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When is the best time to visit Canada?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Canada is during the summer months, when sunny days and pleasant temperatures are the norm. Despite Canada’s size, weather patterns are largely the same across the country, with defined seasons similar to those in Europe. Coastal regions are usually more temperate than prairie provinces, and mountain ranges attract higher rainfall and snow in some areas than others. However, it’s cold everywhere in winter and warm in most locations in summer.

Springtime, which starts in late April through to early June, can also be a delightful time of year to visit. Gradual snow melt reveals forests and wildflowers, while Canadian wildlife re-emerges from the long winter hibernation.

September is considered the peak of the salmon run, attracting large numbers of bears. It also marks the start of autumn, with spectacular fall foliage lasting into October.

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Month-by-month guide for travelling in Canada

Visiting Canada in January - March

The weather is unquestionably cold at the start of the year, but if you're prepared and have packed appropriately you can enjoy the many activities and festivals that take place during the Canadian winter. There are popular cultural and sporting events and some incredible wildlife experiences, but perhaps best of all is the amazing phenomenon illuminating the dark winter skies known of course as the northern lights.

Events & Festivals

• Québec Winter Festival (last weekend of January to February): Lasting 14 nights, this is the world’s largest winter carnival, notable for incredible ice and snow sculptures. A great opportunity to combine with exploring Québec.

Visiting Canada in April

A good time to travel to Canada, with improving weather and longer days. Vancouver and the west coast in particular feel more pleasant. High up in the Rockies, the ski season is at its best with sunny days and blue skies. Elsewhere in the country, the chill of winter starts to disappear but weather can be unpredictable — be prepared for a variety of conditions.

Visiting Canada in May

Warmer weather, fewer crowds and lower costs make May a good time to visit Canada. There's still some chill in the air, but with the snow largely gone and spring flowers blooming many lodges start to reopen and national parks become more accessible, allowing visitors a chance to explore in relative solitude before the peak season starts. This time of year is also perfect for whale watching on the Atlantic coast, with humpbacks, minkes and belugas frequently sighted.

Visiting Canada in June

June is, for many, the ideal time to visit Canada. The full peak summer season hasn’t quite started, but the days are warm and long. Hiking trails are open, the lakes and rivers have thawed and wildlife is increasingly active. In the north of the country, parts of the Yukon, Nunavut and Northwest Territories that have previously been inaccessible because of snow open up to uncover mountain ranges, forest valleys, lakes and glaciers waiting to be explored.

• Festival de Jazz de Montréal (June and July): The largest event of its kind, the festival attracts thousands of global jazz artists and features hundreds of concerts, with many events free of charge.

Visiting Canada in July - August

The long summer days offer opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors through the wonderful hiking, boating, camping and fishing opportunities available across the country. Summer festivals, including Canada Day and the Calgary Stampede, take place, and outdoor dining is popular in towns and cities. Summer is also a great time to view orca on the west coast of Canada as they follow migrating salmon on their long journey.

• Calgary Stampede (July): An annual rodeo and festival celebrating cowboy culture. The ten-day event is highly recommended and very popular. Often referred to as the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ and well worth combining with a more in-depth exploration of Calgary.
• The salmon run (late August to November): One of nature’s great events; salmon return from the ocean in huge numbers, travelling into the river systems of the west coast for spawning and attracting hundreds of bears and other predators.

Visiting Canada in September - October

The weather is comfortable in autumn, and the changing colours of the fall foliage is spectacular. Most outdoor activities can be enjoyed and temperatures, though cooler, are still pleasant. It is a great time to visit Niagara Falls in particular; with fewer crowds and the stunning autumn colours along the Niagara Gorge. September also sees the start of the salmon run and is consequently a good month to witness bears fishing for migrating salmon. October starts to get colder still, but offers the chance to spot polar bears as they make their way back from their summertime habitat. 

Visiting Canada in November - December

The days are darker, snow may have started falling and the temperatures drop with the onset of winter. Despite this, November and December are still lively months, with holiday season festivals and the re-opening of ice skating rinks making for great family entertainment.

• Toronto Santa Claus Parade (mid-November): A festive parade of decorative floats and costumes. It is now one of the largest parades in North America, attracting over half a million spectators each year.

