Upcoming Events
YEAR-END SHOWCASE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
The Year-End Student Showcase is a low-stakes way to showcase your best work to industry professionals, professors, and fellow students. See GAPSS Year-End Student Showcase Event for more info!
Planning and Human Geography grad and undergrad students are eligible to participate as presenters.
Projects do not need to be completed at the time of registration.
fill out this form if you'd like to present something! Please see the form for specific deadline requirements regarding poster printing subsidies.
Projects can be from any class/term, or year and should be in a presentable format. Printing costs for posters will be reimbursed/subsidized!
Students are welcome to attend as guests if they don’t bring a project, as the Showcase will also function as an informal networking event.
Email gapss@ualberta.ca if you have any questions at all.
Showcase Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026; from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
Showcase Venue: University Commons Atrium (UCOMM), University of Alberta
SEE YOU THERE!
GAPSS Bowling Night!
Join us for the third annual GAPSS Bowling social at Plaza Bowling Co. for some classic Canadian five-pin fun!
For $15, enjoy 2 hours of bowling, shoe rental, pizza, and priceless camaraderie with your Geography and Planning classmates (total bargain). Additionally, Plaza offers an assortment of snacks, local craft beer, ciders, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase, and a unique and wonderful bowling atmosphere. All are welcome, so please feel free to invite friends, family, and partners along!
Event Timing: March 20th, 2026 - 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: Plaza Bowling Co. - 10418 118 Ave NW
Tickets are $15! Get yours here!
Did you know: Geographers and Planners are 50% more likely to hit a strike when they take public or active transit to the alley.
Did you know: People who fact-check fun facts throw gutter balls 100% of the time.
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
ATLAS Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lunch-Hour
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Instead of having lunch alone (or no lunch at all), this is a chance to take a break from work, socialize, and engage in discussions with other students from the department in a relaxed and welcoming environment!
When: Every two weeks, on Thursdays
Time: 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Where: ESB 3-01 (EAS lunchroom)
What’s provided: Sweet treats, coffee, and tea
EAS Grad Banquet
Everyone within the EAS department is invited to celebrate this phenomenal group of undergrads!
The banquet will be taking place on Saturday, March 28th, starting at 5:30 pm in Dinwoodie Lounge (SUB).
Tickets to the banquet will be $35 and can be paid with an e-transfer or cash. Instructions for each can be found below.
To pay via e-transfer, please fill out the 2026 EAS Graduation Banquet Ticket form. Instructions are included in the form. Once your e-transfer is received, you must pick up your ticket in either the P.S. Warren (CCIS 2-034) or GAPSS (Tory 3-87) clubroom. However, please note that ticket pick up will begin on Wednesday, March 11th!
If you'd prefer to pay cash, you will have to do so in person at the P.S. Warren (CCIS 2-034) when a Grad Committee member is present. Once again, ticket pick up will only start on Wednesday, March 11th.
Even if you are not graduating, a professor, or a friend, you are still welcome (and encouraged) to attend! Ticket sales will close Friday, March 20th at 11:59 pm. Make sure you buy them now before you forget!
GAPSS Year End Student Showcase
The Year-End Student Showcase is a low-stakes way to showcase your best work to industry professionals, professors, and fellow students. Last year, 74 students presented projects!
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026; from 4:00 to 6:00 PM
Venue: University Commons Atrium (UCOMM), University of Alberta
Planning and Human Geography grad and undergrad students are eligible to participate as presenters.
Projects do not need to be completed at the time of registration.
fill out this form if you'd like to present something!
Projects can be from any class/term, or year and should be in a presentable format. Printing costs for posters will be reimbursed/subsidized!
Students are welcome to attend as guests if they don’t bring a project, as the Showcase will also function as an informal networking event.
Email gapss@ualberta.ca if you have any questions at all.
SEE YOU THERE!
Housing Forward: 2026 Prairies Affordable Housing Summit
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Housing Forward: 2026 Prairies Affordable Housing Summit is the first City of Edmonton-hosted, prairie-wide gathering focused specifically on practical delivery of affordable and non-market housing solutions. Convened by the City of Edmonton, the Summit brings together municipalities, developers, housing providers, planners, Indigenous housing leaders, and funders from across Western Canada.
Learn more about the event with the above link!
Inaugural APPI Planning History Webinar: Postwar Architect Planners in Alberta
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Join us for a special webinar celebrating the 65th anniversary of the Alberta Professional Planners Institute!
