Living in Alberta

This section explores living in Alberta and highlights the culture, beauty and resources available across our beautiful province. Check back frequently for updated stories!

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  • April: Showers Bring Flowers

    about 1 year ago

    In April, Alberta experiences a "shoulder season" with a mix of winter and spring weather, featuring potential for sunshine, cool or warm days, and even fresh snowfall. You can expect milder temperatures that are ideal for outdoor activities.

    Important Dates

    Friday before Easter (Good Friday) - Statutory holiday

    Giants of the Prairies

    Did you know that Alberta is home to over 50 giant roadside attractions? The Giants of the Prairies are a group of "world's biggest" roadside attractions found in Western Canada, especially in small towns populated mostly by Ukrainian Canadians. Consider taking a road trip to see... Continue reading

    In April, Alberta experiences a "shoulder season" with a mix of winter and spring weather, featuring potential for sunshine, cool or warm days, and even fresh snowfall. You can expect milder temperatures that are ideal for outdoor activities.

    Important Dates

    Friday before Easter (Good Friday) - Statutory holiday

    Giants of the Prairies

    Did you know that Alberta is home to over 50 giant roadside attractions? The Giants of the Prairies are a group of "world's biggest" roadside attractions found in Western Canada, especially in small towns populated mostly by Ukrainian Canadians. Consider taking a road trip to see a few of the most majestic statues: Route of the Giants - Tourisme Alberta. Pictured: World's Largest Mallard Duck in Andrew, Alberta.

    Region Feature: Lakelands

    The Lakelands is a destination for those in pursuit of year-round adventure, yearning to harness their Wild Side. Break from the beaten path and seek escape in the region’s untamed forests and bountiful lakes. Lakelands | Canada's Alberta

    Community Spotlight

  • Groundhog Day: Is it Spring Yet?

    over 1 year ago

    Even though a large chunk of winter is behind us, there's still plenty of frozen fun to be had across Alberta. Rumor has it that Alberta's groundhog has predicted an early spring, so be sure to check out the last winter festivities before the snow melts and the winds warm.

    February marks a significant increase in daylight hours, with the amount of sunlight increases 3+ minutes per day. We've already gained an extra hour of daylight since the December 21st winter solstice.

    Important Dates

    February 17 (Third Monday in February) - Alberta Family Day Statutory Holiday

    Winter Safety: Walking on... Continue reading

    Even though a large chunk of winter is behind us, there's still plenty of frozen fun to be had across Alberta. Rumor has it that Alberta's groundhog has predicted an early spring, so be sure to check out the last winter festivities before the snow melts and the winds warm.

    February marks a significant increase in daylight hours, with the amount of sunlight increases 3+ minutes per day. We've already gained an extra hour of daylight since the December 21st winter solstice.

    Important Dates

    February 17 (Third Monday in February) - Alberta Family Day Statutory Holiday

    Winter Safety: Walking on Ice

    While the longer days means warmer temperatures, it also means that snow may begin to melt and freeze as overnight temperatures remain low. This can make walking difficult. Check out these tips:

    February Festivals

    Check out some of these rural festivals. Use Google to see the distance between your community and the festivals, or search for events in your local area:

    (Pictured) Ice Magic at Lake Louise

  • Jumping into January

    over 1 year ago

    There's a different feeling in the air come January, whether it's the fresh start of a new year, the cold and clear skies or the fresh snow beckoning you to make the most of the winter season. Welcome to the Heart of Winter!

    Region Feature: Northern Rockies

    Set off for wild expeditions and great discoveries. Navigate winding river valleys and sit in the stillness of the forest.

    Northern Rockies | Canada's Alberta

    Community Spotlight: Peace River

    Nestled into the spectacular Peace River Valley, the Town of Peace River can be enjoyed in any season, no matter your yen. Enjoy magnificent... Continue reading

    There's a different feeling in the air come January, whether it's the fresh start of a new year, the cold and clear skies or the fresh snow beckoning you to make the most of the winter season. Welcome to the Heart of Winter!

    Region Feature: Northern Rockies

    Set off for wild expeditions and great discoveries. Navigate winding river valleys and sit in the stillness of the forest.