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Best Time to Visit Canada

When is the best time to go to Canada? It really depends on what you are looking for in a vacation. From coast to coast, Canada is a beautiful country that is fantastic to visit at any time of year, but every traveller has their own ideas of what they want from a trip.

Some want Winter festivals or sports, others love to hike in nature looking at Fall colours, and some prefer exploring a city in the Summer. In this post, we'll give you an idea of when you'll get the best weather in Canada and the best times to travel to Canada for your own preferred interests and sights to see.

[ Explore: Trains Across Canada ]

Best season to visit canada.

Canada is a vast country whose climate varies extensively from the East to the West. Although many people favour Summer for their vacation, as they think it's too cold the rest of the year, the best time of year to visit Canada is between September and November for a number of reasons.

Some parts of Canada can get very hot during summer, so the weather can be much more comfortable during the fall months, with the fall foliage providing a beautiful backdrop to your visit. However, everyone has their preferences for weather, so we'll break it down by the seasons for you, looking at the best months to visit Canada.

1. Winter — December 21st to March 19th

January is the coldest month in Canada for most of the provinces. Although northern regions and the flatlands can experience temperatures as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit during this time, inland cities like Vancouver are much milder, with lows of around 40 degrees. While snow can come as early as October and appear into April, but snowfall is heaviest from December through February. The month with the most snowfall is usually January. But don't let that discourage you — there is a lot to love about Winter in Canada. 

This is an excellent time of year to visit Canada for winter sports such as skating and skiing. It's also the perfect time to observe the Northern Lights . Winter in Canada is the ideal time to visit a mountain lodge and spend a few days cozied up with your family, warming up by the fire after a day outside exploring. There are also many festivals during this season, so if you wrap up nicely for the cold, this can be a wonderful time for a visit.

A Winter train trip is a magical experience, where you can stay cozy in your private cabin and watch the snowy landscape roll by the window.

Travel across Canada on our Trans Canada by Rail in Winter train trip .

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

2. Spring — March 20th to June 20th

Springtime in Canada is still a little chilly, with temperatures not getting much above the mid-fifties Fahrenheit, and most parts of the country experience heavy rainfall in April, making it the rainiest month in Canada. That said, with all the plant life and flowers springing into life, it can be a beautiful time to visit, especially on the West Coast of Canada where the Spring come earliest. Spring can also be the best time for some wildlife viewing, with migrating birds and bears leaving hibernation. 

#1 Travel tip: When to go bird watching

Canada offers some fantastic bird watching all-year round. For migrating birds, plan your trip for early Spring or early- thru mid-Fall. For breeding birds and chicks, aim for late spring and early summer. British Columbia has great winter birding in December.

If you're well-equipped for the weather, Spring can be an excellent time to book your trip, as this is when you can find the best deals on accommodation and travel. In addition, with the lengthening days leading up to the summer solstice, it's a great time to explore the glaciers and mountains of the Northern Territories.

[ Explore: The Canadian Train by VIA Rail ]

#2 travel tip: top bites.

Some of Canada’s signature foods are only available certain times of year. For example, lobster season generally occurs between April-June. Other iconic dishes, such as poutine, can always be found.

3. Summer — June 21st to September 20th

As in many other countries, Summer is the peak season for visitors to Canada. However, temperatures vary across the country, with highs between 70 and 95 Fahrenheit in Toronto and 65 to 80 in more temperate Vancouver. This gives plenty of opportunities to visit Canada's many sites of natural beauty. Generally, July is the hottest month in Canada.

[ Read: Summer Activities in Toronto ]

From July through August, school is out in Canada, so many families take their Summer holidays. It is also the peak season for outdoor festivals and celebrations, from the Calgary Stampede to the Canadian National Exhibition.

Train tours, such as our trips on the Rocky Mountaineer train , run primarily in the Summer and Fall, which may make these seasons the best time of year to trave to Canada if this is the vacation you are looking for.

Read more: Best Summer Festivals Across Canada

4. Fall — September 21st to December 20th

Fall is a spectacular season in Canada, making it one of the best times to visit Canada. During these month, there are comfortable temperatures, around 60 degrees in September in Toronto, steadily falling towards winter. Rain is common this time of year, although not as much as in April. 

