2012 Experience Elgin County & St. Thomas Visitor's Guide

2012 VISITOR’S GUIDE

EXPERIENCE

Elgin County & ST. THOMAS

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

unBEElievable fun!

ent!

Buzzing with Excitem

Dripping with Sweetness!

• NEW: Giant Jumping Pillow • NEW: Noah’s Ark • NEW: Gem Stone Mining • Friendly Farm Animals • Zipster Pedal Cart Track • Zip Line and Balance Rope • Black Hole slide • Play Structures • Glass Beehive Display • Rubber Duck Racing • Enchanted Bee Yard Trail • Straw Jump • Wild Bee Ride...& much more!

• • • • • • • •

Fresh Honey on Tap Honey Tasting Bar Honey Spreads Homemade Preserves Wedding-Hostess Favours Pollen & Propolis Pure Beeswax Candles Skin Care Products

Clovermead offers guided tours of our Heritage Family Apiary

clovermead.com 519-773-5503 | 11302 Imperial Rd. N, Aylmer ,ON

CONTENTS ELGIN COUNTY/ST. THOMAS TOURISM SERVICES LOCAL PHONE

519-631-1460 x168 TOLL FREE

1-877-GO ELGIN x168 FAX

519-631-4549 EMAIL

tourism@elgin-county.on.ca

www.elgintourist.com Visit our website to discover all there is to see and do in Elgin County & to learn more about the programs below.

Warden’s Welcome 5 Our Communities 6 Business Listings Accommodations 23 Adventure & Golf 26 Agritourism 29 Arts & Entertainment 31 Attractions 33 Food & Drink 34 Shopping 38 Festivals & Events 41 Heritage 44 Services 49 Map of Elgin County 42 Elgin County Events 53

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THESE ELGIN COUNTY PROGRAMS: www.elginartstrail.ca

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www.savourelgin.ca

PAGE 34

PAGE 48

PAGE 71

www.disbrowe.com • New GM & Optimum Used Vehicles Sales • GM Goodwrench & Authorized GM Warranty Service Centre • Genuine GM Parts and Accessories • All Makes Insurance Recommended Collision Centre

116 Edward Street, St. Thomas 519-631-7960 • 1-800-265-4315 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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whole new way to chill.

A whole new way to chill.

CORNER’s CORNER, CENTRAL ELGIN (Relish Elgin)

BILL WALTERS

WARDEN OF ELGIN COUNTY

BERNIE WIEHLE

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF WEST ELGIN

le dates Open Mon-Sun

CAMERON McWILLIAM

e location.10am-10pm

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF DUTTON/DUNWICH

erican Dairy Queen Corp., Distributed by IDQ Canada Inc. Canada.

417 Wellington St., St. Thomas - Elgin Mall

519-637-2542

® Trademark of American Dairy Queen Corp., Distributed by IDQ Canada Inc. © 2010. Printed in Canada.

ueen / Orange Julius

ral DQ/OJ

Space/Size: 2 col x 5-1/4” Pubs: Newspaper Issue: 2007

Note: Please delete this information before placement.

DO YOU NEED HELP MAKING YOUR BUSINESS

STAND OUT IN THE CROWD?

JIM McINTYRE

MAYOR OF THE TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD

BILL WALTERS

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CENTRAL ELGIN

HEATHER JACKSON

MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ST. THOMAS

DAVE MENNILL

MAYOR OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE

JACK COUCKUYT

MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF AYLMER

PAUL ENS

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM

Graphic Design • Copy Writing & Editing Web Design • Email Marketing & Social Media

Experience Elgin County & St. Thomas 2012 was produced by Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc. Reproduction of any material is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the Publisher.

design.relishelgin.ca • 519-633-1992 4

Printed by Aylmer Express 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

WARDEN’s WELCOME A warm welcome to Elgin County.

We are located in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, just a stone’s throw from major thoroughfares, where you will find the best combination of urban and rural attractions.

Stretching from east at Port Burwell to west at Port Glasgow—with scenic Port Stanley right in the centre—we have beautiful beaches on the north shore of Lake Erie, terrific sport fishing, and lots of get-away places and venues.

From St. Thomas, the Railway Capital of Canada, to the agricultural soil that grows ginseng, strawberries, pumpkins and apples, the rich rural history is bolstered by the many urban centres with festivals, attractions, theatre, great dining, and a well of artisans offering their talents.

Elgin County has just the right balance of city and country.

Enjoy your stay, and please come back again.

Bill Walters Elgin County Warden

For information on the many events and attractions, please contact Tourism Services:

Visit our mobile site:

Visit: 450 Sunset Drive in St. Thomas Call: 1-877-GO-ELGIN Email: tourism@elgin-county.on.ca Web: www.elgintourist.com

Joe Preston M.P. Elgin - Middlesex - London Ready and available to help with your Federal concerns.

Constituency Office: 2-24 First Avenue, St. Thomas, ON N5R 4M5 Tel: (519) 637-2255 • Fax: (519) 637-3358 Toll Free: 1-866-404-0406 www.joeprestonmp.ca

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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West Elgin Central to Everything, Second to None

West Elgin—a place where the past and the future live side by side.

A minute from the 401, it’s your link to Lake Erie and Ontario’s beautiful South Coast.

COME FOR A DAY OR STAY AWHILE...

Meet Our Farmers at more than half a dozen farm markets, where you can taste the freshest blueberries, pick the sweetest corn and smell all types of local honey, herbs, and flowers.

Explore Our Trails on bike, by car or on foot. Spend a day at the beach, or fish at the pier of the Port Glasgow Marina. Quiet spaces abound along gravel roads that pass by generations-old family farms and through Carolinian forests.

Taste our Bounty of local foods at family-owned restaurants, shop in our villages and rejuvenate your spirit at B&Bs with that small-town touch and a friendly welcome.

We’re just down the road and off the beaten path.

WEST LORNE • RODNEY • PORT GLASGOW

www.westelgin.net 519-785-0560

WEST ELGIN

INCLUDING RODNEY, PORT GLASGOW & WEST LORNE A minute from the 401, West Elgin is an easily accessible destination for relaxation, recreation and some unique annual events. Port Glasgow Marina, with 80 slips, full-service washrooms and paved pier, is one of Ontario’s prime pickerel and perch fishing spots. Adjacent to the marina, you will find miles of largely undiscovered beach.

Back-roads and trails beckon trekkers, hikers, bikers and bird-watchers—they will be rewarded with vistas of rural beauty and several farmgate markets offering the best in local produce. There’s more to discover in West Elgin’s towns, including friendly country restaurants, shops, B&B’s, and even a tiny historic jail in Rodney.

E.M. WARWICK CONSERVATION (Relish Elgin)

THE ARTS & COOKERY BANK,

AREA

WEST LORNE

EXPERIENCE WEST ELGIN YE

n) OLDE JAIL, RODNEY (Relish Elgi

Kids Fishing Derby Port Glasgow Marina, July 8 Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys Western Festival West Lorne, July 21 Rodney–Aldborough Fair September 14–16 West Lorne Santa Claus Parade November 30 Rodney Santa Claus Parade December 1

PORT GLASGOW MARINA

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Find more information about these and other West Elgin events starting on page 53.

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DUTTON/DUNWICH

INCLUDING DUTTON & WALLACETOWN Dutton/Dunwich is called “the heart of the Talbot settlement” in reference to its rich history. Stop in at the Backus-Page House museum or visit one of their many events to experience the living history of Colonel Talbot’s original settlement.

The sights and sounds of today’s Dutton/Dunwich also offer the visitor much to discover. Enjoy a spectacular view from bluffs high above Lake Erie, an enormous field of lavender, farmgate markets brimming with colourful produce, or sunset behind the lone inukshuk monument on the homestead of famed economist, scholar and statesman John Kenneth Galbraith. Join in the fun of the Wallacetown Fair in September, and then return in October for a “howling good time” at the very popular Haunted Fairgrounds.

EXPERIENCE DUTTON/DUNWICH Relive the Talbot Settlement Backus–Page House, May 25–26

LAVENDER SENSE

EMPIRE VALLEY FARM MARKE RELIVE THE TALBOT SET TLEME

T

NT (Relish Elgin)

1850s HIGH TEA

Backus–Page House, June 24

Annual Street Dance Dutton, July 21 TALBOT TRAIL OF YARD SALES Through Wallacetown on Hwy 3, August 25 Heritage Farm Show Backus–Page House, September 15–16 Wallacetown Fair September 28–30 Find more information about these and other Dutton/Dunwich events starting on page 53.

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WALLACETOWN FAIR

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Dutton

Dunwich

The Heart of the Talbot Settlement JOHN KENNETH GALBRAITH MEMORIAL

RELIVE THE TALBOT SETTLEMENT AT BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE

WALLACETOWN FAIR

BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE

WALLACETOWN FAIR

Dutton/Dunwich welcomes you to hike, bike, explore, camp, golf, pick up some produce fresh from the farmgate, stroll through a field of lavender, come for one of the many unique events held at the historic Backus-Page House Museum, and stop for a bite at one of our friendly diners.

Be sure to visit us in October for old favourites and new attractions at the Wallacetown Fair.

The Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich

519-762-2204

www.duttondunwich.on.ca

farm • boutique • retreat 29424 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown, Ontario

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

“In the Heart of the Talbot Settlement”

THURSDAY-SATURDAY 10-5 & SUNDAY 12-5 MOTHERS’ DAY TO THANKSGIVING OR BY APPOINTMENT 28011 ASH LINE, WALLACETOWN 519.762.2188 / 519.702.3800

www.lavendersense.com

Village Crier Gallery

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Buttermilk Bog (Relish Elgin)

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SOUTHWOLD

INCLUDING SHEDDEN, FINGAL & TALBOTVILLE A predominantly rural community with a strong agricultural base, Southwold’s small hamlets and beautiful countryside make it a great locale for an excursion. Local flavours are available for purchase at area fruit orchards, maple syrup bushes and other on-farm markets. Rhubarb fans return each year to the Rosy Rhubarb Featival, a celebration of community spirit and everything rhubarb.

Southwold Prehistoric Earthworks is the only archaeological site of its kind in Canada. Its double mounds of earth are the remains of a Neutral village inhabited around 1500 AD. Enjoy the many species of birds as you stroll on the ‘War to Roses’ walking trail at the Fingal Wildlife Management Area, symbolically named in reference to the site’s past as a World War II training facility. The site is especially popular with amateur astronomers, who find that its isolation from light pollution provides the perfect dark sky.

GREAT LAKES FARMS

MIDDLEMARCH HISTORIC AL SIGN (Relish Elgin)

Welcome to the Township of

SOUTHWOLD Enjoy all the Keystone Township has to offer, including ...

THE FINGAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

FINGAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (Relish Elgin)

EXPERIENCE SOUTHWOLD Rosy Rhubarb Festival Shedden, June 8–10 RCMP Musical Ride Shedden, September 6 Find more information about these and other Southwold events starting on page 53.

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SHEDDEN’S ROSY RHUBARB FESTIVAL

Each year during the second weekend in June, thousands of people celebrate rhubarb with fun, community spirit and fundraising.

This former WWII training facility features the “War to Roses” walking trail - a unique combination of history and natural beauty.

SOUTHWOLD EARTHWORKS

This National Historical Site contains the archaeological remains of a village occupied by a group of Attiwandaronk Indians in the early 16th century.

519-769-2010

www.twp.southwold.on.ca 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

The Municipality of

Central Elgin

Discover the enjoyment of a rural getaway that will take you to unique shops, relaxing accommodations, highly recommended restaurants, country wineries, matinĂŠe and evening theatre, art galleries, picturesque parks and clean sandy beaches.

Discover Central Elgin and enjoy hospitality at its best.

Belmont Lions Community Park

Main Street, Sparta

519-631-4860 450 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1

www.centralelgin.org King George VI Lift Bridge, Port Stanley

QUAI DU VIN .

E S T A T E

W I N E R Y

519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

THE SPARTA HOUSE TEA ROOM & RESTAURANT

Enjoy traditonal English fare, including Scouse, Cornish Pasties, Ploughman’s Lunch, Cream Teas and more.

Open from 9am, 7 days a week . L.L.B.O.

Main Street, Sparta • 519.775.2312

www.spartahouse.com

Unique Home Décor Giftware Seasonal Items Hand-Poured Candles & Candle Accessories

46361 SPARTA LINE • WWW.SPARTACANDLES.COM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10-5 • IN THE HISTORIC VILLAGE OF SPARTA info@spartacandles.com • 519-775-0054 • 1-800-463-1447 12

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

CENTRAL ELGIN

INCLUDING PORT STANLEY, UNION, SPARTA & BELMONT This growing municipality is best described as the quintessential charming country getaway. The area is a cultural delight, featuring several small galleries and the popular Port Stanley Festival Theatre. Enjoy golfing, bird-watching, or charter a boat for an afternoon cruise. The fishing village of Port Stanley boasts one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Erie’s north shore. The area is popular for its abundance of trendy shops, inns and casual upscale dining establishments. The historic village of Sparta traces its roots to the Quakers in 1813—many of the local buildings, including several unique shops and a tearoom, reflect that era.

PORT STANLEY

Port Stanley has some intriguing history which adds to its unique charm. To delve a little into Port’s past (the name’s connection to the donor of the Stanley Cup, importance as a major shipping and fishing centre, and fame as the destination for big band music and dancing) try out the downloadable MP3 Walking Tour on the www.portstanley.net site, or visit the Stork Club Museum.

SPARTA

Much of the charm of Sparta lies in its Quaker heritage—many of the homes and businesses reside in original buildings representing period architecture dating back to 1825. In Sparta, or nearby you will find interesting shops, a tearoom, art galleries, a lavender farm, a winery, and the Forge & Anvil museum. Local businesses and community groups sponsor a variety of special events throughout the year.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

THE PORT STANLEY TERMINAL RAIL

UNION GOLF CLUB

EXPERIENCE CENTRAL ELGIN Port Stanley CanFest June 29–July 1 Pond Tour Port Stanley & Area, August 11 Elgin Historical Show Dan Patterson Conservation Area, August 10–12 Canadian Snowbirds Air Show “Smoke on the Water” Port Stanley, September 12 Doors Open Port Stanley/Sparta September 29 Find more information about these and other Central Elgin events starting on page 53.

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Lotus Thai Restaurant

www.lotusthairestaurant.ca

Dine in our air conditioned dining room or outside on our beautiful patio!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DINE-IN & TAKE-OUT MENUS

VISIT US SATURDAYS 8-NOON MAY-OCT AT

THE HORTON FARMERS’ MARKET

295 Talbot St., St. Thomas A Licensed Establishment Mon-Thurs 11:30-9, Fri 11:30-9:30 & Sat 2-9:30

519-633-9966

168 Curtis Street, St. Thomas • 519-631-1881 • www.railwaycitybrewing.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • TOURS AVAILABLE • ALSO AVAILABLE AT AREA LCBOs

KNIT • SPIN • WEAVE

Because You Deserve It

Little Mitten

Gift Certificates & Gift Baskets available for all occasions Spa Parties for that "Special Event"

“a woolly inspiring place”

Open Mon 10am-4pm, Tues-Fri 8:30am-7pm & Sat 8am-4pm

Mon-Sat 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-8 86 Talbot St., St. Thomas (across from Jumbo) 519-207-2880 • www.littleredmitten.ca

76 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Across from Jumbo

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519-631-7629

www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

ST. THOMAS St. Thomas has claimed the title of Railway Capital of Canada, based upon its history as a North American railway hub. This history is kept alive largely through the efforts of two organizations— the Elgin County Railway Museum and the North America Railway Hall of Fame. St. Thomas is also known for a famous railway tragedy—Jumbo, the star of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, was struck and killed by a train there in 1885. A life-sized Jumbo monument was unveiled on the centennial anniversary of the event and continues to greet visitors entering the city’s west end.

Echoes of the past can be found in many architectural gems in St. Thomas, including the Elgin County Courthouse, St. Thomas City Hall, Old St. Thomas Church and numerous private homes, many of which are found in the courthouse area.

On a more modern note, St. Thomas offers a lively community theatre, impressive downtown murals, and many beautiful parks. It also boasts its own microbrewery and the thriving Saturday Horton Farmers’ Market (seasonal). First class recreational facilities like the St. Thomas Timken Community Centre and the Douglas J. Tarry Sports Complex welcome athletes year-round, while the many parks and trails provide rest and relaxation to residents and visitors alike. n) WATERWORKS PARK (Relish Elgi

HORTON FARMERS’ MARKET

JUMBO STATUE & CABO

OSE

EXPERIENCE ST. THOMAS St. Anne’s Community Festival St. Anne’s Church, June 6–9 Annual Strawberry Social CASO Railway Station, June 23 Railway Nostalgia Weekend Elgin County Railway Museum, June 23–24 Day Out With Thomas St. Thomas Memorial Centre, July 13–15 & 20–22 Iron Horse Festival Talbot Street, August 23–26 St. Thomas Fire Muster Pinafore Park, September 1–2 Doors Open St. Thomas September 29–30 Holiday Fantasy of Lights Pinafore Park, December 1–31 Annual Christmas Carol Sing Old St. Thomas Church, December 2 Find more information about these and other St. Thomas events starting on page 53.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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GAY LEA

DAIRY HERITAGE MUSEUM

DISCOVER OUR GOOD NATURE

Experience some of Ontario’s most beautiful natural features and best outdoor recreation opportunities.

At the Gay Lea Dairy Heritage Museum, you’ll find artifacts and life-size displays to fascinate children & adults alike.

Surrounded by beautiful Carolinian forest, with lots of room to run and explore, it’s the perfect place for a family day.

www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca 48075 Jamestown Ln, RR2 Aylmer

1-888-773-2955

• SEASONAL & OVERNIGHT CAMPING • • HIKING • FISHING • PICNIC AREAS • • CANOE & PADDLE BOAT RENTALS • • PLAYGROUND • SPECIAL EVENTS • • MUCH MORE • CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY 8079 Springwater Rd., RR#5 Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 South of Hwy#3 at Orwell between St. Thomas & Aylmer

519-773-9037 www.catfishcreek.ca

CANADA DAY CELEBRATION - JULY 1 (RAIN DATE JULY 2)

On behalf of the Town of Aylmer and the Township of Malahide, the East Elgin Community Complex hosts the Canada Day Celebration in partnership with the Kinsmen Club of Aylmer.

Festivities include: inflatables, face painting, carnival games, crafts, BBQ, live entertainment, free public skating, official ceremony and fireworks Admission: Donation to the Kinsmen Club of Aylmer

FAMILY NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION - DECEMBER 31, 6-9PM Ring in the New Year with family and friends. Don’t miss the fun and festivities!

Festivities include: face painting, cotton candy, crafts, carnival games, inflatables, Val the Snake Lady and public skating with rental skates available for only $2 a pair Admission: $10 per family

RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS

Public Skating • Tiny Tots • Adult Skate • Family Skate • Figure Skating Shinny • Mini Shinny • 30+ Shinny • Ladies’ Shinny Speed Skating • Shuffleboard • Indoor Walking • Horseshoes Day Camp • Family Drop-In • Seniors’ Day Out For more information, contact the East Elgin Community Complex 531 Talbot Street West, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2T9 Phone: 519-773-5631 Fax: 519-773-5755 tklachan@eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

MALAHIDE & AYLMER

THE TOWN OF AYLMER & TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE, INCLUDING SPRINGFIELD & PORT BRUCE Aylmer-Malahide is known for its rich agricultural industry and the unique Carolinian forest that surrounds the town of Aylmer. Along country roads you will find contrasts in state of the art dairy operations next to old-order Mennonite farms, where fields are ploughed with horses. In the town of Aylmer, you will find a busy downtown lined with specialty shops and services, a beautifully restored theatre, a newly-built community complex and an active area museum. Hit the back roads to find an extremely popular migratory bird viewing area, galleries, a pottery and tearoom nestled in a pine forest, a winery, farm markets and an apiary with delicious honey and fun for families. The almost never crowded beach at Port Bruce is just waiting for those seeking a long, lazy afternoon of sand and sun.

AYLMER FAIR (Photos by MG)

CLOVERMEAD BEES & HONE Y (Photos by MG)

EXPERIENCE MALAHIDE & AYLMER Maple Syrup Festival Springwater Conservation Area, weekends in March & March break 8th Annual Bee Beard Competition Clovermead Bees & Honey, July 28 Culinary Camping Springwater Conservation Area, August 5 Aylmer & East Elgin Agricultural Fair Aylmer Fairgrounds, August 10–12 3–Port Cycle Tour Ports Bruce, Burwell & Stanley, August 18 Doors Open East Elgin September 22 Christmas Spirit Walk Springwater Conservation Area, December 1 Family New Year’s Eve Party East Elgin Community Complex, December 31

PORT BRUCE (Relish Elgin)

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Find more information about these and other Malahide & Aylmer events starting on page 53.

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Town of Aylmer

AylMal-2010VisitorsGuide-Ads:Layout 1

1/27/10

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Page 1

Proud Heritage. Bright Future.

Town of Aylmer

The historic Town of Aylmer haswith grown withand the times anda relaxed offers The historic Town of Aylmer has grown the times offers visitors visitors a relaxed pace to explore the community.

Indulge yourself with pace to explore the community. Indulge yourself with a stroll around Aylmer. Walk a stroll around Aylmer. Walk downtown to visit a shopping mecca of downtown to visit a shopping mecca of quaint boutiques, antique shops, several quaint boutiques, antique shops, several fragrant bakeries and unique fragrant bakeries and unique gift and souvenir stores. Visit the Aylmer Farm Market gift and souvenir stores. Visit the Aylmer Farm Market on Tuesdays, on Tuesdays, featuring the bounty of Ontario. Linger a moment in extensive park featuring the bounty of Ontario. Linger a moment in extensive park systems including Rotary Park, only the second one in Canada to be certified as an systems including Rotaryhas Park, only in visitors Canada to be The historic Town of Aylmer grown withthe thesecond times andone offers a relaxed Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

Take the Sanctuary. heritage walk or visit the muralswalk that certified as an Audubon Cooperative Take the heritage pace to explore the community. Indulge yourself with a stroll around Aylmer. Walk illustrate ourmurals history,that thenillustrate stop at one our finethen restaurants complete or visit the ourofhistory, stop attoone of our your fine downtown to visit a shopping mecca of quaint boutiques, antique shops, several touring, walking or shopping experience in Aylmer. restaurants to complete your touring, walking or shopping experience fragrant bakeries and unique gift and souvenir stores. Visit the Aylmer Farm Market in Aylmer.your desire might be, let it be realized amid the esthetic wonders and Whatever

Proud Heritage. Bright Future.

on Tuesdays, featuring the bounty of Ontario. Linger a moment in extensive park

bristling fragrances foundPark, along your nostalgic through Aylmer, Ontario.

