And just like that, August is here! Enjoy the last official month of summer with these 6 activities that are perfect for the whole family! 1. Meet Local Farmers at Alberta Open Farm Days Explore local farms and learn more about how your food is produced as part of the 11th annual Alberta Open Farm Days on August 19 and 20! This two-day, province-wide event encourages residents (and travellers!) to visit Alberta’s diverse farms and connect with its local farmers and producers. Not only will you be able to discover the different locally-made/harvested products offered in Alberta, but you will also have the opportunity to learn more about how your food is made. This year, Alberta Open Farm Days is shining a spotlight on one of Alberta’s species, the bison, which played an important role as a keystone ingredient for Indigenous peoples throughout history. There are over 450 bison farms operating in Alberta today, accounting for 48% of the Canadian total! Several Yellowhead County-based farms will be participating in Alberta Open Farm Days this year, including: Wild Country Gardens (fruit and vegetables), Wild Ventures Game Farm (elk, bison, beef and other meats), Rocking T Farms (regenerative farming) and; At the Woods Experience & Native Wild Trading Post (Indigenous land-based teachings). Please note that some of these farms will only be open for August 19. Visit albertafarmdays.com for more details. August 19 & 20 – Various times 2. View Vintage Cars at the Edson Custom Cruisers Show & Shine Calling all vintage car enthusiasts - the Edson Custom Cruisers will be hosting their annual Car Show & Shine in RCMP Centennial Park on August 19, and it is sure to be a wheely good time! Every year the Car Club impresses with their extensive collection of vintage trucks, cars, bikes and more, which are collectively displayed in the park for one full day of viewing. Learn more about the cars by speaking with their owners, who are always excited to chat about their labors of love. Bouncy castles will also be on site, as well as a concession stand courtesy of the Holy Redeemer Catholic School. Saturday, August 19 – 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 3. Taste the Best Food Between Edmonton and Jasper Turn your road trip into a fun, tasty and interactive experience with the Alberta Food Tour's new Edmonton to Jasper road trip! This self-guided tour includes a map featuring insider tips to the best food, art, roadside attractions, shopping, natural areas and museums (including the Galloway Station Museum, Travel Centre & Archives!) along the Yellowhead Highway, with hilarious road trip games to keep you entertained for the long stretches of road. At each stop, you will have the opportunity to solve a clue, challenge or trivia question that will help you learn more about the area. This tour is perfect for those looking to support local Alberta businesses and discover hidden gems along the Yellowhead Highway, from authentic farmer’s markets to picturesque picnic stops and craft beverage producers. To book your tour, visit Alberta Food Tours to pay the fee and download the free app to use your special code to access the tour. 4. Try Out Paddleboard Yoga Looking to do something new this summer? Give SUP yoga a try! This month, Yellowhead County is offering several paddleboard yoga classes at the tranquil Miller’s Lake, with more dates to come in September. SUP yoga offers a unique workout experience. Not only does being on the water add an additional sensory dimension to the practice, it also challenges you to engage different muscles than you would during a regular land-based practice. Even though it may seem impossible to hold yoga poses on a paddleboard, it is much easier than it looks, although it does require you to be more mindful of your movements. Enjoy the outdoors, get your sweat on and meet likeminded people at Yellowhead County’s SUP yoga classes this summer! Tuesday, August 15 – 7:00 pm Tuesday, August 29 – 7:00 pm 5. Experience Nature on Horseback Enjoy the beauty of nature on horseback with HMR Trail Rides this summer! Located near Beta Lake in the lush and beautiful Yellowhead County, HMR Ranch offers hourly trail rides and other horse experiences for both beginner and first-time riders. Enjoy views of the beautiful creeks while out on your ride, and be sure to keep your eyes out for local wildlife, such as squirrels, chipmunks, deer, rabbits and more. After your ride, kick back and relax around the campfire with family or friends. Turn it into a full day trip by staying at one of the local campgrounds in the area, such as Beta Lake, Nojack and Hidden Grove Campground, which are all located within 15 minutes of the ranch. 6. Golf for a Good Cause Grab your clubs and head out to the golf course for a good cause! Join Town of Edson Mayor Kevin Zahara on August 25 for his second annual charity golf tournament at the Edson Golf Club! This year, all proceeds from the event will benefit the Edson Animal Rescue Society (EARS), a no-kill rescue that believes every animal deserves a fighting chance. Registration for this event will not only include 18 holes at the Edson Golf Club, but also a shared power cart, continental breakfast, steak dinner, a silent auction, and the opportunity to participate in hole contest and raffle draws – a great way to support a local non-profit while having fun! Another great charity golf tournament to support this month is Gabby’s Big Heart, an 18-hole tournament in support of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. Gabby’s Big Heart tournament was started 9 years ago by the Basaraba family in honour of their daughter, Gabriella, who was diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease. To date, the tournament has raised over $90,000 for the Stollery Foundation, and the Basarabas are excited to bring the tournament back to Edson this year! Mayor's Charity Golf Tournament: Friday, August 25 – 8:00 am - 2:00 pm Gabby's Big Heart: Saturday, August 26 What activities will you get up to this August?