[ Read: Things to do in Toronto ]

You can expect the first snow in November. Overall, Fall is a great time to travel in Canada , neither too cold nor too hot, with little in the way of extreme weather.

A major draw of visiting Canada in the Fall is the leaves changing colour, which creates vivid red, orange and gold landscapes. For this reason, many believe October is the best month to visit, when colours are at their peak.

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Frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit canada for wildlife watching.

If you are visiting Canada specifically for the wildlife, it's best to go between May and November. You'll have your best chances to see grizzly bears, polar bears, migratory birds and more than ten species of whales through this stretch of the year. The grizzly bear-watching season begins between May and June as they emerge from hibernation. At the same time, humpback whales are chasing herring as they migrate north. In July and August, you can visit the Arctic regions to see caribou, foxes, polar bears and whales off the coastal areas. September is the best month to see grizzlies at their most active, cramming in the food ready for hibernation and chasing wild salmon as they travel upstream to spawn. October and November are the best months for viewing polar bears as they gather near Churchill for the sea ice. Most Canadian wildlife will be hard to spot during winter as it either hibernates, hides from the cold or migrates to warmer climates.

When is the Best Time to Visit Canada for Festivals?

Canada has festivals all year round, from the Winterlude festival in Ottawa to Carnivale, the Canadian National Exhibition, and the Pride parade in Toronto in the Summer. However, most festivals occur in the Summer months, such as the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver, the Calgary Stampede, the Just for Laughs festival in Montreal and the Celebration of Light in Vancouver. All-in-all, Canada is a great place to visit for festivals at any time of the year.

When is the Best Time for a Winter Vacation in Canada?

Canada has fantastic Winter vacation options, such as skiing, dog-sledding, outdoor hot-pooling and sleigh rides. And the best part is Canadians are used to the cold weather, so the infrastructure doesn't grind to a halt. The best months for these activities are November and December, as the real cold bites hard in January and February. The northern lights are also awe-inspiring during this time with the long hours of darkness.

What is the Best Time to See Fall Colours?

In Ontario, the best place to see Fall colors, the best time to visit is from mid-September until mid-October. Other areas have beautiful displays too during this time, although the further north you travel, the earlier winter begins to set in. Across Eastern Canada and the Rockies all boast stunning Fall foliage.

What is the Best Time to Avoid Crowds?

The off-season in Canada lasts from November until April when the weather is particularly cold. During this time, you will find far fewer crowds—unless you're visiting a ski resort! January is the coldest and snowiest month, which also makes it the quietest month, which means you will get the best deals on travel and accommodation. However, it's best to remember that some areas are closed during this season, such as the maritime resorts in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, and northern parts, such as the Yukon.

If you want to avoid crowds and still be able to visit all these areas, October or May are probably your best bet. There are also hidden gems and tips for avoiding the crowds in the summer, which is the peak season.

Final Thoughts

While every season has its draws and much depends on what you want to do, our Canadian Insiders recommend Fall as the best time to go to Canada because of its ideal weather and reduced crowds. For those travellers looking to relax on a rail journey with Canadian Train Vacations , the Fall is also ideal, as both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer trips at this time of year.

About the author: Athena McKenzie is the Content Manager at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she has written about travel, design, arts and entertainment. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Zoomer Magazine, Elle Canada and...   Read more

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These are the best times to visit Canada

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

The summer months showcase the best of Canada – like Yoho National Park in British Columbia © Colton Stiffler / Getty Images

Stretching across six time zones and covering a land mass six times the size of Mexico, Canada defies easy categorization.

The weather is largely dependent on the time of year, location, altitude…and a little bit of luck. When  Iqaluit is suffering chilly Arctic breezes, Vancouver residents might be enjoying a heat wave. When Halifax is doused in warm rain, Whitehorse – 4000 miles (6400km) away – may be calling up the snowplows. With its famous Chinook winds, Calgary can experience four seasons in one day. Pack for all eventualities – even in summer – then hope for the best.    

In terms of outdoor activities, Canada is a two-season country. Summer, when the weather is at its best countrywide, is prime time for hiking, biking, surfing and kayaking. Winter is a bonanza for skiing and snow sports, especially in British Columbia and Québec , where you’ll find the lion’s share of the ski resorts.

The spring and fall shoulder seasons – namely April to May (outside Easter), and October to November – are a good time to visit the cities, when prices are more reasonable.

