11 reasons why fall is our favourite season in Vancouver
Everybody’s favourite season differs.
Some people prefer the hot, dog days of summer, others have an appreciation for springtime’s aroma and aesthetic, while the ski-bunnies and snowbirds might regale you in the rewards of winter.
But what about fall?
As the season begins to change, here’s just a few reasons why we love fall in Vancouver.
The leaves, oh, the leaves
That’s right. Fall foliage in Vancouver is something to behold. With all of the vegetation in this city there’s no shortage of spots where you can get your fill of foliage, as the city is transformed into a kaleidoscope of reds and oranges. Check out Stanley Park’s inner trails, VanDusen Botanical Gardens, or UBC’s campus, to soak in the changing season.
There’s not as many tourists
Gastown Vancouver via Shutterstock
Finally, you can now walk the streets of Gastown in tourist-less bliss. While Vancouver is a destination during any season, cruise ships typically run from April to October, meaning there will be fewer people crowding your favourite brewery or coffee shop, and you’ll finally be able to get the selfie in front of the steam clock you’ve been waiting for.
Vancouver cools down
Vancouver skyline / Shutterstock
The month of August was one of the hottest on record. Sure the rising mercury means that you can soak in some rays at the beach, but for those of us who don’t have air conditioning it’s nice not to live in a sweat-soaked sauna for a change. Transitioning to fall means lower temperatures and a little less aggravation. Somehow, waiting for the bus is a little more tolerable, your car’s AC doesn’t need to be full blast, and you can actually get some sleep at night.
Sports!
Image: Vancouver Canucks / Facebook
The World Cup of Hockey, NFL Sundays, MLB playoffs, European soccer and the NBA – plus, the Canucks will be in full swing come October. Fall really has it all if you’re a sports fan.
Thanksgiving
The Great Gobbler / thegreatgobbler.com
As far as holidays go, Thanksgiving might take the cake – or pie. You’ve got your turkey, your dressing, gravy, mashed potatoes, this thingy, plus, it’s a good reason to take some time from work and spend it with those closest to you. Also, with a federally allotted day off, you’ve got an extra 24 hours to drink as many pumpkin spice lattes, and eat as much pie as you can.
Routines
Image: iStock/Businessman using laptop computer
Summer can be crazy with its constant beach hangs, camping trips, vacations, and endless nights out. Sure being social is fun and all, but entering fall usually means there are a few more free days in our calendars as we settle back into our more regular routines…
You get to stay in and not feel guilty about it
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a bit less appealing. Theres more rain, and the sun gradually starts clocking out earlier and earlier. As a result it’s much easier to stay inside and read a book, or watch what’s new on your streaming service of choice, without feeling like you’re missing out on something or letting your friends down.
Sweater season
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Who doesn’t love layering up? Everyone has their favourite piece; that pullover sweater, cable-knit cardigan, or trusty raincoat – which can now be worn every day.
Boo!
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Halloween gives fall the little bit of edge it needs. You know the drill, one night a year we all dress up as someone, or something, and participate in our desired shade of tomfoolery, while being showered in candy. Plus, Vancouver has some of the best Halloween parties and events in Canada, so really it would be rude not to celebrate the season.
Fall markets
Roasted butternut squash, pumpkin pie, coconut-curry-carrot soup – all of these delicious root vegetable dishes are officially in season, and the best place to source the best ingredients is your local farmers’ market, or fall fair.
Pumpkins
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Perhaps the most recognizable of all produce, the pumpkin seems to represent the fall season on every level. It’s the colour of fall, it tastes like fall, and it symbolizes one of fall’s most prominent events, Halloween. And what kind of autumn would it be without an annual visit to a pumpkin patch.