You may be a fan of mid-century modern design, but how much do you know about mid-century modern planning? Learn more in this first annual APPI Planning History Webinar. Presenters David Gordon (Queen’s University), Erik Backstrom (APPI president), Wayne Jackson (former APPI president), and Sasha Tsenkova (University of Calgary) will set the historical context and highlight the role of architect planners in establishing the planning profession in Alberta after the Second World War.
The session will be held online over Zoom. Register here: https://members.albertaplanners.com/mpower/event/landing.action?id=64
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
Exec Info Session
Interested in running for an Exec Position in 2026/27?
We have organized a presentation detailing all the positions and commitments each exec holds. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about which role interests you.
Interested? Join the meeting here!
ATLAS Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lunch-Hour
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Instead of having lunch alone (or no lunch at all), this is a chance to take a break from work, socialize, and engage in discussions with other students from the department in a relaxed and welcoming environment!
When: Every two weeks, on Thursdays
Time: 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Where: ESB 3-01 (EAS lunchroom)
What’s provided: Sweet treats, coffee, and tea
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
Sustainability Lecture
This event is located in UCOMM 1-330.
Agritourism provides many benefits, including cultural heritage and environmental conservation, visitor education, and farm revenue diversification. Drawing on findings arising from a longitudinal study of visitors to Alberta's Open Farm Days, the impact of this annual farm visitation event will be presented. Effects on visitors' appreciation of agricultural production, development of rural destination loyalty, and consumer food purchase decisions will be discussed, and strategies for increasing the sustainability of agritourism activities will be proposed
Festival of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Curious about undergraduate research and how to get started? The annual Festival of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (FURCA) is a great place to see examples of projects that students have been involved in, make connections with other students interested in research, and discover potential opportunities for you to participate in research yourself!
FURCA is hosted by the Undergraduate Research Initiative (URI) and it is a campus-wide celebration showcasing the research and creative achievements of undergraduate students across all disciplines. All students are invited to come check out poster sessions and oral presentations from students sharing the results of their exciting research. The Involvement fair will also be held on the last day of FURCA to give students an opportunity to connect with professionals involved in research.
This year, FURCA will be held on March 10-12, 2026, at the University Commons. Poster presentations and the involvement fair will be held in the atrium, and oral presentations will be held in room 2-350. Learn more at uab.ca/furca!
GAPSS Winter Sem Bar Night
It’s time for GAPSS Bar Night!
Join us at The Pint on Whyte Ave (8032 104 St NW) for the second time this academic year!
Bar Night tickets are $7. This gets you (1) prepaid 1oz highball + priority entrance before 11:00 pm. All students welcome, including undergrads and grads. Proceeds from bar night tickers help fundraise for our graduation banquet!
COME JOIN US! TICKETS HERE. We hope to see you there!
Please drink responsibly.
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
ATLAS Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lunch-Hour
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Instead of having lunch alone (or no lunch at all), this is a chance to take a break from work, socialize, and engage in discussions with other students from the department in a relaxed and welcoming environment!
When: Every two weeks, on Thursdays
Time: 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Where: ESB 3-01 (EAS lunchroom)
What’s provided: Sweet treats, coffee, and tea
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
ATLAS Talk
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Governing urban marginality through necrospatial containment and slow violence: From informal settlements in Harare to Homeless encampments in Edmonton
The talk will be this Friday, February 13th, from 12-1 pm in Tory 3-36. Please come in person and grab some coffee, tea and snacks!
ATLAS Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lunch-Hour
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Instead of having lunch alone (or no lunch at all), this is a chance to take a break from work, socialize, and engage in discussions with other students from the department in a relaxed and welcoming environment!
When: Every two weeks, on Thursdays
Time: 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Where: ESB 3-01 (EAS lunchroom)
What’s provided: Sweet treats, coffee, and tea
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
GAPSS Merch Sale!
Want to rep this executive years’ merch? Fill out a form to place your order here! The order form also contains various options of designs and merch options.
Orders must be placed by February 16, 2026 at 11:59pm. Your order is not considered placed until we receive an e-transfer payment from you. More information can be found in the order form.
Where to go from HGEO?
Are you curious about the field of human geography, wondering about where you could go with an education in HGEO, or an enjoyer of free food and mingling? Join us for a night of networking with Human Geography professionals, academics, and alumni!
