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Many people think they have to get on a plane or endure a long car ride to get to a place where they can enjoy the great outdoors during the winter – but you can have a lot of cold weather fun in Devon!
Winter in Devon
The pandemic has us all avoiding indoor public spaces, but there it no need to feel cooped up this winter. In Devon you can enjoy hills for tobogganing; outdoor skating rinks; trails for fat biking, hiking, snow shoeing or cross country skiing. Why not try something new like winter bird watching, geocaching, or hitting the trails with a camera in hand and getting some beautiful photos for Instagram?
Don’t worry if you don’t have the right equipment, you can rent snow shoes, skis and fat bikes right in town. Just show up and head off on your outdoor adventure!
Of course, not everyone wants to build a snowman, slide down a hill, or hike in the cold – and that’s okay too. Devon had plenty of beautiful independent shops to explore. Start your Christmas shopping early and stay out of the crowded malls and big box stores. In Devon you can find unique treasures for your loved ones (and for yourself). Enjoy your day of shopping by including lunch or a coffee from one of the highly rated eateries located throughout town.
Christmas in the Park and the Merry & Bright Parade
An annual, and well-attended, Devon tradition is Christmas in the Park, which is kicked off with the Merry & Bright Parade. The current plan is for a socially distanced version of the events; changes or updates will be posted on the Town of Devon’s website and social media. Already confirmed for the parade is Santa and his nemesis the Grinch, the Transflowmation Glow Dancers, a stunning ice sculpture float, and a few surprise guests. Plan to attend to see who they are! A map of the parade route is online. The parade is best viewed from yards (please stay off the sidewalks where possible to prevent overcrowding).
Past Christmas in the Park events included a gathering place with a comfortable gazebo and a fire pit, food stations where you could warm up with a hot drink and a treat, and plenty of outdoor wilderness space as the backdrop to good old fashioned country fun. While there will be some adjustments to account for social distancing this year, participants can be assured of a wonderful time, and can even participate remotely by ordering a Merry & Bright Activity Kit. One per family is available for Devon residents. The kit includes (with substitutions if necessary) an activity booklet, light up crafts, candy necklaces, hot chocolate, letters to Santa and more. Donations for the kits directly support Christmas in the Park, Christmas Elves, Leduc & Regional Food Bank, Citizens on Patrol, and St. John's Ambulance.
Christmas in the Park and the Merry & Bright Parade are sponsored by Devon Dental Associates and the Lions Club.
Things are different this year. Very few of us have any experience living through a pandemic of this scale. However, we do know that safely being around others in a socially distanced way (and preferably outside) and having a sense of community can go a long way to help our mental wellbeing during these changing times. Devon has plenty of winter activities along with the Merry & Bright Parade and Christmas in the Park to help you stay connected.
Visit the Town of Devon’s homepage to learn more and receive updates.
SPONSORED CONTENT: This Content is made possible by our Sponsor; it is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