Here’s more of what you need to know as you consider the best time to visit the majestic nation of Canada.

Come between June and August to see Canada at its best

Long days, warm weather, extended opening times and an abundance of summer festivities make June, July and August the three best months to visit Canada. You’ll have maximum options in volume and variety of things to do, and just about everything will be open.

You can see the midnight sun in Inuvik in the Northwest Territories , roam the high alpine slopes of British Columbia’s mountains without snowshoes and paddle in the calm, ice-free lakes of Ontario . Late June and early July is a superb time to visit the far north, where it rarely gets dark and the temperatures are – dare we say – pleasant, even in the Arctic. All over Canada, seasonal snow is usually gone by late June, although it can sometimes persist at higher altitudes until mid-July.

The peak season in Canada’s national parks is generally Victoria Day (the penultimate Monday in May) to Labor Day (the first Monday in September). This is also when the bulk of the country’s arts and cultural festivals take place, many of them in cities like Montréal (with jazz every June), Edmonton ( Fringe every August) and Toronto ( film every September).

Summer does come with a few caveats, however: chief among them, elevated prices and heavy crowds. Book rooms well in advance, develop a tolerance for lines and budget accordingly. While forest fires can happen any time between May and October, August is the most hazardous month. Mosquitoes are another nuisance. Peak bug-biting season varies by region and altitude, though late July and early August tend to be the itchiest times. Pack repellent.  

Stick to lower-altitude hikes in April and May

Although the weather can stay warm and dry-ish by early spring, it can take until late May or even early June for the last stubborn patches of snow to shift at higher altitudes. Don’t plan any challenging alpine hikes in places like Banff or Whistler until mid-June. Mountain lakes de-ice around late May, allowing for kayaking and other boating activities.

While rain and cool temperatures can persist into spring, the risk of forest fires and heavy smoke is slightly lower at this time.

September to early October is the shoulder-season sweet spot

Early September is an excellent time for hiking in Canada , especially in many of the mountain parks. In the south and closer to the coast, the weather usually remains relatively mild into early fall, with snow rare before October. Crowds and prices tend to fall away after the Labor Day holiday, when the season can throw up some unheralded natural surprises – like the golden larch trees of Banff (best in early October). The only real disadvantages of this late summer–early fall window are the progressively shorter days and the bears who vociferously hunt for food in preparation for hibernation.

December to March is the best time for skiing and viewing the northern lights

In an ever-changing global climate, the start of Canada’s ski season is never written in stone. The last week in November is the most common opening date for bigger resorts like Whistler. Yet for the best conditions and snowpack, most people wait until after Christmas.

The length of the ski season is highly variable and depends on location and altitude. Even Banff National Park ’s three different ski areas log considerable variations, with Norquay usually closing mid-April, Lake Louise in early May and Banff Sunshine a week or so later.  

If you can bear the cold temperatures, northern lights viewing is best enjoyed when the nights are longest in the winter. If you can’t stand the cold, come in September.

Visit from March to May and October to November to save – and enjoy a few surprises

Late March to early May and mid-October to late November are relatively slow periods for outdoor activities, when parks and resorts go through a transition as they shift between winter and summer infrastructures. Some facilities (like gondolas, trails and lodges) close temporarily during these periods, as ski runs are converted into bike parks and mountain trails are beset by unstable slushy snow and potentially dangerous “snow bridges.” If you can work around these limitations, however, room rates are up to 30% cheaper at these times.  

Shoulder season is also a great time to consider a city break, with plenty of indoor options to ponder if the weather turns ugly.  

Several spring and fall festivals are worth planning your trip around. Jasper in Alberta has an astronomically themed Dark Sky Festival in October, while Stratford in southwest Ontario hosts a prestigious Shakespeare festival in April. Tofino on Vancouver Island has developed into a fabulous storm-watching destination in recent years, with the wild Pacific tempests rolling in from November through February.

Keep planning your trip to Canada:

Tackle a few of Canada’s best hikes How to get around this continent-size country What you need to know before you set off Consider Canada’s stupendous national parks

This article was first published Mar 12, 2021 and updated Apr 29, 2024.