    Northern Rockies | Canada's Alberta

    Community Spotlight: Peace River

    Nestled into the spectacular Peace River Valley, the Town of Peace River can be enjoyed in any season, no matter your yen. Enjoy magnificent views from several lookout points, stay in one of several full-service motels, hotels, or unique bed and breakfasts, savour the fare at the fine restaurants, lounges, or craft breweries, hike on trails weaving through the hills, or view the local wildlife — often on the other side of the street!

    Peace River | Alberta Health Services

    Staying Healthy & Safe in January

    Living in Alberta during winter creates unique scenarios and challenges for residents and visitors. The low humidity and dry winds can cause nosebleeds and itchy skin. Lower daytime light can impact your mood. Icy conditions can create hazardous terrain while walking, running and driving. Visit a few of the resources below to learn more.

  • December Holidays & Traditions

    over 1 year ago

    December in Alberta can be a truly magical experience. Snow blankets the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the rolling hills of the prairies and the evergreens of the northern forests. Lights twinkle off the eaves of neighbourhood homes and in windows as families set up their holiday decorations. Comfort can be found snuggled up to a fireplace, in a mug of hot chocolate or simply in the celebratory atmosphere of the holidays to come.

    Important Events & Dates

    December 25 - Christmas is an annual festival observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration. Christmas Day is... Continue reading

    December in Alberta can be a truly magical experience. Snow blankets the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the rolling hills of the prairies and the evergreens of the northern forests. Lights twinkle off the eaves of neighbourhood homes and in windows as families set up their holiday decorations. Comfort can be found snuggled up to a fireplace, in a mug of hot chocolate or simply in the celebratory atmosphere of the holidays to come.

    Important Events & Dates

    December 25 - Christmas is an annual festival observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration. Christmas Day is celebrated religiously by a majority of Christians, as well as culturally by many non-Christians, and forms an integral part of the holiday season centered around it.

    January 1 - New Year's Day, also called simply New Year's or New Year, is observed on January 1. New Year's Day is one of the most celebrated public holidays, often observed with fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the new year starts in each time zone.

    AHS strives to create workplaces where people feel safe, healthy and valued. Our workforce, patients and families include individuals from many diverse backgrounds and communities, and recognizing cultural and religious celebrations helps us to become a more inclusive organization. You can check out additional special days recognized in Alberta on Insite.

    Staying Connected

    Thanks to the many ways of connecting virtually with those we love, it is still possible to share special holiday moments no matter the physical distance.

    Use technology

    Video calls through platforms like Zoom or Skype can help you stay connected with family and friends. Use Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) watch TV or movies with your family and friends online.

    Talk about traditions

    Traditions can be a source of comfort, especially for people who have experienced a big change. You can ask your loved ones what traditions they want to keep when they relocate to Alberta and if they want to start something new. Explore some new Canadian traditions (below) so you can share them with your family when you're reunited.

    Practice self-care

    The holidays can be full of emotions, so self-care is important when you're trying to cope with being away from loved ones.

    Need support? The AHS Employee & Family Assistance Program is a free and confidential service available 24/7 to AHS employees. Learn more by searching EFAP on Insite.

    Christmas Activities & Traditions

    Popular modern customs include gift giving, church services, completing an Advent calendar, Christmas music and caroling, viewing a Nativity play, an exchange of Christmas cards, a special meal with family and friends, pulling Christmas crackers and the display of various Christmas decorations. Here are some ways you can participate in these customs:

    • Attend a church service in your community
    • Listen in to a local radio station that plays Christmas music
    • Bake gingerbread or shortbread cookies

  • November Stillness & Sport

    over 1 year ago

    November is often considered a quiet month after the completion of harvest in rural communities, some recreation activities shift indoors, and Albertans take a well-deserved break after the hustle and bustle of back-to-school activities for school aged children. Sports fan? Hockey and curling are in full swing!

    Important Events & Dates

    As we head into the 'indoor' season of late fall / early winter, respiratory illnesses become on the rise. Alberta Health Services strongly supports influenza immunization as part of our overall approach to protecting patients and staff. AHS sites host clinics, walk-ins and appointments to help reach the 80%... Continue reading

    November is often considered a quiet month after the completion of harvest in rural communities, some recreation activities shift indoors, and Albertans take a well-deserved break after the hustle and bustle of back-to-school activities for school aged children. Sports fan? Hockey and curling are in full swing!

