“Here Comes the Sun!” Springtime in Fredericton

It is officially springtime in New Brunswick, and Frederictonians are starting to come out and appreciate the warming weather. From skate parks, to walking trails, to enjoying storefronts and restaurants, citizens are anticipating the upcoming summer season, and appreciating the end of winter. COVID-19 restrictions have also recently been lifted in the province, allowing more gatherings with friends and family, as well larger business capacities.

The Garrison skatepark, located in central downtown Fredericton, is always an attraction to local skaters. One of the busiest skateparks in the city every summer, a few eager tricksters roll into the park as soon as it thaws to get a head start on the open concrete. Many believe the spring weather is optimal for skateboarding, as the mild temperatures are just enough to keep them from overheating. The sounds of wheels clicking and sliding on concrete fill the air…sounds like spring rolling in!

One skater, Brogan McKillop, is thrilled that the season has finally arrived. After his first skate session of the season, he said he’s missed getting out to the parks and looks forward to getting back into practice into the coming summer months.

“I’m definitely rusty, haha. I get out of practice over the winter and I really miss getting out and getting that physical activity in, getting in a few hours of practice whenever I’m able to, and to be able to track my progress. It feels really good being able to get out here again now and start regaining my confidence and skill with my board. It’s definitely some great time to kind of clear my head and just cruise, haha. I’m looking forward to summer, since that’s when I have the most time to skate, but I definitely prefer the couple weeks of spring weather we do get here for skating. It keeps you cool, while still being nice, so you’re able to go for longer. It’s great, haha.”

Skaters aren’t the only ones making tracks in the warming weather. Many couples, families and friends hit the walking trails and take in the budding trees while getting some of that long awaited outdoor physical activity. The sky is open and blue and the streets are beginning to regain their liveliness once more.

As flowers bloom and new trees bud, a downtown Christmas tree on the walking bridge is packed up for the season. A sure sign that old man winter is gone!

All of Fredericton’s occupants, human or animal, seem to be feeling alive with the return of spring. As the skies brighten and the weather warms up, “here comes the sun!”