Hello neighbours! Halloween is finally here, and this weekend brings something brand new for Alberta: for the first time, we won't be turning our clocks back. Here's a quick look at what that means, some good economic news for the Leduc region, and a few November dates worth adding to your calendar.

Do Leduc and Beaumont residents need to change their clocks this weekend?

No! According to the Government of Alberta, Alberta has adopted permanent Alberta Time, with the official abbreviation "ABT." Beginning in November 2026, clocks will no longer reset to Mountain Standard Time, and Alberta will stay on Alberta Time (UTC-6) year-round. The province officially moves to Alberta Time on Nov. 1, 2026.

Most smartphones, computers, tablets and vehicles are expected to update automatically, but some older devices may not. If a device shows the wrong time after Nov. 1, the Province suggests installing the latest software updates and checking that automatic date, time and time zone settings are turned on. Some older or unsupported devices, such as certain smart watches, smart TVs, vehicle systems and appliances, may no longer receive updates and may need to be set manually.

It's also worth a quick look at any appointments you've already booked for November and beyond. CBC News reported that some online calendars and booking systems shifted prebooked appointments by an hour because they hadn't yet been updated for the change.

What does the new Canadian Inland Ports Alliance mean for Leduc County?

On Oct. 26, Leduc County joined partners from across the Prairies, including Edmonton Global and Edmonton Airports (Port Alberta), in signing a Memorandum of Understanding to create the Canadian Inland Ports Alliance. The Alliance will work together on planning, advocacy, investment and performance measurement to help strengthen Canada's trade and transportation network.

In the announcement, Leduc County Mayor Tanni Doblanko pointed to some of the region's key assets: Edmonton International Airport with its 24/7 global cargo hub, the Nisku Business Park, home to more than 800 businesses and 15,000 employees, and strategic access to major rail and road networks. It's a great reminder of how much economic activity is based right here in our backyard.

Also at Leduc County, Council reappointed Mayor Tanni Doblanko at its Oct. 27 organizational meeting to serve her tenth term as Mayor.

What's happening in Leduc in early November?

The City of Leduc events calendar has a nice mix of family-friendly dates coming up:

• Play, Learn, Grow: Monday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Leduc Public Library. This one is a free drop-in.

• READ with the RCMP: Thursday, Nov. 5, from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the Leduc Public Library.

• Fencing Alberta Cup: Friday, Nov. 6 to Sunday, Nov. 8, at the Leduc Recreation Centre.

• Remembrance Day: Wednesday, Nov. 11. The City says event details will be shared on its calendar as they become available.

• Bystander intervention workshop: Friday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., a City of Leduc FCSS event co-hosted with Leduc County FCSS.

• Light Up the Park: Save the date for Friday, Nov. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. This one is free.

How can Beaumont families celebrate the season safely?

With Diwali, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year's ahead, Beaumont Fire Services has shared some helpful reminders:

• Fireworks are not allowed in Beaumont and can result in large fines under the Fire Services Bylaw. The only exception is a display by a licensed pyrotechnician with a valid City permit.

• Add sparkle without the risk with glowsticks, LED wands, light projectors, flameless candles and LED diyas.

• Check your lights and decor for a CSA, cUL or cETL certification mark, and toss anything with frayed cords or broken sockets.

There are some festive ways to celebrate together, too. The City's calendar lists the 9th Annual Beaumont Night Market on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 3 to 9 p.m. at the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre, with this year's theme "Flannel & Frost." The Diwali Festival of Lights follows on Sunday, Nov. 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Beaumont Community Centre, with lights, cultural programs and food.

One more Beaumont reminder: the City asked residents to clear curbside items like hockey nets and driveway ramps by Oct. 30. Anything still out will get a warning first, with until 8 a.m. on Nov. 7 to remove it before the City removes it and a ticket of up to $200 may be issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Albertans turn their clocks back on Nov. 1, 2026?
No. Alberta has adopted permanent Alberta Time (UTC-6), so clocks will no longer reset to Mountain Standard Time in the fall.

What should I do if a device shows the wrong time after Nov. 1?
The Government of Alberta suggests installing the latest software updates and checking that automatic date, time and time zone settings are on. Some older devices may need to be adjusted manually.

What is the Canadian Inland Ports Alliance?
It's a partnership created through a Memorandum of Understanding signed Oct. 26 by partners including Leduc County, Edmonton Global and Edmonton Airports (Port Alberta), to work together on planning, advocacy and investment for Canada's trade network.

Are fireworks allowed in Beaumont?
No. Fireworks are not allowed in Beaumont, except for displays by a licensed pyrotechnician with a valid City permit.

When is the Beaumont Night Market?
Saturday, Nov. 14, from 3 to 9 p.m. at the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre.

Have a Wonderful Weekend, Neighbours!

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Halloween, and a wonderful start to November in Leduc and Beaumont.

Keith Lopushinsky, REALTOR®, RE/MAX Real Estate

Questions about buying or selling in Leduc or Beaumont? Reach out to Keith Lopushinsky, RE/MAX Real Estate.