September is always a busy month in Edson, full of great events for all ages! From carnivals and expos to live music performances, rodeos and more, keep reading for 10 events coming up in Edson this month that you will want to mark on your calendar. 1. Celebrate Wop May Day Our annual Wop May Day celebration is back for another year! Join us and the Town of Edson on September 2 for a great day of old-timey fun, complete with traditional carnival games, delicious food trucks, the popular pie-eating contest, a local artisan market, live music, picnic games and much more! Wilfrid Reid ‘Wop’ May was a decorated WWI pilot who was credited with many incredible feats. He was involved in the Red Baron’s last dogfight, saved a remote northern Albertan community from the 1920 diphtheria outbreak and was essential in the capture of the Mad Trapper of Rat River. But that’s not all - Wop was also part of the first recorded aerial police chase in Canadian history in which he landed right here in Edson! This annual event is celebrated in honour of Wop May and his accomplishments and is dedicated in memory of his son, Denny May, who was essential in carrying on Wop’s legacy. It is sure to be a great day with lots of fun for the whole family! 2. Watch Cars Smash at the Edson Demolition Derby & Mud Bogs Mud, trucks, crashes – oh my! The Edson Hillbilly Demolition Derby & Mud Bogs is a great event for the whole family, featuring high horsepower mud bogger races, the classic demolition derby and tons of muddy fun! Taking place on the September long weekend, watch cars and trucks get air on the Tuff Truck track, hear the engines rumble and listen to the metal crumble as cars smash into one another. Limited camping is available onsite on a first come, first serve basis. Bring your friends or family out to cheer on your favourite driver and have some fun! 3. Connect with Like-minded Adventurers at the Alberta Outdoor Adventure Expo The Alberta Outdoor Adventure Expo is coming to the Medicine Lodge Rodeo Grounds from September 2-4 to share their love for the outdoors and adventure with the community! This two-day event will feature a variety of exciting activities, including bushcraft, product and gear demonstrations, giveaways, evening movies, a DJ, beer gardens and courses in safety, vehicle recovery, cooking and travel! There will be food trucks on site as well as children’s entertainment to keep your little ones busy. Listen to guest speakers share their experience and knowledge with the outdoors, browse some of Canada’s industry-leading outdoor vendors and mingle with likeminded adventurers! Are you interested in trying out an outdoor activity but don’t have the funds to purchase the expensive equipment? With your ticket admission you will be able to try a variety of outdoor activities, from paddleboarding to fishing and more! Weekend passes are available for $50, which also includes on-site camping and the opportunity to enter your name into the giveaways. Day passes are also available for $20 and will grant you access to the vendors and activities planned throughout the day. 4. Eddie's Big Run Explore Edson’s wonderful trail system during the Town of Edson’s 14th annual Eddie’s Big Run on September 9! Although the event typically takes place in June, it was cancelled due to the summer’s wildfire evacuations – but now it is back better than ever! With a Kid’s Fun Run (1km), 3km, 5km and 10 km trails, this event is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Not a fan of running? No problem! All the routes can be ran or walked, but there will be prizes for the top three male/female finishers in each race category. Although the route primarily follows Edson’s trail system, which includes paved and unpaved trails, there will also be some road running as well. This year the Town of Edson is encouraging participants to wear bright neon colours to add some colourful fun to the race. Racers are invited to join the Town for a complimentary breakfast at the Leisure Cente on the morning of the race. Families and spectators are also welcome to partake in the breakfast with a donation to the trail system. Limited space is available, so be sure to sign up for Eddie’s Big Run at Activenet as soon as possible! 5. Attend a Fall Rodeo The Medicine Lodge Fall Roundup is back on September 9 after a two-year hiatus to bring rodeo to our very own backyard! This 1-day CPRA sanctioned event will feature the best cowboys, cowgirls and rodeo stock that Canada has to offer. Featuring classic rodeo events such as saddle bronc, bareback, bull riding, tie down roping, ladies barrel racing and more, this event will not be one to miss! Be sure to check out the incredible new mural painted by local artist Maddy Sharman on your way in! On September 16 and 17, the Yellowhead Ag Society will be hosting a Ranch Rodeo in which cowboys and cowgirls from different ranches will be competing against each other in a variety of exciting rodeo events! There will also be opportunities for both youth and children to compete. The event will also feature a Fundraiser Dance in support of Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Group with live music courtesy of Canadian Country artist Tiffany Dowhan. 6. Discover Local Art at the Downtown Art & Music Walk Head downtown on September 14th for the Town of Edson and Edson FCSS’s annual Art and Music Walk in celebration of Alberta Culture Days! With art demos, live music, an art walk, shopping, live music, a DIY clay craft and more, this event is great for supporting our local artists and inspiring you to explore your own creativity! This free community event will also feature a delicious Community Pig Roast courtesy of FCSS. There will also be bouncy castles, balloon twisting and roving performers on site, making this the perfect event for the whole family. 7. Sample Cultural Foods at the Community Sharing Table Calling all foodies! Share or sample some wonderfully diverse foods at the Community Sharing Table on September 16 at the Galloway Station Museum! The Edson & District Historical Society, in partnership with the Town of Edson, will be hosting a multi-cultural lunch as part of Alberta Culture Days. Edson is a vibrant, multi-cultural community, and our goal with this event is to celebrate the richness of our diversity through the universal language of food. We have invited community members to prepare a family-favourite recipe that relates to their culture to share with the community in this potluck-style event. This is a great opportunity to share, discover and learn about each other’s cultural heritage while supporting the Edson & District Historical Society. 8. Experience Live Music at the Edson Legion Music lovers rejoice - the Edson Royal Canadian Legion #51 will be the site of multiple live music performances this month! Any Alan Jackson fans? Well, you’re in luck – Aaron Halliday, a 25+ year Alan Jackson lookalike and tribute artist, will be performing a tribute to Alan Jackson & Friends on September 16. Based out of Kelowna, Halliday is a country singer/songwriter with 20 years of experience behind him. He was the recipient of the 2021 International Singer/Songwriters Association Award for Entertainer of the Year and was encouraged by none other than Canadian legend Stompin’ Tom Connors to transition from busking to stage performing. It is sure to be a rootin’-tootin’ time with a dance and delicious dinner to follow. Back by popular demand, the Edmonton Schoolboys Alumni Band with conductor Graeme Peppink will be sharing their incredible talent with the community on September 21. The band, which consists of primarily mature musicians, always put on a great show and disproves the myth that only the young can be talented musicians. On September 23, the Edson Seniors Transportation Society will be hosting a fall fundraiser featuring live music from the Plaiders, an Olds-based band specializing in classic country, rock and hippy songs. Stay for a delicious dinner with your choice of roast beef or fried chicken, complete with all the trimmings and a delicious dessert. 9. Learn About Wine Pairings at Wine Night Out Do you enjoy having a glass of wine with your dinner but have a difficult time choosing which type to pair it with? Learn about wine and food pairings from expert sommelier Doug Woodhouse during the Town of Edson’s Wine Night Out on September 22 at the Galloway Station Museum. From this event you will learn how create your very own pairings and will know what ingredients to look for in a recipe so you can make a great wine match. 10. Commemorate Truth and Reconciliation Day Join the Friendship Centre on September 30 for National Truth and Reconciliation Day, which honors residential school survivors, their families and those who never returned home. The Friendship Centre will be hosting a variety of Indigenous-inspired activities in RCMP Centennial Park in an effort to share their culture with the community. Craft you own mini drum and dreamcatcher, participate in traditional Indigenous games, create unique fish scale art, try authentic bannock and end the night with some great storytelling around the fire. Be sure to watch out for orange cards that will be placed throughout the park for Indigenous learning and the chance to win prizes! Which events will you attend this September?

