We can all rhyme off the many reasons why 2020 was for the birds, so we figured we’d save you the commentary and instead focus on the countless reasons why Charlottetown actually knocked our friggin’ socks off this past year. In this time of epic proportions that shook (and continues to shake) many of us to the core, and caused PEI to sadly close its borders on multiple occasions, we want to take a minute to highlight and celebrate all that glittered during a shit-tastic year. 

2) We embraced outdoor dining, even in the cold when red Adirondack chairs began popping up on patios across the city.

3) Charlottetown became Christmas Town and we hired talented artists to create our very own Whoville-inspired Village on the Confederation Centre Plaza & Victoria Row. 

4) So many people supported their local shops and merchants, and our hearts couldn’t be happier. 

5) We got into the festive spirit early.

6) There was less competition for spots to privately watch the sunrise. 

7) Heritage roads remained magical, especially in the autumn months.

8) We cancelled our beloved Victorian Christmas Market due to Covid. BUT! Various pop-up markets were safely created instead, giving people the chance to catch their favourite artisans in different settings.

9) Sunsets continued to be epic, even in the heart of downtown.

10) Those first few sprinklings of snow still made our hearts flutter.

11) The rich tones of the PEI’s landscape remained as vibrant and enticing as ever.

12) Horse & carriage rides ran over four weekends in November and December instead of just one. 

13) The Black Lives Matter movement and march brought to light important issues, and in many ways brought the Island community even closer together during a time that we were required to physically stay apart. 

14) Sunrises from the top of the Holman Grand Hotel remained completely breathtaking and #worthit. 

15) The music (and delicious meals) went on on charming streets like Victoria Row.

16) Walks past Victorian homes in the city’s west end and into Victoria Park will always be the antidote to cabin fever. 

17) Hundreds of unique scarecrows (300 to be exact) took over the downtown core for 10 days weeks straight in the fall.

18) Adorable houses of Charlottetown remained… adorable.

19) Storefronts of Charlottetown remained… adorable.

20) And finally, the waterfront was bumpin’ this year as a hub for outdoor patios (some even on a floating dock!) and your go-to spot for water adventures.

In all seriousness, there are so many of you that we sincerely missed this year and we can’t wait for you to join us again in due time. Until then, stay well, be kind, and take care!