Whatever your Rotary desire might be, let it journey be amid esthetic as an systems including only the second onerealized in Canada to be the certified wonders and bristling fragrances found along your nostalgic journey Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Take the heritage walk or visit the murals that through Aylmer, Ontario. illustrate our history, then stop at one of our fine restaurants to complete your touring, walking or shopping experience in Aylmer.

Visit Aylmer in 2012 and help us celebrate our 125th Anniversary. Special Anniversary activities are bristling fragrances found along your nostalgic journey through Aylmer, Ontario. planned from June 28th to July 1st.

Whatever your desire might be, let it be realized amid the esthetic wonders and

For more information or to receive your free Explore Our Treasures Tour Map, call 519-773-3164 or visit www.aylmer.ca

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call 519-773-3164 or visit www.aylmer.ca

Township of Malahide Diverse Attractions on Ontario’s South Shore

Our rich history is preserved throughout our Township within all of our communities. Take a journey through Malahide and take a step back in time as you may see our local Amish community in a horse and buggy along the country road side. Drive past the former R.C.A.F training base, now the Ontario Police College, which has a popular migratory bird viewing area managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Enjoy lunch at a quaint restaurant that will surely be satisfying. Tour our local winery and sip on some of the best Fruit Wines.

Wander through an art gallery or pottery studio and discover the talent of local artists. Stop at various shops where friendly merchants will welcome you in and discover what small town service and charm is all about.

Passionate about an active lifestyle? Participate in recreational activities throughout the seasons; lace up your skates, walk or bike through the extensive trails and parks, join day programs at one of our beautiful Community Centre’s, take a dip in the lake, or book a camping vacation.

End your day in Malahide along the shores of Lake Erie in Port Bruce relaxing on the beach or try your luck at fishing off the pier. While enjoying the warm summer breeze and the sun setting over blue waters, in the distance you may take pleasure in wind turbines lighting up the night sky while dining at restaurants located along the beach.

From picturesque horizons on the waterfront of Port Bruce’s beach to the colourful fields of rolling farmland, Malahide offers a bountiful array of scenery and activity, creating memories that last a lifetime.

www.malahide.ca 519-773-5344

Discover Bayham

www.bayham.on.ca • 519-866-5521

Gateway to Erie’s Shore Discover ... natural treasures & attractions.

Enjoy ... clean, sandy beaches, Port Burwell

Provincial Park, historic sites, special events, bird & butterfly migrations, museums and historic lighthouse.

Visit ... the Erie Shores Wind Farm and view the magnificent, energy producing wind turbines, located east and west of Port Burwell, along Lake Erie.

Marriage officiant services offered email rogers1651@amtelecom.net for details.

MAY is Museum Month!

Museums Open Daily Mid-May to Labour Day

Wind Interpretive Centre Information Kiosk 5361 Brown Road (at Nova Scotia Line)

Edison Museum of Vienna 14 Snow Street • 519-874-4999

Port Burwell Marine Museum & Lighthouse 20 Pitt Street & 17 Robinson Street • 519-874-4807

Trans Canada Trail & Cycling/Hiking Routes

Brochure guides available at the Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse Travel Information Centre.

Port Burwell Marine Museum & Lighthouse

Tub Daze, Port Burwell

2012 EVENTS THROUGHOUT BAYHAM

Aug 25: Talbot Trail of Yard Sales Sept 22: Doors Open East Elgin

VIENNA

June 2: Edison Fest Nov 17: Edison Museum’s Annual Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction

PORT BURWELL

July 1: Canada Day Celebrations with Parade at 1pm Aug 3-5: Tub Daze Fireworks at dark on Sunday Nov 4: Armistice Day Parade Dec 1: Santa Claus Parade - 6:30pm

STRAFFORDVILLE

Aug 25: Watermelon Fest Parade at 10am; Family Fun Day Dec 8: Santa Claus Parade - 10:30am Visit www.bayham.on.ca for more information on Bayham events.

Edison Museum, Vienna

BAYHAM

INCLUDING STRAFFORDVILLE, VIENNA, PORT BURWELL & EDEN Discover Bayham on the east end of Elgin County, home to Edison Museum of Vienna, Port Burwell Marine Museum & Historic Lighthouse, and Port Burwell Provincial Park. Popular events like the famous Edison Fest, Port Burwell Tub Daze and the Straffordville Watermelon Fest offer tons of family fun. The Erie Shores Wind Farm, spread along Bayham’s lakefront provides sustainable energy and an attraction for sightseers and photographers. A fall tour through Bayham, with its picturesque valleys, stately windmills and lake scenery, rivals the best Ontario has to offer. Come experience the long sandy beaches, delectable Lake Erie perch served at several local restaurants, and much more.

EDISON MUSEUM (Relish Elgin)

PORT BURWELL PIER

EXPERIENCE BAYHAM Edison Fest Vienna Memorial Park, June 2 Tub Daze Port Burwell East Beach, August 3–5 PORT BURWELL LIGHTHOUS

E

STRAFFORDVILLE Watermelon Fest Community Centre Park, August 25 Doors Open East Elgin September 22 Port Burwell Santa Claus Parade December 1 Straffordville Santa Claus Parade December 8

SILVER BIRCH TEAROO HERITAGE LINE HERBS (Relish M AT Elgin)

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Find more information about these and other Bayham events starting on page 53.

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Experience. Engage. Enjoy!

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• RM Classic Car Exhibit • Buxton National Historic Site & Museum • Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site • Black Mecca Exhibit - Wish Centre • Smith & Wilson Estate Winery

• • • • •

Rondeau Provincial Park Golf at 9 challenging courses Fish on 2 abundant lakes Chatham Capitol Theatre Family friendly festival and events

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Request a free Travel Guide by calling 1-800-561-6125 or visiting www.visitck.ca

ACCOMMODATIONS

No matter how long you have to visit, Ontario’s South Coast has whatever it takes to make your stay fun and relaxing. Select from several bed and breakfasts, fully furnished cottages, motels, inns and cabins.

From luxurious to rustic, quaint to modern, there’s a spot to match your needs.

KETTLE CREEK INN Alma Villa 201 Lakeview St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1A1 Ph: 519-782-3881 | E: almavilla@sympatico.ca www.cottagesincanada.com/almavilla Beautifully restored century old lakeside home in Port Stanley! 6 bedrooms with upper and lower decks offering the most unforgettable views of Lake Erie.

Arbour Bed and Breakfast 10361 Talbotville Gore Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T2 Ph: 519-933-3986 | E: peter@arbourbb.com www.arbourbb.com Arbour Bed and Breakfast/Guest House, convenient to London, St. Thomas, Aylmer and Port Stanley, offers two newly renovated bedrooms with ensuites. Guests have private access to the B&B, full kitchen facilities, beautiful living room, three season sun porch, gardens and deck.

Best Western Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London, ON N6L 1H5 Ph: 519-652-6022 | Fax: 519-652-1150 E: hotelinfo@stoneridge.com | www.stoneridgeinn.com Full–service hotel and conference centre features 70 guest rooms; 8,700 square feet of conference space; on–site chapel; on–site restaurant; Pasto’s Grill, fitness and business centres. See ad on page 24.

Cardinal Court Motel 10401 Sunset Rd, RR #7, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T2 Ph: 519-633-0740 | Fax: 519-633-9616 E: theaulakhs@execulink.com | www.cardinalcourt.ca Located in St. Thomas, just off the highway, we offer quiet, clean, cozy comfort in a country setting. Our 15 rooms are spacious and immaculate. Free continental breakfast, internet, hair dryers and coffee makers in the rooms. We hope that your stay with us is a happy and pleasant one.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

INN ON THE HARBOUR Comfort Inn 100 Centennial Ave, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5B2 Ph: 519-633-4082 | Fax: 519-633-8294 E: comfortinnstthomas@rogers.com www.choicehotels.ca Located on the corner of Hwy #3 & Centennial Ave. We have 78 rooms and offer complimentary continental breakfast and high speed Internet.

Grey Gables Bed and Breakfast 22 Erieus St, Port Burwell, ON N0J 1T0 Ph: 519-874-4644 | E: greygabl@amtelecom.net www.bbcanada.com/3912.html Located minutes by foot from the beach, Grey Gables is a meticulously restored heritage home. Enjoy the village atmosphere, visit the historic lighthouse and museum and dine at one of Port Burwell’s fine restaurants. Make Grey Gables “your home at the Lake.”

Howard Johnson – Tillsonburg 92 Simcoe St, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 2J1 Ph: 519-842-7366 | Fax: 519-842-6176 E: info@hojotillsonburg.ca | www.hojotillsonburg.ca The Howard Johnson – Tillsonburg, boasts 59 well appointed rooms with attention to detail. Scotty’s, our own on site restaurant opens at 6am. Complimentary continental breakfast.

Inn On the Harbour & Little Inn 202 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1H6 Ph: 519-782-7623 | Fax: 519-782-7728 E: innkeeper@innontheharbour.ca www.innontheharbour.ca Experience the relaxation of casual waterfront accommodation in Port Stanley. King beds, double jacuzzi, fireplaces and water views that will take your breath away.

Imagine! See ad on page 24.

23

Kettle Creek Inn 216 Joseph St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3388 | Fax: 519-782-5074 E: information@kettlecreekinn.com www.kettlecreekinn.com Historical 1849 inn with 10 guest rooms and 5 luxury suites (whirlpools & gas fireplaces). Great pub food plus fine dining. Gazebo and patio dining! See ad below.

New Elgin Motel 9701 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T2 Ph: 519-633-0580 E: newelginmotel@hotmail.com www.newelginmotel.ca Very clean, comfortable and affordable rooms available. Two minutes to downtown and fifteen minutes to Port Stanley.

24 hour check–in available.

Lakewood Trailer Estates 22499 Gray Ln, RR #3, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-2020 | Fax: 519-785-1311 E: info@lakewoodte.com www.lakewoodte.com Lakewood Trailer Estates is a family operated, summer vacation and recreation destination providing well maintained grounds and facilities with a family based, quiet, secure atmosphere.

Pearce Williams Christian Centre – Summer Camp & Retreat Facility 8009 Iona Rd, RR #1, Fingal, ON Ph: 519-764-2317 | Fax: 519-764-2428 E: info@pearcewilliams.org www.pearcewilliams.org Elgin County’s only full service Summer Camp & Rental Facility. Hiking trails open to public year round. Discover & Explore Elgin’s Natural spaces. All welcome.

Mulberry Lane B&B 6324 Stone Church Rd, Box 75, Union, ON N0L 2L0 Ph: 519-637-4499 E: mulberrylanebb@rogers.com www.bbcanada.com/mulberrylane Enjoy our welcoming spacious home in a captivating retreat setting. Our B&B is situated just minutes from Port Stanley, wineries, Hawk Cliff and more.

Port Stanley Cottage Rental 404A Edith Cavell Blvd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E6 Ph: 519-782-7601 E: patzbob@rogers.com Located on a private beach with no roads to cross. 2 br, 3 pc bath, 200ft to sandy beach, cottage is fully equipped. 10 min walk to the beautiful village of Port Stanley and all it has to offer! Long–term rentals available year round.

PLUS

Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre

Convenient Highway location, comfortably appointed guest rooms, complimentary continental breakfast, on-site dining at Pasto’s Grill, free high speed internet access, conference rooms, catering and so much more... merely minutes away!

6675 Burtwistle Lane Hwy 401 & Hwy 4, London 519-652-6022 or 1-888-471-2378 www.stoneridgeinn.com

Picture yourself...

Relaxing on our patio, Enjoying Lunch, Dinner or a snack, Staying the evening in a room or suite!

MEMBER OF ONTARIO’S FINEST HOTELS, INNS & SPAS

Indulge yourself and stay the night in Port Stanley with water views that will take your breath away 202 Main St., Port Stanley www.innontheharbour.ca

519-782-7623

24

Main Street, Port Stanley (519)782-3388 www.kettlecreekinn.com information@kettlecreekinn.com 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Red Oak Travel Park 54428 Talbot Ln, Eden, ON N0J 1H0 Ph: 1-866-964-6936 | Fax: 519-866-3582 E: contact@redoaktravelpark.com www.redoaktravelpark.com Beautiful, friendly family campground activities. Large sites, large pool, close to golf course, historical sites, fishing, lakes, reasonable rates and group discounts.

Telegraph House 205 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3006 | E: welcome@telegraphhouse.com www.telegraphhouse.com Heritage Inn, Bed & Breakfast where history meets hospitality. New ensuite bathrooms in spacious historical guest suites. Fabulous breakfast included in room rates.

See ad below.

Shoreline Property Management Inc. (Shoreline Getaways) 720–195 Dufferin Ave, London, ON N6A 1K7 Ph: 1-877-231-6421 | Fax: 519-432-8908 E: info@shorelinegetaways.com www.shorelinegetaways.com Shoreline maintains and rents 6 cottages located in the heart of Port Stanley. Our cottages are clean, cozy, affordable and available during all seasons.

The Windjammer Inn – BED, BREAKFAST & BISTRO 324 Smith St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C6 Ph: 519-782-4173 | Fax: 519-782-5183 E: grrlmet@sympatico.ca | www.thewindjammerinn.com Beautifully restored heritage house is home to award winning restaurant and cozy Bed & Breakfast. Luxury jacuzzi suites in carriage house. Pet friendly. See ad below.

Sweet Magnolia House B&B 236 Talbot St E, Aylmer, ON N5H 1H7 Ph: 519-765-3038 | E: info@sweetmagnoliahouse.com www.sweetmagnoliahouse.com Sweet Magnolia House is a heritage home in Aylmer, Ont., on the Talbot Trail. It boasts 3 guest rooms, 2 with ensuites, 1 with private 3 piece bathroom. Close to beaches, shopping and live theatre.

Windjammer

THE WINDJAMMER INN

The

INN

PORT STANLEY

Recommended in Where to Eat in Canada

Where history meets hospitality.

“One of the Lake Erie shore’s most exceptional bed and breakfasts ... a tour de force of tempting choices.”

— Jeanette Higgins, The Best Places to B&B in Ontario

205 Main Street, Port Stanley

519-782-3006

www.telegraphhouse.com

QUAI DU VIN .

Bed, Breakfast & Bistro

E S T A T E

W I N E R Y

Open Year Round for Lunch, Dinner & Weekend Brunch Live Acoustic Music on Sundays FEATURING LOCAL BOUNTY & REGIONAL SPECIALTIES THE WINDJAMMER INN PANTRY IS NOW OPEN Preserves • Heat & Serve Entrees • Artisan Baked Goods Gourmet Picnic Baskets • Local Gourmet Selections

324 Smith St, Port Stanley • 519-782-4173 www.thewindjammerinn.com 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

25

ADVENTURE & GOLF

Elgin County offers great outdoor opportunities for every season of the year. You’ll find places for adventure and recreation on land (at golf courses, trails and conservation areas), water (on lazy creeks or the big water of Lake Erie) and air (at the busy St. Thomas Municipal airport).

Belmont Golf Club 45809 Ferguson Ln, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-644-1370 | Fax: 519-644-0982 Challenging 18 holes; easy walking or carts available; no tee times required; fun, friendly atmosphere. See ad at right.

Bluffs Golf Club, The 35593 Lake Ln, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J1 Ph: 519-782-7447 | Fax: 519-782-7377 E: info@thebluffsgolfclub.com | www.thebluffsgolfclub.com Unique and picturesque nine–hole golf course and driving range overlooking Lake Erie, 5km west of Port Stanley.

Licensed clubhouse, patio, season and play passes, practice putting green and event planning. See ad at right.

East Elgin Community Complex 531 Talbot St W , Aylmer, ON N5H 2T9 Ph: 519-773-5631 | Fax: 519-773-5755 E: tklachan@eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Owned and operated by the Town of Aylmer and Township of Malahide, we offer recreational programs all year and host a Canada Day Celebration and Family New Year’s Eve Party.

See ad on page 16.

Farmtown Canada 46703 Mapleton Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R6 Ph: 519-773-2292 | E: info@farmtowncanada.com www.farmtowncanada.com Begin your rural adventure with friendly staff on the “Funny Farm Tour”. Start at the 1850 Log Cabin Shoppe, Trinkets & Trash, with antiques and souvenirs to purchase or admire.

Experience educational farming and help with farm animals.

Ferguson RV World Inc. 1249 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G8 Ph: 519-631-1092 | Fax: 519-631-9166 E: dferguson@fergusonrvworld.com www.fergusonrvworld.com Recreational Vehicle: sales, service, parts, and accessories.

Fifth wheels, travel trailers, fold downs and Wells Cargo – Cargo Trailers. We have rentals and we service most brands.

See ad at right.

26

Fore Golfers Only Ltd. 43765 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-631-8617 | Fax: 519-633-6409 E: fgo@rogers.com | www.foregolfersonly.on.ca Fore Golfers Only has the largest selection of golf equipment, both new and used in the country. A must see for any golfer.

Hancox Homestead Driving Range 31839 Silver Clay Ln, Iona Station, ON N0L 1P0 Ph: 519-762-6048 | E: info@hancoxhomesteadgolf.com www.hancoxhomesteadgolf.com Golf Driving Range on scenic 11 acres. Family friendly, catering to both avid and novice golfers. Picnic areas, toilets, shop with some golfing supplies on site. Memberships, lessons and chip and putt coming soon!

Horseshoe J Dude Ranch 32553 Erin Ln, Fingal, ON N0L 1K0 Ph: 519-762-5402 | E: duderanch@xplornet.ca www.duderanchontario.com For over 50 years, Horseshoe J Dude Ranch has been offering a unique Horse Camp experience for children ages 5–18 years. Enjoy family camps, trail riding for the public, birthday packages, lessons, and group outings.

Kettle Creek Conservation Authority 44015 Ferguson Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T3 Ph: 519-631-1270 | Fax: 519-631-5026 E: elizabeth@kettlecreekconservation.on.ca www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca Kettle Creek Conservation Authority’s six conservation areas showcase a number of water–related activities, bird watching, disc golfing, hiking and camping opportunities.

Visit the website for more information. See ad at right.

Kettle Creek Marina Ltd. 220 Colonel Bostwick St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3261 | E: info@kettlecreekmarina.com www.kettlecreekmarina.com Guest dockage for power and sail boats to 50 ft. We’re the friendliest little marina on Lake Erie. John and Fiona look forward to seeing you!

Lake Erie Salmon and Trout Club 4255 Thomas Rd, RR #2, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J2 8+ acres of natural beauty, 94 species of native trees and shrubs, wildflowers, birds, a stream, 2 fish passages, a rainbow trout hatchery and 6 ponds.

Latitude Charters 170 Sydenham St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C6 Ph: 519-782-4729 | E: latitude42@sympatico.ca www.latitudecharters.ca Sailing charters from the harbour of Port Stanley. Step aboard a crewed 33’ sailboat for day and sunset sails. Take the helm or just relax. Corporate charters available.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority Ph: 519-354-7310 | Fax: 519-352-3435 E: info@ltvca.ca | www.ltvca.ca Check out these conservation areas in Elgin County at www.ltvca.ca: E.M. Warwick Conservation Area near Eagle, Dutton–Dunwich Conservation Area, Sharon Creek Conservation Area near Delaware. See ad on page 44.

Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club 46343 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 www.pleasantvalleygolf.on.ca A family owned recreational facility where everyone is made welcome. There is fun and challenge for all at Pleasant Valley.

Port Glasgow Yacht Club & Marina PO Box 315, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-2408 | Fax: 519-785-0434 | E: wayner@mnsi.net A full-service marina in Port Glasgow on Lake Erie. Special events for the whole family.

Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Rd, RR #5, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-773-9037 | Fax: 519-765-1489 E: springwater@catfishcreek.ca | www.catfishcreek.ca We offer a wide range of outdoor activities for the whole family—camping, fishing, swimming, picnics, special events, hiking through Springwater Forest. Visit us for memorable experiences. See ad on page 16.

Spirit’s Whisper 55807 Jackson Ln, Straffordville, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-872-8800 | E: kristi@callofthehorse.ca www.callofthehorse.ca Explore, discover, reflect, and heal at Spirit’s Whisper Equine and Nature Retreat. Embrace life and enjoy a unique horse– guided experience for individuals or groups.

A friendly place to golf.

Owned & Operated by Jan & George Loughlean, C.P.G.A. PRO

45809 Ferguson Line

519-644-1370

The Bluffs Golf Club is 5km west of Port Stanley on the bluffs overlooking Lake Erie.

It’s a challenging 9-hole course with breathtaking views that will make your golfing experience a day to remember.

• 9-hole Challenging Golf Course • Licensed Clubhouse Patio & Golf Course • Driving Range • Practice Putting Green • Golf Carts • Corporate Outings Welcome

35593 Lake Line Port Stanley

the

Golf Clu b & Driving Range

519-782-7447

Book online at www.thebluffsgolfclub.com

Tarandowah Golfers Club 15125 Putnam Rd, Avon, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-269-9656 / 1-888-869-9656 | Fax: 519-269-3299 E: info@puregolf.net | www.puregolf.net 18 holes on 163 picturesque acres of serene beauty. The feel of the famous inland–links courses of British Open calibre is omnipresent in its firm and undulating fairways.

FERGUSON RV WORLD ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO

Proudly Serving Elgin for Over 40 Years Motorhomes Folding Trailers Travel Trailers Fifth Wheels Cargo Trailers Service Parts & Accessories

Local: 519-631-1092 Toll Free: 1-800-668-4903 1249 Talbot Street • www.fergusonrvworld.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Find your summer get away just minutes from home at Dalewood and Lake Whittaker Conservation Areas.

seasonal and overnight camping • beach fishing • swimming pool • bird watching playground • hiking trails • picnic areas children’s activities • canoeing • disc golf

Reserve online at: Dalewood (519) 631-1009 • Lake Whittaker (519) 269-3592

27

DISCOVER • INDULGE • ESCAPE

Our gift boutique offers unique handcrafted gifts & gourmet foods created from our harvested lavender.

2012 EVENTS AT STEED & CO LAVENDER

growers & creators of fine lavender products Open Wed-Sat 10-5 & Sun 12-4 Mother’s Day until Christmas

May 13 - Mother’s Day Season Opening June 23 & 24 - Lavender Harvest Festival August 11 - Lavender Fairy Festival November 24 & 25 - A Lavender Christmas

buds@steedandcompany.com

47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta

519-494-5525

www.steedandcompany.com Making Memories Since 1878 Horton Farmers’ Market is a best-in-class market destination that promotes civic pride, shapes local culture and supports the regional economy by providing access to high quality food producers, craftspeople and artisans.