Looking for things to do in Edson this summer? This guide is for you! Although summer started off slow this year, we have been seeing non-stop sunshine and hot temperatures for the past few weeks. And let’s be honest, most of us Albertans are just not made for the heat! Whether you are a local or a tourist, we’ve compiled a list of the best ways to beat the heat in Edson and area. 1. Explore the Galloway Station Museum We would be remiss if we did not mention the Galloway Station Museum! The museum has two sides that both offer a glimpse into the hardships of the early settlers who shaped this raw land into thriving communities. The Galloway Station tells the story of Edson’s railway roots and the area’s epic folly of the Grand Trunk Pacific and the Canadian Northern’s race westward. The museum will take you back to the early days of the Coal Branch, chronicling the lives of miners who risked their lives to provide for their families. Our Natural World exhibit features two full-sized grizzly bears as well as other species native to the area. You can also visit our Main Street exhibit, which tells the story of WWII pilot Wop May, who landed in Edson in what is known as the first aerial police chase in Canadian history. Following your tour, grab a complimentary cup of coffee or tea while you browse the Galloway gift shop! Not only does the gift shop feature museum merchandise, but it also includes the works of talented local artists from the area! Whether you’re looking for pottery, quilt works, jewelry, paintings, books, body products or more, there is something for everyone at the Galloway gift shop! 2. Splash in the Kinsmen Spray Park A great way to cool off in Edson is to take a trip to the Kinsmen Spray Park! This interactive outdoor feature has a lot of fun and unique structures for your kids to play in, such as a train slide, a roulette splash tower, animal-themed spray toys and much more! There is also a dry outdoor playground on site along with washroom facilities, lounge chairs, picnic tables with sunshades, fire pits, outdoor exercise equipment and plenty of green space for your kids to run free! 3. Go for a summer swim at the Edson Leisure Centre If the heat is getting to you, consider visiting the Edson Leisure Centre, which boasts a swimming pool that features a water slide, diving board and both shallow and deep end pools for swimmers of all ages. Be sure to soak in the hot tub to relieve those achy muscles before you go! 4. Sip on a cold drink from a local coffee shop Nothing beats a cold, refreshing drink on a hot day! Stop by Lucky Mart for a delicious bubble tea and meal to go! The store also specializes in Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Malaysian products that are not available anywhere else in Edson. Edson’s newest bubble tea shop, Cold Kettle, is a home-based Bubble Tea Shop & Snack House with lots of variety and something for everyone to enjoy. They also offer a wide selection of snacks, breads, pastries, frozen food and even beauty products! 5. Hike, bike and the like at Willmore Park Willmore Park is a great destination for hot summer days! Located just 6 kilometers outside of Edson, the park boasts 12.5 km of beautiful hiking trails that wind through old growth mixed-wood forests along the mighty McLeod River. The Edson Bike Skills Park is Willmore’s newest feature, which contains a variety of natural and man-made elements. With jumps, pump tracks, ladder bridges, teeter totters and more, the bike park is a free, fun and safe place for cyclists of all ages to learn and hone their skills! 6. Canoe or kayak down the McLeod River Grab your canoe or kayak and go for a paddle down McLeod River! Make sure you arrange to have a vehicle ready to pick you up at the end of your float. Rapids are typically mild, but be sure to check the water conditions before you head out, as heavy rainfall can make for high water levels and harsh currents. You can access the river from a few different locations, including Willmore Park, where there is a great launch site. If you are looking for a two to three-hour trip from this location, a great place to finish is beside the bridge off of Highway 16 east. Rhapsody River Rides knows all the best locations for launching your canoe or kayak. They also offer a bus ride service for water sports as well as kayak and canoe rentals if you don’t have access to one yourself! 7. Visit the Edson Public Library For those who prefer to beat the heat by avoiding it altogether, the Edson Public Library is the place for you! With air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and more than a few comfy places to sit back and hang out, a visit to the library will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed. They have a large assortment of both fiction and non-fiction books, graphic novels, movies, audiobooks, access to computers, as well as lots of LEGO to spark your imagination. On your way out, be sure to check out the donation table where you might just find an awesome book to take home and keep! And when you walk back outside with your nose stuck in a great new book, you might not even notice the heat! How will you beat the heat in Edson this summer?

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?

