Summerside is the largest city in Prince Edward Island, Canada, and is located on the western coast of the island. With a population of around 14,000 people, it is a charming and vibrant community that offers a unique blend of urban and rural charm.
Geography and Climate
Summerside is situated on a picturesque harbor, where the Northumberland Strait meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The city’s geography is characterized by a mix of hills, valleys, and coastal plains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The climate in Summerside is maritime-influenced, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in July is around 22°C (72°F), while the average temperature in January is -8°C (18°F).
History
Summerside has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, when it was first settled by European colonizers. The city’s name is derived from its founder, Thomas Wright, who named the settlement “Summer Side” due to its scenic location on the harbor. Over the years, Summerside has grown and developed into a thriving community, with a strong focus on agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
Things to Do
Summerside offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors, including:
- Beaches: The city has several beautiful beaches, including Brudenell River Golf Course Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Water Sports: Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding in the harbor or on nearby lakes and rivers.
- Golfing: Prince Edward Island is famous for its golf courses, and Summerside has several world-class courses within a short drive, including Brudenell River Golf Course.
- Fishing: The city’s harbor is renowned for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy fishing trips or lobster boat tours to catch their own dinner.
- Shopping: Downtown Summerside has a charming shopping district with a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores.
- Culinary Scene: The city has a number of excellent restaurants serving up fresh seafood, PEI specialties like mussels and oysters, and traditional Canadian cuisine.
- Events: Summerside hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Celtic Colours International Festival, which celebrates the island’s Celtic heritage.
Places to Visit
Some popular attractions in and around Summerside include:
- Confederation Bridge: This 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) bridge connects Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick, offering stunning views of the Northumberland Strait.
- Green Gables Heritage Place: Located just outside Summerside, this historic site is dedicated to Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous novel “Anne of Green Gables.”
- The Water Street Heritage Trail: This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through downtown Summerside and showcases the city’s rich history and heritage.
- The Summerside Museum: This museum tells the story of Prince Edward Island’s early settlers and offers insights into the island’s maritime history.
Economy
Summerside’s economy is driven by a mix of industries, including:
- Agriculture: The city has a strong agricultural sector, with many farms in the surrounding area producing crops like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
- Fishing and Aquaculture: Summerside’s harbor is home to a thriving fishing industry, with many boats operating out of the city.
- Tourism: Tourism is a significant contributor to the city’s economy, with visitors drawn to its beaches, golf courses, and cultural attractions.
- Manufacturing: The city has a number of manufacturing facilities producing goods like textiles, food products, and machinery.
Education
Summerside has two primary schools (Evangeline Elementary School and St. Jean Baptiste Elementary School), as well as one middle school (Margaret Christie Middle School) and one high school (J.P. Robarts High School). The city also offers a range of adult education programs through the Prince Edward Island Literacy Alliance.
Demographics
According to the 2021 Canadian Census, the population of Summerside is:
- Total: 14,051
- Median age: 42.4 years old
- Average household income: $54,454
- Most common languages spoken at home: English (91.2%), French (5.6%)
Overall, Summerside is a charming and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of urban and rural charm. Its scenic harbor, beautiful beaches, and rich history make it an attractive destination for tourists, while its strong economy and community spirit make it a great place to live and work.