    Important Events & Dates

    As we head into the 'indoor' season of late fall / early winter, respiratory illnesses become on the rise. Alberta Health Services strongly supports influenza immunization as part of our overall approach to protecting patients and staff. AHS sites host clinics, walk-ins and appointments to help reach the 80% AHS employee vaccination target.

    November 3 - Daylight Savings Time (DST) Ends. Clocks turn backward 1 hour at 2:00 am on November 3rd. Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 3 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning and less light in the evening. Also called Fall Back and Wintertime.

    November 11 - Remembrance Day is celebrated in Commonwealth countries. Remembrance Day in Canada commemorates those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country in the line of duty. Remembrance Day is a public holiday and is observed on the following Monday if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday.

    Winter Driving

    Winter driving conditions can be hazardous due to factors such as snow and ice on the roads. It’s important you are prepared for winter driving and your vehicle is up for the challenge

    Winter or snow tires are specially designed for the low temperatures and snowy and icy conditions we experience in Alberta. They provide better traction than regular or all-season tires.

    Resources:

    Winter Recreation

    The winter provides many opportunities for families to be active. Recreation activities such as sledding, skating, downhill skiing and snowboarding are popular.

    Resources:

  • Fall's Arrival & Thanksgiving

    over 1 year ago

    October brings the bounty of summer's hard work to our dinner tables. On the second Monday of October, Canadians observe Thanksgiving Day, expressing gratitude and feasting with friends and family.

    September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to recognize the history and truthful impacts of residential schools. Review the AHS Indigenous Health Commitments: Roadmap to Wellness to learn more about the AHS commitment to advancing Indigenous health.

    Community Spotlight: Smoky Lake

    Located just over an hour from Edmonton, The Town of Smoky Lake offers its residents and visitors many of the same services of... Continue reading

    October brings the bounty of summer's hard work to our dinner tables. On the second Monday of October, Canadians observe Thanksgiving Day, expressing gratitude and feasting with friends and family.

    September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to recognize the history and truthful impacts of residential schools. Review the AHS Indigenous Health Commitments: Roadmap to Wellness to learn more about the AHS commitment to advancing Indigenous health.

    Community Spotlight: Smoky Lake

    Located just over an hour from Edmonton, The Town of Smoky Lake offers its residents and visitors many of the same services of the city without the line ups or traffic.

    The Town is the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta and the home of the annual Great White North Pumpkin Fair, which brings in nearly 10,000 people to a community of just over 1,000. The excitement does not stop there: the Town also hosts the Smoky Lake Stampede, the Town Heritage Days, and numerous other community events throughout the year. Smoky Lake a must-visit to anyone looking to experience city-level celebrations in a charming small-town setting.

    Smoky Lake is proud of its Ukrainian heritage and honored to be located next to Metis Crossing and Victoria Settlement, all of which contribute to the Town's rich cultural element.

    Halloween Fun & Safety

  • Fall Approaches

    over 1 year ago

    Alberta's residents collectively hold their breaths, waiting for the first sight of the leaves turning vibrant yellow. Harvest is well underway in the central prairies, with combines becoming a regular sight along highways that nudge up against the borders of wheat, barley and canola fields. Fleets of school buses join in the spectrum of golds and yellow brushstrokes of the province's painted canvas. While it's still technically summer, the first breath of autumn can be felt in the cooler mornings and evenings.

    Region Feature | Central Prairies

    Here, thousands of acres grow some of the most relied-upon crops in the... Continue reading

    Alberta's residents collectively hold their breaths, waiting for the first sight of the leaves turning vibrant yellow. Harvest is well underway in the central prairies, with combines becoming a regular sight along highways that nudge up against the borders of wheat, barley and canola fields. Fleets of school buses join in the spectrum of golds and yellow brushstrokes of the province's painted canvas. While it's still technically summer, the first breath of autumn can be felt in the cooler mornings and evenings.

    Region Feature | Central Prairies

    Here, thousands of acres grow some of the most relied-upon crops in the world. Between fields of barley and wheat, you’ll discover Canada’s Wild Side in its charming towns. Experience the draws of the rural way of life.

    Learn more: Central Prairies | Canada's Alberta

    Communities in the Central Prairies:

    Have school aged children? Here are some resources to review:

    Ride safely as the cycling season rolls on

    Summer holidays may be coming to an end, but cycling season rolls on! Reminder for all Alberta cyclists under 18-years-old, you must wear a helmet, and it is highly recommended for riders of all ages. Parents, start your child’s helmet-wearing habit early to reduce their risk of injury, especially as young riders.