Today is Blue Monday, aka the ‘saddest day of the year’, which is often attributed to the post-Christmas lulls, stretched finances following the holidays, broken New Year’s resolutions and yet another day of limited daylight. But don’t fret - we have compiled a list of 10 activities happening in Edson and area this month to help you beat the winter blues! 1. Lace up your skates and hit the rink! Now that the weather has warmed up slightly, it is the perfect time to go skating! Fortunately, there are tons of skating options in Edson and area. If you are interested in indoor skating, visit the Edson & District Leisure Centre! The rink is open for public skating from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Monday-Friday, with additional hours on Wednesdays from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. It is also open on Sundays from 4:30 pm to 5:45 pm. But if you are looking to go skating outdoors, there are some great rinks available in Edson, including the Griffiths Park rink (5412-6th Ave), the Westhaven neighbourhood rink (5901-10th Ave) and the Tiffin neighbourhood rink (1408-55th). The Town of Edson is also beginning work on the Squirrely Whirly Skating Loop at Water Tower Park, so keep your eyes open for upcoming details! Yellowhead County also has a variety of outdoor rinks available, including the Peers rink (5114-51st St., Peers, AB), the Wildwood rink (5530-50th St., Wildwood, AB), the Niton rink (located at Niton Central School, behind the bottle depot) and the Robb rink (located on 52nd Ave, Robb, AB). One great outdoor skating option is the Bear Lake Skating loop, which takes you on a refreshing journey through a snowy forest. 2. Join the Winter Walking Group A great way to beat the winter blues is to engage with others, and what a better way to do so than to join the Winter Walking Group! The group meets weekly on Tuesdays for a guided walk through Edson’s beautiful trail system, with frequent visits to Willmore Park. Locations are TBA each week, so make sure you follow the group for updates. 3. Go snowshoeing It is extremely important to stay active during the winter to boost your serotonin. One way you can do so in Edson and area is by snowshoeing! There are many options for snowshoeing in the area, including Willmore Park, the McLeod River and Bear Lake Campground, to name a few. No snowshoes? No problem! The Town of Edson and Yellowhead County offer low-cost, weekly snowshoe rentals. 4. Practice some yoga Another great way to stay active this month is to practice yoga! Uptown Yoga and New Elevations Yoga offer many fun and unique classes, such as yoga by candlelight, Sip & Flow yoga, aerial yoga and more. This month, Yellowhead County is also offering a four-week mini yoga session in Peers and a six-week session in Marlboro (CANCELLED) on Tuesdays from 7-8 pm. 5. Enjoy some laughs at the Legion Comedy Night On January 28, the Edson Legion will be hosting a dinner and Comedy Night, featuring Alberta comedians Cory Harding and Daryl Makk! Tickets are available for purchase at the Edson Legion, the Popped Cork and the Golden Gains Gym, with all proceeds benefiting the Edson Food Bank. 6. Join a pop-up dance class Put on your dancing shoes a join local dance instructor Amy Wesolowsky of Edson Dance Academy for some pop-up dance classes in Yellowhead County! Classes are available for toddlers, children, teens and adults in Peers (January 25), Marlboro (January 26) and Robb (January 28). Most of the classes are DANCEPL3Y based, which means participants will be playing with dance and learning a variety of styles. 7. Participate in an Anxiety to Calm workshop Challenge your thoughts and learn tools to invite more calm into your life by participating in Anxiety to Calm, a free six-week, in-person workshop designed to help you practice proven and effective skills for managing anxiety. This workshop is available for both teens and adults through the McLeod River Primary Care Network. 8. Try Cross-Country Skiing Edson and area is fortunate to have some great locations for cross-country skiing, including Willmore Park, the McLeod River and of course, the Hornbeck Cross-Country Ski Trails. The Hornbeck trails are a local gem for many reasons – there are 7 trails of different lengths to choose from, a warm-up shelter, and track-set trails that are excellently maintained by a passionate group of volunteers (Muskeg Flyers). It’s the perfect time to try this fun winter activity for yourself! Skis, boots and poles can be rented from Yellowhead County for $30 a week. 9. Go tobogganing Spend the day tobogganing with the kids (or by yourself) at one of Edson’s many tobogganing hills! The Yellowhead Koinonia Christian School’s tobogganing hill is great for young ones, while the Kinsmen Park and Willmore Park hills are for those who are looking for more of a thrill. 10. Go curling Curling is a popular sport in Edson and area, and although there are no rinks currently available in Edson, Yellowhead County has some great options! The Robb Multiplex has two sheets of curling ice and the Peers Multiplex has one sheet with two sides. Keep up to date with local curling events by following the Edson Curling Club.

Summer is the perfect time to explore Edson and area and its many festivals and local events. Although Edson itself is a small community, organizers go above and beyond to make our festivals memorable and exhilarating every year. Be sure to add these six Edson and area festivals to your bucket list this summer… you will not want to miss them! 1. Dog & Pony Show On June 4, the Edson Animal Rescue Society (EARS) and Yellowhead Agricultural Society (YAS) are bringing the Dog & Pony Show Fundraiser back to the Edson Rodeo Grounds for its second year! The Dog & Pony Show is a large outdoor, family-friendly community event that showcases demonstrations from local dog and horse clubs, such as dog agility and horse gymkhana. The event is sure to be fun for the whole family, with attractions like a petting zoo, pony rides, glitter tattoos, silent auction, and adoptable animals from EARS. There will also be a concession, popcorn stand, raffle items and a live auction. Sunday, June 4 – 11:30 am - 3 pm 2. Robb Centennial On June 