Five things to do in autumn in Canada

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Canada might be known for its cruel winters, but its other seasons make up for the cold. With the sun going down earlier every day, here are a few ways to make the best of fall in your new country.

See the colours

Just by looking at the flag, you’ll know that Canadians are exceptionally proud of our trees. And we’re right to be: Canada is home to the third-most forests in the world, with almost 40% of the country covered. When summer turns to fall, the trees put on a show, going from green to spectacular reds, oranges and yellows. Hop in a car with some friends, pick somewhere outside the city and just go for a drive.

Go apple-picking

Despite being a massive country with wildly differing climates and ecosystems, one thing unites Canada: apple season. In Nova Scotia, there’s the Annapolis Valley; in Ontario, the Niagara region (and most of the southwest part of the province); in B.C., the Okanagan. Everywhere in between, you’re probably still close to an apple orchard. It makes for a great, photogenic day out with friends – and at the end of it, you go home with a bunch of beautiful, local produce.

Put the game on

This one could apply almost anytime between October and June: it’s hockey season. One of our national sports (along with lacrosse), hockey consumes Canadians’ lives to an incredible degree, whether that’s following their favourite team in the NHL – the professional league, which has seven Canadian teams – or playing recreational hockey with friends. You can easily find the games on TV, and students can usually get affordable tickets to see their college or university team in action.

To put yourself in the mood, turn on “The Hockey Song” by Stompin’ Tom Connors. It’s sort of an unofficial anthem.

Host ‘Friendsgiving’

Thanksgiving in Canada isn’t as big a deal as it is in the United States, where it’s celebrated about a month later. But it’s still a day off work and school, and it’s a great time to connect with family and friends. Many students go home for the long weekend, but plenty of others stick around campus, making it a great time to meet new people and forge friendships. “Friendsgiving” is a perfect way to do this over some delicious food. You don’t need to overthink it – a simple, warm meal and a pie will do the trick. The point isn’t the food; it’s the company.

Carve a pumpkin

Hallowe’en is just around the corner. You can start the festivities early by buying a pumpkin and carving a spooky design into it. You can get a pumpkin practically anywhere in October and even if your knife skills aren’t very good, it’s a fun way to add some seasonal flair to your house or apartment.