With crisp yet comfortable temperatures, the changing leaves, hearty meals and a general atmosphere of coziness, it is no wonder that fall is a favourite season of many (us included!)
Of course, in our neck of the woods, fall does not last very long (thanks Alberta!), so it is even more important that we slow down to enjoy all the season has to offer before it disappears in the blink of an eye.
Because the temperatures are not too chilly yet, there are still plenty of activities that can be done outdoors before we retreat inside for the winter.
Here are 8 ways to enjoy Edson and area’s short, yet incredibly beautiful fall season:
1. Take a Fall Foliage Drive
Grab a warm drink, turn on your stereo and hit the road! There are so many beautiful drives you can take to see the area’s incredible fall foliage, but what we recommend is to drive to Obed Summit, the highest point on the Yellowhead Highway. From there you will be met with an incredible and expansive view of the foothill’s trees with all their warm, signature fall colours on full display.
2. Go Antiquing
Antiquing is the perfect activity for invoking a sense of comfort and coziness – a staple of the fall season. As we near winter, antiques can help your home feel more homey and warm while adding an extra layer of depth to any room. You can find a centerpiece for your table, unearth a treasure, discover a nostalgic toy from your childhood and much more.
The Antique Place is Edson’s go-to antique shop, with lots of unique items to choose from, including records, magazines, children’s toys, kitchenware, décor and more. They also make and sell homemade fudge, which, if you ask us, is enough of a reason to visit!
3. Enjoy a Crafted Cocktail
Although patio season is a staple of summer, the comfortable fall temperatures means that we still have some time to enjoy it before the colder temperatures set in. Visit Rocky Mountain Bighorn Distillery, located just 5 minutes north of Edson, to try one of their award-winning stills, such as their Big Horn Vodka or Corn Shine. They also have a great selection of fall-inspired stills, including their Alpine Cream liqueur, Back Country Apple Pie liqueur or Midnight Mocha vodka made with coffee. They even have recipes on their website so you can craft your own cocktail from the comfort of your own home!
4. Join a Walking Group
One of the easiest ways to enjoy fall and its vibrant colours is by going on a walk. There are many great places to take a stroll around Edson, such as the town’s trail system, which winds through Edson’s beautiful forest. But, if you are looking for a little more structure, consider joining a walking group!
Every Tuesday, the Willmore Walking Group meets at Willmore Park near Edson for a 60-minute guided hike through the park’s lovely trails and lush forest. Yellowhead County is also offering their own Fall Walking Group this year at different spots of interest in the county, giving you a chance to explore new places while enjoying the fall season.
5. Bid on Fall Items for a Good Cause
For the third year, the Red Brick Arts Centre will be hosting their annual Harvest Bazaar, an online silent auction where people will have the chance to bid on a variety of baskets containing canned goods, homemade preserves and other fall items! Cozy up with a blanket and bid on some wonderful items from the comfort of your own home, with all proceeds benefiting the operation of the Red Brick.
6. Create a Fall-Inspired Craft
From pinecone bird feeders to leaf print art, there are so many ways to craft and create by drawing inspiration from the fall! Try a DIY craft on your own, or join the Tipple Park Museum in Evansburg on October 29 to learn how to weave a basket from pine needles led by local Hannalore Krieger.
7. Enjoy a Delicious Harvest Dinner
Not only is fall a time enjoy nature and its beauty, but it is also a time to enjoy hearty meals, warm drinks and delicious baked goods. But let’s be honest, sometimes cooking can be a hassle. Put down your apron for the night and enjoy a delicious (and affordable!) Thanksgiving Fundraiser Dinner in Peers on October 7, complete with live music, entertaining skits, a silent pie auction and of course, delicious food! Or check out the Harvest Dinner at the Park Court Hall on October 23, complete with all your favourites – roast beef, pork loin, pierogis, cabbage rolls, mashed potatoes and more! If you're looking for something closer to Edson, be sure to check out the local restaurants for Thanksgiving deals or packages. For example, The Fresh Vine Eatery & Catering is offering single, double and family Thanksgiving packs for those who don't have the time or ability to cook an extravagant Thanksgiving meal!
Which activities will you try this September?