24, the Coal Branch community of Robb will be celebrating their 100th anniversary, and they are inviting you to help celebrate the community! Join them for food trucks, a children’s carnival, CN Little OBIE, axe throwing, historical displays, geocaching, a buck saw contest, live music, beer gardens and more! A park memorial and time capsule unveiling will wrap up the day, and there will also be special merchandise for sale to commemorate the event. Free camping will be available at the Robb campground for the weekend. The event will be a great time to connect with family and friends while helping celebrate the rich history of Robb. Saturday, June 24 – 10 am – 6 pm 3. Canada Day Canada Day is a great way to connect and create memorable moments with one another in Edson… and this year will be no different, with tons of activities planned for all ages! Culminating with the annual pancake breakfast at the Royal Canadian Legion #51, attendants are then invited to RCMP Centennial Park to continue celebrating Canada’s 156th birthday. Take a fun group photo with friends or family at the photo booth, stop for a bite to eat at one of the many on-site food trucks, let your kids loose in the inflatables, interact with the roving performers, enjoy live music, get your caricature done, and above all, have fun! Concluding the event is the annual fireworks display, which gets more and more impressive every year. 2023 also marks the 150th anniversary of the RCMP, and a special celebration is also in the works to be celebrated alongside Canada Day. Stay tuned for more details at www.facebook.com/edsoncomserv. Saturday, July 1 – 9 am – 11 pm 4. Summer Festival Canada’s biggest travelling carnival is coming back to Edson this summer! West Coast Amusements will be bringing their popular rides to Edson’s Main Street on July 12-14 as part of the Edson & District Chamber of Commerce’s annual Summer Festival. Whether you are a thrill seeker that enjoys gravity-defying rides or are more interested in the classic carnival games, there is something for all interests and ages. Challenge yourself or dare your friends to take on the spectacular rides! The Zipper and Vertigo are perfect for adrenaline junkies and will leave you feeling dizzy but delighted, while carnival lovers can find comfort in the classic Ferris Wheel and Carousel. Let your kids loose in the magical Kiddieland, which features a series of rides specifically made for little ones over 2 years old. Take part in the quintessential carnival activities such as ring toss and balloon pop for the chance to win prizes, and indulge in a traditional carnival snack like cotton candy or mini donuts. Grab lunch at one of the great on-site food trucks and be sure to pick up an Elephant Ear on your way out – an Edson staple! Local artists will be set up along Main Street to sell their works and there will also be great sales and deals available at your favourite local businesses. For presale wristbands, which will allow you access to unlimited rides, visit www.westcoastamusements.com/event/edson-ab-2023/?fbclid=IwAR2Kc7e5-5ro-O2qhjE533Na7HKsq7mqO3MU-oWdhmLe-v30qnmiGOUStyQ. Wednesday, July 12– 1 pm – 10 pm Thursday, July 13 – 12 pm – 10 pm Friday, July 14 – 12 pm – 6 pm 5. Edson Renaissance Faire Hear Ye Hear Ye! Thou hast been summoned by the Town of Edson to partake in the first annual Edson Renaissance Faire! Travel back in time to a place of merriment and song, dueling and dragons, sport and questing from July 21-23 at the Yellowhead Ag Society Rodeo Grounds (901 Range Road 180, Yellowhead County). On Friday evening, get a VIP sneak peek of the events and enjoy the medieval tunes of The Borch Brothers, an East Coast fiddle band with a mix of folk, jazz, swing, Ukrainian and Celtic music – it is sure to be a hootenanny! Saturday and Sunday will be a smorgasbord of old-timey fun, with vendors, a mead garden, food trucks, art and music demonstrations, medieval quests and more! The medieval fighting team, Drayton Valley Horde, will be doing heavy armour combat and Red Stags Red Deer will also be in attendance to demonstrate jousting and knight fights. Dress in your favourite Renaissance-era clothing for the chance to win some great prizes! This event is great for the whole family and is one you surely will not want to miss. Get your tickets for the 2023 Edson Renaissance Faire at www.eventbrite.ca/e/edson-renaissance-faire-2023-tickets-567143339997?fbclid=IwAR31BeJAxhvpGLkk_M9tbDrlHDvfyhK34OMmVmSDLA10S4GYykIr1yRQ0PA. Friday, July 21– 5 pm – 10:30 pm Saturday, July 22 – 10 am – 7 pm Sunday, July 23– 10 am – 2 pm 6. Wop May Day Every year, the Galloway Station Museum and the Town of Edson host the annual Wop May Day celebration to honour the contributions of famous RCAF and bush pilot Wilfrid Reid ‘Wop’ May. In 1919, Wop May was hired by the Edmonton Police Service to fly a detective to Edson in search of a wanted murder suspect. This event went down in history as the first aerial police chase in Canadian history. This year, Wop May Day will be held in conjunction with Alberta Day on September 2, which is dedicated to celebrating the province’s unique culture and heritage. There will be many activities taking place throughout the day, such as picnic races, tug-o-war, inflatables, crafts, bannock-making and live music courtesy of the High County String Band. The popular pie eating contest, which is open to those of all ages, is always a hoot for participants and spectators alike. Old-timey carnival games will offer tons of fun for the kids, as they will be able to exchange their tokens for some great prizes at the end of the day. Local artists of a variety of different mediums will be selling their works inside the museum. There will also be a bench show, which encourages artists—from knitters to digital artists and everything in between— to submit their handiwork for judging. Hungry? No problem! There will be a number of food trucks on site to satisfy your hunger throughout the day. Come help us celebrate Alberta and Wop May at this free, family-friendly event! Learn more about Wop May at www.gallowaystationmuseum.com/reports-presentations. Saturday, September 2 – 1 pm – 5 pm What festivals will you attend in Edson this year?

