Leave your wallet at home and remember to enjoy Free Admission Day. Many of Edmonton’s popular attractions and recreation centres will be free to the public. This annual event is hosted by the City of Edmonton and this year it will happen from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 30.
Free Admission Day began in the city over 10 years ago and every year it is very well attended. The City of Edmonton website reminds people that the attractions will be very busy and parking is limited. Edmonton Transit Service fares still apply, but it is recommended to use transit to avoid traffic and parking issues.
This event partners with the Edmonton Food Bank to encourage people to help other Edmontonians who are in need for this upcoming winter season. Food bank drop-offs are set up at the Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre, The Meadows Community Recreation Centre and the Edmonton Valley Zoo.
One of the main attractions for the day is the Edmonton Valley Zoo with over 350 different animals and their Arctic Shores and The Wanderer Trail exhibits.
Another notable facility is the John Janzen Nature Centre in the heart of the River Valley that takes visitors through The Birch Tree Trail and River Loop Trail as well as interactive exhibits with wildlife like their pond dipping activities.
The Muttart Conservatory is also a participating attraction, where visitors can view more than 700 species of plants in their regulated temperature pyramid biomes. This includes a feature pyramid that changes every month and this month’s feature is a Celebration of the Day of the Dead.
The City of Edmonton encourages attendees to check their website for any updates, map out their day beforehand to get the most out of the day and follow on Twitter #yegFAD to engage with others and stay updated on lineups and parking as visitors take in Free Admission Day.
Attractions Include:
Edmonton Valley Zoo
John Janzen Nature Centre
Muttart Conservatory
Community Centres:
Commonwealth Recreation Centre
Kinsmen Pitch and Putt
Londonderry Leisure Centre
Terwillegar Recreation Centre
The Meadows Recreation Centre
The Arenas:
Callingwood Twin Arenas
Kenilworth Arena
Londonderry Arena
Terwillegar Arena
YMCAs:
Castledowns YMCA
Don Wheaton YMCA
Jamie Platz YMCA
William Lutsky YMCA
– Eryn Pinksen, Assistant Editor
Image courtesy of edmonton.ca