Things to do in September

The kids are back in school but that doesn’t mean you don’t all deserve to put down the paper and pencils and have some fun on the weekends! September can have some of Calgary’s hottest weather so grab the sunscreen, water (and maybe a sweater – just in case) and head out for some fall fun.

Get Spooky

Halloweekends at Calaway Park runs fromSeptember 7 to October 14. Join the Boo Crew and stroll through Hallotown… if you dare! Is it scary? No, it’s friendly! It’s a spooktacular good time for the whole family! Dress up as your favorite family friendly character and enjoy a day of fall fun. Learn more at calawaypark.com.

Get a Pumpkin

There is nothing better on a crisp fall day than exploring a local farmyard and choosing your own pumpkin! Several local fun farms, like Butterfield Acres, Calgary Farmyard, Granary Road and Cobb’s Adventure Park, host fall-themed festivals and events. Check out their websites for more information.

Get Baking

Now that you have a pumpkin, what can you do with it? The season of pumpkin-flavored goods is a favorite for a reason. Some wait for months for the gourd-flavored coffees and baked goods to be available in cafes and stores. Why not create some of your own sweet treats at home? Get the kids in the kitchen and try your hands at baking muffins, pie or even cheesecake. Many of the recipes are available online with video tutorials. You would be surprised how easy they are to make!

Get Active

Create a fun, leaf-inspired scavenger hunt, then turn those beauties into art! In your backyard or at a local park, challenge your children to find a leaf that is every color of the rainbow. Then make art out of your treasure. Use the leaves you’ve collected and create leaf animals using paint, google-y eyes, and last year’s school supplies. 

Get Cultured

Take in the excitement at Alberta Culture Days. Alberta Culture Days is the province’s month-long celebration of arts, heritage, diversity and community spirit, hosted by community organizations. It is an opportunity for all Albertans to discover, experience and celebrate arts and culture by attending or hosting local events and activities across the province. Learn more at culturedays.ca.

Get Colorful

Do you love the beautiful colors of changing leaves? There is no better place to see them then Kananaskis Country. The views in the area are always breathtaking but as the foliage begins to change, it becomes a magical and picturesque backdrop for a walk, hike, bike ride or picnic. So, get in the car and escape the bustle of city life.

Get STEAM-Y

Prepare for two premium event Beakernights – packed with special programming on September 20 to 22. The return of Beakerbar will feature speakers, installations, and more – plus three daytime experiences sure to please families. The STEAM-inspired programming will be held at TELUS Spark Science Centre with unforgettable art installations and science that will blow your mind. Learn more at beakerhead.com.

Get Cozy

On those days when it is a bit too chilly to go out, cozy up in a local cafe. Calgary is home to dozens of amazing independent cafes and coffee shops, and they all offer something a little different – it can be a bit intimidating to take your little ones into a slick modern coffee shop, but there are tons of family friendly options like Regal Cat Café, Hexagon Board Game Café, and Joyful Java Café.

Get Local

Enjoy popular local attractions without the crowds! Family favs like the Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park Historical Village can get busy in the summer. Go on a warm weekend in September and you’ll be surprised how much quieter the parks are – and more enjoyable.

Get Moving

Douglas Fir Trail is one of the best places to take in fall views within the city. Explore 5.6kms of gorgeous trees spanning from Edworthy Park to Crowchild Trail, or get lost on the many winding and weaving side trails. In these trees, you’ll find countless hidden gems, like staircases, ponds and viewpoints. Don’t miss the amazing cityscape from the top of Edworthy’s off-leash dog park.