Fabulous End-of-Summer and Fall Outings in Calgary

Don't despair that summer's nearly over! September in Calgary often boasts better weather than August, so now's the time to make a plan to squeeze in a few more outdoor adventures. Here's a look at a few great events you won't want to miss.

Did you know there are less than 10 Sunflower Mazes in the World, one of which can be found right here in Calgary? Say hello to 100,000 smiling sunflowers or take to the tree and corn maze for additional adventures. There are also u-pick flowers, vegetables and u-pet animals to meet, so pack a picnic and prepare to settle in for the better part of a day. Photo credit: Eagle Creek Farms

Truckloads of fresh fruit and vegetables can be yours for historically low prices at Heritage Park from September 8–9. This annual sale presented by the Calgary Produce Marketing Association is also a charity event supporting the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation, Community Kitchen Program, and the Heritage Park Society. You'll feel good knowing you're supporting those in need, not to mention all that healthy produce you're loading up on.

Do you dare stroll down Hallo-Street? If you do, you'll be privy to a spooktacular time. Besides the thrill of tackling the biggest amusement park in Western Canada, families can enjoy scavenger hunts, face painting and a costume party! From September 8 to October 8, it's open Saturdays, Sundays (and holiday Monday) from 11 am to 6 pm.

Bookmark weekends in September and October for Kayben's Sunshine Adventure Park. It's a great place to burn off energy on gigantic play structures including the Berry Bounce—an inflatable trampoline set into the ground (so no one falls off). A mom must've designed that, don't you think?

Mark your calendar! Tickets go on sale for Harvest Pumpkin Hunts on September 1. Taking place every weekend in October, families take a wagon ride through the countryside to find kid-sized pumpkins before decorating their masterpieces. Naturally, there are dozens of friendly barnyard creatures to welcome little cow-pokes, plus opportunities to milk goats, pet bunnies and even ride a pony or two.

If you haven't yet, you'll want to make an annual tradition out of The Autumn Pumpkin Festival. Starting in October, comb through thousands of pumpkins to pick out just the perfect one, or meander through the petting zoo and multiple corn mazes. Just don't miss the Pumpkin Destruction Zone. Pumpkins are launched great distances with an old fashioned catapult and at 1 pm on weekends, the Great Pumpkin Explosion rains candy down on kids.