You know the signs.
The days are becoming shorter. Darker evenings provide clear, star-flecked skies. Brisk winds have closets opening and thick sweaters emerging. You pull out the socks and (Birken)stocks, then the warm boots. If that’s not enough to know the seasons are changing, the change will be certain when you experience the inevitable emergence of that most fragrant smell…. pumpkin spice.
Autumn is descending and, in Niagara, that means a most exciting time of year!
The colour, and where to walk in it
A metamorphosis is upon us, as the summer heat gives way to cooler days and even colder nights. The leafy canopy high up in the trees change to vibrant hues of gold, crimson, and amber. Soon they fall softly, covering the ground in a patchwork quilt of colour. Photographers, professional and amateur alike, flock to capture the beauty found when walking through any one of our quaint communities or hiking along one of our many trails. A sturdy set of boots, thick gloves, and a warm coat allow adventurers to experience the awesome beauty of the Bruce Trail, Ball’s Falls, Wainfleet Bog, Short Hills Provincial Park or any one of the exquisite waterscapes along the banks of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, or the Niagara River corridor.
Photo: J. Freeze Photography
Harvest, and giving thanks
Autumn is a time of harvest, of giving thanks, and of savouring the bounty provided by our farms and wineries. Every weekend provides a craft show in different areas of the region, complete with food, wine, and craft beer.
September begins with the Celebration of Nations, a multi-day festival celebrating Indigenous culture and heritage. Live music, traditional dancing, food, and theatre can be enjoyed in an educational, dynamic atmosphere. Join workshops, lectures, cooking classes and more for a truly immersive experience.
The end of September is a tribute to the vines! At Montebello Park in St. Catharines the Grape and Wine festival hosts parades, concerts, and that most revered Mayor’s Grape Stomp, where you can cheer on your favourite competitor. Refreshments flow and food is found in plenty.
For the children
Looking for something kid-friendly? Visit pumpkin patches at Howell’s Adventure Farm in Fonthill or Warner Ranch and Pumpkin Farm in Welland. Corn mazes, hayrides, singing chickens, and skeleton bands make for a fun, lighthearted way to enjoy an Autumn Day. Don’t forget to pick out a pumpkin. From palm sized to boulder sized you can pick your own to bring home.
A spookier time of year
October ushers in a spookier time of year. Feeling brave? Join us for a ghost tour in Canada’s most haunted town, Niagara-on-the-Lake. Rife with history dating before the War of 1812 you’re sure to see one of our friendly spectres hanging around Canada’s oldest tavern, the Olde Angel Inn. Keep warm with a coffee in hand as you walk with a Ghost Guide, a lovely evening walk for believers and skeptics alike.
Are you a War of 1812 buff? Venture to Fort George or up the Niagara River to Fort Erie, both offering ghost tours of their own. The bloodiest battles on Canadian soil happened right here in Niagara, and we have the ghosts to prove it, if you believe.
Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, on Halloween night you’re sure to see some of our youngest ghouls and goblins trick-or-treating in Niagara. Don’t be scared by the teeny tiny zombie or the mini-Avenger. They are just playing dress up. Residents throughout the region embrace the Halloween spirit with extravagant displays of Halloween lights, spooky displays, and eerie sounds.
Last chances
October is also the time to give thanks. Whether you visit on Thanksgiving weekend or not, we recommend enjoying an afternoon at one of our local restaurants or wineries. Take in breathtaking views on world-class patios before they must hibernate for Winter.
Likewise, October offers a last-chance opportunity for warm weather excursions and events while also being the beginning of Winter activities! Play a round of golf, take a horseback ride, or visit White Meadows Farm to learn about maple syrup production! For the more adventurous, take a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car or explore the White Water Walk, seasonal attractions at Niagara Parks before it’s too late. This is also the last opportunity of the year to book your cruise with Niagara City Cruises and see Niagara Falls as the fish do, from below the majestic waterfall.
Photo: J. Freeze Photography
And then it is November
November brings on the beginning of the exciting holiday season. Holiday markets abound, allowing you to find the perfect gift for that special someone. No luck? Spend an afternoon creating a festive floral display or a piece of art for something truly one of a kind. Workshops can be found throughout the region, offering a fun activity and a thoughtful token for a friend or loved one.
The rarest harvest
As temperatures drop and frost visits in the early mornings, you may be lucky enough to witness a rare event, the harvesting of icewine. Icewine, that syrupy sweet dessert drink, can only be harvested in very specific climates, Goldilocks zones, if you will. Summers must be hot enough to allow grapes to fully ripen, before temperatures must flash freeze to a bone-chilling minus eight degrees Celsius and stay there while the grapes are harvested in the frozen state, a critical component to obtaining that glorious nectar. Niagara is the world-leader in icewine production, a point of pride within the community. Take an adventure with one of our many wine-tours to obtain a behind the scenes look at icewine production. Winery staff from waiters to winemakers burst with pride to explain the science and art behind the craft.
Three million lights
No weekend would be complete without enjoying one of the holiday parades. Each municipality takes its turn, so you are sure to have an opportunity to see jolly Saint Nick, Christmas elves, local dignitaries, and representatives of all cultures and backgrounds walking through the local downtowns, waving hello and handing out candy canes or other goodies. Likewise, tree-lighting ceremonies are hosted at city halls and other organizations. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, bundle up, and join us for the fun!
Mid-November sees the opening of the Winter Festival of Lights, a time-honoured tradition enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Witness the splendour of electric lights up and down the Niagara River, with a dazzling display in Queen Victoria Park and Dufferin Islands. Over 3 million lights cover the trees, and adorn the many displays of animals, fountains, and flowers. Drive through or, to best experience the stunning array, walk through and play with the interactive elements offered for children and adults of all ages. On weekends the festival offers fireworks displays over Niagara Falls itself, an experience we think everyone should witness at least once!
Indoors, when it turns
As temperatures drop, and indoor activities become more popular, look at the arts and culture scene of Niagara for entertainment. Holiday music and theatre are enjoyed at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines or the world-renowned Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Looking for something more upbeat? OLG Stage in Niagara Falls is sure to offer a concert to your taste.
No matter where you go, at the end of the day you’ll find a medley of activities, adventures, colours, and cuisine. Autumn in Niagara is a celebration of the year in review. Look forward to cool days experiencing wonders, and warm nights sleeping soundly.
A condensed version of Autumn Gold, written by Jessica Friesen, appears in Destination Niagara magazine. Read the full issue →
Planning around the season? This Month in Niagara → or Harvest Starts Now →
