This vibey town just outside of Edmonton is the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta

Just outside of Edmonton sits Smoky Lake, a town known for being the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta.

Smoky Lake is located just over an hour away from Edmonton, called the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta and the home to the annual Great White North Pumpkin Fair. This town has a rich history, a perfect small town vibe, and the best festivities known around the province.

The history behind the town

While the town is a vibrant community today, the story of how it was named continues to be a debate. Two official versions of how the Town of Smoky Lake got its name are still cycling today.

It was believed the town was originally named “Smoking Lake” by the Cree First Nations people of the area, named after the 12-mile lake three miles west, covered in a haze which resembles smoke. Others believe the same Cree peoples named it “Smoking Place” because they would regularly gather at a site near the lake to smoke pipes during their hunts.

No matter what the original story is, the early white settlers who arrived in the late 1800s began to use the name Smoky Lake.

Once the settlement began in the late 1800s, the area was heavily settled by 1915. Smoky Lake’s first store opened its doors in 1916, and the following year, Smoky Lake was given the official status of a hamlet. Throughout the years, they quickly began to see growth in Smoky Lake. It was finally incorporated as a village in 1923 and received town status in 1962.

The Pumpkin Capital of Alberta

Each year, the town holds its pumpkin fair, which has now been running for over 35 years.

People get to immerse themselves in a weekend of festivities, food, and family fun. From thrilling harvest experiences to lively dances and artisan markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. People can explore the town’s charm, savour local flavours, and be sure to witness the Great White North Pumpkin Weight Off, where the largest pumpkins compete for the most significant honour.

The town even has statues of pumpkins to show off! It’s truly the pumpkin capital of Alberta, from the statues to the festivals.

With so much to offer, be sure not to miss out on the town this season.

Smoky Lake

Where: Directions

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