Visitors to Saskatchewan can count on mouth-watering eateries, cowboy fun and cultural experiences this fall.
HEAR SOME RHYMIN’ RIDERS
You wouldn’t think “cowboys” and “poetry” go together, but when they do, the result is pretty darn fun. The Maple Creek Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Western Art & Gear Show brings together lyrical lassoers for live readings and performances. Visitors can also stock up on hats, boots, saddles and western-inspired artwork. Sept. 16-18
GET THE WRITE STUFF
The Word On The Street Book & Magazine Festival celebrates the written word and champions literacy in Saskatoon. This year’s free event will showcase more than 50 authors, who will appeal to every-one from 2 to 92 years of age. Look for appearances from David Suzuki, Dr. Norman Doidge and even Bif Naked. Sept. 18
HIT THE ROAD
The Highway 1 Studio Tour proves that art exists in every corner of Saskatchewan. The annual self-guided driving tour showcases artists in their studios along a stretch of highway from Waldeck to Herbert. Visitors can pop into the seven studios along the route to see 18 artists at work, in disciplines ranging from pottery and painting to blacksmithing and wire crochet. Meet the makers, watch them ply their trades and purchase a piece while you’re at it. Oct. 1-2
CHEER THE CATCH OF THE DAY
Every year, anglers from across the U.S. and Canada descend on Tobin Lake near Nipawin to reel in walleye for the Vanity Cup. The 23rd-annual tournament is set to take to the water with 160-plus teams competing for more than $300,000 in cash and prizes. Oct. 1-2
HEAR THE BEST OF THE WEST
Western Canada continues to churn out some of Canada’s top musical talents, in genres ranging from rock and country to jazz and classical. BreakOut West Regina celebrates the spirit of this melodic heritage. The four-day event combines an industry conference with a multi-genre music festival. As part of the gathering, Regina will also host the Western Canadian Music Awards Gala, featuring the musical stylings of Saskatchewan and Canadian artists. Oct. 13-16
SEE ‘EM SADDLE UP
The rodeo gallops into town this October as Swift Current welcomes the Canadian Cowboys Association Finals. As one of Canada’s largest rodeos, the CCA Finals see the toughest cowboys and cowgirls vie for top prizes in major rodeo events, including steer wrestling and barrel racing—not to mention saddle bronc, bareback and bull riding! Oct. 19-22
THINK GLOBAL, EAT LOCAL
At the base of Cypress Hills, in the quaint town of Maple Creek, you’ll find one of Saskatchewan’s most innovative restaurants. The Star Café & Grill boasts an eclectic menu that reflects the diverse ethnic backgrounds of its staff. Expect Western classics like prime rib and sirloin steak, but you can also sample spicy curries or Caribbean fish. The restaurant, which was recently named one of Food Network Canada’s “Top 10 Canadian Highway Hotspots,” also offers a warm, cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a fall night.
RELIVE SASKATCHEWAN’S PAST
Wherever you are in the province, you’re not far from a Western Development Museum. The network includes outposts in Saskatoon, Yorkton, North Battleford and Moose Jaw. Each location offers fascinating insights into Saskatchewan’s past: Experience a 1910 Boomtown at the Saskatoon location, chronicle the history of immigrants in Yorkton, witness the evolution of farm life in North Battleford, or see how transportation molded the Prairies in Moose Jaw.