Autumn is upon us.
“When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock,” to quote James Whitcomb Riley, is many people’s favourite time of year. The cooler weather, the changing colours, and the annual harvest—for better or worse—are cause for gratitude.
There are fall activities throughout the region for families to enjoy. Riverhurst hosted a Fall Fair this past weekend with food, live music, vendor tables, kids’ activities, and a Cold Lake Cruisers car show.
Farmers’ Markets have plenty of fresh produce to offer for fresh eating, baking, cooking, canning, or freezing. And of course there are home-prepared baked, canned, and frozen goods for sale.
Charlotte Lake Farms’ popular pumpkin patch is open for visitors on weekends until there’s been too much “frost on the punkins.” So far so good this season, as their decorative and delicious squash varieties are prime for picking.
It’s been a disappointing growing season with drought devastating many local crops. Harvesting will continue for a couple of weeks yet.
In the meantime watch for upcoming fall activities including Fall Fairs in Ardmore and Franchere September 27, Fort Kent’s dinner and dance October 4, and of course the annual Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fair October 4 and 5.
Check with your local community hall, Ag Society, arts organization or other community groups for activities near you.
Above: The Charlotte Lake Farms pumpkin patch offered the Smith and Turner families a great photo op, while others enjoyed selecting from the 51 varieties of pumpkins and squash. Below: Vendor booths and classic cars were part of the attraction at Riverhurst’s Fall Fair. Photos by JEFF GAYE