    Ride safely as cycling season rolls on! (youtube.com)

  • Fields of Gold

    almost 2 years ago


    The summer sun and crackling thunderstorms continue to march through Alberta as we enjoy long days and warm evenings. If you take a drive through the prairies, you'll notice fields of gold in full bloom as the canola fields unfold into a brilliant tapestry.

    Harvest is just around the corner!
    An IEN Story: Mary Jossy
    Clinical Nurse Educator Mary started at AHS as an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) over 15 years ago. Since then, she’s had the opportunity to use her skills and passion for teaching to ensure other IENs get the same warm welcome and positive work experience she
    ... Continue reading


    The summer sun and crackling thunderstorms continue to march through Alberta as we enjoy long days and warm evenings. If you take a drive through the prairies, you'll notice fields of gold in full bloom as the canola fields unfold into a brilliant tapestry.

    Harvest is just around the corner!
    An IEN Story: Mary Jossy
    Clinical Nurse Educator Mary started at AHS as an Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) over 15 years ago. Since then, she’s had the opportunity to use her skills and passion for teaching to ensure other IENs get the same warm welcome and positive work experience she did.

    Watch Mary's story here.
    Festivals in Alberta

    There is still plenty of summer left to enjoy festivals and fairs hosted across the province.

    Check them out here on Travel Alberta.

    Staying Safe

    Camping, hiking, fishing and more - Alberta is an outdoorsman's playground. Be aware of these tips and recommendations for keeping you and your family safe as you explore the great outdoors.

  • Long Days of Summer

    almost 2 years ago
    A couple with their dog pulling a canoe out of the lake with mountains in the background.

    Welcome to summer in Alberta! In summer, the province begs to be explored. Take a hike, sleep under the stars, rent a paddle board or attend one of the many festivals underway.

    Region Feature

    The Wildlands region of Alberta, Canada is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located in the heart of the province, this region boasts stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

    Wildlands | Canada's Alberta

    Communities in Alberta's Wildlands

    Maximizing the Sunlight

    At the peak of summer solstice, there are more... Continue reading

    Welcome to summer in Alberta! In summer, the province begs to be explored. Take a hike, sleep under the stars, rent a paddle board or attend one of the many festivals underway.

    Region Feature

    The Wildlands region of Alberta, Canada is a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located in the heart of the province, this region boasts stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

    Wildlands | Canada's Alberta

    Communities in Alberta's Wildlands

    Maximizing the Sunlight

    At the peak of summer solstice, there are more than 17 hours of daylight per day in Alberta and twilight extends through the entire night. While many residents wait all year long to bask in the continuous light of the sun, the long summer days can affect your health and wellness, especially for shift workers. Learn more: Mental Wellness Moment: How Longer Daylight Hours Affects your Mental Health

    Staying Safe at the Lake

    When the high temperatures finally come out to play, locals flock to their nearest lakes or bodies of water to cool down, relax and enjoy some time on the water. Make sure you stay safe if you are planning to enjoy swimming, canoeing, paddleboarding or boating. Learning About Water Safety

  • May: Northern Lights in Alberta

    almost 2 years ago
    Northern Lights in Alberta

    Alberta's dark skies and wide-open spaces make the province an excellent spot to chase the northern lights, especially from September to March. If you're willing to skip a few hours of sleep, the reward is basking in the glow of the lava lamp-like bands of light in shades of green, yellow, pink and mauve.

    Alberta's Wood Buffalo region, in the northern reaches of the province, is a Dark Sky Preserve (an area that reduces or restricts light pollution to protect naturally dark night skies).

    The Northern Lights are just one highlight of Alberta's natural beauty and unique geographic... Continue reading

    Alberta's dark skies and wide-open spaces make the province an excellent spot to chase the northern lights, especially from September to March. If you're willing to skip a few hours of sleep, the reward is basking in the glow of the lava lamp-like bands of light in shades of green, yellow, pink and mauve.

    Alberta's Wood Buffalo region, in the northern reaches of the province, is a Dark Sky Preserve (an area that reduces or restricts light pollution to protect naturally dark night skies).

    The Northern Lights are just one highlight of Alberta's natural beauty and unique geographic position. If you have seen the Northern Lights, we welcome you to share your experience and tips in the comments.