Canada is a beautiful vacation destination in October. The weather is cool and crisp, but usually not cold enough for snow, and the fall foliage is spectacular. If you live in the northern part of the United States, Canada might be close enough to spend a long weekend in October. Columbus Day weekend might be an option for travel, as many schools are closed and you might have off from work. Be aware, however, that the second Monday in October is the Canadian Thanksgiving; this is the same day that Americans observe Columbus Day. So if you do go that weekend, expect to encounter crowds and realize that most attractions as well as all government buildings will be closed. Whether you are visiting Canada for just a few days or plan to make a full vacation out of your jaunt to see our northern neighbors, here are some activities and events that you might consider taking advantage of in some of the bigger metro areas:
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Vancouver, British Columbia If you are visiting Vancouver in October, you’ll want to bring along your cool-weather gear, as well as a raincoat and an umbrella. While the sun might be shining during your visit, there’s just as good a chance that it will be rainy and foggy, so be prepared! The good thing is that Vancouver offers many events during this month that will more than make up for the potential of soggy weather. If you’re a foodie, you will not want to miss the 9th Annual Taste of Yaletown, which takes place from October 16 to 27 this year. You’ll get to choose your price tier, ranging from $25 to $45 per person, and from there, you’ll be delighted with a succulent array of local delicacies. Those wishing to take part in the traditional fall pastime of apple picking and tasting will want to visit during the weekend of October 19, when the Apple Festival takes place at the UBC Botanical Gardens. Bring the kids, as this is an event geared toward families! Finally, don’t miss the first annual photography festival, Capture, taking place throughout the month. Learn about photography as an art form and admire the talent in the local community.
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Toronto, Ontario As the largest city in Canada, Toronto offers a wide variety of things to do for just about everyone. Do you love theater? If so, you’ll be able to see some great plays this month at the Stratford Festival and the Shaw Festival. Some of the offerings include Fiddler on the Roof, Blithe Spirit, Romeo and Juliet and Lady Windermere’s Fan. Want to take advantage of the spooky season of Halloween? Sign up for a tour of the Haunted Streets of Downtown Toronto, where you’ll be treated to tellings of tales that will give you goosebumps as you explore the historic area. Sports fans won’t want to miss catching a hockey game; the Toronto Maple Leafs will be playing several home games throughout the month of October.
- Montreal, Quebec The second largest city in Canada, Montreal, is also the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, coming in after Paris, France. Even if you don’t speak the language, however, you shouldn’t have too much of a problem, as over half of those in the metro area also speak English fluently. Be aware, however, that some of the cultural events will be taking place primarily in French. If you find yourself in the city during the beginning of October, visit Chinatown to take part in the Moon Festival, which falls on October 6 this year. Enjoy moon cakes, bubble tea and other cultural delicacies. At Espace pour la vie, the botanical gardens in Montreal, you can enjoy the Gardens of Light as well as the Great Pumpkin Ball this month.
No matter where you go in Canada this fall, be sure to dress warmly and to bring your camera in order to document the fantastic fall foliage that you’re going to see.
Have you visited Canada in October? Where have been your favorite Canadian cities to tour this time of year?
Please note this post was written in 2013, so the advertised rate of $279 is a bit higher, and it is a per person rate, not total.
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