By Joel Dryden
Though it was a mostly cold and dreary February in Edmonton – aside from that most-welcome warm Valentine’s week – there’s been no reason to stay cooped up with so much fun to be had in the Winter City. From Downtown Dining Week to Western Canada Fashion Week, March offers plenty of reasons to bundle up and venture out in search of adventure. Here’s your guide to the exciting events and attractions to check out in Edmonton this March. [Photo credit: Western Canada Fashion Week]
With a name derived from an expression that means “off the beaten path,” the 38-seat Bündok has opened to rave reviews in Edmonton’s burgeoning Ice District. Chef Ryan Hotchkiss has been hard at work getting the eatery set to open since mid-2016 – and with menu items like grilled game hen and pan-fried trout on offer, Bündok’s crowds have been growing since its late-January launch.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ve likely become acquainted with Edmonton’s own Moonshine Doughnuts. Since 2012, best friends Matthew and Simon have created innumerable batches of these delectable treats, utilizing local and seasonal ingredients to create doughnuts that are hand-dipped and small-batch. But as of Jan. 30, you can pick up a batch of these hometown creations at the duo’s newly opened brick-and-mortar shop. Doughnut Party , located at 10938-119 Street inside Holland Plaza. But show up early! The shop only stays open until the doughnuts have sold out.
The impact of the Ice District and Rogers Place is far-reaching, including transforming one of Edmonton’s most notorious (and seediest) hotels into a destination. Formerly the Grand Hotel, the Crash Hotel – which re-opened on New Year’s Eve – features a variety of stylish rooms catering to a range of tastes. The hotel features a lobby bar with creations by chef Nathin Bye, who won the Gold Medal Plates award in 2012.
Falling behind on the dining scene in downtown Edmonton? Downtown Dining Week is your chance to experience some of the best food and drink in the area over a period of 10 days, featuring exclusive menus and special deals from eateries like Cavern and The Harvest Room.
Running March 23 to April 1, Western Canada Fashion Week – the second-largest fashion week in Canada – is set to celebrate its 13th year in Edmonton. Over 10 nights, visit the ATB Financial Arts Barns to take in runway shows, design competitions and the best in Canadian and international fashion.
Beer lovers, rejoice – Edmonton’s International Beerfest returns March 24 and 25 at the Shaw Conference Centre with more than 200 brews from around the world on tap. Get your tickets early – the event has sold out for six years straight.
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Check out more great coverage on things to do in Edmonton from YP:
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With the weather seeming to grow warmer with each passing week, time is limited to enjoy the benefits of the Winter City. Though we’re all excited for warm weather and the festival season, don’t miss out on the last days of Edmonton winter fun.
Though the 27th Silver Skate Festival is in the books, you can still strap on the skates to enjoy the Iceway – a recreational ice track on the paths at Victoria Park – until the ice melts. More skating fun can be found at any of the city’s outdoor rinks.
Of course, a great way to spend a chilly day is by taking a walk through any of Edmonton’s trendy neighbourhoods. Take a stroll through Garneau or the Highlands, whether you need some “me time” or whether a best friend tags along.
With so many new restaurants to check out and festivals like Beerfest and Fashion Week on the way, March looks set to be yet another exciting month in Edmonton – so bundle up, mark your calendars and enjoy your city!
