Happy October to those who celebrate. Here’s what’s happening in and around the city this weekend: Oktoberfest Hold on to your Alpine hats. Western Canada’s largest Oktoberfest celebration is back at Ice District on Friday and Saturday. The festival features live music, food (beer and bratwurst, anyone?), drinks and family-friendly activities. Tickets start at $36. Edmonton International Film Festival The 40th EIFF and its collection of new, independent, international films ends Saturday. Venues include Landmark Cinemas at the downtown City Centre and Metro Cinema at the Garneau. Rubaboo Arts Festival This multi-disciplinary arts festival began Wednesday and runs through Oct. 11. The name comes from the Métis-Michif language and refers to a stew traditionally made by trappers out on the trail. The festivities include theatre, music, dance, visual art, food and hands-on workshops at various locations around the city. Edmonton Reptile Expo An exhibition of all your exes. Head to The Enjoy Centre in St. Albert on Saturday and Sunday for a fall showing of snakes, lizards, turtles, amphibians and invertebrates. Expect education, rescue program info and local reptile vendors for your own critters. Admission is $14 per person or $30 for a family of four. Greater Edmonton Model Train Show The Train Exchange is back at the Edmonton Expo Centre with all things nerd. Families are invited out Saturday and Sunday to watch the operating layouts and how-to clinics and demonstrations from the experts. Attendees have a chance to win a travel voucher from Via Rail. Queer History Month There are several activations throughout the month at venues across the city to honour the history and contributions of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Check the link for talks and performances near you. Pumpkins After Dark Carved by hand, lit by night. The pumpkins are back at Borden Park until Oct. 31. This Halloween tradition is a family-friendly way to get into the fall spirit.