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Best Time to Visit Canada: Month by Month Breakdown

Canada is a popular country to visit any time of the year, but it can be a very different travel experience depending on the season that you choose to visit.

Summer is peak season in Canada when the weather is at its best. Winter is cold, snowy and icy, but it’s the perfect time for skiing and snowboarding. Spring and autumn are lovely and come with fewer crowds, but the weather can be unpredictable.

The best time to visit Canada will depend on what activities you’re looking to enjoy, and how many other tourists you don’t mind sharing that experience with.

To help you to plan your trip, here’s our month by month breakdown of the best time to visit Canada. 

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Table of Contents

Canada Summer Months

Summer is the most popular time of the year to visit Canada. For hikers and outdoor lovers, this is the best time to visit Canada, for the simple reason that you can guarantee the hiking trails will be open.

There are lots of festivals and events too in summer, and it’s a great time for a road trip. 

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies .

June in Canada

June is the start of the summer high season, and this is when Canada starts to get busy as tourists begin to flock in for road trips and to explore the national parks. 

June is still a good time to avoid the worst of the crowds, which tend to arrive in July and August when many countries are in the midst of their school holidays.

In June, take to popular places like Banff and Jasper, and the wider Canadian Rockies and make the most of the newly opened hiking trails and the resurgent wildlife.  

July in Canada

July is busy, but that’s because weather-wise this is the best time to visit Canada. In the far north, you can enjoy endless hours of sunshine in offbeat destinations such as Edmonton or Whitehorse. 

While other travelers will head to the Canadian Rockies or Vancouver, in the Arctic Circle, you’ll find a fraction of the tourist numbers.

Get off the beaten track in July, and enjoy a unique experience without the crowds in the north.

July is also a great time for city hopping, like Montreal, Calgary and Toronto all throw big summer festivals through July to make the most of the sunshine. 

August in Canada

August will be just as busy as July across the country, but again, weather-wise this is one of the best times to visit Canada. 

The sun is still shining, and this is the last month of the year where you can guarantee the good weather before autumn arrives.

Go on a road trip in British Columbia, and take in the epic Sea to Sky Highway, or take the road more traveled and drive the Banff to Jasper Highway, along the Icefields Parkway.

But remember, that Canada is a vast country, and if you’re looking to travel off the beaten track and find secluded places, then it’s never too hard to do this away from the major tourist trails.

Head off hiking, climb mountain peaks and camp out in the wild through Autumn. 

Canada Fall Months

Fall is a shoulder season when it comes to the best time to visit Canada, but if you’re looking to escape the summer crowds then there isn’t a better time to visit.

Prices are lower and popular attractions aren’t nearly as busy, but the weather can be unpredictable. 

September in Canada

Fall comes around all too quickly in Canada, but September will still see good weather across the country. Just be prepared for a bit of unpredictability.

On the plus side though, towards the end of September, the colors will be Autumnal, and the outdoors is still as beautiful as ever.

September is a good time to make the most of lower prices and smaller crowds after the summer rush has ended.

Vancouver is still positively hot if you’re looking for sunshine, and there are some great national parks nearby, as well as epic road trips from the west coast city and into the wilderness of British Columbia. 

Visit top tourist sights such as Banff and Jasper, take the Rocky Mountain train, or gaze ina we at the crashing force of Niagra Falls from the Canadian side. 

October in Canada

October is the middle of Fall, and it’s the best time to visit Canada if you’re in search of those golden, red and yellow shades of natural beauty.

It can rain a lot in October, so be prepared for wet weather, but in the moments of sunshine, the outdoors radiates gloriously.

Hiking trails will already start to close down in many destinations, but travel to British Columbia and you’ll find that the warmer climate keeps places open and busier for longer than other areas such as the Rockies. 

November in Canada

November is the last month of Autumn, but in many places, it will already feel as if it’s been winter for a long time. 

If you’re after low prices and small crowds, then there isn’t a better time to visit Canada than in November.

The weather is bound to be unpredictable and in many places, it’s going to be snowing already. 

You can catch early deals at ski resorts if there’s been enough snowfall. Or you can enjoy the best of Canada’s cities, and make the most of the museums and galleries while soaking up the culture in Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal. 

Canada Winter Months

Winter is the time for snowsports across Canada because this is a country that gets very cold between December and February.