When we talk about exercising, terms like ‘weight loss’ and ‘muscle mass’ often come to mind, but regular exercise is not necessarily about trying to look better, it’s about trying to live better. And thankfully, there are many different ways to stay active in Edson without having to leave the town limits! Keep reading for our top 9 activities that will help you and the whole family stay active and healthy this summer. 1. Try Disc Golf Fans of frisbee and golf rejoice! Disc golf is the newest sport to arrive in Edson, and thanks to the Edson-Healthier Together Initiative, the community is home to its very own travelling disc golf course! The course will take you to seven different parks in Edson to help you fully immerse yourself in the area. But of course, you can also choose from one of the seven courses to participate in this fun activity that will keep you and the whole family entertained and active. Sounds like a win-win to us! Find a map and additional information to Edson's Disc Golf Course here. 2. Explore the Edson Trail System Did you know that you can improve your mood, reduce health risks, increase energy, strengthen bones and lose weight just by walking? Lucky for you, Edson is no short on outdoor walking trails! Edson’s 4-km trail system connects the town together through a series of both paved and unpaved trails, many of which will take you through the town’s beautifully lush forests. Right now is the perfect time to explore these trails for yourself as the forest is currently abundant with striking wildflowers, berries, mushrooms and other flourishing flora. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels chittering in the trees as they love to call this area home. Maps to Edson‘s trail system are available through the Edson & Area Visitor Guide, which can be picked up at the Galloway Station Museum, as well as the Edson’s grocery stores and gas stations. The map can also be accessed online at www.gallowaystationmuseum.com/visitor-guide. 3. Channel Your Inner Tony Hawk at the Rotary Skateboard Park Although skateboarding is typically considered more leisure than exercise, it can certainly work up a sweat! The Rotary Skateboard Park, located just off of Highway 16, is a concrete park featuring an open bowl with a variety of ramps and obstacles for skateboarders of all skills levels. The park is also open to scooters and BMX bikes for those looking to perfect their tricks and test their skills on other equipment. As a bonus, the most western section of the Edson Trail system is located just one block away from the Skateboard Park! 4. Take Up Geocaching Geocaching is a great way to stay active while stimulating the mind and having lots of fun with the family! For those who have not heard of the term before, geocaching is essentially a treasure hunting game where you use a GPS to hide and seek containers at specific locations marked by coordinates. You can choose to geocache on foot or by bicycle, but be aware that some caches do require you to trek a ways as they are often hidden well! While some caches contain treasures for you to take and/or replace, others may simply contain a logbook that have been signed by people from all around the world who have also discovered that same cache. Edson has many different geocaches hidden throughout the town, all you have to do is find them! There may even be a couple of geocaches in RCMP Centennial Park… not that you heard that from us! Visit geocaching.com to sign up and start your geocaching adventure today. 5. Go for a Swim at the Edson Leisure Centre If you’re looking to beat the heat and get some exercise in at the same time, consider visiting the swimming pool at the Edson & District Leisure Centre. The five-lane swimming pool features both shallow and deep end pools for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Bring some fun into the mix by sliding down the waterslide or showing off your skills on the diving board! Be sure to relax your sore muscles in the dry sauna before heading out. Visit www.edson.ca/residents/parks-and-facilities/edlc for the current pool schedule. 6. Practice Your Serve on the Tennis Courts Grab a tennis racquet, a ball and a partner and head out to the Edson Tennis Courts to work up a sweat! The courts are a short walk from the Edson Leisure Centre and offer a fenced-in area with double courts so you and your whole family can play. Make a day out of it by visiting the Edson Public Library, touring the Red Brick Museum or splashing in the nearby Kinsmen Spray Park. The tennis courts are also the scene of biweekly pickleball practices for the Edson Pickleball Club. The Club welcomes new players on the courts on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 pm and offers new players the first visit for free. 7. Go Golfing at the Edson Golf Course Grab your clubs and head to the Edson Golf Course for 18 holes of fun, not to mention lots of exercise! The well-groomed course boasts rolling hills and lush forests, with holes nestled in between rows of trees to give the illusion of a mountain-like course. Bench Creek runs through the property, offering water on nearly every hole. Continuous upgrades to the course over the past few years has made the Edson Golf Club a popular stop for many golfers traveling down Highway 16. The on-site clubhouse is home to a well-stocked pro shop for those who are short on equipment, as well as a bar and grill to keep your hunger at bay. The Edson Golf Club hosts a variety of tournaments throughout the summer, which are geared toward different age groups, from children all the way to seniors. Lessons are also available for those looking to learn or improve their skills. With well-placed sand traps, impeccable greens and the luscious scenery to keep you engaged, the Edson Golf Course is as perfect way to stay active this summer. 8. Hike and Bike at Willmore Park Located along the beautiful McLeod River, Edson’s Willmore Park has a variety of activities that will inspire you and your family to stay active this summer. The park boasts 21.5 km of beautiful hiking trails that wind through old growth mixed-wood forests, catering to hikers of different skill levels. McLeod River lies on the border of the park, offering visitors with a variety of water-based recreational activities, from kayaking and canoeing to fishing and swimming. In the center of Willmore Park lies the popular Edson Bike Skills Park, which provides people of all ages and skills with a place to gather and share in physical activity. The park is progressive in nature with elements that are safe for toddlers and more difficult trails that cater to the more experienced biker. With jumps, pump tracks, ladder bridges, teeter totters and more, the Edson Bike Skills Park is a great place to burn off some energy this summer! 9. Practice your Swing at the Glenwood Baseball Diamond Although Edson’s popular Vision Park is closed for construction this summer, it does not mean that baseball is out for the summer! The Glenwood Baseball Diamond is another great place to play baseball, whether its to practice your hit or play a scrimmage with some friends. Located in the serene Glenwood Park, the park is also home to a new basketball court and has a variety of playground equipment to keep your little ones busy. On site is also a large field separated from the baseball field by a fence, which is suitable for soccer and other field sports. How will you stay active in Edson this summer?

