!

Ah, November in Edmonton. You know, that funny in-between time, right after the vibrant colours of fall have faded but just before the full, glittering embrace of the holiday season truly kicks in. And honestly, it can feel a little... well, a little grey, couldn't it? But don't you dare let that crisp air fool you into staying indoors this weekend, because November 14th through 16th is surprisingly bursting with life, with happenings that truly promise to shake off any pre-winter doldrums.

So, what’s on the docket? For starters, if you’re anything like us, your thoughts might already be drifting towards gift-giving season. And lucky for us, the "Winter Wonders Market Preview" is making its grand — yet rather cozy — debut down at the Old Strathcona Arts Barn. Now, this isn't your average market; you’ll find artisans showcasing everything from handcrafted ceramics to genuinely unique, locally sourced edibles. It’s a chance, you could say, to snag some truly special treasures before the mad rush. Just thinking about those warm lattes and the scent of pine is enough to get me excited, for once.

But hey, maybe your heart beats to a different rhythm, a more melodic one. And if that’s the case, then you simply must check out "The Riverbend Sessions" at The Mercury Room on Friday night. Local darlings, "The Northern Lights," are headlining, and their sound — a sort of indie-folk fusion with just a hint of gritty Edmonton charm — is simply captivating. It’s a wonderfully intimate venue, you see, where the music just... washes over you. Expect good vibes, perhaps a bit of swaying, and certainly some stellar tunes. And who knows, maybe you’ll discover your new favourite band? Wouldn't that be something?

For those among us who crave a touch of the extraordinary, perhaps something a little thought-provoking, there’s a truly fascinating exhibition opening at the Art Gallery of Alberta: "Echoes of the North: A Retrospective." It features a collection of stunning, often haunting, landscapes by lesser-known but incredibly talented local artists, capturing the raw, untamed beauty of our very own province. It’s not just pretty pictures; it’s a journey, a reflection on our connection to this wild, magnificent land. And yes, it’s absolutely worth setting aside an afternoon for quiet contemplation.

And let's not forget the pure, unadulterated thrill of a good old-fashioned hockey game! Our beloved Oilers, after all, are facing off against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday evening at Rogers Place. Now, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for an excuse to soak in that incredible arena atmosphere – the roar of the crowd, the smell of popcorn, the sheer energy – it’s an undeniable Edmonton experience. Honestly, even if you don't know a puck from a pretzel, it's a spectacle, a community gathering, really.

So there you have it, a little peek into what Edmonton has brewing this particular November weekend. Go on, embrace the chill, step outside, and let the city surprise you. Because in truth, there’s always something wonderful waiting to be discovered, isn't there? You just have to look.