Learn what other HGEO Grads have done after their degree, and the various career options available for you! Meet other people in the field of HGEO and gain some more connections from peers, professors, and industry professionals.
A big thank you to the School of Urban and Regional Planning for sponsoring the catering for this event!
Registration and more event info here
This event will take place in Tory 3-57 (the planning studio). Dinner will be provided!
Junior Study Room
Every Wednesday at 5 pm till whenever. Join the 1st and 2nd years in the GAPSS Room, do some studying or not. Located in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3 - 87).
Topophilia Journal Submissions Now Open!
Topophilia is now accepting submissions! You can submit papers that
Are related to human geography or planning
Are from a 200-level or higher class
Received at least an A- grade
This is a great opportunity to showcase work that you are proud of, or that you think the planning and geography community could benefit from reading. Publication in Topophilia can build your resume and allow you to share your work beyond the classroom!
Please ensure the papers you submit fall within the recommended word count, academic guidelines, and formatting guidelines. For more information and to submit your papers, please see the submissions page on the Topophilia website. Submissions will be open from February 1 to February 28.
Thank you for considering submitting your hard work for Topophilia 2026!
CITY HALL TALK #2 with Courtney Walcott.
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
The Great Housing Debates: Lessons from Calgary City Hall with former Councillor Courtney Walcott
Our second City Hall Talk will feature former Calgary City Councillor Courtney Walcott. Courtney served as City Councillor in the core of Calgary from 2021-2025. He will be sharing a presentation about his learnings about housing, development, planning, public engagement, parking, and much more including...
What can we learn from Calgary about the affordability crisis?
How can we ensure new development contributes to building an affordable, sustainable, and inclusive city?
What lessons should Edmonton City Council consider regarding infill and parking policy?
How do we ensure smart urban policy for Edmonton and Calgary from the provincial government?
Clr. Walcott is a former Calgary Public School teacher and now is pursuing a career in affordable housing and public policy.
Respondents to Clr. Walcott and event partners will be announced soon.
Doors at 3:30PM
Talk at 4:00PM
Social Event to Follow
Please RSVP at the link here: https://www.michaeljanz.ca/walcottjan31. Location will be sent to those who RSVP’d 48 hours prior to the event.
APPI Winter Social Bowling at Plaza Bowl
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Let's celebrate a new year by having a little fun at Plaza Bowl. No experience necessary and all are welcome!
This event is open to APPI Professionals and members, Planning and Geography Students. It will be held at Plaza Bowling Co. (10418 118 Ave NW, Edmonton)
Pricing:
APPI Members: $20.00 GST Included
Students: $10.00 GST Included
Registration fee includes, bowling and shoe rentals. Pizza will be provided. Beverages to be enjoyed at your own expense.
Register Here: https://members.albertaplanners.com/mpower/event/landing.action?id=104
There are only 30 spots available so act fast!
Certificate in Sustainability GAPSS Event
GAPSS is creating a low-pressure space where people can chat, make progress on their projects, and connect with others. This event is open to everyone, whether you are in the the Certificate in Sustainability program, interested in it, or simply looking for a space to talk through ideas, projects, or everyday topics with other students. Come meet people from different disciplines, brainstorm project ideas, or just sit and work together.
No need to register! Just show up!
Location: GAPSS Room (Tory 3-38)
ATLAS Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Lunch-Hour
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Instead of having lunch alone (or no lunch at all), this is a chance to take a break from work, socialize, and engage in discussions with other students from the department in a relaxed and welcoming environment!
When: Every two weeks, on Thursdays (first one this week)
Time: 12:30–1:30 p.m.
Where: ESB 3-01 (EAS lunchroom)
What’s provided: Sweet treats, coffee, and tea
Orientation for Planning Competition Participants
This event is recommended for everyone participating in the Urban Planning Competition to get more information on the competition and its expectations. The orientation will take place in Tory 3-57 (the planning studio).
Planning Students’ Virtual Evening Chat
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
The Students’ Evening Chats are facilitated by the Alberta Professional Planners’ Institute and intended to foster dynamic conversation between students and professionals across different provinces.
The discussion topic will be “How Planning Theory is or Can Shape students' perspective towards the Planning Profession”.
Attendance is free; register here
CITY HALL TALK with DENIS AGAR
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
AMA with Denis Agar, Executive Director of MOVEMENT, the Metro Vancouver Transit Riders Non-Profit
We have the power to fight for better transit, and win. When riders have a shared vision and a shared voice, we can empower leaders to make transit fast, reliable, and abundant. Here's the thing - we can't do it without you.
