Taber Corn Stands Signal Arrival of August Festivals in Southern Alberta

Every year, when August arrives in Southern Alberta, one of the most anticipated events is the opening of the Taber Corn stands. For Joe Manio, it's a tradition he takes very seriously, he makes sure to visit the stands and buy his annual Johnson's Dozen (13 ears of corn for the price of 12) as soon as they open.

For Manio, there's something special about that first ear of fresh corn every summer. 'Butter melting into the kernels, a little salt, maybe a dab of pepper if you're feeling adventurous,' he describes the experience. 'One bite and you immediately understand why people from all over Alberta make the drive south every August.'

Taber Corn is not just something to eat; it's an event that signals the arrival of August in Southern Alberta. Alongside combines rolling through wheat fields, kids going back to school, and the approaching end of summer, the corn stands are one of the unofficial markers of the season.

As Manio notes, 'there's something about grilling' during this time, whether it's burgers, steaks, or vegetables cooked directly over a flame. However, he also emphasizes the value of slow-cooked barbecue, which uses low temperatures and indirect heat to create tender meat that falls apart easily.

August in Southern Alberta is not just about saying goodbye to summer; it's an opportunity to celebrate with friends and family at festivals like Heritage Day weekend, Coaldale's Candy Parade, Summer Fest, Whoop-Up Days, and Taber Corn Fest. Manio sees August as the 'encore' of summer, a time to enjoy good food, music, and company before the seasons change.

As he puts it, 'whether you're eight, 18 or 80, summer has a way of reminding us not to let the good days slip by unnoticed.'