8 things to do on P.E.I. before summer is over

Summer is winding down, but it's not too late to enjoy some of the wonderful things P.E.I. has to offer — before the snow comes and you're kicking yourself for not getting out there.

The water is relatively warm now, for example, so get out and swim in the ocean as often as you can before the shore turns to ice.

Think of all the things you set out to do this summer. What's left on your list?

Here are some suggestions — before it's too late.

1. See Mamma Mia!

It's one of the most popular musicals around and it's right here in Charlottetown at the Confederation Centre of the Arts. Are you really going to be one of the people who hasn't seen it?

They've had 20 sellouts already this summer, and have added two more shows — matinees on Aug. 31 and Sept. 2 — to meet demand. The last two shows are on Sept. 3 before it leaves for good. SOS!

2. Go to the drive-in

How romantic. Cuddling under the stars, snacking on popcorn and watching … Sausage Party?

That just happens to be one of the films playing at the Brackley Drive-in from Aug. 26 to Sept. 1.

The drive-in is only open on weekends in September, and closes for the season on Sept. 30.

It's $11 for adults for a double feature or — though maybe not quite as romantic — a car load of people can get in for $35.

3. Break 100 on the golf course

If you're the one who's been leaving divots all over P.E.I. this summer, now is not the time to give up on your game.

Off-season rates at most Island courses take effect Sept. 18. That usually means 10 or 15 per cent off regular green fee prices.

But some courses, including the four provincially owned courses — Brudenell, Crowbush, Dundarave and Mill River — have special Islander rates year round if you tee off after 11 a.m.

And take your kid — one child younger than 18 can play for free with a paid adult after 3 p.m.

It's worth checking around. If courses aren't busy, they'll sometimes offer other deals this time of year. Just remember to replace your divots!

4. Gorge on shellfish

Surely you've had at least one feed of lobster, clams or mussels this summer. And it was probably worth the smell and mess it left in your house.

But if you're craving more, and prefer someone else clean up afterward, the Shellfish Festival Sept. 15 to 18 in Charlottetown is an option.

5. Learn a new recipe

The boot camps at the Culinary Institute of Canada at Holland College have been popular this summer, with many selling out — but there are a few left!

Courses are being offered on Aug. 31, Sept. 10 and Sept. 21.

Island Flavours on Aug. 31 includes a trip to the Charlottetown Farmers Market to pick out fresh, local ingredients for your meal. Then it's back to the the institute for some cooking and, of course, eating.

The courses aren't cheap — they run between $200 and $250 — but they're a good way to expand your recipe repertoire.

6. Take a road trip

The coast of P.E.I. makes for a wonderful scenic drive, especially when the fall colours begin to emerge.

Tourism PEI has detailed information on three drives that vary in length: the Central Coastal Drive (198 km), the North Cape Coastal Drive (300 km), and the Points East Coastal Drive (411 km).

Pack a picnic lunch, fill up the tank and see where the road takes you. 

7. Catch a fish

Now that tourist season has winded down, it might be a good time to catch yourself a cod or mackerel (then take a selfie with your catch and post it on Facebook. Like!).

There are several deep sea fishing excursions to choose from, but many close for the season in mid to late September.

8. Train for a 5k

The PEI Marathon is Oct. 14 to 16 — so start training now!

It's got everything from a full marathon to a 5K run.

But if that's not your speed, consider registering for the CIBC Run for the Cure. It takes place Oct. 2 in Charlottetown, with proceeds going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

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