ALMA

MANITOBA

HORTON

FLORA ROSS

28

BALACLAVA

WELCOME TO OUR COMMUNITY

KAINS

Saturdays 8am-12pm • May 12 - October 27

www.hortonfarmersmarket.ca www.facebook.com/Horton.Farmers.Market

TALBOT HORTON FARMERS’ MARKET

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

AGRITOURISM

Our countryside is dotted with great places to make part of your own custom agri-adventure— tour, taste, learn and pick up some special ingredients to turn into a delicious feast back at home.

EMPIRE VALLEY FARM MARKET & GREENHOUSEs

THE HORTON FARMERS’ MARKET

HERITAGE LINE HERBS Belmont Corn Maze 46614 Crossley–Hunter Ln, Belmont , ON Ph: 519-318-0388 E: info@belmontcornmaze.net www.belmontcornmaze.net Come get lost in the country! An afternoon or evening of fun for all ages, wander your way through our 10 acres of trivia, twists and turns. Farm–themed play–yard, concession booth & picnic tables onsite. Haunted maze after dark Fri & Sat after Thanksgiving until Halloween. Malahide Township, just south of Belmont. Open Sept 1 to Nov 1, 2012.

Berry Hill Fruit Farm 48937 Glencolin Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R6 Ph: 519-765-1752 | Fax: 519-765-1136 E: farmerdick@berryhillfruitfarm.ca www.berryhillfruitfarm.ca “Make Our Garden, Your Garden.” Visit our on–farm stand for your fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables, strawberries, raspberries, peaches, green beans, sweet corn, tomatoes and more!

Briwood Farm Market 1030 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G3 Ph: 519-633-9691 Fresh produce, dairy, meat, bulk foods, pet foods and garden centre. Open year round, 7 days/wk. Shop Briwood and support your local farmers.

QUAI DU VIN .

E S T A T E

W I N E R Y

Clovermead Bees & Honey 11302 Imperial Road (Hwy 73), Aylmer, ON N5H 2R3 Ph: 519-773-5503 | Fax: 519-773-5868 E: info@clovermead.com www.clovermead.com Clovermead is a Country Store filled with all things honey, plus a whole world to explore in the Clovermead settlement.

Check the website for the latest buzz. See ad on page 2.

Empire Valley Farm Market 27983 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown, ON Ph: 519-762-3504 | Fax: 519-762-0129 E: empire@amtelecom.net www.empirevalleyfarms.com Empire Valley Farm Market is a family owned business providing fresh home–grown vegetables seasonally.

Beautiful hanging baskets, perennials, tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn, peppers. Fresh fruits & vegetables available thru to October. See ad on page 34.

Ferguson’s Produce 11026 Wellington Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T1 Ph: 519-631-6589 | Fax: 519-631-2492 E: fergusonproduce@gmail.com www.fergusonproduce.com In season strawberries, sweet corn, pumpkins, fall raspberries, scarecrow festivals every weekend in Oct. Corn Maze, School Tours, Birthday Parties. See ad below.

F

S

ERGUSON’

11026 Wellington Rd • 519-631-6589

Fresh produce from our field to your table, guaranteed! www.fergusonproduce.com

519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Strawberries . Raspberries . Sweet Corn . Pumpkins . Preserves

29

Great Lakes Farms 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J2 Ph: 519-782-3433 | Fax: 519-769-2466 E: contact@greatlakesfarms.ca | www.greatlakesfarms.ca Great Lakes hosts a wide variety of activities including Mother’s Day brunch, group dinners, weddings and pick– your–own strawberries, pears, pumpkins and apples.

Heritage Line Herbs & The Silver Birch Tearoom 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R1 Ph: 519-866-5577 | Fax: 519-866-5923 E: heritagelineherbs@amtelecom.net www.heritagelineherbs.com Delightful rural destination. Shop in our quaint country store, stroll through our gardens & dine in our open air tea room. Special events & tours year round. See ad below.

Howe Family Farm market 48956 John Wise Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-808-1171 | Fax: 519-773-3999 E: ryanz71@hotmail.com Come and enjoy farm fresh food just for you. Strawberries, garden vegetables, sweet corn, canteloupe, melons, pumpkins, squash, jams, jellies, preserves and much more!

Koscik Greenhouse Tomatoes and Produce 6602 Sawmill Rd, RR #6, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R5 Ph: 519-773-2648 | Fax: 519-773-2649 E: robkoscik@hotmail.com Koscik Greenhouse Tomatoes is a family business. Our beef steak tomatoes are grown in the ground just like field tomatoes. Other in–season veggies available at the farm stand.

LAVENDER SENSE 28011 Ash Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-762-2188 | E: info@lavendersense.com www.lavendersense.com LAVENDER SENSE is a premier grower and purveyor of exquisite lavender products. Enjoy the fields, browse the boutique, take a Carolinian forest walk, explore the ‘Gallery in the Forest’, discover Elgin County’s first barn quilt or stay at the Bed & Breakfast Retreat. Seasonal pick–your–own lavender. See ad on page 9.

McSmith’s Organic Farm 42828 Shorlea Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T1 Ph: 519-631-0279 Fax: 519-631-9726 E: mcsmith@amtelecom.net www.McsmithsOrganicFarm.com McSmith’s is a diversified farming operation which has been certified organic since 1984. Organic meat chickens, laying hens, pastured beef and turkeys are raised.

See ad below.

Salt Creek Farm Market 11143 Highbury Ave, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T3 Ph: 519-633-9338 Fax: 519-631-8114 www.saltcreekmarket.com Farm market with produce in season, home baking, pickles, honey etc. Crafts & gifts, garden items, many kinds of apples. Known for our homemade pies.

St. Thomas Horton Farmers’ Market Manitoba St, St. Thomas, ON Ph: 519-317-3398 E: manager@hortonfarmersmarket.ca www.hortonfarmersmarket.ca Every Saturday from 8am–12pm, residents and visitors meet at “The Market” to catch up, exchange recipes and buy the best in local produce, meats, cheeses, preserves, art and much more.

See ad on page 28.

Steed and Company Lavender 47589 Sparta Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-494-5525 E: buds@steedandcompany.com www.steedandcompany.com Discover Steed & Co Lavender Farm, the most stunning lavender setting in Ontario’s South Coast region. Indulge in our unique range of exquisitely handcrafted products created at our farm. Escape for a stroll amongst the lavender flowers and take in the magnificent views.

See ad on page 28.

HERITAGE LINE

HERBS

Country Store & Tea Room Featuring over 180 varieties of potted herbs and heirloom vegetable plants Full menu in the Tea Room, including High Tea Come for lunch, stroll through the gardens and browse through our store

Open Tuesday to Sunday • 519-866-5577 53443 Heritage Line • RR#1 Aylmer

www.heritagelineherbs.com

30

CERTIFIED ORGANIC CHICKEN Whole or vac-packed pieces. Phone to order and arrange pickup.

Fresh Organic Produce Available Seasonally at the Horton Market, Saturdays in St. Thomas from May to October

519-631-0279 • 42828 Shorlea Line, St. Thomas

www.mcsmithsorganicfarm.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Opportunities to take in art and be entertained (or develop your own creative talents) are to be found throughout the county all year long.

Art Emporium Port Stanley 177 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1H6 E: info@ArtEmporium.ca | www.ArtEmporium.ca Art Emporium Port Stanley includes a quaint Gift Boutique featuring handcrafted goods and the Boathouse Gallery displaying the original fine art of 29 regional artists.

Cobblestones Gift & Gallery of Shelley McVittie 48664 John Wise Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-773-5912 | E: art@shelleymcvittie.com www.shelleymcvittie.com Cobblestones walls & shelves overflow; nostalgia by artist Shelley McVittie & her creative artisan friends–paintings, pottery, one of a kind gifts, lotions, potions & more.

See ad on page 32.

Elgin Theatre Guild 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 Ph: 519-633-8530 | E: info@elgintheatreguild.ca www.elgintheatreguild.ca The Elgin Theatre Guild is the only live theatre in St. Thomas and has five productions each season. Special musical performances occur throughout the season.

Minerva Art Gallery 11078 Springwater Rd N, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R6 Ph: 519-765-1616 | E: minerva@lweb.net www.minerva–art.com A full service Art Gallery carrying local, national, and international artists. Fully equipped custom framing on site, offering conservation framing & lamination for home and business.

Port Stanley Festival Theatre 6–302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-4353 (Box Office) | Fax: 519-782-3932 E: box.office@portstanleytheatre.ca www.portstanleytheatre.ca Located in the scenic lakeside village of Port Stanley, ON, the Port Stanley Festival Theatre presents professional live theatre from May–Sept, and musical performances from Oct–April each year.

Portside Gallery 187 1/2 Main St, Unit A, Port Stanley, ON Ph: 519-782-7066 E: portside@cuttingpromotions.com http://portside.cuttingpromotions.com Portside Gallery is an artist run gallery with 11 local artists offering art work in a broad range of styles, mediums and techniques.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Romantic Designs Artist Studio 120 Wellington St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 2R4 Ph: 519-860-6851 | E: brassard@execulink.com www.romanticdesigns.ca Romantic Designs Artist Studio is a gallery plus workshop.

Artists Sharon and Daniel Brassard share a passion for Celtic Folklore and Romance. View and purchase sculptures of clay, fabric and paper, paintings of watercolour, pastels and ink.

Sharon and Daniel also provide workshops and classes.

St. Thomas–Elgin Public Art Centre 301 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1B5 Ph: 519-631-4040 | Fax: 519-631-4057 E: info@stepac.ca | www.stepac.ca It is our mission to promote appreciation and support of the visual arts in our community through exhibitions, educational programs and preservation of a permanent collection. See ad on page 32.

WEDS Theatre 199 Currie Rd, Dutton, ON N0L 1J0 Ph: 519-768-3306 | E: weds.ca@gmail.com www.weds.ca The West Elgin Dramatics Society (WEDS) has been staging live theatre performances at Dutton Town Hall since 1971.

Our productions have always been organized and presented by volunteers, primarily from Elgin County.

Visit the following websites for more info: Aylmer Performing Arts www.artsinaylmer.com Aylmer Community Theatre www.aylmertheatre.ca Elgin Theatre Guild www.elgintheatreguild.ca Port Stanley Artists’ Guild www.portstanleyartguild.com Port Stanley Festival Theatre www.portstanleytheatre.ca St. Thomas-Elgin Artists’ Guild www.steag.ca St. Thomas Performing Arts www.stthomasperformingarts.com West Elgin Dramatics Society (WEDS) www.weds.ca 31

THE ARTS & COOKERY BANK

The Elgin Arts Trail invites visitors to explore the area’s vibrant and thriving visual arts community. The trail takes visitors on a journey to studios, galleries, and crafters across Elgin County and St. Thomas featuring original paintings, sculptures, photography, pottery, and hand crafted items.

Numerous studios and galleries can be found in the quaint towns and villages that dot the Elgin County countryside and shoreline. The historic City of St. Thomas is transforming itself into a creative hub with several galleries calling the downtown core home. More studios and galleries can be found in the seldom explored, yet ruggedly beautiful western portion of the County where artists have an innate ability to capture the essence and history of rural life.

ELGIN ARTS TRAIL MEMBERS Portside Gallery Peter Robson Studios Minerva Art Gallery Pinecroft Ceramic Art Studio The Arts & Cookery Bank St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre Jennifer M. Designs Village Crier Gallery Shelley McVittie’s Gallery Sparta Country Candles Clayworks Studio Little Red Mitten

Visit Canada’s oldest continuously operating pottery studio, take an art class at a fully functional studio, or purchase a piece from one of Elgin’s charming folk artists. Experience the sweet scents of hand poured candles in the historic Quaker settlement of Sparta, or visit a spacious 1842 home selling and displaying fibre and yarn art.

Come discover the delightful treasures that await you on the Elgin Arts Trail, experience the artistic culture, find that special gift, and discover the natural beauty of Elgin-St. Thomas.

Be inspired by the Elgin Arts Trail at www.elginartstrail.ca.

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GIFT & GALLERY

48664 John Wise Ln, Aylmer www. shelleymcvittie.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

ATTRACTIONS

In addition to the attractions listed here, museums and places of historic interest can be found in the Heritage section. A couple of very popular local sites attract flocks of people and birds for a few weeks each year. Aylmer Wildlife Management Area (north of Aylmer, near the Ontario Police College) is the staging area for Tundra Swans in March. Hundreds visit Hawk Cliff (on Lake Erie, east of Port Stanley) in the fall for the raptor migration. Live bird demonstrations and information displays are featured during two Hawkwatch weekends in September.

Arts & Cookery Bank, The 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne, ON N0L 2P0 Ph: 519-768-9986 | E: info@theartsandcookerybank.com www.theartsandcookerybank.com A regional destination, The Bank offers a snapshot of our rural culture through hands–on, interactive culinary and photography sessions and outrageously rural experiences.

Come for the experience. Leave inspired. See ad below.

Port Stanley Terminal Rail 309 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N51 1C5 Ph: 519-782-3730 | Fax: 519-782-4385 E: info@pstr.on.ca | www.pstr.on.ca Experience the fun of a train ride through the scenic Kettle Creek Valley. Diesel powered trains travel over a 7 km portion of the former London & Port Stanley Railway (est.1856).

Special Event Trains also available. See ad on page 72.

Erie Shores Wind Farm 55094 Glen Erie Ln, Vienna, ON N0J 1Z0 Ph: 519-874-1461 | Fax: 519-874-1386 E: info@erieshores.ca | www.erieshores.ca Erie Shores Wind Farm is a 99MW power generation facility using 66 wind turbines. We are located on the north shore of Lake Erie near Port Burwell.

St. Thomas Bingo Country 140 Edward St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1Z3 Ph: 519-633-1984 | E: bburge@Boardwalkgaming.com www.boardwalkgaming.com Bingo Country is open 7 days a week with sessions beginning at 12:30, 4, 7 and 10:30pm. Every session ends with a $1,000 jackpot game! See ad on page 57.

COME FOR THE EXPERIENCE. LEAVE INSPIRED. www.theartsandcookerybank.com | The Arts & Cookery Bank 519-768-9986 | 242 Graham Road, West Lorne

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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MAD HATTERS TEA ROOM

Distinctively Different!

100% Ontario Grown Fruit Award Winning Wines Daily Tastings Gift Store • Picnic Area

Many delightful and tasty treats await you along the Savour Elgin Culinary Trail, a route through Elgin County that visits some of the best restaurants, breweries, wineries, farms and other unique culinary attractions.

Perfect for foodies, gourmets, and novices alike, these unique establishments offer up fare that will tantalize your taste buds, and provide you with an unforgettable experience!

SAVOUR ELGIN MEMBERS Clovermead Bees & Honey Empire Valley Farm Market & Greenhouses Farmgate Markets Deli & Fresh Meat Great Lakes Farms Heritage Line Herbs & Silver Birch Tearoom Horton Farmers’ Market Kettle Creek Inn Killer Desserts & Café LAVENDER SENSE Mad Hatters Tea Room / Quaker Barrel Pinecroft Pottery & The Green Frog Tearoom Quai du Vin Estate Winery Railway City Brewing Co. Ruby’s Cookhouse Rush Creek Wines Steed & Company Lavender The Arts & Cookery Bank The Windjammer Inn To find out more, visit www.savourelgin.ca.

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Experience a Rush Creek

DELUXE TOUR

90 minutes of tastings, tips, food pairings & a goodie bag Fun • Informative • Delicious Visit our website or call for details.

Advance booking is required.

www.rushcreekwines.com

Open 7 days a week - Monday-Saturday 10-5 & Sunday 12-5

(519) 773-5432

Just 20 mins from the 401! Exit onto Hwy 73 and go south through Aylmer, then turn right onto Jamestown Line (we’re #48995).

Discover the Farmgate Difference!

Fresh Ontario Raised Meats • Store-Made Deli Meats Homestyle Ready-to-Eat Items Made Daily Delivery & Catering Available Open Mon to Sat 9am-6pm • 19 Elgin Street, St. Thomas

519-637-0055 • www.farmgatemarket.com Farmgate Markets Deli & Fresh Meats

FarmgateMarket

WE HAVE EVERYTHING TO MAKE SALSA!

FARM MARKET & GREENHOUSES FRESH, HOME-GROWN SEASONAL PRODUCE HANGING BASKETS & BEDDING PLANTS U-PICK • PUMPKINS & FALL DECORATIONS

27983 Talbot Line, Wallacetown • 519-762-3504

www.empirevalleyfarms.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

FOOD & DRINK

Elgin County eateries offer tastes ranging from a frosty treat on a hot summer day, to the local catch in a casual beachside café, or a memorable creation from one of our local chefs.

Cold Stone Creamery 995 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON Visit Tim Horton’s at First & Talbot St for the ultimate ice– cream experience. See ad below.

Dairy Queen Orange Julius 417 Wellington St, St. Thomas, ON | Ph: 519-637-2542 A whole new way to chill, at Elgin Mall in St. Thomas.

See ad on page 4.

Farmgate Markets Deli & Fresh Meat 19 Elgin St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 3L7 | Ph: 519-637-0055 E: info@farmgatemarket.com | www.farmgatemarket.com Quality fresh meats, superb deli, smoked meat and sausages made from the freshest Ontario–grown lean meat. All hormone, antibiotic, chemical and by–product free. Many ready to serve or cook at home menu items. See ad at left.

GTs Beach Bar & Grill 350 Edith Cavell Blvd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E2 Ph: 519-782-4555 | E: management@gtsportstanley.ca www.gtsportstanley.ca Southwestern Ontario’s largest beach patio! 8 beach volleyball courts, lounge chairs, full menu, weekday food specials & live entertainment weekends. Open May–Sept.

See ad on page 72.

Heritage Line Herbs & The Silver Birch Tearoom 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R1 Ph: 519-866-5577 | Fax: 519-866-5923 E: heritagelineherbs@amtelecom.net www.heritagelineherbs.com Delightful rural destination. Shop in our quaint country store, stroll through our gardens & dine in our open air tea room.

Special events & tours year round. See ad on page 30.

Harbourtown Fudge 205 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3066 | www.telegraphhouse.com Harbourtown’s own fudge, plus chocolates, confections, local country honey and maple syrup. See ad on page 72.

Kettle Creek Inn 216 Joseph St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3388 | Fax: 519-782-5074 E: information@kettlecreekinn.com | www.kettlecreekinn.com Historical 1849 inn with 10 guest rooms and 5 luxury suites (whirlpools & gas fireplaces). Great pub food plus fine dining. Gazebo and patio dining! See ad on page 24.

Le Café Siam 392 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1B8 | Ph: 519-637-2287 Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine made with fresh ingredients.

Thai family run business features a casual, fine dining atmosphere. Open Mon–Fri 11am–2pm & 5–9pm, Sat 5–10pm, Sun Closed.

Lotus Thai Restaurant 295 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1B5 Ph: 519-633-9966 | E: contact@lotusthairestaurant.ca www.lotusthairestaurant.ca A proudly family owned and operated authentic Thai Restaurant. Conveniently located with ample free parking.

Dining, take out and catering; LCBO licensed; see website for menu. See ad on page 14.

Mackies 124 William St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E1 | Ph: 519-782-4390 Fax: 519-631-8063 | E: mackies1911@rogers.com Family owned and operated since 1911. Famous for our fresh cut fries, homemade sauce, relishes and orangeade.

Celebrating 101 years on the beach in Port Stanley!

Mad Hatters Tea Room / Quaker Barrel 47272 Talbot Ln , Orwell, ON | Ph: 519-913-1278 E: sterry5.uwo@gmail.com | www.madhatterstearooms.com Escape to Wonderland in our enchanted tea room & parlour.

Situated in the Quaker Barrel Antique Market, you can enjoy full lunches, desserts, coffee & tea. Call to reserve high tea.

Located at Tim Hortons - First & Talbot Street, St.Thomas 519-631-0324 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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ME & Suzie’s 295 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3663 E: info@meandsuzies.com www.meandsuzies.com Me & Suzie’s Restaurant is focused on fresh food concepts, luxurious atmosphere and customer service excellence.

Nestled in the most charming port town in the province, Me & Suzie’s Restaurant is a classic mix of rustic sophistication and gastro pub. See ad below.

New Sarum Diner 46230 New Sarum Ln, RR #3, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-773-3101 E: jim@newsarum.com www.newsarum.com Hwy #3 at Hwy #74. Casual family dining in a relaxing country atmosphere. Local memorabilia. Established in 1943. Banquet facilities. AGCO, Full Menu. Open 7 days a week 8am to 9pm. See ad on next page.

Pinecroft Pottery & THE GREEN FROG TEAROOM 8122 Rogers Rd S, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-773-3435 | Fax: 519-773-9061 E: pinecroft@amtelecom.net www.pinecroft.ca A pottery studio and Elgin County tradition for over 60 years.

Rest, relax, shop or eat in a truly serene setting amongst towering pines and picturesque waterfalls. Dine in the tearoom, visit the pottery studio, enjoy live music, or extend your stay with an overnight retreat in a log cabin B&B. For a truly memorable experience, visit Pinecroft today.

See ad on page 39.

Pizzaworx On The Beach 115 William St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E1 Ph: 519-782-4500 | Fax: 519-633-2048 E: info@pizzaworx.net www.pizzaworx.com Experience the best pizza on Lake Erie! Open seasonally from May to Sept for slices, snacks, drinks and full pizzeria menu.

Also open in St. Thomas!

Quai du Vin Estate Winery 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S9 Ph: 519-775-2216 | Fax: 519-775-0168 E: info@QuaiduVin.com | www.QuaiduVin.com Quai du Vin (pronounce Kay due van) is nestled amongst the vineyards in the picturesque rolling hills of Central Elgin.

Located 3 km North of Sparta, Ontario, there you will sample fine wines and experience spectacular events.

See ads on pages 12, 37, 25, 29, 65, 69 & 75.

Railway City Brewing Company 168 Curtis St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3W9 Ph: 519-631-1881 | E: info@railwaycitybrewing.com Fax: 519-633-4553 | www.railwaycitybrewing.com A small craft brewery, using only the finest ingredients.

On–site tours and samples available every day. Retail store on–site. Brands include Iron Spike, Dead Elephant Ale and different seasonals. See ad on page 14.

