What To Do in Saskatoon in September

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This is probably one of the best years to discover Canada. Every month, for Canada 150, we’ve been writing about the best things to do and places to go, based on the time of year. As we approach the end of summer, we’re moving inland. One of the best places to be in September is Saskatoon. We’ve chosen this city not just for the alliteration (though it was definitely part of the decision. Furthermore “Saskatoon in September” really deserves to be a song) but because it has so much to offer in the fall. It’s also one of Dan Aykroyd’s favourite Canadian cities, which is enough of an endorsement for us. Here are a few ways to celebrate Canada 150 by discovering a new city:

Country Music Fans Unite

Canadian country music fans will definitely want to book it to Saskatoon for this year’s Canadian Country Music Association Awards, happening every September. If “free” is more your price point, check out the CCMA Fanfest the day before the big show to hear and get your picture taken with fan favourite country singers.

Word on the Street is…

…a book and magazine festival in Saskatoon, literally! This year’s Word on the Street takes place on September 24 in the Broadway Business District and includes author readings, discussions, and activities that showcase and celebrate the diversity of the Canadian literary landscape. With exhibitors’ tent names like the Great Expectations tent and the Odyssey tent (not to mention a giant outdoor book store), this festival is a booklover’s dream. Past festival participants included literary heavy weights like David Suzuki and Yann Martel, so we can’t wait to see who they booked this year.

Light Up Your Labour Day

Summer may be almost over, but that doesn’t mean the fireworks have to stop. And who doesn’t like fireworks?! (Seriously, I want to meet them.) The PotashCorp Fireworks Festival on September 2 and 3 is a great way to enjoy the long weekend. In addition to the fireworks extravaganza, there’s a cultural showcase in the River Landing Amphitheatre, an arts and craft market, family fun zone, and food trucks.

The Cultural Side of Saskatoon

Celebrate French culture at the Journées du patrimoine (Heritage Days) (Website in French only). The bilingual festival has interactive and educational family activities, workshops, geocaching, and historical vignettes.