The ski resorts will be full over winter, with peak season falling over Christmas and through to the New Year. 

December in Canada

In December, it’s the real start of the ski season in popular destinations such as Whistler and Banff. With lots of snowfall and the Christmas holidays, this is a great time to be in Canada if you love festivities and snow sports.

If you want to go skiing though, then make sure that you book in advance, because this is peak season.

The cities hold Christmas events all through December, and with all the museums still open through winter, it’s a great chance to escape the cold and to explore urban Canada. 

January in Canada

January is a cold time of the year to be in Canada, and you need to be prepared for the icy chill of the Canadian winter wherever you are.

After the Christmas rush, things slow down, so this is a good time to get a few good deals at the ski resorts, or least to hit the slopes without so many other tourists around.

If you are looking for a unique experience, then why not consider heading into the Arctic Circle?

The remote north of Canada is becoming more popular and more accessible, even in winter, and there are endless opportunities for dog sledding, husky safaris and seeing the colorful Northern Lights in the night sky. 

Travel can be unpredictable in January, due to the weather, but heading north is well worth the effort if you have the time and patience. 

February in Canada

February is a great time for skiing in Canada, as the ski slopes will be in great shape by now.

It’s never too busy either, except on the weekends, and you’ll be able to get low season prices on both hotels and flights.

If skiing isn’t your thing though, then you can head north into the Arctic Circle to search for the Northern Lights.

Or you can stick to the cities and enjoy the warmth of Canada’s many great museums, bars, galleries, and restaurants instead of braving the chilly outdoors. 

Canada Spring Months

Spring is a slow starter in Canada, and winter can linger for a long time, particularly if you head further north.

The weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not a good time for hiking as many of the trails are still closed.

Life is returning to Canada though after a tough winter, and it can be a beautiful time for wildlife spotting.

March in Canada

March is a slow month when it comes to travel, but that does mean you can take full advantage of low prices and small crowds. 

This is the start of spring, but it will still feel a lot like winter in many places, particularly if you travel further north.

Warmer locations such as Vancouver are beginning to bloom into life, while the national parks will have plenty of wildlife sightings as bears and other animals begin to slowly emerge.

April in Canada

April can be quiet, although there will be a mini-high season over the Easter Holidays.

The weather is unpredictable, but expect it to be cold in most locations, with the odd sunny day as summer begins to arrive – slowly.

April is quite often the last month of the ski season, so head to Whistler or the Rockies for more snowsport action before summer arrives and the snow melts.

May in Canada

May is when the weather will finally begin to turn for the better across Canada, and this can be a fantastic time to explore the country. 

If you love your snowsports, then some ski resorts will still be open, and you can find some end of season deals.

If you love national parks, then many of the hiking trails and campsites are beginning to open – although this varies each year, so check in advance. 

The best thing is, you miss the summer crowds in May and get those great low season prices!

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• 15 Epic Things to do in Squamish BC + Planning Guide
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip: Best Stops from Vancouver to Whistler
• 25 Incredible Things to Do in Banff National Park
• Best Time to Visit Banff: Month by Month Breakdown
• Bow Valley Parkway Road Trip: Best Stops from Banff to Lake Louise
• 20 Epic Things to Do in Lake Louise, Canada
• Icefields Parkway Road Trip Guide: Best stops from Banff to Jasper
• 18 EPIC Things to do in Jasper National Park
• Moraine Lake: Complete Planning Guide
• 9 Unreal Northern Lights Tours

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The Best Time to Visit Canada for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Canada for ideal weather are

June 25th to September 9th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Canada Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Canada Travel Info

Weather in canada.

Average temperatures in Canada vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for most of the year with a very low chance of rain or snow throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 44th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Canada, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late July where highs are regularly around 72.1°F (22.3°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 51.8°F (11°C) at night.

Canada Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Canada temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Canada Perceived Temperature (F)

Canada perceived temperature (c), average canada temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Canada are February, March, and then January. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early February. For example, on the week of February 5th there is 1 day of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid June with an average of 1 days of significant precipitation the week of June 18th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Canada.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Canada (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Canada has some very humid months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is May (56.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is December (72.4%).

Wind in Canada is usually moderate . The windiest month is January, followed by November and April. January’s average wind speed of around 7.7 knots (8.8 MPH or 14.2 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid March where average top sustained speeds reach 14.5 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Canada.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to canada, the busiest and least crowded months.