Although summer is officially behind us, fall is still a great time of year to embark on a hike, with cooler temperatures, stunning sunsets and vibrant colours offering a truly memorable experience. Satisfy your inner wanderlust and enjoy the beauty of fall in Yellowhead County with these top 9 hiking adventures. 1. Wild Sculpture Trail The ever-changing hoodoos of Wild Sculpture Trail in Sundance Provincial Park makes this one of Yellowhead County’s most unique hikes. The sandstone cliffs, which were and are carved by rain and wind, hang on the side of steep cliffs overlooking the lake below. There are three different routes that are part of the Wild Sculpture Trail system, which each offer different views and perspectives of the hoodoos and Sundance Valley. The hike to the hoodoos is only a short one-kilometer hike in, but the trail continues on for eight more kilometers, taking you through an old-growth forest past a variety of beautiful lakes and creeks. In addition to the hoodoos, the trail also offers views of rare plant species native to Sundance Provincial Park, as well as a variety of wildlife, including beaver, moose, deer, bear, marten and a variety of waterfowl and songbirds. This trail is not only great for beginners but for the whole family as there are some spectacular views and very little elevation gain. There are also various camping opportunities available in the area, making this the perfect weekend adventure. 2. Emerson Lakes Emerson Lakes is a series of five beautiful, crystal-clear lakes in Sundance Provincial Park that are a hiker’s dream. With lush trails and stunning views, Emerson Lakes are enclosed by over 7 km of self-guided interpretive hiking trails. These trails wind around three of the lakes and offer incredible sunset and sunrise views, as well as countless opportunities for fishing, biking, canoeing and more. The lakes are also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bears and coyotes. 3. Joachim Valley Trail The Joachim Valley Trail is an enjoyable and unique hike that winds through beautiful meadows and lush forests to a simulated airplane wreck, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains and foothills along the way. After a short and flat 3.5 km hike in, you will come to the cockpit of an airplane wreck nestled in the valley that is used to search and rescue training – a true hidden gem! If you are looking for more of a challenge, you can continue on and hike the full 13 km to Black Cat Guest Ranch, which is a small family-run ranch offering ‘the splendor of the Rockies without the crowds and hustle of Jasper National Park’. They also offer a lot of great guided hikes in Yellowhead County as well as cabins nestled in the heart of the Rockies. This flat, gentle trail is suitable for all skill levels and ages, making it a perfect trail for a family adventure. 4. Athabasca Lookout The Athabasca Lookout trail is considered one of the most picturesque in the region, with incredible views of mountain ranges and many unique points of interest along the way. There are two trailheads that you can choose from to reach the stunning viewpoint. The shortest route, which can be accessed at the end of the Hinton Nordic Centre Road, is only a 1 km uphill hike to the viewpoint. If you are looking for a longer hike, you can access the Athabasca Lookout Trail via Joachim Valley. Although this route is longer and more strenuous, it offers a variety of points of interest along the way that you will not be able to find on the shorter trail, including an Indigenous burial site and a simulated plane crash. The first 2.5 km of this trail is a fairly easy walk, but don’t let this fool you! The trail then turns and goes straight up the side of a hill, proving to be a rather relentless climb. Although it is not a technical climb, it is steep, so hiking poles are recommended. The hike winds through a beautiful silver birch forest and ends with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding foothills. Although there are many false summits on this hike that also offer incredible views of the mountain ranges and valley below, you will know you have reached the official viewpoint once you have come to a radio tower and interpretive sign. 5. Folding Mountain Located only 40 minutes east of Jasper National Park, the Folding Mountain trail can often be overlooked, but its spectacular views certainly make it worth the trip! This day hike offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks and Athabasca River, weaving you in and out of a forested trail and along a stunning alpine meadow – all without the traffic you would typically experience in Jasper National Park. But be aware – this trail is not for the faint of heart! With nearly 1200m of elevation gain, including a steep scramble to the summit, Folding Mountain can be a challenging hike and should only be completed by experienced hikers. If you are not comfortable with the scramble to the top, the view at the base of the ascent is still stunning, with a beautiful section of meadow you can rest in while taking in the incredible view of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. However, if you are able to reach the summit, you will be met with an incredible 360-degree view of the mountains, including some of Jasper’s biggest peaks like Edith Cavell and Fiddle Mountain. Be sure to snap a photo of yourself at the summit and present it to the Folding Mountain Brewery at the base of the mountain for a free beer! 6. Ogre Canyon Loop Located southwest of the picturesque town of Brule, Ogre Canyon was once used as a packhorse trail in the 1900s and is now a great recreational opportunity for hiking, canyoning and ice climbing. This limestone canyon and its sinkholes were carved out by streams and underground water and today offer incredible views of a waterfall and pools. Because the road to the Ogre Canyon parking lot is not paved and receives little maintenance, we recommend you either hike, quad or off-road in, as there are many deep mud holes. Park at the Brule Community Hall and then make your trek in. The hike in is around 7 km, but will offer spectacular views of the surrounding flora and fauna, which is incredible this time of the year with the changing of seasons. From the parking lot, it is only a 15-minute walk to the canyon, which is 17m deep at the waterfall. Guided hiking tours of Ogre Canyon are available through Black Cat Ranch, and you can even embark on full-day canyoning adventure with Rocky Mountain Canyoning. 7. Fiddle Pass Ready to get acquainted with the Alberta wilderness? This is the perfect multi-day backpacking trip for experienced hikers, taking you to Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park. This rough backcountry trail is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. Although the trail travels through the popular Jasper National Park, it sees few visitors and offers hikers a quiet and tranquil experience, complete with pleasant riverside views, an incredible alpine pass and serene forest. And, if you plan it right, you can end your hike with a relaxing soak in Miette Hot Springs, the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. Please note that Miette is currently closed due to a road washout. It is hoped that the hot springs will be open in early September, so please be aware of this before you plan your trip. To get to Fiddle Pass, you will need to take the Upper Whitehorse Creek trail for about 7.5 kilometers until you reach a trail fork near the Sawmill Campground. Here, turn right to begin your wilderness trek. The trail climbs most of the way for the first 4 km to the first campground, Fiddle, which is located along a tree line. From here, you will pass through a flat meadow and along a small mountain lake before you make your final climb up Fiddle Pass. Take in the incredible views of Whitehorse Creek and Harlequin Mountain before continuing on to Miette Hot Springs, which is located another 26 km up the trail. Because the trail spans a provincial and national park, different rules apply for each. In Whitehorse Wildland Provincial Park, there are no reservation fees for overnight backcountry stays, but once you enter Jasper National Park, you will need to have a wilderness pass on hand, so be sure to purchase one before embarking on your hike. As this hike is not a round trip, you will need two vehicles to make it work. Consider dropping a vehicle off at Miette Hot Springs and spend the night at one of the nearby campgrounds before departing back to Whitehorse Creek the next day. 8. Upper Whitehorse Creek With scenic waterfalls, fast-moving rivers, impressive slated erosions and beautiful open meadows, the Upper Whitehorse Creek trail in Whitehorse Wildland Provincial Park is a hidden gem of Yellowhead County. This day hike is great for beginners or those with minimal experience as the trail is well-marked and easily navigable with very few points of incline. The trail is also a favourite for horseback riders, so if you meet someone on horseback, please step aside to let them pass. There are multiple opportunities to take a break or fill up your water throughout the trail. At about six kilometers in, you will come to Trappers Backcountry Campground, which has a bear pole and hitching rails for equestrian users. After two more kilometers, you will be at Sawmill Backcountry campground, which is situated along a quiet stream and has an outhouse and tree-covered fire area in case of rain. At the trail fork near Sawmill campground, you have the choice to either continue on to Whitehorse Creek Falls Campground or travel up Fiddle Pass into Jasper National Park, which will take you to Miette Hot Springs. During your hike, keep your eye out for the American Dipper, a small black bird that is typically only found high in the mountains along rushing alpine streams. 9. Cardinal Divide The Cardinal Divide is a popular hike in Whitehorse Wildland Provincial Park and offers unique views that cannot be found elsewhere. The Divide spans the continental divide, which includes two rivers. On one side is the Athabasca River, which drains into the Arctic Ocean and on the other side is the North Saskatchewan River which drains into the Hudson’s Bay. This wilderness area is renowned for its unusually high plant biodiversity, with many rare species calling it home. The region also supports at risk species including grizzly bears and harlequin ducks. The east portion of the trail, which is only a 1.3km hike to the ridge, offers spectacular views of the McLeod River Valley and Cheviot mine site. To the east, the McKenzie Gap opens up onto the plains, and looking west you will be met with spectacular views of Tripoli Ridge, Cheviot Mountain and Prospect Mountain. Continue along the exposed ridge for another 2.5 km to reach its peak (2,220 metres), then return back the same way you came, or continue along the ridge to extend your hike. Once you reach the top of the ridge, you will be met with incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and will have a unique view of the ridge, which curves out into the horizon. The Cardinal Divide can only be accessed by vehicle through Mountain Park coming from Cadomin. Please be aware that this road is harsh and not suitable for smaller cars. Which hike will you embark on this fall in Yellowhead County?

