A summer village is a unique type of municipality in Alberta serving primarily seasonal cottage or resort communities around lakes and recreation areas. Summer villages are small in population (many under 200 permanent residents) and operate with basic municipal structures. Originally created for communities that were mainly occupied during summer months, some summer villages now have more year-round residents. Summer villages have elected councils and provide basic services, though they may contract with neighbouring municipalities for some services. This municipal classification reflects Alberta's diverse approach to local government, providing a governance structure appropriate for small seasonal communities that might otherwise lack local representation. Similar community types exist under different names in other provinces.