Ruby’s Cookhouse 583 John St, Aylmer, ON N5H 2B6 Ph: 519-773-8786 | E: rubyscookhouse@amtelecom.net www.rubyscookhouse.com The place with the warmest welcome, the coldest drinks, and the best ‘undo the top button of your pants’ food.

Rush Creek Wines 48995 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer, ON | Ph: 519-773-5432 E: winemaster@rushcreekwines.com Fax: 519-773-5431 | www.rushcreekwines.com Rush Creek Wines offers award winning wines, daily tastings, large gift store, light lunches, tour by appt. Open year round Mon–Sat 10–5, Sun 12–5. Located south of Aylmer off Hwy 73. See ad on page 34.

Shaw’s Ice Cream 6598 Sunset Rd, RR #4, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S8 Ph: 519-631-2510 | www.shawsicecream.com Shaw’s Ice Cream uses only the best ingredients and of course real Canadian cream! We take time in sourcing the purest flavourings, fruits and dairy ingredients to bring you what we consider the world’s best ice cream!

EXCEPTIONAL LOCAL INGREDIENTS FRESH FOOD CONCEPTS • LUXURIOUS ATMOSPHERE For reservations or information on private bookings, please call 519-782-FOOD (3663) or email info@meandsuzies.com

295 Bridge Street, Port Stanley • www.meandsuzies.com 36

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Sparta House Tea Room Main St, Sparta, ON Ph: 519-775-2312 www.spartahouse.com Enjoy a unique dining experience in the quaint historical village of Sparta. Escape the rat race and step into an unhurried atmosphere where you will discover deliciously appealing British cuisine. An appetizing selection of light lunches, afternoon teas, and weekend casual dining awaits you in a setting that embodies the historical atmosphere of the village. See ad on page 12.

Sweet beach VILLAGE CAFÉ 145 William St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E2 Ph: 226-658-1010 www.sweetbeach.ca Our bright and friendly beach cafe is open year–round every day. Enjoy fair trade specialty coffees & fancy teas with freshly baked treats made on–site. Daily soup, sandwich & quiche option. Summer treats include fruit smoothies and creamy soft ice cream!

The Roxy Diner 301 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3241 300 seat family restaurant (diner), licensed. Featuring Lake Erie Perch, great soups, and fresh cut fries! Home of old movie posters.

The Windjammer Inn – BED, BREAKFAST & BISTRO 324 Smith St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C6 Ph: 519-782-4173 | Fax: 519-782-5183 E: grrlmet@sympatico.ca | www.thewindjammerinn.com Beautifully restored heritage house is home to award winning restaurant and cozy Bed & Breakfast. Luxury jacuzzi suites in carriage house. Pet friendly. See ad on page 25.

Tim Hortons 8 St. Thomas Locations | www.timhortons.com Serving St. Thomas at 8 locations including 400 Highbury Ave, 1204 Talbot St, 995 Talbot St, 546 Talbot St, 191 Talbot St, 60 Elm St, 280 Elm St and 145 South Edgeware Rd. See ad on page 53.

Victorian Elegance 109 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON | Ph: 519-765-3634 www.victorianelegance.ca You are invited to experience the delightful cuisine of Savanna’s Magical Garden & Tea Room.

See ad on page 40.

Wharf Restaurant 208 Main St, Port Stanley, ON | Ph: 519-782-7788 E: info@portstanleywharf.com | www.portstanleywharf.com Located on the shore of beautiful Lake Erie, The Wharf provides casual fine dining with spectacular views while out for breakfast, lunch or dinner. See ad below.

QUAI DU VIN .

E S T A T E

W I N E R Y

ELGIN COUNTY’S OLDEST DINER

From foot long hot dogs and a milk shake to full course dinners.

Come out to visit us, sit down and enjoy ... like the old days.

We can accommodate up to 100 people in our private dining room.

Dinner Meetings . Special Occasions . Bus Tours

Hwy #3 at Hwy #74 (In New Sarum) • 519-773-3101 519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

THE WHARF Enjoy picturesque views of the boats, Port Stanley draw bridge and Lake Erie while you dine portside.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BRUNCH Every Sunday, 9am-12pm, $10.99/person WEDDINGS AT THE WHARF In house catering, DJ, linens, photographer & decorator

www.newsarum.com

Voted

BEST LAKE ERIE YELLOW PERCH in Port Stanley &

BEST SOUP in Elgin 2011

208 Main Street, Port Stanley | 519-782-7788 | www.portstanleywharf.com Visit our website for information on live performances and events at the Wharf.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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SHOPPING

There are many treasures to be found amongst Elgin’s shops, from fashions and accessories to uniquely crafted gifts, antiques and home décor. Whether you are in the mood for an afternoon of browsing the shops of a quaint village or being part of the main street bustle, you’re sure to bring home unique finds.

Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles 46361 Sparta Ln, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-0054 | E: info@spartacandles.com www.spartacandles.com Founded by Pat and Mary Muscat in 1992, Anything Used is located in the historic Village of Sparta in a general store built in 1838. Our store features two floors of rooms full of unique home décor items, candle accessories, seasonal items and Sparta Country Candles. See ad on page 12.

Aylmer Sales Arena 51 Murray St, Aylmer, ON N5H 2A6 Ph: 519-765-2211 | Fax: 519-773-3183 E: sales@aylmersalesarena.ca | www.aylmersalesarena.ca Large farmer’s and flea market. Open year round Tues 8am–4pm. Also on site: restaurant & ATM. Automatic & self–serve carwash, laundromat & dog wash open 7 days.

See ad on page 41.

Berry–Hill Limited 75 Burwell Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3R5 Ph: 519-631-0480 | Fax: 519-631-8935 E: info@BerryHillLimited.com | www.BerryHillLimited.com Since 1946, for home, garden, gift–giving, wild bird supplies & hobby farm equipment. Now in our 3rd generation of ownership!

Canadale Nurseries Ltd. 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 3C4 Ph: 519-631-7264 | Fax: 519-631-0818 E: info@canadale.com | www.canadale.com We are an award winning Garden Centre and Nursery specializing in unique, rare and unusual plants. Great weekly sales. Come see what’s new at Ontario’s favourite Garden Centre. See ad on page 14.

Connections 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-7247 E: ywca@bellnet.ca Featuring fair trade gifts from around the world.

See ad below.

Disbrowe Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac 116 Edward St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4E6 Ph: 519-631-7960 | Fax: 519-631-9113 E: karenjohnson@disbrowe.com www.disbrowe.com Depend on the Disbrowe Difference for new GM and optimum used vehicle sales; authorized GM warranty service, genuine GM parts and accessories and all makes paint and body repair.

See ad on page 3.

Family Flowers Inc. 44329 Talbot Ln, RR #3, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-631-6004 | Fax: 519-631-4489 E: annette@familyflowers.ca www.familyflowers.ca Unique garden centre open year round. Visit the mini farm and see the elaborate seasonal displays. Featuring a wide selection of plants and flowers grown on site, gifts for home and garden as well.

Highland Drugmart 222 Colborne St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3324 | Fax: 519-782-3690 Your local drug store and more. Independently owned & operated by Pharmacist Tam Mettias. Free local delivery.

Open Weekdays 9am–6pm; Sat 9am–4pm.

See ad on page 40.

In the pursuit of

global equity & equality,

we are all connected

302 Bridge St., Port Stanley

in the theatre building

519-782-7247

OPEN ALL YEAR

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Featuring unique gifts that support fair trade & global initiatives including... scarves, jewelry, arts & crafts, journals, pottery, & more!

Owned, operated & in support of YWCA St. Thomas Elgin

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Little Red Mitten 86 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A5 Ph: 519-207-2880 | E: info@littleredmitten.ca www.littleredmitten.ca A unique shop featuring quality knitting and spinning supplies, a wide range of colours and fibres, books and patterns, and the best selection of knitting tools around.

Dealer for Majacraft Spinning Wheels. Something for everyone from beginner to enthusiast.

See ad on page 14.

Mobelhaus Furniture Direct 11938 Imperial Rd, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R3 Ph: 519-859-3113 | Fax: 877-586-2765 E: info@mobelhaus.ca www.mobelhaus.ca Mennonite and Amish style furniture factory outlet. Solid wood handcrafted furniture built on–site custom to order.

We also offer kitchen cabinetry.

Mad Hatters Tea Room / Quaker Barrel 47272 Talbot Ln , Orwell, ON | Ph: 519-913-1278 E: sterry5.uwo@gmail.com | www.madhatterstearooms.com Escape to Wonderland in our enchanted tea room & parlour.

Situated in the Quaker Barrel Antique Market, you can enjoy full lunches, desserts, coffee & tea. For high tea reservations please call.

Moore Water Gardens 4683 Sunset Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J4 Ph: 519-782-4052 | Fax: 519-782-3139 E: moorewg@execulink.com www.moorewatergardens.com Growers of the finest water lilies and aquatic plants.

Great selection of goldfish, pond liners, pumps and filters.

Everything for the water garden enthusiast.

See ad on page 41.

Mennonite Furniture Gallery 10 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-765-4386 | Fax: 519-765-4608 E: mennofurniture@amtelecom.net www.mennonitefurnituregallery.com Mennonite Furniture Gallery, showcases a wide variety of solid wood furniture hand–crafted by the Amish and Mennonite of Southwestern Ontario. Showroom open Tues–Sat 9am–5pm.

Picard’s Peanuts 10683 Sunset Dr (Hwy 4 at Hwy 3), Talbotvile, ON N0L 2K0 Ph: 519-637-8704 www.picardspeanuts.ca Home of the Canadian Peanut! Outlet for peanuts and a good variety of other nuts. Chip nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, fudge and ice cream in the summer months. Make your own peanut butter.

A hint of Muskoka in Southern Ontario, with towering pines, log cabins, a walking trail, waterfall and expansive pond, Pinecroft is a must see. Experience the peaceful serene atmosphere and enjoy a country lunch in the tearoom, browse the gift shop, stay at the B&B or visit the pottery studio. During special events or by chance catch an afternoon of live music with the Jammin’ Cabin Gang.

For Tearoon and Bed & Breakfast Reservations phone

519-773-3435 You can enjoy our hospitality 7 days a week, all year.

Victoria Day - Thanksgiving Day: Open 9am-5pm daily; Tearoom serves 11am-4pm Thanksgiving Day - Victoria Day: Please call or check our website for hours.

8122 Rogers Road, RR 5, Aylmer, ON

(Pinecroft is 1 mile West of Aylmer, 1 1/2 miles South of Hwy #3 on Rogers Road S.)

Visit us online at www.pinecroft.ca and on the Pinecroft Facebook Page

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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Pinecroft Pottery 8122 Rogers Rd S, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-773-3435 | Fax: 519-773-9061 E: pinecroft@amtelecom.net | www.pinecroft.ca A pottery studio and Elgin County tradition for over 60 years.

Rest, relax, shop or eat in a truly serene setting amongst towering pines and picturesque waterfalls. Dine in the tearoom, visit the pottery studio, enjoy live music, or extend your stay with an overnight retreat in a log cabin B&B. For a truly memorable experience, visit Pinecroft today.

See ad on page 39.

Silverthorn Landscape Supplies 46400 Talbot Ln, RR #3, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-765-2379 | E: silverthorn@amtelecom.net Fax: 519-765-2300 | www.silverthornlandscape.com Silverthorn Landscape Supplies provides ideas, support, and landscaping products for individuals and contractors as they transform gardens, workplaces and outdoor spaces from ordinary to extraordinary. See ad below.

Stan Portley’s – Antiques and Uniques 288 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-3805 | Fax: 519-782-7468 E: info@stanportleys.com | www.stanportleys.com Unique and New Gift Items. View our treasures. Vintage and Antique furniture to complement any décor from Toronto Chic, to Cottage Style and Paris Apartment.

DRUGMART

222 Colborne Street, Port Stanley

519-782-3324

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm, Closed Sun

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY SENIORS GET 20% OFF ON WEDNESDAYS

Victorian Elegance 109 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-765-3634 | www.victorianelegance.ca Two levels of one–of–a–kind giftware, the latest in ladies’ fashions and the delightful cuisine of Savanna’s Magical Garden & Tea Room. See ad below.

Winter Wheat 5277 Quaker Rd, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 | Ph: 519-775-2618 Fax: 519-775-0182 | E: lucyogletree@winter–wheat.com www.winter–wheat.com Winter Wheat is a retail store and folk art gallery. The store features home and garden decor plus artwork by Canadian folk artist Lucy Ogletree. See ad on page 12.

PINECROFT POTTERY (Relish Elgin)

A WORLD OF LANDSCAPE TREASURES WATER FEATURES & FOUNTAINS • ROCKS • MULCHES SOILS • GROUND COVERS • SEMINARS • GIFT STORE Just 10 min. East of St. Thomas on Hwy #3 • 519-765-2379

www.silverthornlandscape.com

Victorian Elegance TEA ROOM • LADIES’ FASHIONS • JEWELLERY • SHOES

109 Talbot Street West, Aylmer • 519-765-3634 Store: Mon to Sat 9:30-5 & Tea Room: Tues to Sat 11-3:30

Glamorous Ladies’ Fashions & Accessories Gifts for Everyone • Bradford Exchange Dealer

Featuring Savanna’s Tea Room

High Tea by Reservation • Perch Dinners with Celery Bread Full Lunch Specials • Serving Local Wines L.L.B.O.

www.victorianelegance.ca

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVERY

TUESDAY

All roads lead to the ...

8AM-4PM

AYLMER SALES ARENA Farmers’ Market & Flea Market

Shop and browse in our unique and friendly atmosphere.

Fresh Produce, Meat, Cheese, Eggs, Baked Goods, Crafts, Gifts, Tools, Fabrics, Home Décor, Clothing, Books, Health Products, CDs, DVDs, Jewellery, New & Used Furniture and much, much more!

ATM & RESTAURANT ON SITE

Serving Elgin County & Area for Over 50 Years!

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Day Out With Thomas St. Thomas-Elgin Memorial Centre, St. Thomas, ON Ride behind Thomas the Tank Engine Jul 13–15 and 20–22.

Tickets: 1-888-222-6608 or www.ticketweb.ca/dowt.

See ad on page 69.

Doors Open St. Thomas Ph: 519-764-2384 | www.doorsopenontario.on.ca Sept 29&30, 2012. Seven new sites; follow the route of the St. Thomas Street Railway. See ad on page 77.

Holiday Fantasy of Lights Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 6A1 E: HFOfLights@gmail.com | www.fantasylights.org Seasonal display, one kilometre long, 125,000 lights.

Entertainment and tractor rides each weekend. Open Dec 1 to Dec 31 nightly 5pm to 10pm. See ad on page 81.

51 Murray St. (just off John St. N/Hwy #73N), AYLMER

519-765-2211 • Vendor Inquiries Welcome

www.aylmersalesarena.ca

Over 80 Years of Quality and Service

Iron Horse Festival PO Box 20094, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 Ph: 519-207-4000 | Fax: 519-207-4001 E: info@ironhorsefestival.com | www.ironhorsefestival.com A community street festival celebrating our heritage; featuring 3 stages of free entertainment, rib–fest, midway, craft vendors, artists, Kids’ Junction and Iron Chef Grill–off.

Kettle Valley Pioneers’ ELGIN HISTORICAL SHOW 44015 Ferguson Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T3 Ph: 519-633-6803 Always the second full weekend in August. Antique show to demonstrate how farming was done in the pioneer days.

Rodney Aldborough Fair PO Box 130 , Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 | Ph: 519-768-1858 E: jmclarty@xplornet.ca | www.rodneyfair.ca The Rodney Aldborough 158th Fair on Sept 14–16 invites you to spend your weekend in the country at our small town rural family fun fair. See ad on page 77.

Senior’s Picnic in the Park Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas, ON The 14th Annual Picnic takes place on Wed Jul 11, 2012 from 9:30am–3:30pm. Free admission. For information contact VON at 519-637-6408. See ad on page 67.

4683 Sunset Road, Port Stanley

519-782-4052

www.moorewatergardens.com 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

St. Thomas Fire Muster DAYS 305 Wellington St, St. Thomas, ON | Ph: 519-631-0210 Fax: 519-631-0215 | E: stthomasfiremuster@gmail.com www.stthomasfiremuster.bravehost.com Pinafore Park, September 1st & 2nd, Labour Day weekend.

Firefighter competitions, car show, parade, entertainment, antique trucks and apparatus. Weekend of free family fun.

41

MAP OF ELGIN COUNTY 402

Recreation opportunities abound in Elgin County, throughout the seasons.

There are activities geared for everyone, including cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing, bird watching, boating, swimming at a tourist beach, or spending the day at one of our many parks and conservation areas. Visit www.elgintourist.com for cycling and hiking guides, and www.activeelgin.ca for information on various sport, leisure and recreation activities across the county.

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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HERITAGE

Elgin County heritage is a rich tapestry made up of thousands of unique stories. These survive and are brought to life in our museums, archives, historic buildings and preserved through the efforts of curators, historians, re-enactors and hundreds of volunteers. Discover a hero, admire a visionary, be inspired or relive an adventure.

Aylmer and District Museum 14 East St, Aylmer, ON N5H 1W2 Ph: 519-773-9723 | E: aylmermuseum@amtelecom.net www.amtelecom.net/~aylmermuseum Community museum with changing exhibits, archives/ appointment, Mar Tundra Swan Line 519-773-7926, Nov Tour of Homes, Coach guide. Mar–Nov: Mon–Thurs 10am–1pm & 2–6pm, Fri 10am–1pm; July/Aug: Tues–Sat 10am–6pm.

Backus–Page House 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown , ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-762-3072 E: tyrconnell@execulink.com | www.backuspagehouse.ca Located amidst the beauty of John E. Pearce Provincial Park, this restored Georgian 1850’s residence is home to a living history museum. See ad on page 9.

Edison Museum of Vienna 14 Snow St, Vienna, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-866-5521 | Fax: 519-866-3884 E: bayham@bayham.on.ca | www.bayham.on.ca The Edison Museum of Vienna features many authentic Edison artefacts, inventions and family mementos. Museum open mid–May to Labour Day. Off season by arrangement.

Elgin County Museum 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-1460 x159 | Fax: 519-631-9029 E: mbaker@elgin–county.on.ca | www.elgincounty.ca The museum mounts a series of exhibitions and programs based on a permanent collection of artefacts which illustrate the history and heritage of Elgin County. Open year round.

See ads on page 47.

Elgin County Railway Museum 225 Wellington St , St. Thomas, ON N5R 2S6 Ph: 519-637-6284 E: dawnm@ecrm5700.org www.ecrm5700.org Located in the historic 1913 Michigan Central Railroad locomotive shop, this museum features St. Thomas – the Railway City exhibit, History in Motion Model Railway, locomotives, cabooses, jiggers and more. Hours: Victoria Day–Labour Day, Tue–Sun 10am–4pm. Labour Day–Victoria Day, Tue–Sat 12–4 pm. Call for holiday hours. Cost: $4/ person, children under 12 free. See ad on page 48.

Elgin Military Museum 30 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A3 Ph: 519-633-7641 | E: curator@elginmilitarymuseum.ca www.elginmilitarymuseum.ca The museum focuses on military history, emphasizing on Canada and Elgin County and its citizens through exhibits, tours and programs. Open year round.

See ad on page 45.

Gay Lea Dairy Heritage Museum 48075 Jamestown Ln, RR #2, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R2 Ph: 519-773-2955 / 1-888-773-2955 E: museum@gayleafoods.com www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca Owned and operated by Gay Lea Foods Co–opeative Ltd. The museum is a showcase of the agricultural history of Southern Ontario. Open mid–May to Labour Day, Mon–Sat 9am–5pm; Sept to mid–Oct Sats 9am–5pm; Off–season hours by appt. Small admission fee applies.

See ad on page 16.

Spend time at the park... step into the past!

A recreated village of 1,000 years ago at Longwoods Road Conservation Area 8348 Longwoods Road (Middlesex Rd. 2) 6.5 km west of Delaware | 10 km east of Melbourne

Hours, programs, rates 519-264-2420

SKA-NAH-DOHT Village and Museum

www.ltvca.ca info@ltvca.ca

Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority - Celebrating Over 50 Years of Conservation

44

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

North America Railway Hall of Fame 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E1 Ph: 519-633-2535 | Fax: 519-633-3087 E: info@narhf.org www.narhf.org The mission of the Hall of Fame is “to preserve and honour railway heritage in North America and ensure the future sustainability of the Canada Southern Railway Station”.

See ad on page 48.

Ska–Nah–Doht Village & Museum 8348 Longwoods Rd, Middlesex Rd 2 Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0 Ph: 519-264-2420 | Fax: 519-264-1560 E: info@ltvca.ca | www.ltvca.ca 63 hectare (155 acre) park features Ska–Nah–Doht, a recreated longhouse village of 1 000 years ago. Education programs in Native Studies and the environment. 7km of trails. See ad on page 44.

Old St. Thomas Church, The 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 2Y7 Ph: 519-633-2610 | Fax: 519-633-3225 E: oldstthomaschurch@hotmail.com www.oldstthomaschurch.com Provincially designated historical Anglican Church and Churchyard built in 1822, open Mon to Sat 9am–5pm, late May–Labour Day for guided tours. See ad on page 46.

Sparta and District Historical Society PO Box 34, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-2292 | Fax: 519-775-2335 E: tcg@execulink.com Own and operate the Forge and Anvil Museum in Sparta (46316 Sparta Line) as well as host a re–enactment dinner the second Saturday in Nov and co–ordinate Doors Open in Sparta in conjunction with Port Stanley. Our museum is open every day May till August and most days till November.

Port Burwell Museum & Historic Lighthouse Corner of Pitt and Robinson St, Port Burwell, ON Ph: 519-866-5521 | Fax: 519-866-3884 E: bayham@bayham.on.ca | www.bayham.on.ca The Port Burwell Marine Museum and Lighthouse depict the rich marine heritage and local history. Climb the 1840 wooden structure for a panoramic view of this Lake Erie community. Open mid May–Labour Day. Off season by arrangement.

St. Peter’s Anglican Church 29596 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-631-5515 | www.stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org Built in 1827 we continue to be an active Anglican church with 11am Sun Services year round. Beautiful stained glass windows are dedicated to the memory of prominent citizens from the Talbot Settlement. Open Wed in July and Aug 10am–2pm.

The Elgin Military Museum 30 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (519) 633-7641 www.elginmilitarymuseum.ca

Visit Our Interpretive Centre Hear the sounds of famous big bands of the past, Enjoy memorabilia of the Stork Club era, Revisit the memories of those swingin’ Dance Pavilion days!