Come and Get Inspired with a special live, in-person Ask Me Anything (AMA) with Denis Agar Executive Director of MovementYVR, the Metro Vancouver Transit Riders.
Movement has grown from concept to five staff, grant funding, and scored a number of political wins. They are now helping to lead transit advocacy growth in a number of cities across Canada. Learn about local opportunities through partners such as the Edmonton Transit Riders or through your local community league where you can help speak up for public transit.
Movement empowers transit riders across Metro Vancouver by giving our community a strong, unified voice. We do this through political campaigns, community events, and expert-led seminars that build awareness and deepen public understanding of transit issues. Our work helps riders advocate for better, more equitable transit across Metro Vancouver.
Come and learn, make a new friend, connection, and opportunity to amplify your voice this year in advance of the next Edmonton 2026 four year budget.
Doors: 6:00PM
AMA: 7:00PM
Location TBD. Please RSVP to receive an email 48hrs prior.
O-day'min Park Walking Tour
Take a walking tour with GAPSS of the new Downtown park located in the heart of Edmonton! Tour led by Senior Landscape Architect Matt Sloan and Urban Renewal Planner Tom Beck from the City of Edmonton! Topics will include Design and Planning considerations, community revitalization levy, project design reports, construction process and much more!
Meet at O-day-min Park, exact location TBD. Registration is capped at 30 participants, so be sure to sign-up sooner rather than later!
Submit a Design for GAPSS Merch!
Are you a little bit creative? Take a stab at creating our 2025/26 GAPSS Merch! Submissions close at 11:59 on Jan 23rd.
Here’s some general information on submission requirements:
The attires will be a T-Shirt, Crewneck and Tote Bag
The merch design may be for the entire attire or a smaller portion of the attires.
The default attire colours will be Cream and/or Dark Blue. You may also choose from the following (Black, Dark Blue, White, Cream or Grey)
Only the design submissions are required, mockups are optional but it will give us a better idea on your vision.
Submitting multiple designs is highly encouraged
Learn more info (like clothing samples and mockups) as well as the design submission form can be found here!
We’re excited to see your ideas!
Winter Term Registration Add/Delete Deadline
Add/delete classes by 11:59 pm on the 16th to avoid any academic record + fees.
Poster Submissions for Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Research and Innovations
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Want to showcase a poster at the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Research and Innovations Night in Feb 2026?
Topics can include: Planning, Environment, Climate, Sustainability, Wildlife, to name a few. If you would like to see if your topic qualifies, email tkopchuk@ualberta.ca.
Submit your poster before Dec. 15, 2025 here.
The event will be at 5:30pm to 9pm on Thursday, February 26th, 2026 in the Fred Pheasey Engineering Commons (DICE-292 and 8A292).
EAS Holiday Christmas Party
*This is promoted event. Event is NOT hosted by GAPSS!*
Tickets are now on sale for the EAS 2025 Holiday Party, and we’re excited to celebrate the end of the year with you. Join us on Friday, December 12, 2025 in the Winspear Room at the University Club for an evening of food, fun, and connection from 5:30 PM to midnight.
Event Details:
Doors and Cocktails: 5:30 PM
Program Begins: 7:15 PM
Dinner: 7:30 PM
Activities include a silent auction, dancing, and karaoke
Who Can Attend
Everyone (and their +1s) is welcome! Undergraduates, graduate students, postdocs, faculty, and staff, across all disciplines.
Ticket Pricing:
Students: $40
Non-students (faculty, staff, guests): $55
How to Purchase Tickets:
Fill out the ticket form
Find a payment method that works for you:
Send an e-transfer to atlaseas@ualberta.ca with your name and email used in the form, and the number of tickets.
If you prefer to pay with cash or card, visit Monday Coffee Hour (9:30-10:30 AM)
Can’t make that time? Email dgutier1@ualberta.ca to arrange another option.
Location: Winspear Room at the University Club. Dec 12, 2025, 5:30 - Late
Semester-End Games Night
Need something to do to take your mind off of exams? Want to decompress? Come join us in the GAPSS Room (Tory 3-87) and play some games!
Please note that photos and/or videos will be taken at today’s event, which may be used for promotional purposes. If you have any concerns about this, please speak to an event organizer or contact Roan Deighton at 587-596-0024 or rdeighto@ualberta.ca.