The Weather -- Canada west of the Rocky Mountains has generally mild winters, with snow mostly at the higher elevations. Even though spring comes early -- usually in March -- gray clouds can linger through June. Dry summer weather is assured only after July 1, but often continues through October. The Canadian Rockies are often socked in with cloud and rain throughout the summer; plan to spend several days here to assure that you'll catch at least some good weather. In winter, the Rockies fill with snow, but frequently the weather is not as cold as you'd expect. Chinook winds from the prairies can bring warm air systems, boosting temperatures up to early spring levels. On the prairies of Alberta, winters can be fiercely cold and windy. If you plan to travel across the prairies or through the Rockies in winter, be sure to have snow tires and chains.
As a general rule, spring runs from mid-March to mid-May, summer from mid-May to mid-September, fall from mid-September to mid-November, and winter from mid-November to mid-March. Remember that your car should be winterized through March and that snow sometimes falls as late as May.
Evenings tend to be cool everywhere, particularly on or near water. In late spring and early summer, you'll need a supply of insect repellent if you're planning bush travel or camping.
For up-to-date weather conditions, check out http://weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca or www.weather.ca.
Holidays -- Canadian national holidays include New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Victoria Day (in mid- to late May, the weekend before U.S. Memorial Day), Canada Day (July 1), Labour Day (first Mon in Sept), Thanksgiving (in mid-Oct), Remembrance Day (Nov 11), Christmas Day, and Boxing Day (Dec 26).
British Columbia and Alberta also celebrate a provincial holiday (called British Columbia or Alberta Day), usually on the first Monday of August.
Festivals & Special Events -- Western Canada has some wonderfully unique festivals and events, from Nanaimo's World Championship Bathtub Race to the rowdy Calgary Stampede.