302 Bridge Street, Port Stanley

The Festival Theatre Building • 519-854-1646

Summer Season - Open 10am-5pm Daily

www.projectojibwa.ca 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

www.musicmemories.ca

Concert Series, Latin & Ballroom Dance Classes too!

45

Stork Club Big Band Museum and Hall of Fame Interpretive Centre 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J5 Ph: 519-854-1646 E: info@musicmemories.ca www.musicmemories.ca Visit our Interpretive Centre dedicated to the history of the Stork Club dance pavilion and the revival and enjoyment of Swing Era Big Band Music. Hear the sounds of Guy Lombardo, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Johnny Downs and many more.

Visit our website for information on our Music & Memories Concert Series and Latin & Ballroom dance lessons.

See ad on page 45.

OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH

Open late May to Labour Day

(Tour Guides on Duty)

Available for Weddings For Information

519-633-2610

www.oldstthomaschurch.com 55 Walnut Street (2 blocks South of Jumbo Monument)

southwest ontario

Barn quilt Trails This year marks the launch of the Southwest Ontario Barn Quilt Trails, a series of historical tours that employ the art of quilting to tell the stories of five Ontario counties: Brant, Elgin, Middlesex, Norfolk and Oxford.

The trails employ colourful, decorative 8’ by 8’ murals based on quilt block designs as markers on barns or other agricultural buildings to signal historical points of interest. The project was spearheaded by the Elgin, Oxford, Norfolk Association of Museum Curators and Directors and implemented with the assistance of dozens of volunteers and community organizations. In total, there are 100 quilt blocks, making it the largest tour of its kind in Ontario. This initial phase of the project was funded by the Sand Plains Community Development Fund.

In Norfolk and Brant Counties one can follow the trail of devastation left by Kentucky riflemen in the final months of the War of 1812.

Visitors will learn about the last battle of the War at Malcolm’s Mills and the looting and burning of Port Ryerse and Port Dover in 1814.

In Middlesex County travelers can follow the route of the British retreat along the Longwoods 46

PORT BURWELL QUILT (Gloria Wilson) Road, a vital line of communication during the War of 1812. Markers will be found next to the site of an actual British soldiers’ encampment and within the present-day First Nations communities who now call this road home.

In Oxford and Elgin Counties, retrace the steps of early settlers who carved their farms and towns out of dense bush. Discover stories from the War of 1812 and the role Oxford’s new residents played in the Fenian Raids of the late 1800s and in the Underground Railroad. In Elgin County, see how the entrepreneurial skills of Thomas Talbot and his right-hand man, Col. Mahlon Burwell, shaped communities on Lake Erie’s sandy northern shores and learn about the county’s hardy Highland Scots settlers.

All of the locations are accessible by car or bicycle. The Trails will be launched in May with the distribution of a colourful printed guide or visit www.barnquilttrails.ca for a map and begin your exploration of history made local!

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

ASSOCIATION C U R AT O R S ARCHIVISTS D I R E C TO R S

ELGIN OXFORD NORFOLK

History Made Local Photo Credit : Patrick Mooney

Elgin County Administration Building, 4th Floor, 450 Sunset Drive (Hwy 4), St. Thomas, Ontario Open year round - Call for seasonal hours 519.631.1460 ext. 160

2012 MUSEUM EXHIBITION SCHEDULE

THE NOBLE EXPERIMENT

1812: WAR ON THE LAKES

CYCLING IN ELGIN

J. T. FINDLAY: ARCHITECT

JANUARY 14 – MAY 4

JANUARY 14 – MAY 4

MAY 13 – SEPTEMBER 1

SEPTEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 21

Today’s LCBO is one result of the passionate fight for and against temperance and prohibition in 19th century Ontario. The battle’s colourful characters along with a cast of bootleggers, brewers and bailiffs fill out this topical show.

Marine art by Peter Rindlisbacher, reproduced and circulated by Canadian Art Cards The British defeat at the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813 allowed southwestern Ontario to be raided by American forces.

Includes high wheels and equipment from the 19th century cycling clubs as well as photos of the region’s early cyclists on club outings.

A survey of Elgin County architects featuring the homes and public buildings of early twentieth century architect J. T. Findlay.

Includes photos of his many now-classic homes and well-known landmarks.

www.elgincounty.ca 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM ELGIN COUNTY & ST. THOMAS VISITOR’S GUIDE 2012: AD APPROVAL

47

Re-Live The Great Rail Adventure!

The railway had a tremendous effect in shaping the City of St. Thomas. It brought jobs which in turn brought prosperity and population growth. The Elgin County Railway Museum and the historic Canada Southern Railway Station give visitors the opportunity to delve into St. Thomas’s storied past. Attractions such as the annual “Day out with Thomas”, and the Port Stanley Terminal Rail train ride, provide interactive fun for the whole family!

A local craft brewery and multiple vibrant railway themed festivals and events, including the Iron Horse Festival, are sure to delight visitors of all ages and no trip to St. Thomas is complete without a visit to the Jumbo monument to see the most famous elephant that ever lived!

JOIN US IN 2012 FOR Railway Nostalgia Weekend • June 23 & 24 Day Out With Thomas • July 13-15 & 20-22 Railway Heritage Days • August 25 & 26

OPEN YEAR-ROUND

www.ecrm5700.org

519-637-6284 • 225 Wellington Street Visit the largest train station in Southwestern Ontario

St. Thomas showcases plenty of reasons why it is known as the Railway Capital of Canada, reasons worth exploring at www. elgintourist.com/railways. Tourists will enjoy the rural charm and impressive heritage sites that provide opportunities to relax and move at their own pace.

1873

Come for a tour to see the progress on the station’s remarkable restoration.

CALL TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

519-633-2535

NOW BOOKING CORPORATE MEETINGS & WEDDINGS INTO 2013 THE CANADA SOUTHERN RAILWAY STATION (Photos by MG)

48

Visit North America Railway Hall of Fame at:

www.narhf.org

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SERVICES Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce 44 Talbot St W, Aylmer , ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-773-5655 | Fax: 519-773-5622 E: commerce@amtelecom.net www.aylmerchamber.on.ca The Aylmer Chamber’s mission is to promote networking and community involvement and to attract residents and visitors to the Aylmer area.

Aylmer, Town Of 46 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-773-3164 | Fax: 519 765-1446 E: jreynaert@town.aylmer.on.ca www.aylmer.ca The Town of Aylmer is a lower tier, urban municipality within the County of Elgin. Aylmer is a business, shopping and servicing centre for East Elgin. See ad on page 18.

Barb Ginson & Kathy Willoughby, Royal LePage Triland Realty Brokerage 491 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C3 Ph: 519-633-0600 | Fax: 519-631-9716 E: barbginson@royallepage.ca or kathywilloughby@royallepage.ca www.barbandkathy.ca Whatever your needs, Barb & Kathy will help you find a home you will love, in a place where you’ll feel right at home. See ad below.

Bayham, Municipality of 9344 Plank Rd, Straffordville, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-866-5521 | Fax: 519-866-3884 E: bayham@bayham.on.ca | www.bayham.on.ca Visit the Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse, Marine & Edison (Vienna) Museums & Wind Interpretive Centre kiosk, open daily mid–May to Labour Day. Off season by arrangement.

Special events, beach, boating, fishing, food & family fun.

See ad on page 20.

Carroll Publishing Inc. 15 St. Catharine St, St. Thomas , ON N5P 2V7 Ph: 519-633-1640 | Fax: 519-633-0558 E: terry@theweeklynews.ca | www.theweeklynews.ca Carroll Publishing Inc. publishes “The Weekly News” and a monthly magazine “Elgin This Month” which includes the St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce section “Business Beat”.

Cedarhurst Salon & Spa 76 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A5 Ph: 519-631-7629 | E: cedarhurstsalonandspa@rogers.com www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com Our dedicated professionals and quality products, guarantee to bring you the absolute best in care. Make an appointment…relax…enjoy! See ad on page 14.

Central Elgin, Municipality of 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-4860 | Fax: 519-631-4036 E: dwilson@centralelgin.org | www.centralelgin.org The Municipality of Central Elgin is a progressive, dynamic urban and rural municipality located on the shores of Lake Erie in the heart of Southwestern Ontario connected by 370 kms of municipal roads. Central Elgin encompasses 325 square kms in area and has a population of 12,700 citizens.

See ad on page 11.

Centrepiece Marketing 525 Upper Springs St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1G7 Ph: 519-782-7260 | E: centrepiecemarketing@gmail.com www.centrepiecemarketing.com Centrepiece Marketing feeds the needs of both performers and venues providing professional music pairing, talent booking, consulting and event planning services.

Daytripping in Southern Ontario 624 Broadway St, Wyoming, ON N0N 1T0 Ph: 800-667-0337 | Fax: 519-845-3903 E: info@daytripping.ca | www.daytripping.ca “The Daytripper” is a magazine promoting the most unique shops, stops, towns and events. Available free at tourist booths, in shops and online at www.daytripping.ca.

JEFF YUREK, MPP

Helping you for over 35 years!

Elgin-Middlesex-London

barbandkathy.ca 519-633-0600

St. Thomas & Elgin County Sales Representatives

barbginson@royallepage.ca kathywilloughby@royallepage.ca

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! 1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Constituency Office: 750 Talbot Street, Suite 201 St. Thomas, ON, N5P 1E2

(inside the CASO Railway Station)

E: jeff.yurekco@pc.ola.org Tel: 519-631-0666 or 1-800-265-7638 49

Dog & Pony Productions Inc. 51 Rosebery Pl, St. Thomas, ON N5R 2H9 Ph: 519-637-6410 / 519-637-3777 | Fax: 519-637-2996 E: bob@dogandpony.ca or gail@gailmcnaughton.com www.dogandpony.ca | www.gailmcnaughton.com www.socialmediaCOO.com “Tell your story to get results!” Video production, videography, multimedia, video testimonials, animation, social media, marketing, on–line training, photography. Get your free book, “How to Make a Video to get Noticed”.

Dutton Dunwich Chamber of Commerce PO Box 547, Dutton, ON | www.ddchamber.ca The Dutton–Dunwich Chamber of Commerce is a group of committed people from the business community intent on promoting and building business for the common good.

Dutton/Dunwich, Municipality of 199 Currie Rd, Dutton, ON N0L 1J0 | Ph: 519-762-2204 Fax: 519-762-2278 | E: tfarrell@duttondunwich.on.ca www.duttondunwich.on.ca The Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich is a progressive rural municipality located between Lake Erie and the Thames River in Southwestern Ontario; in the heart of the Talbot Settlement. See ad on page 9.

Elgin Business Resource Centre 300 S Edgeware Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4L1 Ph: 519-633-7597 | Fax: 519-633-5070 E: dwebster@elgincfdc.ca | www.elgincfdc.ca Elgin BRC is community based and represents the County of Elgin. We assist in job creation through the creation of small business and economic development.

Elgin County Library 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-1460 x148 | Fax: 519-631-9209 E: crobson@elgin–county.on.ca www.library.elgin–county.on.ca With ten branches located throughout Elgin County, the Elgin County Library serves all your informational needs, including books, electronic resources, Internet services and children’s programs. See ad at right.

Jeff Yurek, MPP Elgin–Middlesex–London 740 Talbot St, Suite 201, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2 Ph: 519-631-0666 / 1-800-265-7638 E: jeff.yurekco@pc.ola.org Ready and available to help you with your Provincial concerns. See ad on page 49.

Jim Harris, Broker M.V.A Royal LePage Triland Realty–Brokerage 491 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C3 Ph: 519-857-5429 | Fax: 519-631-4478 E: jharris@royallepage.ca | www.isellstthomas.com You need an experienced professional when buying or selling real estate. Count on me for excellent knowledge of Elgin, great negotiation skills and selling strategies.

Joe Preston, MP Elgin–Middlesex–London 2–24 First Ave, St. Thomas, ON N5R 4M5 Ph: 519-637-2255 | Fax: 519-637-3358 | www.joepreston.ca Ready and available to help you with your Federal concerns: Passports; Revenue Canada; Service Canada; Citizenship & Immigration; Employment Insurance. See ad on page 5.

Kettle Creek Publishing 204 Carlow Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C5 Ph: 519-782-4563 | Fax: 519-782-4725 E: andrew@lebeacon.ca | www.lebeacon.ca A community newspaper serving the north shore of Lake Erie from Port Burwell past Port Glasgow with a free circulation of over 6800. Feature stories, news, event reporting, local people, history, and advertising from the shore of Lake Erie.

Mainstreet Aylmer 44 Talbot St W, Aylmer , ON N5H 1J7 | Ph: 519-773-5655 Fax: 519-773-5622 | E: commerce@amtelecom.net MainStreet Aylmer has a unique, friendly, historical atmosphere with boutiques and shops.

Malahide, Township of 87 John St, Aylmer , ON N5H 2C3 Ph: 519-773-5344 | Fax: 519-773-5334 E: aadams@malahide.ca | www.malahide.ca See ad on page 19.

I feel all shiny and new!

Visit the Revitalized St. Thomas Public Library at 153 Curtis Street, Downtown, St. Thomas.

We’ve made some changes that you have to see to believe!

St. Thomas

Public Library

50

Phone: (519) 631-6050 website: www.st-thomas.library.on.ca blog: http://stplblog.wordpress.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Office Plus – A Van Pelt Company 800 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 1N5 Ph: 519-631-4994 | Fax: 519-631-4281 E: info@vanpelt.on.ca | www.vanpelts.com www.print-plus.ca | www.design-plus.ca For all your business needs; office supplies, printing, office furniture, graphic design, authorized post office, computer repair, and free delivery!

Otter Valley Chamber of Commerce PO Box 36, Port Burwell, ON N0J 1T0 Ph: 519-866-3770 | E: sunshinerestaurant@amtelecom.net www.ottervalleychamber.com The Otter Valley Chamber represents the Bayham area. Our mix of beach harbour, wind power, nature, farms, museums and restaurants makes us a popular destination.

Port Stanley Business Improvement Area c/o Jen Reimer, RR #1, Union, ON N0L 2L0 Ph: 519-782-3673 | Fax: 519-782-3673 E: jenreimerpsbia@rogers.com | www.portstanley.net Port Stanley BIA is the strong voice for over 85 businesses in the village. We continually strive to increase beautification, tourism and economic development. See ad on page 83.

Relish Elgin Ph: 519-633-1992 | E: contact@relishelgin.ca www.relishelgin.ca Lifestyles web and print magazine with a seasonal focus on Elgin County. Freelance graphic design services creating appealing designs and media built around your budget.

See ad on page 4.

Southwold, Township of 35663 Fingal Ln, Fingal , ON N0L 1K0 | Ph: 519-769-2010 Fax: 519-769-2837 | E: southwold@twp.southwold.on.ca www.twp.southwold.on.ca See ad on page 10.

St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce 115–300 South Edgeware Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4L1 Ph: 519-631-1981 | E: mail@stthomaschamber.on.ca Fax: 519-631-0466 | www.stthomaschamber.on.ca The St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce serves residents, visitors and businesses by promoting our member organizations, our community’s exceptional assets and providing information, assistance and services to those who are considering an investment here.

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

vacation Make us part of your

www.library.elgin-county.on.ca

new 94.1 myFM Radio St. Thomas 300 Talbot St, Lower Level, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4E2 Ph: 519-633-6936 | E: news941@myfmradio.ca www.myfmradio.ca Delivering the most local news and information with updates every hour and local breaking news when it happens. We help hundreds of local groups each year with free airtime and are actively involved in community fundraisers and events. A leader in community involvement.

Internet Access Activities for Kids Wireless Genealogy Tourist Information Visit any of our

10 branches in Elgin County.

Aylmer • Straffordville Belmont • Dutton • Port Burwell Port Stanley • Rodney • Shedden Springfield • West Lorne

Library 51

St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation 545 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V7 Ph: 519-631-1680 | Fax: 519-631-3441 E: rwheeler@st-thomasedc.on.ca www.st-thomasedc.on.ca To enhance the quality of life for all citizens of the City of St. Thomas primarily by attracting, retaining and growing industry and employment.

St. Thomas Public Library 153 Curtis St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3Z7 Ph: 519-631-6050 | Fax: 519-631-1987 E: stpl@st–thomas.library.on.ca www.st–thomas.library.on.ca Provides programming, computers, and reading, multimedia, research, and local history material. We’ve revitalized the library–come have a look! See ad on page 50.

St. Thomas, City of 545 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 Ph: 519-631-1680 | Fax: 519-633-9019 E: mayor@city.st–thomas.on.ca www.city.st–thomas.on.ca Providing services through the departments of Planning, Treasury, Economic Development, Parks & Recreation, Valleyview, Ontario Works, Police, Human Resources, Fire, Environmental Services, Library, Clerk’s and Mayor’s Office.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts www.starwoodcareers.com Be a member of a world class organization—jump start your career with us! See ad below.

Tourism London 267 Dundas St, London, ON N6A 1H2 Ph: 519-661-5000 | Fax: 519-661-6160 E: tourism@city.london.on.ca | www.londontourism.ca Tourism London is the tourism promotional organization responsible for promoting and developing the tourism and hospitality industry in London and Southwestern Ontario.

West Elgin Chamber of Commerce E: secretary@westelginchamber.ca www.westelginchamber.ca At the West Elgin Chamber of Commerce we believe in a balanced approach to Economic Development. This includes the maintenance and expansion of area agricultural businesses, along with new industrial development, residential expansion and tourism opportunities.

West Elgin, Municipality of 22413 Hoskins Ln, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-0560 | Fax: 519-785-0644 | www.westelgin.net The Municipality of West Elgin—a place where the past and the future live side by side. A minute from the 401, its your link to Lake Erie’s beautiful South Coast. See ad on page 6.

Proud to be a Part of the St. Thomas Community

www.starwoodcareers.com

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS IN ELGIN COUNTY

There’s always something happening in Elgin County. Visit our website for the most current event listings, as well as ideas for exciting day trips and interactive maps of Elgin County’s unique destinations.

DETAILS MAY CHANGE BETWEEN THE PRINTING OF THIS GUIDE AND THE TIME OF THE EVENT - PLEASE CALL AHEAD TO CONFIRM.

COMPLETE EVENT LISTINGS AT WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

YEAR ROUND & SEASONAL EVENTS Jan–Dec 2012 Exhibit: Canada Southern Railway Station – Photographs Through Time From the 1870s to the present day, the station has been an architectural centrepiece of St. Thomas, and photographed by professional photographers and train travellers.

Gentlemen’s Waiting Room, CASO Railway Station 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Contact: Laurence Grant, 519-633-2535 www.narhf.org Summer 2012 Free Tours of Old St. Thomas Church Built in 1820, the Old St. Thomas Church is the oldest historical building and cemetery in the city featuring box style pews and a Masonic stained–glass window.

The Old St. Thomas Church, 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas Time: Mon–Sat | www.oldstthomaschurch.com

JANUARY EVENTS

Jan 18 Watercolour in Motion Romantic Designs Artist Studio offering evening workshop. $40 price includes all supplies needed. Students will learn to create their own Watercolour project.

Time: 6:30pm–9:30pm | 120 Wellington St, St. Thomas 519-860-6851 | www.romanticdesigns.ca Jan 22 Family Snowshoeing Event Meet at log cabins for instructions and guided hikes on traditional wood and rawhide snowshoes. Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority—50 Years of Conservation!

Time: Noon–4pm | Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) www.ltvca.ca Jan 28 Portrait Workshop Romantic Designs Artist Studio offering one–day portrait workshop. Price includes all supplies needed. Please bring photograph of portrait subject.

Time: 9am–4pm | 120 Wellington St, St. Thomas 519-860-6851 | www.romanticdesigns.ca

Jan 17 Seniors Day Out Participants will get to take part in a physical activity (either skate or shuffleboard), a coffee break, a variety of guest speakers, and then lunch for only $10.

East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer Time: 9:30am–12:30pm | Contact: Leanne, 519-773-5631 www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

Always Fresh. © Tim Hortons, 2012

With 8 locations to serve you in

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

St. Thomas

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FEBRUARY EVENTS Month of Feb Annual Miniature Art Show Show and sale of miniature artwork by regional artists.

Image size cannot exceed 16 sq. in.

Time: Daily 11am–5pm | 519-782-7066 Portside Gallery, 187 1/2 Main St, Port Stanley http://portside.cuttingpromotions.com Feb 1 Random Act of Kindness Day St. Thomas’s first ever Random Act of Kindness Day is a day to celebrate those little niceties and encourage others to pay those “acts of kindness” forward. Businesses, organizations, schools, and individuals are encouraged to take up the call to do something nice for their fellow citizens.

Contact: Rob Mise, 94.1 myFM Radio, 519-633-6936, rob.mise@myfmradio.ca Feb 2 Harry Manx Centrepiece Marketing Presents: Harry Manx performing live at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre.

Time: 8pm | Port Stanley Festival Theatre www.portstanleytheatre.ca Feb 12 Moonlight Winter Family Owl Hike Call to pre–register for event hikes and owl presentations.

Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority—Over 50 Years of Conservation!

Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) | 519-264-2420 | www.ltvca.ca

Portside Gallery

SPRINGWATER MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL (Relish Elgin)

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Feb 20 Sparta Family Day Get Away Celebrate the first long weekend of 2012. Enjoy lunch at the Sparta Tea Room and free hot dogs for kids. Decorate a snowman, colour up a storm, fun and games for the whole family. Free draws and specials at all participating businesses.

Time: 12–3pm | Village of Sparta Contact: Norma Roberts, 519-775-2312 Feb 21 Seniors Day Out Participants will get to take part in a physical activity (either skate or shuffleboard), a coffee break, a variety of guest speakers, and then lunch for only $10.

East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer Time: 9:30am–12:30pm | Contact: Leanne, 519-773-5631 www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Feb 21 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner West Elgin Recreation Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney 519-693-7070 Feb 25 Adult Fun Night sponsored by Optimist Club Time: 8pm | 519-768-3306 Rodney Legion, 177 Victoria St, Rodney

MARCH EVENTS Mar TBA 5th Annual Spring Garden Show Celebrate Spring! Explore landscape displays, enjoy seminars and demos. Discover local artisans. A sneak peak at new plant introductions! Kids Club activities. Charity Lunch.

Time: 9am–6pm Fri, 9am–6pm Sat, 9am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com Mar TBA Musical Showcase Four Schools are taking part in this annual event with a participating student enrollment of 500 plus. The gate receipts are being used to bring in a Clinician to the WESS to further assist music students with their studies. Sponsored

by West Lorne Kiwanis Club.