The busiest month for tourism in Canada is July, followed by August and June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Canada in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall canada travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel very cold. Highs range from 60.9°F (16.1°C) and 21.6°F (-5.8°C) with far warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 3 to 4 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have comfortably cool weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the most precipitation with about 4 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Canada, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 65°F (18.3°C) and 27.2°F (-2.7°C), which will feel chilly given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 3 to 4 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is far too cold this time of year in Canada to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 23°F (-5°C) and 17.6°F (-8°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 2 to 4 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Canada

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Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Weather and climate in Canada

The climate in detail

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What to pack, arctic and subarctic climate.

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Canada in September: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Film Festivals, Fall Fairs, and Fun

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images 

In September, Canada's weather is comfortable and the fall foliage is spectacular. This vast country offers some of the best  hiking , boating,  camping , and  fishing  destinations across its many provinces and the temperature is moderate enough in September that you'll have plenty of time to enjoy these activities. Not to mention, the end of the season means that family summer vacations have come to a close, kids are back in school, and airlines and hotels are likely dropping their rates.

Canada Weather in September

Canada is the second-largest country in the world by area—3.8 million square miles. As such, if you know where in Canada you are going, for example, major cities like  Vancouver ,  Toronto , and  Montreal , then you can get a better picture as to the temperatures and weather in Canada . Toronto records some of the country's warmest temperatures with an average high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Meanwhile, the Northwest Territory and Nunavut in the North are averaging low temperatures that are much closer to the freezing point.

What to Pack

It may technically still be summer in September, but you should pack for fall weather—and maybe even winter if you are traveling further north or into the mountains. You can expect some brisk mornings and evenings where it's helpful to have a sweater, hoodie, pullover, or fleece top. It is a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants and have a jacket if you plan to go out in the evenings. If you'll be heading somewhere cold, pack a heavy winter coat, a scarf, and some gloves. In more southern regions, the weather could fluctuate more frequently between warm and cold, so bring clothes that can be easily layered.

September Events in Canada

September sees the start of many  fall-themed fairs and film festivals. Pumpkin and fall color events, as well as wine and food celebrations, dot the country.

In 2020, many of these events have been canceled or postponed, so be sure to check the official organizers' websites for the latest details.

• Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival : From May until the end of September, you can enjoy a Shakespearean performance against a natural backdrop of sea, sky, and mountains in Vancouver. In 2020, the festival has gone online for Bard Beyond the Beach, featuring streamed performances, educational activities, and other virtual events from late August through mid-October.
• Vancouver Fringe Festival :   This fun theater event features more than 700 live, uncensored performances at various venues in Vancouver. The Mainstage shows give everyone from beginners to experienced artists an opportunity to participate. All artists receive 100 percent of box office income generated during the festival. The live events for 2020 will take place from September through November (or possibly December). Some virtual workshops will also be offered.
• Vancouver International Film Festival : One of the largest film festivals in North America, the Vancouver International Film Festival screens movies from scores of countries. Films span fiction, documentary, and genre-defying categories.  In 2020, the 39th annual festival is virtual and will be streaming more than 100 feature films and events from September 24 through October 7.
• The Word on the Street : This national book and magazine event is held in the cities Halifax , Saskatoon, Lethbridge, and Toronto in September. Each of those cities offers author events, presentations, workshops, and a marketplace that boasts an exceptional array of current and back-listed books and magazines to browse or buy. For 2020, Lethbridge features an online fall reading series from October 8 through December 10, and Toronto's events run on September 26-27.
• Cabbagetown Festival : The cute community of Cabbagetown in Toronto hosts a day-long giant street fair in September with a kid's zone, street and food vendors, as well as music and entertainment for the whole family. This event was canceled for 2020.
• The Toronto International Film Festival : One of the biggest film festivals in the world, this Toronto event typically screens over 375 films from more than 80 countries over several days. The 2020 event running from September 10-19 includes online and drive-in events.
• Toronto Beer Week : This gathering includes parties, night markets, and concerts dedicated to showcasing the best of the city's craft beer. Toronto Beer Week fun takes place at a variety of venues in September. This event was canceled for 2020.
• Summer Festival : The concert series at Toronto's Harbourfront Centre typically features free summer shows through early September, which showcase outstanding artists and a wide range of musical styles. Concerts take place most Thursdays and Sundays and are approximately one hour. Bench seating is limited, so feel free to bring a blanket or lawn chair. This event was canceled for 2020.
• The Gardens of Light : Hundreds of handmade silk lanterns from China combine to create a fantastic Asian ambiance at the Montreal Botanic Garden during September and October. Thousands of visitors enjoy the lovely illuminated paths in the evening each year. This event was canceled for 2020.

