The shift from summer to winter is often abrupt in Calgary, and so, there is little time to celebrate the bounty historically offered by autumn. But respecting the four seasons, as our forbearers did, is a good thing—if only for the reason that it takes the focus off winter for a few moments. Respect your heritage and celebrate fall’s harvest with these events.
Hillhurst-Sunnyside Harvest Fair
Local horticulturalists have been working all summer to grow the biggest pumpkins, best cherry tomatoes, and brew the best alcoholic beverages for this classic-style competition, which will be judged by luminaries of Calgary’s culinary scene. It’s also the final farmer’s market of the year for Hillhurst-Sunnyside, so you can likely score some awesome produce at a discount rate. October 3rd, 3 – 7 p.m. 1320 5 Ave N.W.
Okotoks HarvestFest
A 30-minute drive south of Calgary will bring you to the town of Okotoks, which has one of the best traditional harvest festivals in Alberta. Pie-baking contests, carnival games, and antique farm equipment demos will remind you and the family of a simpler time. Also, every Saturday in October Kayben Farms in Okotoks will be hosting its Pumpkin and Scarecrow Festival. October 6th, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Rocky Mountain Wine and Food Festival
More than 200 exhibitors will cram the Stampede Park BMO Centre for the 15th Annual Rocky Mountain Wine and Food Festival. Sample wines from across the globe, as well as every other kind of booze imaginable, and pick up a bottle of your favourite from the onsite Liquor Depot store. Most people come to the festival for the alcohol, but stay for the food, and this year’s line-up of restaurants and vendors offers everything from butter chicken to gelato. October 12th, 4 – 10 p.m. and October 13th, 3 – 10 p.m. Stampede Park BMO Centre, 20 Roundup Way S.E.
Deerfoot Inn and Casino Oktoberfest
Once a year, the Deerfoot Inn and Casino’s Chrome Room is transformed into an authentic German beer hall for “the biggest and best Oktoberfest festival this side of the Atlantic.” Tomorrow night, the ceremonial keg-tapping kicks off the fest, and then the casino hall is filled with polka, steins and great times for the next three days. Prepare to propose a “Prost!” (cheers!). October 4th, 7 p.m. and October 5th, 5 p.m. 1000, 11500 – 35 Street S.E.
In the spirit of the season, here are a few bonus selections to enlarge this bounty:
Lake Louise Fall Festival
Green Calgary Fall Festival
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Image courtesy of ladybugbkt.