Time: 7pm–9pm | 519-768-1798 West Elgin Secondary School, 139 Graham St, West Lorne Weekends in March and March Break Springwater Maple Syrup Festival Horse–drawn wagon rides through the Sugar Bush and guided nature hikes through the Springwater Forest Trails.

Visit the pancake house and the old–fashioned sugar shanty for maple products, samples and demonstrations. Don’t miss the Sugar Bush Children’s Festival on March 26th!

519-773-9037 | springwater@catfishcreek.ca Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer | www.catfishcreek.ca

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

WEekends in Mar Palmer’s Maple Syrup Festival Saturdays & Sundays in March. Palmer’s Maple Syrup is a great place for the family to enjoy a shanty tour, self–guided woods excursion, pioneer storyteller, log–sawing, and maple leaf branding.

Time: 9am–3pm | Contact: Ellen Palmer, 519-769-2245 34308 Lake Ln, RR#1 Port Stanley Mar 4 Mayor’s Charity Hockey Game St. Thomas City Council and staff take on Elgin County Council and staff. Donations will be accepted at the gate for the Elgin–St. Thomas United Way. Time: 2:30pm | 519-631-1680 x4196 Timken Community Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas Mar 6 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.”

They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered and boiled. Celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques.

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com March 10–17 March Break SkatE Concession items available for purchase. Free hot chocolate!

Time: 1:15pm–3:15pm | 519-633-7112 Timken Community Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas www.city.st–thomas.on.ca March 12–16 Savour the Flavour: A Kid’s Culinary Adventure Boot Camp Savour the Flavour connects kids with the local food community in a hands–on, meaningful and fun way.

Kids join forces to explore the realm of food, with all its possibilities, that includes: linking the farms to their hands as they prepare food for the table.

Time: 1–5pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Mar 12–16 Shutterbug Escapade: A Kid’s Photography Boot Camp During this five day photo boot camp, kids build the confidence that will improve their overall photographic skills and builds excitement so they will use their camera to capture all the escapades of their lives!

Time: 9am–12pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

LEGION EVENTS Feb 5, Mar 4, Apr 1, May 6, Jun 5, Aug 5, Sep 2, Oct 7, Nov 4, Dec 2 West Lorne Legion Breakfasts Cost: $7 | Time: 9am-12pm 142 John St, West Lorne | 519-768-1890 Feb 17 & 24, Mar 16 & 23, Apr 20 & 27, May 18 & 25, Jun 15 & 22, Jul 20 & 27, Aug 17 & 24, Sep 21 & 28, Oct 19 & 26, Nov 16 & 23, Dec 21 & 28 West Lorne Legion Lunches Cost: $8 | Time: 11am-1pm 142 John St, West Lorne | 519-768-1890 Jan 8, Feb 12, Mar 11, Apr 8, May 13, Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12, Sep 9, Oct 14, Dec 9 Rodney Legion Bingo Time: 2pm 177 Victoria St, Rodney | 519-785-2111 Feb 3, Mar 2, Apr 6, May 4, Jun 1, Sep 7, Oct 5, Nov 2 & Dec 7 Rodney Legion Lunches Time: 11am-1pm 177 Victoria St, Rodney | 519-785-2111 Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 18, Apr 15, May 20, Jun 17, Jul 15, Aug 19, Sep 16, Oct 21, Nov 18 & Dec 16 Rodney Legion Brunches Time: 9am-12pm 177 Victoria St, Rodney | 519-785-2111 Mar 17 Suzie Vinnick Centrepiece Marketing Presents: Suzie Vinnick performing live at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre.

Time: 8pm | www.portstanleytheatre.ca Mar 20 Seniors Day Out Participants will get to take part in a physical activity (either skate or shuffleboard), a coffee break, a variety of guest speakers, and then lunch for only $10.

Time: 9:30am–12:30pm | Contact: Leanne, 519-773-5631 East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Mar 24 Winemaker’s Dinner Winemaker Jamie Quai and Chef James Meadows join forces to bring you the ultimate dining experience. They will walk you through six courses and multiple wine pairings. Advance reservations only. Cost: $85 per person (all inclusive).

Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com

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April EVENTS Apr 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Apr 7 2nd Annual Vimy Lecture Elgin County Museum presents Sgt. Graham Mould, 31 CER (The Elgins) and Mr. Brett Potter from CANADIGM, an organization recording the intricate carvings left by Canadian soldiers in the caves and tunnels near the front lines of Vimy Ridge. A display of their work will be on exhibit at the museum for two weeks before and after the talk.

No cost | Time: 2pm | Contact: Mike Baker, 519-631-1460 x159 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas | www.elgin–county.on.ca Apr 7 Easter Bunny Visits Sparta Come to Sparta and visit the Easter Bunny, have your picture taken and search for eggs at all participating businesses.

Donations to the Caring Cupboard would be appreciated.

Time: 11am–3pm | Side Room of the Sparta Tearoom Contact: Mary, 519-775-0054 or Norma, 519-775-2312 Apr 7 Easter Egg Hunt 3 age groups, special prizes, participation prize for all!

Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Rodney.

Time: 10am | Rodney Park, 135 Queen St, Rodney Apr 7 Easter Egg Hunt Sponsored by the Optimist Club of West Lorne.

Time: 1pm | 142 Chestnut St, West Lorne Contact: Karen, 519-768-2220 Apr 11 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers and great–grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.” They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered, tapped and boiled. Join us as we celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques. You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

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Apr 12-15 & 19-21 “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling This touching story of 6 wonderful women shows us how friendship and humour can strengthen and sustain us through good times and bad. Set in the deep south of Louisiana, they face the twists and turns that life brings with healthy doses of love and laughter—all within the setting of Truvy’s Beauty Parlour.

Time: 8pm Thurs-Sat; 2pm Sun | 519-633-8530 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas | www.elgintheatreguild.ca Apr 14 Murray McLauchlan Centrepiece Marketing Presents: Murray McLauchlan performing live at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre.

Time: 8pm | Port Stanley Festival Theatre www.portstanleytheatre.ca Apr 17 Seniors Day Out Participants will get to take part in a physical activity (either skate or shuffleboard), a coffee break, a variety of guest speakers, and then lunch for only $10.

Time: 9:30am–12:30pm | Contact: Leanne, 519-773-5631 East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Apr 20 PD Day Skate Nothing to do during a day off school? Come out and skate for $2 at the Timken Centre. Fun for the entire family.

Time: 1:45pm–3:15pm St.Thomas Timken Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas Apr 21 Canadale Nurseries Grand Opening Event Join us for the official kick–off of another great gardening season! Fill out a ballot to win a $1,000 shopping spree!

Must be here to win!

Time: Grand Opening at 10:30am, Draw at 11am Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com Apr 21 Tiny Tots Mom2Mom Sale Time: 8:30am–12:30pm 519-785-2164 West Elgin Community Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney Apr 21 Cooking with Herbs: International Cuisine Learn the basics of cooking Asian, Caribbean, Greek, Mexican and more, using local produce and our herbs. Sampling and recipes are included. $25 pre–registration required | Time: 1:30pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Apr 23–27 “I Really Want to Cook” Culinary Boot Camp For adults of all ages. Designed for the cooking enthusiast, this five–night “I really want to Cook” Boot Camp training gives you an opportunity that will create a lifetime of memories. You’ll walk away with a “recipe book” of tips, tricks, cooking techniques, recipes and fascinating insights into professional cooking that can be used in your own kitchen. Impress your dinner guests—and your family— with your cooking savvy.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Apr 28 Opening Day of Trout Fishing Rainbow Trout are stocked in the Springwater Pond each year to create a safe and easily accessible fishing opportunity for both novice and avid anglers. Trout fishing is excellent throughout May. Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Apr 28 Winemaker’s Dinner Winemaker Jamie Quai and Chef Sandy Douglas join forces to bring you the ultimate dining experience. They will walk you through six courses and multiple wine pairings.

Advance reservations only. Cost: $85 per person (all inclusive).

Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com

MAY EVENTS May 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com May 4 Grand Opening: Art Emporium Port Stanley Join us for this Gala Event. Celebration begins on Friday evening with music and refreshments—meet the artists!

Continues throughout the weekend 11am–5pm.

Time: 7pm–10pm 177 Main St, Port Stanley Contact: Sandra England, info@artemporium.ca www.ArtEmporium.ca

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SESSIONS AT 12:30 4:00 7:00 & 10:30

Monthly Specials & Discount Days Professional & Friendly Service Non Smoking Environment Snack Bar with Daily Specials Every session, we give away

thousands of dollars in cash prizes and end with a

$1000 jackpot game!

Along with our regular games, we have the following specials:

BC Special • Super 57 • Super 56 Sponsor Special • Player’s Progressive with prizes ranging from $100-$5000!

140 Edward Street, St. Thomas

(519) 633-1984

www.boardwalkgaming.com 57

MAY IS MUSEUM MONTH

“May is Museum Month” is a province-wide campaign organized by the Ontario Museum Association.

Check out what’s new at one of our remarkable museums today!

Aylmer & District Museum | See listing on page 44.

The Aylmer & District Museum preserves, presents and promotes a collection reflecting the town and area’s local heritage. Museum volunteers also organize the annual Christmas Tour of Homes, Tundra Swan migration reports and other events.

Backus-Page House | See listing on page 44 and ad on page 9.

Located in John E. Pearce Provincial Park, this restored Georgian 1850s residence is home to a living history museum. Tour at your own pace or with a costumed interpreter. The Heritage Farm Show in September features period farming demos, working horses, steam engines and tractors.

Gay Lea Dairy Heritage Museum | See listing on page 44 and ad on page 16.

Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the many artefacts and displays showcasing the agricultural history of Southern Ontario. Inside exhibits include life-size animals, sleigh and vehicles, blacksmith and barrel-making corners and more. Outside, the spacious grounds provide lots of room to explore.

Edison Museum of Vienna | See listing on page 44.

The Edison Museum in Vienna, hometown of Thomas Alva Edison’s grandparents, features many authentic Edison artefacts, inventions, family mementos and local history. Exhibit themes are changed annually.

Elgin County Railway Museum | See listing on page 44 and ads on pages 48 & 69.

Housed in the former 1913 Michigan Central Locomotive Shops, the museum includes steam, diesel and electric locomotives, cabooses, work equipment, passenger cars and an operating model railway, much of which has been restored by volunteers. Major fundraising efforts such as “A Day Out With Thomas” ensure the museum’s future role in the preservation and presentation of Elgin County Railway heritage.

Elgin County Museum | See listing on page 44 and ad on page 47.

Elgin County Museum presents a series of changing exhibitions, lectures, and special events throughout the year. The museum also features a small gift shop. Exhibitions in 2012 include temperance and prohibition in19th century Ontario, War of 1812 marine art by Peter Rindlisbacher, a cycling collection from the turn of the 19th century and Elgin County architect J. T. Findlay.

Elgin Military Museum | See listing on page 44 and ad on page 45.

The museum focuses on military history, with an emphasis on Elgin County and its citizens and the role they have played in Canadian military history back to the founding of the Talbot Settlement. The museum is also anticipating the arrival of HMCS Ojibwa, a cold war Oberon Class submarine, which will be preserved and operate as a museum in Port Burwell (visit www.projectojibwa.ca for more).

Port Burwell Museum & Historic Lighthouse | See listing on page 45.

The marine-influenced economy and community life of Port Burwell are depicted within the museum’s displays. It has one of the finest collections of lighthouse lenses on the Great Lakes. Built in 1840, the lighthouse is one of Canada’s oldest wooden lighthouses. The 53 stairs take visitors to a spectacular view of the harbour and village.

Ye Old Forge & Anvil Museum | See listing on page 45.

The cob museum building is one of many examples of early Ontario architecture in Sparta, which began as a Quaker settlement in 1813. It served as a blacksmith shop and carriage works in the early community. The artefacts reflect the history of the Sparta area. It is run by the Sparta and District Historical Society.

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1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

May 5 Rodney Horticulture Plant Sale Perennial plants and garden ornamentals on sale for a reasonable price. Monies donated back for community beautification in flowerbeds throughout the village.

Time: 8am | 519-785-0937 Rodney Town Hall, 217 Furnival Rd, Rodney May 5 Planning & Growing an Herb Garden Growing an herb garden can be an enjoyable experience with just a little planning. Join us for an informative talk and PowerPoint presentation on how to establish your own beautiful herb garden. Lots of handouts.

Pre–registration required | Time: 1:30pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com May 5–6 Longwoods Heritage Weekend Experience history being brought back to life as the Upper Thames Military Re–enactment Society presents the 23rd Annual Battle of Longwoods Heritage Days. LTVCA—Over 50 Years of conservation!

Time: 10am–4pm | 519-264-2420 Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) | www.royal–scots.com May 6 Hike for Hospice Why Hike? Funds raised through the hike can ensure that more Canadians receive the end–of–life care they wish for.

100% of the funds raised stay in your community. Please see the website for more information. www.serenityhousehospice.ca

May 10 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.”

They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered and boiled. Celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques.

You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com May 11 Guy’s Night Out – What Happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery!

From two–fisted samplings to the thrill of the grill, you never know what we’re going to cook–up when you mix local guys with local food. Come cook up a storm and catch up on lost time with some good buddies.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com May 12 Port Stanley Spring Merchants Sidewalk Sale & Community–Wide Yard Sale Great bargains from the merchants. Tons of treasures for everyone at dozens of yard sales. Come to Port Stanley and SHOP, DINE, STAY! Time: 9am–4pm | Throughout the Village of Port Stanley Contact: 519-782-3673 or jenreimerpsbia@rogers.com www.portstanley.net May 12 Tim Horton’s Trout Derby Bring the Kids out for their own Derby on May 12th with special prizes sponsored by Tim Hortons.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer | www.catfishcreek.ca May 12 Creating An Outdoor Oasis: Pond Building Seminar Transform an outdoor space into an oasis, an escape from the stress of the world. Learn the 20 step system to building your own pond.

Time: 10am-12pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com

THE arts & Cookery bank

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

May 12 “You Are on the Right Path” Inukshuk Building Seminar An inukshuk is a free standing structure symbolizing “this is the way”, or “Someone was Here” as respect for a beloved person. Like a snowflake, each one is unique.

Time: 1–3pm | 519-765-2379 | www.silverthornlandscape.com Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

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Looking to tour Elgin with a group?

We’ve got you covered!

The Country Spirits Tour (wine and beer)

Includes 2 local wineries – micro brewery – tasting – tours – food pairing – snacks – lunch

Pokin’ Around the Port (theatre/shopping)

Includes shopping at unique boutiques – artisan studio tours – theatrical performance – portside dinner

Green Acres (farm/agricultural tour)

Includes an apiary visit – herb farm tour – lunch in a Muskoka like setting lavender farm visit – village shopping

To book your Elgin Adventure Call Ontario’s Fun Connection

TOLL FREE @ 877-877-0253 www.ontariosfunconnection.com

#50011494

May 12 Water Feature and Bubbling Rock Seminar Simple and quick. Learn the tricks to installing your own water feature to create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted.

Time: 1–2pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com May 12–13 Mother’s Day Open House Gifts for the first five moms each day. Sales, food samples, fun. High Tea lunch on Sunday, reservations required.

Time: 10am–4pm Sat, 11am–4pm Sun Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com May 13 LAVENDER SENSE Season Opening LAVENDER SENSE opens for the season on Mother’s Day and closes for the season on Thanksgiving, Oct 8 2012. For Complete “Activities & Events” please visit our website.

Thurs–Sat: 10am–5pm & Sun: noon to 5pm.

28011 Ash Line, Wallacetown www.lavendersense.com May 13 Steed & Co Lavender Mother’s Day / Season Opening Celebrate Mother’s Day at Steed & Co Lavender season opening. Mothers will be able to indulge in a lovely lavender gift. Discover another amazing lavender season.

Time: 12pm–4pm | 519-494-5525 Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta www.steedandcompany.com May 20 Optimist Club Breakfast The Optimist Club of West Lorne cooks up a hearty buffet style breakfast that the whole family will enjoy and the price is right—Adults $7, Children 5 to 8yrs $3.50 and 4 & under Free.

Time: 8:30–11am | Contact: Richard, 519-476-6145 Old Boy’s Trailer Park, 8650 Furnival Rd, Port Glasgow May 25 Girl’s Night Out – Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation Get real at our Girl’s Night Out experience. Indulge in sinful delights and cast the calorie counter aside. Explore the passion for local food like you have never dreamed of… and learn some tips that you can use on a weekday night at home.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Relive the talbot settlement (Relish Elgin) May 25–26 Relive the Talbot Settlement Interact with historical interpreters, tradesmen, and re–enactors. Please see website for admission fees.

Time: 10am–3pm Fri,10am–4pm Sat 519-762-3072 | tryconnell@execulink.com 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown | www.backuspagehouse.ca May 26 Creating An Outdoor Oasis: Pond Building Seminar Transform an outdoor space into an oasis, an escape from the stress of the world. Learn the 20 step system to building your own pond.

Time: 10am–12pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com May 26 “You Are on the Right Path” Inukshuk Building Seminar An inukshuk is a free standing structure symbolizing “this is the way”, or “Someone was Here” as respect for a beloved person. Like a snowflake, each one is unique.

Time: 1–3pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com May 26 Water Feature and Bubbling Rock Seminar Simple and quick. Learn the tricks to installing your own water feature to create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted.

Time: 1–2pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com May 26 Tiny Tots Tike–a–Thon Games, bake sale, raffle, silent auction and more. Great fun for the whole family. Call Tiny Tots Co–op Nursery School for more information.

Time: 9am–12pm | 217 Furnival Rd, Rodney | 519-785-2164

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JUNE EVENTS

Port stanley art association show (Photos by MG) May 26 Sparta Community–Wide Garage Sale The merchants do the advertising and the residents display their treasures. Something for everyone, rain or shine.

Time: Starts at 9am Contact: Mary Muscat, 519-775-0054 The Village of Sparta | www.spartacandles.com May 26 Winemaker’s Dinner Winemaker Jamie Quai and Chefs Christie Masse and Will Gaynor join forces to bring you the ultimate dining experience. They will walk you through six courses and multiple wine pairings. Advance reservations only.

Cost: $85 per person (all inclusive) Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com May 26–27 Port Stanley Art Association Show An art show displaying works from members of the Port Stanley Art Association. Please check the website for more detailed information.

Port Stanley | Contact: Susan Tanton, 519-777-3999 www.portstanleyartists.com May 30–Jun 9 “Back in ‘59” “A must see!” A rollicking non–stop journey through the top hits of the 50’s and 60’s. Incredible harmonies, medleys, and choreography as 4 friends relive the time of their lives.

Time: Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm | 519-782-4353 Port Stanley Festival Theatre www.portstanleytheatre.ca May 31–Jun 5 Pink Plants for a Cure Get into the pink & help find a cure. Donations to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation for every pink labelled plant sold.

Time: 8am–8pm weekdays, 8am–6pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com

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every sunday in June Music in the Park: Concert Series Free musical entertainment every Sunday evening.

Showcasing amazing local talent. Enjoy folk, country, easy listening. For people of all ages. Weather permitting, please bring lawn chairs.

Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas (Morris F Jones Bandshell) Time: 7pm | 519-633-7112 www.city.st–thomas.on.ca Jun 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Jun 2 Edison Fest This family fun festival pays homage to the local Thomas Alva (the inventor) Edison family. Enjoy an Edison LightBulb River Race, Ice Cream Social, Music Jam in the Park, craft & art vendors, food, children’s activities & free draws. Visit the Edison Museum, 14 Snow Street, open daily mid–May to Labour Day. Vienna Memorial Park, Vienna Time: 9am–6pm | 519-866-5521 | www.bayham.on.ca Jun 3 Spirit’s Whisper Equine and Nature Retreat Open House Come and experience the Call of the Horse at Spirit’s Whisper Equine and Nature Retreat: facility tours, meet the horses, wagon rides, and nature walks.

Spirit’s Whisper, 55807 Jackson Line, Straffordville Contact: Kristi, 519-872-8800, kristi@callofthehorse.ca Time: 10am–4pm | www.callofthehorse.ca Jun 5 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.”

They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered and boiled. Celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques.

You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Jun 6–9 St. Anne’s Community Festival A local family fun tradition since 1972! Midway, crafters, entertainment, face painting, bingo, food and fun. FREE admission.

Time: Opens Wed, Thurs 4pm; Fri noon; Sat 11am 20 Morrison Dr, St. Thomas | 519-631-3640 http://stannesfestival.com/index2.html Jun 7–10 & 14–16 “Key for Two” by J. Chapman & D. Freeman Sure, it can be lots of fun to have two gentlemen to keep you company, pay your bills (and keep you supplied with all the fish and cheddar you could ever want) but things can get pretty complicated, especially when one doesn’t know about the other, schedules get mixed–up, ankles get twisted, and suddenly, 2 gentlemen can be two too many!

Time: 8pm (Jun 10 2pm) | 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas 519-633-8530 | www.elgintheatreguild.ca Jun 8–10 Van Fest Come see Canada’s Premiere Truck Show, including custom vans, pick–ups, and 4x4’s. Show and Shine is Saturday from 11am to 5pm. Purchase tickets at the gate.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Jun 8–10 Rosy Rhubarb Festival The 20th Annual Rosy Rhubarb Festival celebrates rhubarb, fun and community spirit in the village of Shedden. The community welcomes visitors, tourists and vendors from near and far. Come browse the yard sales and participate in the rhubarb pie auction. Hope to see you there.

Time: Starts at 8am | Contact: Keith, 519-764-2600 Shedden Keystone Complex and surrounding community www.rosyrhubarbfestival.com

The vineyard at quai du vin

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Jun 9 “You Are on the Right Path” Inukshuk Building Seminar An inukshuk is a free standing structure symbolizing “this is the way”, or “Someone was Here” as respect for a beloved person. Like a snowflake, each one is unique.

Time: 10am–12pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com Jun 9 Creating An Outdoor Oasis – Pond Building Seminar Transform an outdoor space into an oasis, an escape from the stress of the world. Learn the 20 step system to building your own pond.

Time: 1–3pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com Jun 9 Water Feature and Bubbling Rock Seminar Simple and quick. Learn the tricks to installing your own water feature to create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted.

Time: 1–2pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com Jun 10 Grape Escape Vineyard Run For details visit www.QuaiduVin.com Time: 9am–12pm | 519-775-2216 Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas www.quaiduvin.com Jun 13–30 “Dating By The Book” Carolyn is divorced, determined, and desperate! Her trials and tribulations only multiply as she attempts a smooth re–entry into the world of romance.