September Travel Tips

• The first Monday of September is  Labor Day . Banks and most stores will be closed. Expect crowds that weekend.
• Canada has its own currency—the Canadian dollar—however in border towns and at major tourist attractions (like Niagara Falls) U.S. currency may be accepted; it is at the discretion of the proprietor. When in doubt, use a major credit card, which is widely accepted throughout the country.
• If your trip spans from the end of  August  into September or from the tail end of September into part of October, there are plenty of activities in those months, too.

Related Articles

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CANADA - WEATHER AVERAGES

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Max UV Index 1 Low

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Wind Gusts 29 mph

Probability of Precipitation 78%

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Precipitation 0.06 in

Rain 0.06 in

Hours of Precipitation 2.5

Hours of Rain 2.5

Cloud Cover 98%

Wind W 9 mph

Wind Gusts 18 mph

Probability of Precipitation 3%

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Precipitation 0.00 in

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This East Coast State Was Just Named the Best Place to Retire for Affordability, Weather, and Quality of Health Care

Delaware has some great tax incentives, too.

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If you've worked hard your entire life, saved up enough cash to comfortably retire, and have finally hit that age where it just feels right to move on to the next step, then you've only got one more thing to consider: where will you live out your golden years? While the answer could really be anywhere you wish, there are a few destinations that are better than others who want to live more affordably and ensure they have great access to health care as they age. 

In late July, Bankrate released its ranking of the best and worst states for retirement. It came to its conclusion by analyzing "dozens of data points for each U.S. state," including each state's living costs, health care costs, weather, crime stats, and overall well-being of its citizens. After looking at all the data, Delaware , which ranked second in 2023, came out on top of the 2024 list. 

"The First State isn’t typically thought of as a retirement haven, but it has many strong selling points for retirees," the findings noted. "Delaware is a tax-friendly state for retirees. It doesn’t have state or local sales tax, and it doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. It also has lower property taxes relative to the rest of the country, averaging roughly $1,939 annually." 

The findings also noted that Delaware ranked highly compared to the rest of the U.S. for racial and ethnic diversity, as well as for having a high number of arts and entertainment venues per 100,000 residents, providing it a fantastic overall well-being score. 

"Compared to its population, it also has a high share of residents who are 62 and older," it added. And the weather is rather predictable, too. "Earthquakes, tornados, and hurricanes are also rare, and the climate is temperate."

Its only downside, Bankrate noted, is it is weaker for cost of living, crime, and cost of health care, but it was still strong enough to take home the No. 1 spot. "While Delaware is a pricier state to live in, it scores well in all other affordability metrics we considered in the ranking: property taxes, combined state and local sales tax, and homeowners insurance." 

Joining Delaware at the top of the list is West Virginia in second, followed by Georgia, South Carolina, and Missouri rounding out the top five. 

But before you start packing bags, the experts at Bankrate say it's critical to consider your personal finances and situation. "Most of us think that we actually know that [spending habits] just simply by looking and seeing what happens in our bank account,” David John, a retirement expert and senior policy advisor at AARP, added in the results. “But the reality is that in many cases, there are things that we buy, and they’re not necessarily expenses that we really need.”

To help you get there, Bankrate shared its retirement calculator, which you can use at bankrate.com , along with viewing how every state ranks in the 2024 retirement report.

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Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected on Wednesday. Heavy rainfall will begin early Wednesday morning, with upwards of 40 mm expected by the end of the day. Strong northwest winds will develop in the afternoon, with gusts up to 70 km/h. Winds will weaken later Wednesday night. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to [email protected] or tweet reports using #ABStorm .

Current Conditions Observed at: Lethbridge Airport 1:00 AM MDT Wednesday 28 August 2024

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