According to the astronomical definition, Fall begins with the autumnal equinox in the northern hemisphere. The Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the sun align in such a way that twice per year, neither the north pole nor the south pole are tilted towards the sun in the northern hemisphere. We call that Spring and Fall, or March and September. It’s a change of seasons. Equal day and night.
But many of us Canadians simply call it “Pumpkin Spice Season”!
So, without further fanfare, we give you the top 5 things to love about the Fall in Canada.
Number 5 – The drinks
Pumpkin Spiced Latte, Earl Grey Hot Toddy, Caramel Apple Latte, Pumpkin Spiced Beer, Vanilla Cinnamon Maple Whiskey. The choices are endless. Nothing is more Canadian than a spicy sweet hot drink on a cool evening, especially if we throw a little love behind it!
Number 4 – Fall Apple Season
Nothing says Fall in Canada like going apple picking on a Canadian farm. Sure, you can buy crappy American apples all year round, but nothing – and we mean nothing – tastes like a freshly picked Canadian apple. Juicy and fresh. Whether for baking or bobbing or simply savouring, they only come once a year, so get ‘em while you can!
Number 3 – Nature walks
Some think it is too hot, and some think it is too cold, but I think Fall is just right. The changing leaves give us a sense of transformation, a sense of ending, a sense of new things just around the corner, and an invitation reflect on the past year. A brisk, healthy walk in our great Canadian outdoors to enjoy the brilliant, multi-coloured leaves (dare we say the foliage becomes a kaleidoscope of colour!) in nature reminds us that things have been good and that the universe is orderly despite our chaotic lives. Nature truly IS the best medicine!
Number 2 – Canadian Farmers’ Markets
It’s the perfect way to celebrate the abundance of our fertile lands and hard labours. What better way to feed your soul than to let your senses go for stroll around the sights, smells, and tastes of the outstanding bounty of our growing season. Gather your friends and family to enjoy farm to table, and celebrate the feast!
Number 1 – Halloween
The leaves have largely fallen, there is a cold snap in the air, and darkness comes early. But nostalgic childhood memories of costumes, candy, parties, and wholesome fun come flooding back to hold at bay the winter to come. Carve that pumpkin, shell out the candy, and take another annual dip in the magic we call Halloween.
Canadian Fall is your privilege and your right North of the border. Enjoy the season!
