Fall is in the air and we've reached that time of year when everything we see, eat, drink taste, and smell has turned into a pumpkin or pumpkin version of its previous form. While not everyone is a fan of the pumpkin spice flavour, you can't be a complete pumpkin hater... or can you? If you're not quite convinced that pumpkin is in fact a season, then perhaps the list below can help tip the scales. I mean, how can you resist the warmth and coziness that oozes from those adorable, tiny, little decorative pumpkins (that only last one season) giving us all the Fall feels and instantly making you want to go out and buy a pumpkin spice something while wearing a sweater of course because let's be honest, pumpkin season isn't the same without a sweater.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte, more commonly known as the PSL, has become a Fall staple and typically kicks off pumpkin season because Starbucks has the power to create such a season. While the PSL is still one of those things people look forward to and even go as far as counting down the days to its release, the pumpkinny things have moved beyond expanding its horizons into places you never expected the pumpkin to go. For all you pumpkin lovers, and future pumpkin lovers, I've compiled a short list of pumpkinny things to help you get into the season but you better act fast because the pumpkin spiciness fades with the change of seasons and we all know what comes next, but we won't talk about it yet. For now, we enjoy the hot sun, crisp air, and all things pumpkin.
Here's how you can get your pumpkin on in Calgary:
1. Pies, pies, and more pies!
Of course, the number 1 pumpkin flavoured treat will be pie, it's a classic and ALWAYS delicious. While I haven't ventured to enough spots to tell you which one is the best here in Calgary I can tell you that
Sunterra
makes one of the best and has a solid reputation for making a delicious pumpkin pie and you simply can't go wrong.2. Mmmmmmm Beer!
It's 5 o'clock somewhere so why not crack open a beer, but not just any beer... you know it, a PUMPKIN beer! Check out
Urban Cellars
in Kensington to see their selection of delicious pumpkin-inspired brews. They come in singles so you can buy just one to give it a try and say you did it!3. A beverage, but not from Starbucks
Euphoria Café in NW Calgary claims to have the real deal when it comes to the infamous PSL, I haven't tried it yet but from what I've seen on Instagram, I can smell the deliciousness through the screen. If you're not a fan, fear not, there is also a Pumpkin Spice Oat Chai Latte on the menu and if you're hungry while you're there, you may as well throw in a seasonal pumpkin pineapple muffin because why not just layer on that pumpkin!
4. Flowers ?!?
Pumpkin Spice Flowers? Ummmm yes, please!
Amborella Floral
, a local Oakridge Floral company is offering a workshop at the Tradespaces building in the SE where you come and learn how to make the most beautiful pumpkin-inspired bouquets. The best part is you get to take it home with you and while it may not smell pumpkinny, it will still give you the feels!5. Did someone say Doughnut?
If they didn't, then they probably should and more specifically, pumpkin pie doughnuts from Hoopla! Their dougnuts are heavenly and meticulously made so each bite is the best it can be. The best part is they have something for everyone so food sensitivities (Gluten-free and Vegan) will not keep you from tasting these delicious lumps of pumpkinny goodness.
This list is just to get you started so you can ease your way into the next phase of the year when things get a little cooler yet colourful. Stay tuned for pumpkin fest coming to Calgary in mid-octobre! You haven't seen anything pumpkin until you've been to the fest!
Claire
-Your Connection to Calgary