The towns and cities of Alberta are full of wonderful communities that have a knack for celebrating the autumnal season with joy and flavor. Whether it is Banff, Ardrossan, or the wonderful St. Albert, every town and area offers opportunities for fun and memory-making at nearly every corner. Here are some fun fall activities that the whole family can enjoy in the various areas of Alberta, including pumpkin festivals, nature walks, and more.
1. The Smoky Lake Great White North Pumpkin Fair
Happening on the first Saturday in October each year, Alberta growers bring their pumpkins, squash, and gourds for a “weigh off” to see who has grown the biggest specimen. Activities for kids include a petting zoo and the Mini midway ride. Visitors can also enjoy the Iron Cruisers car and truck show happening at the fair.
2. Golden Larch Tree Viewing
Every Autumn, around mid-September, the larch trees turn a stunning golden-yellow before shedding their needles for the winter. The trees can be viewed along the Icefields Parkway and in the various mountain parks of Alberta, including Banff National Park, Kananaskis, and Waterton. There are hikes specifically to view the larch trees as well!
3. Goats ‘n’ Ghouls Halloween Howler Spooky Evening
This charming family event in Ardrossan will bring smiles all around. Held at Dreamcatcher Farm, this Halloween fundraiser encourages attendees to come in their costumes and experience the myriad of activities including hiking through the farm’s 40-acre property, meeting farm animals including goats, sheep, and chickens, hear storytellers, and indulge in spooky seasonal treats.
4. Kraay Family Farm Corn Maze
Kraay family farm has over forty attractions and amenities, the most famous of which is their intricate and artfully-designed corn mazes. Every year, the corn maze has a different theme, with some past examples including Canadian historical events. From a bird’s-eye view, the mazes reveal themselves to be artistically developed and breathtaking. There is also a more quaint Kiddie Maze for the little ones who don’t want to get lost and would rather hear some stories from Spookley the Square Pumpkin.
5. Mid Autumn Lantern Festival
This lantern festival held in the town of Edmonton is put on by the Chinese Benevolent Association. Also known as Moon Festival, this event celebrates the second-most important holiday in Chinese culture. Happening between the Edmonton downtown farmer’s market and Kinistinaw Park, families can gather to experience “colorful lanterns, musical performances, storytelling, crafts, and cultural games.”
6. St. Albert Botanic Park and Garden
This beloved park and five-acre botanical garden in St. Albert is entirely volunteer-run, and aims to collect, cultivate, and display botanical species with an emphasis on science. Attendance is entirely free! Their nearly two dozen gardens are beloved by the residents of St. Albert and are often the grounds for numerous community events, including Garden Day in the Park, Picnic in the Park, and various holiday celebrations. The warm community atmosphere will have an impact, and may even encourage you to look into St Albert real estate before making your trip back home.