Spooky season is officially here, which means dusting off those old Halloween costumes, eating copious amounts of candy and getting in as many scares as possible. We compiled a list of Edson’s most ghoulishly haunted activities so you can make the most out of October and the Halloween season! 1. Stroll Through a Haunted Forest Take a stroll through Edson Animal Rescue Society’s (EARS) annual Haunted Forest, filled with haunting decorations, spooky displays and other monstrosities. But be careful – there may be monsters hiding in the woods waiting for the perfect time to scare you! If getting spooked is not your style, there is a scaredy-cat version of the Haunted Forest offered during daylight hours. Be sure to visit the bake sale or stick around to watch a children’s Halloween movie around the campfire before you head out. 2. Tour Edson's Halloween Decorations Edsonites tend to go all out with decorations during the holidays—Halloween included—so if you’re looking for a short but spectre-tacular activity to get you in the spirit of Halloween, take a drive through town to view all of the scary decorations. Be sure to vote for your favourite house when you are done! 3. Visit an Old Cemetery Is there anything as spooky as visiting a cemetery? We think not! Cemeteries actually hold a lot of interesting history (and we’re not just saying that because we’re museum!), as they record the lives of people who built our towns and lived in our communities. Edson’s primary cemetery, the Glenwood Cemetery, is a spacious, tree-lined area with over 4000 plots dating back to 1918. The Old Edson Cemetery, colloquially known as the Baby Graves, is well-hidden amongst the forest just outside of Edson and is significantly smaller, with only 29 internments dating back to 1912. If you’re looking for more of an adventure, consider visiting the Mountain Park cemetery on the Alberta Coal Branch – the highest cemetery in North America. You will need a 4x4 to get there, but the historical monuments and incredible views certainly make up for it. If you plan on visiting a cemetery this Halloween, please remember to watch your step and respect all gravesites. 4. Attend a Costume Party Nothing screams Halloween like a good old-fashioned costume party! Fortunately, there are multiple events to choose from this year, with options for all ages. Edson’s LGBTQ+ community will be hosting a Halloween Bonfire Costume Party at Kinsmen Park on October 14th, which is sure to be a fang-tastic time. A family-friendly Halloween party is also being held in conjunction with the Edson Library, Edson FCSS and Weyerhaeuser, and will include snacks, crafts, balloon twisting, a hot dog roast and a free movie screening on October 22. An adult-only Monsters’ Ball is being hosted by the Town of Edson at the Edson Legion on October 28, complete with a cash bar, a delicious evening lunch, dancing and some fa-boo-lous costume prizes. If you’re looking for a costume party to take your kids to, Yellowhead County will be hosting an Intergenerational Halloween Party on October 24 in Peers with pumpkin carving and cookie decorating to keep your little ones busy. 5. Tour Ghost Towns of the Alberta Coal Branch In the early 1900s, the Alberta Coal Branch was an area of bustling coal communities located along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Today, the Coal Branch is a chain of mostly-abandoned mining towns with only remnants of what used to be. When you consider that thousands of people lived and homesteaded in the area, it is pretty spooky to see all the deteriorating remnants of what these communities used to look like. At Cadomin you can see the entrance to the 1922 mine and some of the original homesteads; at Mountain Park you can see the original cemetery and part of the spur line; and at Mercoal you can see the original cemetery and coal tipple. Stop by the Galloway Station Museum, Travel Centre & Archives to pick up a map of the Coal Branch and to learn of all the historical hotspots we recommend visiting. 6. Leaman Festival of Fright Each year, the Leaman Exchange near Wildwood hosts a family-friendly Festival of Fright at their farm, which is always a hoot (or should we say howl?) From the Dead Woods and the Haunted House to face painting, hay rides, a petting zoo and Featherton – an old west town home to exotic and rare birds— there is something for everyone at the Festival of Fright! Dates and times for this year’s festival are TBD, so be sure to stay up to date by visiting their Facebook page! 7. Paint a Halloween Masterpiece Unleash your inner artist at the Galloway Lounge’s Halloween paint night on October 24th! You will be led through instructions on how to paint one of Halloween’s scariest and most well-known villains, Pennywise the Clown. And the best part? All the materials will be supplied for you to complete your masterpiece! Bring a friend, have a drink and get creative… or you’ll float too! 8. KIDS - Carve a Pumpkin with Dad Is there anything as quintessential as pumpkin carving when talking about Halloween? As part of Edson FCSS’ monthly Dadurday event, kids are encouraged to bring their dads or father figures out for an afternoon of pumpkin carving and hot dog mummy making in the spirit of Halloween on October 22. How will you celebrate Halloween in Edson this year?