Time: Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm Port Stanley Festival Theatre www.portstanleytheatre.ca 519-782-4353 | info@portstanleytheatre.ca Jun 15 Guy’s Night Out – What Happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery!

From two–fisted samplings to the thrill of the grill, you never know what we’re going to cook–up when you mix local guys with local food. Come cook up a storm and catch up on lost time with some good buddies.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

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ANNUAL STRAWBERRY SOCIAL (Photos by MG)

RAILWAY NOSTALGIA WEEKEND (Photos by MG) Jun 16–17 2 Night Horse Camp Horse camp for children ages 5 and up. Along with the many hours spent with the horses out on the beautiful trails, the “dudes” will participate in a complete camp program including swimming, hayride, campfire and skit night, outdoor games and lots more. Indoor riding arena for lessons.

Time: 2pm Fri–2pm Sun 519-762-5402 | www.duderanchontario.com Horseshoe J Dude Ranch, 32553 Erin Ln, Fingal Jun 16–17 Family Camp Come and bring the family to enjoy some “Horsing Around” fun on the ranch. Horseback riding, hayride, swimming, campfire, and lots of fun and games.

Time: 2pm Sat–11am Sun 519-762-5402 | www.duderanchontario.com Horseshoe J Dude Ranch, 32553 Erin Ln, Fingal Jun 17 Father’s Day Brunch Brunch in honour of dad, everything flavoured with herbs and using local produce. Visit our website for menu.

Reservations required.

Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer Time: 11am–2pm | 519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

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Jun 17 St. Peter’s Anglican Church Anniversary Dinner Enjoy a home cooked meal on Father’s Day. Time: 4:30–7pm | 29596 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown Contact: Anna Tokarz, 519-762-2617 www.stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org Jun 22 Girl’s Night Out – Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation Get real at our Girl’s Night Out experience. Indulge in sinful delights and cast the calorie counter aside. Explore the passion for local food like you have never dreamed of… and learn some tips that you can use on a weekday night at home.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Jun 22 Railway Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Reception to honour the 2012 inductees to the North America Railway Hall of Fame.

Time: 7:30pm | Anderson Hall, Canada Southern Railway Station | 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Contact: Laurence Grant, 519-633-2535 www.narhf.org Jun 23 Annual Strawberry Social Join the North America Railway Hall of Fame for their Strawberry Social in the Canada Southern Railway Station.

Enjoy entertainment and savour the sweet tastes of local strawberries and ice–cream in the historic dining room.

Canada Southern Railway Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Time: 11am–1pm | 519-633-2535 | www.narhf.org Jun 23 Cooking with Herbs: Pizza on the BBQ Come and explore and sample this versatile dish—turn your bbq into a pizza oven. Samples and recipes. Taught by Justin Benner. $25 Pre–registration required.

Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer Time: 1:30pm | 519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com Jun 23 Creating An Outdoor Oasis – Pond Building Seminar Transform an outdoor space into an oasis, an escape from the stress of the world. Learn the 20 step system to building your own pond.

Time: 10am–12pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Jun 23 “You Are on the Right Path” Inukshuk Building Seminar An inukshuk is a free standing structure symbolizing “this is the way”, or “Someone was Here” as respect for a beloved person. Like a snowflake, each one is unique.

Time: 1–3pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com Jun 23 Water Feature and Bubbling Rock Seminar Simple and quick. Learn the tricks to installing your own water feature to create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted.

Time: 1–2pm | 519-765-2379 Silverthorn Landscape Supplies 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas www.silverthornlandscape.com Jun 23–24 Steed & Co. Lavender Harvest Festival Discover the bounties of the lavender harvest with various demonstrations. Indulge in the festivities with artists and musicians throughout the weekend. Cost: adult $5.

Time: 11am–5pm Sat, 12pm–4pm Sun Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta Contact: Suzanne Steed, 519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com Jun 23–24 Railway Nostalgia Weekend Re–live the great rail adventure! Discover local railway heritage with interpreters in costume, historical demonstrations, artefacts, model railway displays, children’s activities, train hobby show vendors, railway art, locomotives, jiggers, cabooses and more.

Time: 10am–4pm Elgin County Railway Museum, 225 Wellington St, St. Thomas | 519-637-6284 www.ecrm5700.org

Jun 24 “Letter from Wingfield Farm” The Elgin Theatre Guild is thrilled to host “Letter from Wingfield Farm” by Dan Needles, starring Rod Beattie. $40.

Reserve early as the show will be sold out.

Time: 2pm | 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas 519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca Jun 24 St. Peter’s Anglican Church 185th Anniversary Guest speakers and special music.

Time: 3pm | 29596 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown Contact: Anna Tokarz, 519-762-2617 www.stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org JUN 24 1850s HIGH TEA Enjoy high tea with sandwiches and desserts as they would have in the 1850s followed by lawn games.

Tickets must be ordered in advance, $20/person.

Time: 1pm | 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown 519-762-3072 | tryconnell@execulink.com www.backuspagehouse.ca Jun 24 Summer Swing!

An afternoon of live music, dancing, and memories of the Stork Club and the Big Band Swing era! In support of the Stork Club Museum and Big Band Hall of Fame. $25 pp | Time: 1pm–5pm Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas www.musicmemories.ca Jun 30–Jul 1 Port Stanley Art Association Show An art show displaying works from members of the Port Stanley Art Association. Please check the website for more detailed information.

Port Stanley Contact: Susan Tanton, 519-777-3999 www.portstanleyartists.com

QUAI DU VIN .

E S T A T E

SUMMER SWING! (Relish Elgin)

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

W I N E R Y

519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

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Jul 1 Canada Day Enjoy fun activities throughout the day! Free swim, volunteer awards, opening ceremonies, musical entertainment, kids activities, fireworks at dusk.

Time: 12pm–dusk | Sons of Scotland Park, Dutton Contact: Katie Ambrose, 519-762-3209 www.duttondunwich.on.ca

PORT STANLEY CANFEST (Relish Elgin) Jun 29–Jul 1 Port Stanley Canfest A Canada Day celebration featuring live music, boat parade, fireworks, Port Perch Plate, Veterans parade and cake cutting celebration and much more! See our website for details. Fun for everyone to ‘Shop, Dine, Stay’ Time: Daily; see website for details | Port Stanley Contact: Carol Gates, carolgates@gtsportstanley.ca www.portstanleycanfest.ca Jun 29–Jul 1 Canfest Weekend Visit the Art Emporium during the CanFest celebrations.

Featuring over 29 regional artists.

Time: Extended hours, till 9pm Fri & Sat 177 Main St, Port Stanley | www.ArtEmporium.ca Contact: Sandra England, info@artemporium.ca

JULY EVENTS Saturday Afternoons IN JULY Saturday Afternoons with the Beekeeper Spend 30 or so minutes with the beekeeper and see a beehive opened up for you personally. Reserve a spot online or just take a chance and show up. Your opportunity to meet the Queen of the hive, see new bees hatching, try pumping the bellows of the bee smoker, or perhaps if you dare you can hold a stingless drone bee. Ask all the bee questions that you can think of. $10/pp, Group of 5 is $45.

Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer Time: 2:30pm | 519-773-5503 | www.clovermead.com Every Sunday in july Music in the Park: Concert Series Free musical entertainment every Sunday evening.

Showcasing amazing local talent. Enjoy folk, country, easy listening. For people of all ages. Weather permitting, please bring lawn chairs.

Time: 7pm | Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas (Morris F Jones Bandshell) | 519-633-7112 www.city.st–thomas.on.ca

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Jul 1 Canada Day Celebrations in Port Burwell Parade at 1pm followed by flag raising ceremony, music entertainment, children’s activities and cake cutting. Visit the Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse.

Time: Parade 1pm | Port Burwell Legion to Cenotaph Contact: Bob, 519-874-1190, 519-209-6745 or blozon@amtelecom.net | www.bayham.on.ca Jul 1 Canada Day Celebrations The City of St. Thomas is hosting a spectacular fireworks display at 10pm. Food, fun and family entertainment.

Time: 10pm Fireworks Display DJ Tarry Complex, 275 Bill Martyn Pkwy, St. Thomas 519-633-7112 | www.city.st–thomas.on.ca Jul 1 Annual Canada Day Celebrations Family fun for everyone! Please see website for more details.

Time: 5pm–dusk | Contact: Theresa, 519-773-5631 East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Jul 1 Canada Day BBQ and 1/2 Price Herb Sale Celebrate Canada Day with a bbq lunch by the waterfalls.

Visit website for menu. 4” potted herbs 1/2 price for the day.

Time: Store open 10am–3:30pm, BBQ 11am Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

CANADA DAY FIREWORKS (Photos by MG)

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Jul 1 Show & Shine in the Shade Cash prizes, great prize table, breakfast, food, Van Car Show.

Sponsored by Optimist Club of West Lorne.

Time: 8am Registration, 8:30–11am breakfast Miller Park, West Lorne Contact: Doug, 519-768-2972, twineagles9678@yahoo.ca Jul 1 Canada Day Celebrations 1pm Kids Country Carnival & other activities; 5pm Fish Fry; 7pm Opening Ceremonies, baseball game, Snake Lady show; 9:30pm fireworks.

Time: 1pm–10:30pm | Miller Park, West Lorne 519-785-0560 www.westelgin.net Jul 4–21 “Sexy Laundry” Armed with a copy of “Sex For Dummies”, Henry and Alice check themselves into a sexy spa hotel with a mission... to jump start their 25–year marriage!

Time: Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm Port Stanley Festival Theatre | 519-782-4353 info@portstanleytheatre.ca | www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Jul 8 Kids Fishing Derby Registration open at 9:30; fishing 10–2pm; free hotdog and pop; lots of prizes; Must have parent/guardian present.

Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Rodney.

Port Glasgow Marina | 519-785-0163 Jul 8 Ultimate Tributes Five hours of live entertainment featuring some of the best tribute artists in the area. Event in support of Easter Seals.

Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the gate.

Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas Time: 2pm–7pm | 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com jul 11 Seniors’ picnic in the park This is the 14th Annual Picnic, with food available, entertainment all day, prizes and fun. Admission is free.

Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas | Time: 9:30am–3:30pm Contact: VON, 519-637-6408

Jul 6–8 Balls Bike Rally Ride with a thousand for charity. Ride, eat and enjoy the entertainment. Camping is available. Purchase tickets at the gate.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca

Jul 11 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.”

They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered and boiled. Celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques.

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Jul 7 Friday Night Art Walk Visit the Art Emporium during the Port Stanley Friday Night Art Walks—the first Friday of each month during the summer. Featuring over 29 regional artists.

Time: Extended hours, till 9pm 177 Main St, Port Stanley | www.ArtEmporium.ca Contact: Sandra England, info@artemporium.ca

Jul 12–24 Customer Appreciation Sale We thank our loyal customers with our biggest sale of the year! Everything in store 30%–70% off. Fun activities for the entire family.

Time: 8am–6pm weekdays, 8am–5pm Sat,10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com

14th Annual

SENIOR’S PICNIC IN THE PARK

FOOD • ALL DAY ENTERTAINMENT • PRIZES & FUN

Wednesday, July 11th

9:30am-3:30pm • Pinafore Park, St. Thomas

FREE ADMISSION

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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Jul 19–22 Summer Sales Days Come and join us for the biggest and best sale of the year.

Fantastic sales and savings throughout the store & nursery.

Time: 9am–5pm Mon–Sat,12pm–5pm Sun Moore Water Gardens, 4683 Sunset Rd, Port Stanley 519-782-4052 | www.moorewatergardens.com

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS (Photos by MG) CACTUS, CATTLE & COWBOYS (Relish Elgin)

Jul 13–15, 20–22 Day Out With Thomas All aboard! Take a 25–minute train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, enjoy live music, storytelling, THOMAS inflatable’s, hands–on activities, Sodor Island hay bale maze & much more! Tickets available online.

Time: 8am–6pm | St. Thomas-Elgin Memorial Centre Contact: Dawn, 519-637-6284 | www.ticketweb.ca/dowt Jul 14 Pizza Saturday The second Saturday of each month in the summer, enjoy a mouth–watering pizza lunch in the Tea Room.

Time: 11am–4pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com Jul 15 Artefact Day Bring artefact points out to Archaeology Day and learn more about our local heritage. Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority—50 years of Conservation!

Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) Time: 1pm–4pm | 519-264-2420 | www.ltvca.ca Jul 16–20, Jul 30–Aug 3 Backus–Page House Adventure Day Camp Day camp for children ages 6 to 10. Enjoy fun, crafts and friendship. $100 per child per week.

Time: 9am–5pm Mon–Fri | 519-762-3072 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown | www.backuspagehouse.ca

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Jul 20 Guy’s Night Out – What Happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery!

From two–fisted samplings to the thrill of the grill, you never know what we’re going to cook–up when you mix local guys with local food. Come cook up a storm and catch up on lost time with some good buddies.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Jul 21 Family Day Bring the family and buy one large bucket of balls and receive one free small bucket of balls for the kids (one per family).

Hancox Homestead Golf Driving Range, 31897 Silver Clay Ln, Iona Station Contact: Simon or Helen Hancox, 519-762-6048 Time: 10am–7:30pm | www.hancoxhomesteadgolf.com Jul 21 Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys Western Festival 8am West Lorne Fire Dept. breakfast, 8:30am Farmers Market, 9am vendors & family events in Miller Park. Dog Agility Show, Petting Zoo, Battle of the Bands, Trail Rides (BYOH).

Time: 9am | West Lorne | 1-866-401-2965 www.cactuscattleandcowboys.ca Jul 21–22 Horse Camp & Trail Rides Trail rides on Trans Canada Trails and private trails to Lake Erie. Overnight horse stalls available, advance booking required. Camp fire and jamboree.

Time: 3pm Sat, 10am Sun | 28660 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown 519-762-2783 or 1-866-401-2965 Jul 21–22 Dutton Lions Sportsfest Dutton Lions host the Dutton Sportsfest weekend on Jul 21 and 22. Come out for some fast hitting ball. For more info, contact a Dutton Lions Club member.

Sons of Scotland Park, Dutton Jul 21 Annual Street Dance Annual street dance. Proceeds to Dutton Dunwich Parks and Recreation and Minor Sports. Age of majority in effect.

Time: 9pm–1am | Co–Trac Ford Parking Lot, Main St, Dutton Contact: Katie Ambrose, 519-762-3209 www.duttondunwich.on.ca

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Jul 22 Dutton Community Pool Swim Meet Contact pool staff when pool opens in early June.

Dutton Dunwich Community Pool | 519-762-2772 www.duttondunwich.on.ca Jul 25–Aug 11 “Having Hope At Home” In this multi–generational comedy, modern medicine meets midwifery head–on in a torrent of family feuding! It will take a baby to heal the rift in this heart–warming story.

Time: Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm Port Stanley Festival Theatre | 519-782-4353 info@portstanleytheatre.ca | www.portstanleytheatre.ca Jul 27 Girl’s Night Out – Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation Get real at our Girl’s Night Out experience. Indulge in sinful delights and cast the calorie counter aside. Explore the passion for local food like you have never dreamed of…and learn tips that you can use on a weekday night at home.

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Jul 28 Heritage Line Herbs & THE SILVER BIRCH TEA ROOM 10th Anniversary Open House Celebrating our 10th year in business. Stop by to say hello, enjoy the entertainment and refreshments. Thanks for 10 wonderful years!

53443 Heritage Line, RR 1, Aylmer Time: 2–6pm | 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com Jul 28 (Rain Date: Aug 11) Clovermead’s 8th Annual Bee Beard Competition Four teams of beekeepers compete for the title of Bee Beard Champion. Using live honeybees with real stingers, they adorn their faces with crawling bees and strut down the catwalk to perform in front of the judges and the crowd.

Admission $10 pp; Group of 5 is $45.

Time: Competition starts at 2:30pm | Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer info@clovermead.com | www.clovermead.com

25-minute ride with a full-size Thomas the Tank Engine™ Meeting Sir Topham Hatt Storytelling, Live Music, Build with Mega Bloks® and Much More!

St. Thomas-Elgin Memorial Arena

80 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas, ON

Tickets are $20 for ages 2 and up.

Advance purchase is recommended.

Ticket sales are final. Events are rain or shine.

Day Out With Thomas™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverent W Awdry. © Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited.

Thomas & Friends and Design is Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off. HIT and the HIT logo are trademarks of HIT Entertainment Limited. ©2012, MEGA Brands Inc. All Rights Reserved. MEGA BLOKS and MEGA BLOKS logo are registered trademarks of MEGA Brands Inc.

QUAI DUVIN E S T A T E . W I N E R Y

Summer Sounds Delicious ‘12

SATURDAY MARCH 24TH, APRIL 28TH & MAY 26TH

Winemakers Dinners SUNDAY JUNE 10TH

Grape Escape Vineyard Run SUNDAY JUNE 24TH

Music & Memories: Stork Club Revisited SUNDAY JULY 8TH

Ultimate Tributes SUNDAY JULY 29TH

Motown Revue SUNDAY AUGUST 12TH

Caribbean Fiesta SUNDAY AUGUST 26TH

Reds, Whites & the Blues For more information on these and other events, please visit our website.

2km north of Sparta Ontario • 519-775-2216 CLOVERMEAD BEE BEARD COMPETITION (Relish Elgin)

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

www.QuaiduVin.com

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Jul 28 Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Derby Bob Izsumi has organized a fantastic fishing derby with the help of the Ontario Police Association and Canadian Tire. It is a great family outing. You won’t want to miss this fun day!

Purchase tickets at the gate.

Time: 9am | Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Jul 28–29 Port Stanley Art Association Show An art show displaying works from members of the Port Stanley Art Association. Please check the website for more detailed information.

Port Stanley | Contact: Susan Tanton, 519-777-3999 www.portstanleyartists.com Jul 29 Motown Revue Five hours of live entertainment featuring some of the best Motown tribute artists in the area. For full event details visit www.QuaiduVin.com Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the gate | Time: 2pm–7pm Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com

AUGUST EVENTS Sat Afternoons IN AUG Saturday Afternoons with the Beekeeper Spend 30 or so minutes with the beekeeper and see a beehive opened up for you personally. Reserve a spot online or just take a chance and show up. Your opportunity to meet the Queen of the hive, see new bees hatching, try pumping the bellows of the bee smoker, or perhaps if you dare you can hold a stingless drone bee. Ask all the bee questions that you can think of. $10/pp, Group of 5 is $45.

Time: 2:30pm | Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer | 519-773-5503 www.clovermead.com

CHEF MICHAEL P CLIVE & EMM GRYNER AT CULINARY CAMPING (Photos by MG)

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Every Sunday IN AUG Music in the Park: Concert Series Free musical entertainment every Sunday evening.

Showcasing amazing local talent. Enjoy folk, country, easy listening. For people of all ages. Weather permitting, please bring lawn chairs.

Time: 7pm | Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas (Morris F Jones Bandshell) | 519-633-7112 www.city.st–thomas.on.ca Aug 3 Friday Night Art Walk Visit the Art Emporium during the Port Stanley Friday Night Art Walks—the first Friday of each month during the summer. Featuring over 29 regional artists.

Time: Extended hours, till 9pm 177 Main St, Port Stanley | www.ArtEmporium.ca Contact: Sandra England, info@artemporium.ca Aug 3–5 Tub Daze in Port Burwell Summer weekend family and tourist celebrations, beach volleyball, fire truck pulling contest, beer tent, music, entertainment, children’s activities, lots of great food and fun. Visit the Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse.

Fireworks on Sun Aug 5 at dark.

Time: 9am–10pm | Port Burwell East Beach Contact: Deb, 519-874-4450, dtravis@amtelecom.net www.bayham.on.ca Aug 5 Culinary Camping Culinary Camping is an event that features local chefs, musicians, cooking demos, concerts, culinary education geared towards Diabetes and Celiac diseases. Competitions and amazing vendors!

Time: 9am–10pm Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer 519-782-7260 | www.culinarycampingevent.com Aug 10–12 Aylmer and East Elgin Agricultural Fair Daily entertainment, demo derbies, agricultural exhibits, arts and craft competitions, food vendors and midway rides!

Come join us for sun & fun at The Aylmer Fair.

Aylmer Fair Grounds, 139 Pine St E, Aylmer Contact: Elaine Earhart, 519-773-3445 Time: 10am–10pm | www.aylmerfair.ca Aug 10–12 Elgin Historical Show (Kettle Valley Pioneers) Elgin Historical Show, always the second full weekend in August. Antique show to demonstrate how farming was done in the pioneer days.

Time: Aug 10&11, 9am–5pm; Aug 12, 8am–5pm Dan Patterson Conservation Area, just north of St. Thomas Contact: Steve, 519-633-6803

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

PORT GLASGOW LAVENDER FAIRY FESTIVAL (Relish Elgin) Aug 11 Ribs & Rubies: Dinner on the Ridge Put this date aside NOW—you’re going to want to be part of this outdoor fundraising dining extravaganza. Stay tuned!

This is our big fund–raiser to help support our programs and events. The Bank is a non–profit, registered charitable organization.

The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne 519-768-9986 | www.theartsandcookerybank.com Aug 11 Lavender Fairy Festival at Steed & Co Lavender Indulge in an afternoon filled with fairy fun and lore.

Discover the Lavender Fairy and learn about her important job. Guest entertainment. Bring your wings!

Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta Contact: Suzanne Steed, 519-494-5525 Time: noon–4pm | www.steedandcompany.com Aug 11 Pizza Saturday The second Saturday of each month in the summer, enjoy a mouth–watering pizza lunch in the Tea Room.

Time: 11am–4pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com Aug 11 Home Building Centre Horseshoe Tournament Coordinated by the Friends of Springwater and sponsored

by Aylmer’s Secord Home Building Centre, this first Annual Horseshoe Tournament will be a fun day of competition and great prizes. Purchase tickets at the gate.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Aug 11 Pond Tour Sign up to tour Port Stanley and area ponds at your own pace. A few select ponds will be showcased. Pond owners will be available to answer questions. There will be a $5 fee per person which will be donated to the Matt Mailing Memorial Fund for Organ Transplant Research.

Port Stanley and area | Contact: Sue See, 519-782-4052 Time: 11am–3pm | www.moorewatergardens.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

PORT STANLEY

Over 100km of breathtaking Lake Erie shoreline waits for you in Elgin County. Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy portside village or a more tranquil atmosphere, Elgin’s four Ports have something for everyone!

