Your Weekly Roundup

News, Events & Travel for 26 SEP – 4 OCT

Hello everyone,

As the autumn leaves begin to show their brilliant colours, it’s a wonderful time to get out and enjoy the crisp air or plan a cozy getaway. This week, we’re sharing some important national news, a list of fantastic events happening from coast to coast, and a travel deal perfect for a fall adventure.

Chuckles Corner

“Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” – Walt Disney

Senior News Spotlight: National Dental Care Plan Update

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) continues its phased rollout. As of this month, applications have opened up for all eligible seniors aged 65 and over. If you have not yet applied, now is the time to do so. The plan is designed to help cover a wide range of dental services for uninsured Canadian residents with an adjusted family net income of less than $90,000. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, you can visit the official Government of Canada website. This is a significant step in making healthcare more accessible for seniors across the country.

Upcoming Events Across Canada (Sept 26 – Oct 4)

Here’s a look at some interesting events happening in each province and territory.

British Columbia

• Victoria International Wine Festival: For the wine connoisseur, this festival in the beautiful city of Victoria features tastings from top wineries around the world. A sophisticated and enjoyable outing.
  • When: September 30 – October 5
  • Where: Victoria, BC

Alberta

• • When: October 2 – 4
  • Where: Smoky Lake, AB

Saskatchewan

• Saskatoon Farmers’ Market: A vibrant and bustling market open year-round. This is the perfect time to find harvest vegetables, local honey, fresh baking, and unique crafts from local artisans.
  • When: Saturday, Sept 27 & Sunday, Sept 28
  • Where: Saskatoon, SK

Manitoba

• Winnipeg Oktoberfest: Celebrate the famous German festival with traditional music, food, and of course, beer. It’s a lively event that offers a taste of Bavarian culture right in the heart of the prairies.
  • When: September 26 – 28 & October 3 – 4
  • Where: Winnipeg, MB

Ontario

• Niagara Grape & Wine Festival: The final weekend of this major festival is a must-see. Enjoy wine tastings, concerts in Montebello Park, and the famous Grande Parade.
  • When: September 26 – 28
  • Where: St. Catharines, ON

Quebec

• Gardens of Light at Montreal Botanical Garden: An absolutely breathtaking evening experience. Walk through the Chinese, Japanese, and First Nations gardens, all beautifully illuminated with intricate, colourful lanterns.
  • When: On now until October 31
  • Where: Montreal, QC

New Brunswick

• Harvest Music Festival: Catch the final days of Atlantic Canada’s premier music festival. While it features a wide range of music, there are plenty of blues, folk, and jazz shows perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening.
  • When: On now until September 28
  • Where: Fredericton, NB

Nova Scotia

• Celtic Colours International Festival Opening Weekend: Though most of the festival is next week, the opening weekend kicks off in Cape Breton. It’s a world-renowned celebration of Celtic music and culture set against the stunning fall foliage.
  • When: Begins October 3
  • Where: Various venues, Cape Breton Island, NS
• Truro Farmers’ Market: A Saturday morning classic! Enjoy the best of the harvest season with fresh local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and live music. It’s a perfect way to connect with the community.
  • When: Saturday, September 27th & Saturday, October 4th, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Where: Truro Farmers’ Market Square, Truro, NS
• Live Music at the Nook and Cranny: Settle in for a relaxing evening of food, drinks, and live music. This popular Truro spot often features local acoustic artists, making for a perfect, low-key night out. Check their Facebook page for the weekly artist lineup.
  • When: Evenings, September 26th – 28th (check for specific times)
  • Where: The Nook and Cranny Brew Pub, Truro, NS
• Halifax Urban Folk Festival (HUFF): If you’re up for a trip to the city, the tail end of the Halifax Urban Folk Festival is happening this weekend. It celebrates songwriters and the stories they tell through music, with shows happening at various intimate venues across Halifax.
  • When: Final events run until Sunday, September 28th
  • Where: Various locations in Halifax, NS (check the HUFF website for schedule and venues)

Prince Edward Island

• PEI Fall Flavours Festival: A month-long culinary festival wraps up with its final events. Check their schedule for culinary excursions and special menus at restaurants across the island celebrating the best of local PEI ingredients.
  • When: On now until October 5
  • Where: Various locations, PEI

Newfoundland and Labrador

• St. John’s Farmers’ Market: A wonderful gathering place with a huge variety of local vendors offering everything from prepared foods and fresh produce to unique art and crafts.
  • When: Saturday, Sept 27
  • Where: St. John’s, NL

Yukon

• Yukon Arts Centre Gallery: Take a quiet afternoon to appreciate the work of northern artists. The gallery regularly features stunning exhibitions of both contemporary and traditional art from the territory.
  • When: Check website for gallery hours
  • Where: Whitehorse, YT

Travel Deal of the Week: VIA Rail Senior Discount

Thinking of a scenic trip to see the fall colours in another province? Don’t forget that VIA Rail offers a permanent 10% discount for travellers aged 60 and over on most fares. For a limited time, they are also offering additional savings on travel to Montreal and Quebec City for select dates this autumn. It’s a comfortable and relaxing way to see the country without the stress of driving.

Do you know of a local event or a great deal we missed? Share it in the comments below to help out your fellow members!

Warmly,
Bill and Marilyn
Founders of Canadian Senior Moment