Port Glasgow The wild beauty of undeveloped lakeshore makes Port Glasgow a recreationist’s dream, whether bird-watching, tramping through the trails of the local Carolinian forests, or relaxing on its beautiful beaches. The local marina, small private airstrip and four nearby trailer resorts cater to both pickerel fishers and laid back vacationers.

Port Stanley With one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on the North shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley offers visitors a unique mix of fascinating history, natural attractions and great entertainment. Surrounded by scenic countryside, reminders of the lively village’s history are visible in the King George VI Lift Bridge, Port Stanley Terminal Rail, and the Stork Club Museum and Big Band Hall of Fame. Port Stanley is also home to great shops, renowned restaurants, three golf courses, and a thriving arts community.  71

Port Bruce This quaint former fishing village is home to a waterfront Provincial Park where visitors can swim, picnic, and enjoy some of the best Lake Erie Yellow Perch and Walleye fishing off the pier. Any visit to the area is well complemented by a visit to Rush Creek Wines. Featuring award-winning fruit wines, a delicious bruschetta bar, retail store, and special events throughout the year, it is yet another unique stop close to this charming portside village.

Port Burwell Port Burwell is known as the “Jewel of Erie’s North Shore”. Located across from the historic Port Burwell Lighthouse, history buffs will be impressed by the Marine Museum’s fine collection of lighthouse lenses, pier markers and many other marine artefacts related to the history of Lake Erie.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Port Burwell Provincial Park’s hiking trails, campgrounds, day use beach and other amenities. It is also one of the best sites for witnessing spring migrations of songbirds and fall migrations of raptors, monarch butterflies, blue jays and dragonflies.

“OUR OWN” FUDGE

CHOCOLATES • CONFECTIONS Local Country Honey & Maple Syrup Open 11am-5pm 205 Main Street, Port Stanley, Ontario 519-782-3066 www.telegraphhouse.com

Elgin County’s Longest Running Tourist Attraction

The Ports of Elgin offer diverse experiences for those looking for relaxation, entertainment or anything in between. Whether planning a vacation or staycation, chart your own course at www. elgintourist.com/ports.

PORT BRUCE

GIFT SHOP • SCENIC RIDES & SPECIAL EVENTS GROUP CHARTERS • LITTLE RED CABOOSE BIRTHDAY PARTIES

COME RIDE THE TRAIN! PORT BURWELL

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www.pstr.on.ca • 519-782-3730

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Aug 12 Caribbean Fiesta Five hours of live entertainment featuring the Caribbean sounds of Calypso, Regae, Latin Jazz and steel drum. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the gate.

Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas Time: 2–7pm | 519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

Aug 18 Nightwalk with the Spirits Take a guided tour through the Sha–Nah–Doht Village at night. The “spirits” have waited 1,000 years to tell you their story. LTVCA—Over 50 Years of Conservation!

Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) Time: 9pm (one show only) | 519-264-2420 | www.ltvca.ca

Aug 15 Elgin Cattlemen’s Association Annual Barbecue Come out and enjoy great local food. The event runs rain or shine the third Wed of Aug each year. It serves approximately 700–800 people. Adults: $12 Time: 5pm–7pm | Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas Contact: Amanda Ford, 519-762-3749

Aug 19 Brunch by the Waterfalls Enjoy a relaxing Sunday Brunch in our gardens by the waterfalls. Everything flavoured with local produce and herbs. Visit our website for menu. Reservations required.

Time: 11am–2pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

Aug 15–Sept 8 “Storm WarNing” By Norm Foster Norm Foster does it again. The time is 1953. A reclusive war vet and an extroverted big band chart writer collide in a storm of “oil and water”. Romantic comedy at it’s best!

Time: Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm Port Stanley Festival Theatre 519-782-4353 | info@portstanleytheatre.ca www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Aug 23 FreshFest at the CASO Station Foods from local producers presented in partnership with talented area chefs, wineries and brewery to create the ultimate taste experience.

Canada Southern Railway Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas www.freshfest.ca

Aug 17–19 Port Stanley Harbourfest & Tall Ship Nautical celebration of the War of 1812, the St. Lawrence II Brigantine ship, battle re–enactments, midway, vendors, entertainment, merchants’ specials. Come to Port Stanley and ‘SHOP, DINE, STAY’.

Time: Fri noon–Sun 5pm | Port Stanley Harbour Contact: Jen, 519-782-3673, jenreimerpsbia@rogers.com www.portstanley.net Aug 17–19 Fred Eaglesmith Charity Music Festival Come out and see this popular entertainer for the day or the weekend. Fred’s line–up includes Americana, alternative country, bluegrass, rock, and just great song writing. Enjoy great Canadian music at its best. Purchase tickets at the gate or visit www.fredeaglesmith.com.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Aug 18 3 Port Cycle Tour Ride the challenging routes of Southern Ontario’s best cycling destination, presented by the Aylmer Express Graphics Group. Choose from 160km, 100km and 50km routes with lunch provided in Port Bruce.

Port Burwell, Port Bruce, Port Stanley brett@aylmerexpress.ca | www.threeporttour.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Aug 23–26 Iron Horse Festival A community street festival celebrating our heritage, featuring 3 stages of entertainment, rib–fest, midway, vendors, artists, kids’ junction and Iron Chef Grill–Off. Time: 11am–11pm Thur–Sat, 11am–5pm Sun Talbot St between St. Catherines and Elgin St Contact: Jayden (President), admin@ironhorsefestival.com www.ironhorsefestival.com

Freshfest (Photos by MG) Iron horse festival (Photos by MG)

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Aug 25 Free Movie in the Park “Free” movie in beautiful Pinafore Park. New release family movie on a 25’ screen! Please bring a non–perishable food item for the food bank.

Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas Time: 9pm | 519-633-7112 | www.city.st–thomas.on.ca Aug 25 Watermelon Fest in Straffordville Pancake breakfast at firehall. Parade at 10am. Summer family fun, music, entertainment, children’s activities, rides, silent auction, craft vendors, lots of great food and movie at dark.

Time: 8am; Parade 10am (School to Park) Straffordville Community Centre Park | www.bayham.on.ca Contact: Pauline 519-866-5573, deblaire@hotmail.com Aug 25 Talbot Trail of Yard Sales 100 kilometres of yard sales, farm produce stands, unique shops, museums, wineries, art galleries, and so much more.

Just follow the Talbot Trail.

Time: All Day | County–wide | www.elgintourist.com Aug 25 Talbot Trail of Yard Sales through Bayham Follow the Elgin County Talbot Trail of Yard Sales filled with fun and treasure packed yard sales throughout Bayham along Heritage Line to Plank Road through Richmond, Straffordville and Vienna to Port Burwell.

Time: 8am–3pm | Throughout Bayham 519-866-5521 | www.bayham.on.ca

Aug 25 Talbot Trail of Yard Sales AT COUNTRY SEAT Many vendors and charities with a wide variety of goods.

Antiques, collectables, kitchen ware, furniture. Christmas Décor and Home Décor. Please come and browse. Some vendors will also be here on the 28th.

Time: 8am–4pm | Contact: Yvonne, 519-762-2965 Country Seat Upholstery Studio, 28143 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown Aug 25 Talbot Trail of Yard Sales At Empire Valley Stop at Empire Valley for lots of unique treasures. Outdoor farmers market, multi–family yard sales, unique vendors, firefighter’s breakfast & lunch, hot roasted sweet corn.

Proceeds to Dutton/Dunwich Fire Dept.

Time: 8am–2pm | Contact: Joy Westelaken, 519-762-3504 27983 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown | www.empirevalleyfarms.com Aug 25–26 Railway Heritage DayS Discover railway heritage at this living history event. Meet former railway workers, tour engines, a caboose, and baggage car, explore model railway displays and hobby vendors, enjoy music, artefact exhibits and more.

Time: 10am–4pm | Elgin County Railway Museum, 225 Wellington St, St. Thomas | 519-637-6284 www.ecrm5700.org Aug 25–26 Port Stanley Art Association Show An art show displaying works from members of the Port Stanley Art Association. Please check the website for more detailed information.

Port Stanley | Contact: Susan Tanton, 519-777-3999 www.portstanleyartists.com Aug 26 Reds, Whites and the Blues Five hours of live entertainment featuring some of the best Blues artists in the area.

Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the gate | Time: 2pm–7pm Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas 519-775-2216 | www.quaiduvin.com

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

ST. THOMAS FIRE MUSTER (Photos by MG)

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Every Saturday in Sept Clovermead Annual Honey Harvest Festival Come and see how honey is harvested from the hive, dip your own beeswax candle, safely see a live bee hive opened, and ask your questions. Bee Beard demonstration at 2:30pm, plus wagon rides, bee barrel train rides, jumping pillow, pedal go carts, music, animals and buckets of fall family fun on the Adventure Farm! $10pp, Group of 5 is $45 | Time: 11am–4pm Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer | info@clovermead.com | www.clovermead.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Weekends in sept Group Bookings at Belmont Corn Maze Come experience the fun of a walk on the farm while you wander through 10 acres of twists, turns and trivia! Farm– themed play–yard, concession booth & picnic tables onsite.

Belmont Corn Maze, 46614 Crossley–Hunter Line, Belmont belmontcornmaze@hotmail.com www.belmontcornmaze.net Sept 1 Optimist Breakfast The Optimist Club of West Lorne cooks up a hearty buffet style breakfast that the whole family will enjoy and the price is right—Adults $7, Children 5 to 8yrs $3.50 and 4 & under Free.

Time: 8:30–11am | Contact: Richard, 519-476-6145 Old Boy’s Trailer Park, 8650 Furnival Rd, Port Glasgow

QUAI DU VIN .

E S T A T E

W I N E R Y

519-775-2216 2km north of Sparta Ontario www.QuaiduVin.com

Sept 1 Friends of Springwater Carnival & Fireworks Whether you’re camping or like to come for the day, you won’t want to miss this great afternoon of games, surprises and fun! In the evening watch a spectacular display of fireworks over the pond.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer | www.catfishcreek.ca Sept 1–2 St. Thomas Fire Muster Firefighter competitions, car show, parade, entertainment, antique trucks and apparatus. Weekend of free family fun!

Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas | 519- 631-0210 Sept 6 RCMP Musical Ride This event is still in the planning stages. Please watch for more information in your local newspapers during the spring and summer months.

Time: 6pm | Southwold Keystone Complex, Shedden Contact: Keith, 519-764-2600 www.rosyrubarbfestival.com Sept 7 Friday Night Art Walk Visit the Art Emporium during the Port Stanley Friday Night Art Walks—the first Friday of each month during the summer. Featuring over 29 regional artists.

Time: Extended hours, till 9pm | 177 Main St, Port Stanley Contact: Sandra England, info@artemporium.ca www.ArtEmporium.ca Sept 8 Pizza Saturday The second Sat of each month in the summer, enjoy a mouth–watering pizza lunch in the Tea Room.

Time: 11am–4pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

CANADALE FALL MUM FESTIVAL Sept 8–9 Fall Mum Festival Brighten your gardens with fall mums. Select from hundreds of mums & colourful fall plants. Enjoy charity BBQ, Kid’s Club activities & complimentary apple cider.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com Sept 9 “Wingfield’s Progress” The Elgin Theatre Guild is thrilled to host “Wingfield’s Progress” by Dan Needles, starring Rod Beattie. Tickets are $40. Reserve early as the show will be sold out.

Time: 2pm | 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas 519-633-8530 | www.elgintheatreguild.ca Sept 12 Canadian Snowbirds Air Show “Smoke on the Water” Canadian Snowbirds precision flying team will put on an exciting 45–minute show over the water. Enjoy the show and ‘SHOP, DINE, STAY’.

Time: 5:30–6:15pm Port Stanley Main Beach & East Berm Contact: Jen, 519-782-3673, jenreimerpsbia@rogers.com www.portstanley.net

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Sept 15–16 Fall Bulb Festival Fall is for planting bulbs. Shop our huge selection of Tulips, Narcissi, & unique bulbs. Join us for seminars, charity BBQ & Kid’s Club activities.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com

RUSH CREEK WINES DURING DOORS OPEN EAST ELGIN (Relish Elgin)

Sept 21 Friends of Portside Show and Sale An art show by regional artists. Work displayed by regional artists in various mediums both wall art and sculpture.

Admission free and everyone welcome.

Time: 7–9pm | Contact: Portside Gallery, 519-782-7066 Portside Gallery, 187 1/2 Main St, Port Stanley http://portside.cuttingpromotions.com Sept 22 Doors Open East Elgin Visit various participating sites of cultural, recreational or local interest in the Town of Aylmer, the Municipality of Bayham and the Township of Malahide.

Time: 10am–4pm | Aylmer, Malahide, Bayham www.bayham.on.ca | www.aylmer.ca | www.malahide.ca

Ferguson’s Scarecrow pumpkin festival Sept 13 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers and great–grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.” They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered, tapped and boiled. Join us as we celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques. You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Sept 14–16 Rodney Fair Rodney Park, 135 Queen St, Rodney | 519-768-1858 Sept 15–16 Heritage Farm Show This annual show features steam engines, working horses, threshing, blacksmithing, antiques, tractors, farmer’s market, children’s activities, machinery exhibits and more!

Available for purchase: bbq on Sat and pancake breakfast on Sun. Time: 10am–5pm Sat, 9am–4pm Sun Backus–Page House 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown 519-762-3072 | tryconnell@execulink.com www.backuspagehouse.ca

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Sept 22 Port Stanley Fall Merchant’s Sidewalk Sale & Community–Wide Yard Sale Great bargains from the merchants. Tons of treasures for everyone at dozens of yard sales. Come to Port Stanley and SHOP, DINE, STAY! Time: 9am–4pm | www.portstanley.net Throughout the Village of Port Stanley Contact: Jen, 519-782-3673, jenreimerpsbia@rogers.com Sept 22–23 Port Stanley Art Fair An outdoor art show featuring local and regional artists. Live music. Please check website for more details.

Legion grounds, Port Stanley | www.portstanley.net Sept 22–23 Fall Harvest Festival Fun for the entire family! See all the Scarecrows that have invaded our garden centre, make your own & enter to win great prizes! Decorating seminars and charity bbq.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com Sept 29 Doors Open Port Stanley/Sparta Doors Open is a Cultural/Heritage Event. Learn about our rich natural, cultural historical past in both of these amazing villages.

Port Stanley & Sparta | Contact: Craig Cole, 519-782-4532 Time: 10am–4pm | www.doorsopenontario.on.ca

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Sept 29–30 Doors Open St. Thomas Follow the route of the St. Thomas Street Railway and visit 16 historic buildings and sites, open to the public.

Time: 10am–4pm | 16 historic buildings in St. Thomas Contact: Laurence Grant, 519-764-2384 www.doorsopenontario.on.ca

Come on out to the 158th Rodney Aldborough Agricultural Fair

OCTOBER EVENTS Fall–Date TBA Car–a–van Tour Hosted by Elgin Federation of Agriculture This tour allows you to visit several farms or agri–businesses in East Elgin. Tour maps are available the beginning of September.

Time: 10am–3pm | East Elgin Contact: Roberta Gillard, 519-633-0114

SEPTEMBER 14 -16 Highland dance competition, highland games, tractor pull, lawnmower races, demo derby and sooo much more.

Oct–Date TBA St. Peter’s Anglican Harvest Supper Join us for a home cooked meal and country fellowship.

Please call for date | 29596 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown Time: 5pm–7pm | Contact: Anna Tokarz, 519-762-2617 www.stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org

www.rodneyfair.ca

Every Weekend in Oct Scarecrow Pumpkin Festival Corn Maze, wagon rides, scarecrow making (bring own clothes). Pumpkin launcher. Face painting, concession booth, harvest decorations, school tours, birthday parties.

Time: 11am–5pm | 11026 Wellington Rd www.fergusonproduce.com Saturdays in Oct & Nov 3 Clovermead Pumpkin Festival Come celebrate the world of pumpkins, when the bees are tucked away in their hives, come out and play. Pick–your– own pumpkin from the field, the great pumpkin drop from the windmill tower, pumpkin seed spitting contest, apple sling shot, a pumpkin cannon show, tractor wagon rides, animals, straw bale fort, and huge jumping pillow. Bushels of fresh family fun on our Adventure Farm. $10pp, Group of 5 is $45 | Time: 11am–4pm Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer | info@clovermead.com | www.clovermead.com Oct 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

September 29 & 30, 2012

............................

7 NEW SITES:

FREE ADMISSION ............................

Cedarhurst Salon & Spa (McKay House, 1842) Follow the route Lotus Thai Restaurant of the St. Thomas (Dr. Gustin Residence, 1870) Street Railway.

Dixie Dairy Bar (G.J. Reynolds Grocer, 1880) Muscat Jewellers (J.W. Coffee Cigars, 1915) Destination Church (Southern Loan & Savings, 1899) Wellington Street Public School (1898) Waterworks Plumbing & Vesta Parenting (American Hotel, 1874) & Nine Other Sites

THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF

ST. THOMAS

ONTARIO HERITAGE TRUST

An agency of the Government of Ontario

www.doorsopenontario.on.ca

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BELMONT CORN MAZE (Photos by MG)

TASTES OF FALL (Relish Elgin)

Oct 1–Nov 4 Belmont Corn Maze Come get lost in the country! An afternoon or evening of fun for all ages, wander your way through our 10+ acres of trivia, twists and turns. Farm–themed play–yard, concession booth & picnic tables onsite.

Belmont Corn Maze, 46614 Crossley–Hunter Line, Belmont info@belmontcornmaze.net | www.belmontcornmaze.net

Oct 13, 20, 27 PHOTO Class: The Intro to Digital SLR Photo assignments in this class are designed to have you delve below the surface settings of your Digital SLR to get more out of your camera and lens to tell better photo stories.

Time: 9am–12pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 2 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers and great–grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.” They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered, tapped and boiled. Join us as we celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques. You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 13, 20, 27 PHOTO Class: Shed New Light on Your Photos with Adobe Lightroom 3 Adobe Photoshop Lightroom provides the photographer with the tools they need to create great images—utilizing its impressive range of image manipulating capabilities, manage all their photographs, and showcase them with style.

Time: 9am–12pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Nov 7, 14, 21, 28 Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Theme Dinners The Nine Wednesday Series is back! The sessions are interactive—everyone cooks and enjoys a full meal! Bring a group of your friends, family or co–workers for an evening of fun and delectable eats!

Time: 6:30–9:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Oct 13, 20, 27 PHOTO Class: The Digital Point & Shoot FUN–damentals This entry–level class is geared to the “point & shoot” digital camera owner who wants to make better images of friends and family and take better pictures when on holidays.

Time: 9am–12pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

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Oct 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 Haunted Corn Maze Scream, shriek and howl your way through our haunted corn maze. A popular tradition featuring live actors, sounds and special effects to get you in the Hallowe’en spirit!

Belmont Corn Maze, 46614 Crossley–Hunter Ln, Belmont info@belmontcornmaze.net | www.belmontcornmaze.net Oct 14 Tastes of Fall Come and celebrate the harvest season! Crafts, great food, and entertainment make this event fun for the whole family.

Time: Noon–4pm Longwoods Rd Conservation Area, 8348 Longwoods Rd (10 km East of Melbourne) | 519-264-2420 | www.ltvca.ca Oct 20 Cooking with Herbs: Full Meal Planning Put together a first–class meal, all brought to life with our fresh and dried herbs. Cost $25, pre–registration required.

Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer Time: 1:30pm | 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Oct 20 Tiny Tots Scrap–a–thon A full day of scrapbooking or for any other hobbies as well.

Registration fee $40. Call Tiny Tots Co–op Nursery School for more information.

Time: 9am–9pm | 519-785-2164 West Elgin Community Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney

Nov 3 Corn Maze and The Great Pumpkin Smash Come out for some messy fun—bring your old jack–o– lanterns for smashing. Tools provided to bash, smash and splatter pumpkins! One last tour of our maze.

Belmont Corn Maze, 46614 Crossley–Hunter Ln, Belmont Time: 1–4pm | 519-318-0388 | www.belmontcornmaze.net

Oct 31 Halloween AT THE OLDE RODNEY JAIL Visit the Olde Jail and receive Halloween treats.

Time: 6pm | 135 Queen St, Rodney www.westelgin.net

Nov 4 Port Burwell Armistice Day Parade Parade from the Legion in Port Burwell, westerly on Wellington St, turning left on Robinson St and left on Pitt St to Cenotaph.

Port Burwell Legion to Cenotaph | 519-874-4308 Contact: Port Burwell–Bayham Royal Canadian Legion,

Oct 31 Halloween AT RODNEY TOWN HALL Free hotdogs sponsored by Rodney Lions Club.

Time: 6pm | 217 Furnival Rd, Rodney

NOVEMBER EVENTS Nov 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Nov 2 Annual Art Auction The Annual Art Auction includes a silent and live auction; it’s a fast moving, fun event featuring fine art from our local artists and artisans.

Time: 6:30pm–11pm | St. Thomas–Elgin Public Art Centre, 301 Talbot St, St. Thomas | 519-631-4040 www.stepac.ca Nov 2 Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Our grandmothers and great–grandmothers didn’t “add water and stir”, “heat and serve”, “refrigerate after opening” or “microwave on high.” They kneaded, proved, rolled, pulled, punched, let sit, canned, baked, simmered, tapped and boiled. Join us as we celebrate our Ladies of Elgin as they share some of their finest tips and techniques. You’ll love being able to say, “I made it from scratch!”

Time: 6:30–8:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com

1-877-GO-ELGIN | WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Nov 10 Remembrance Day Service Time: 11am | Rodney Library Nov 10 Harvest Dinner, Silent & Live Auctions The Tyrconnell Heritage Society hosts this evening of fine dining and entertainment in support of operations and programming at the Backus–Page House.

Time: Cocktails 6pm, Dinner 6:30pm 519-762-3072, tryconnell@execulink.com www.backuspagehouse.ca Nov 10 Remembrance Day Service Time: 7pm | Dutton, Municipal Office WEDS Theatre Contact: Hilda Tuffin, 519-762-2204 Nov 10 Cooking with Herbs: Party Planning Learn the secrets and tips of throwing a great party, making an assortment of appetizers and dips. $20 pre–registration required.

Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage LN, RR#1 Aylmer Time: 1:30pm | 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

ANNUAL ART AUCTION AT THE ST. THOMAS-ELGIN PUBLIC ART CENTRE (Relish Elgin)

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Nov 18 Windows of Christmas For more information visit www.narhf.org.

Canada Southern Railway Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas

REMEMBRANCE DAY IN SHEDDEN (Relish Elgin) Nov 10–11 Christmas Open House AT CANADALE Christmas at Canadale! Celebrate the season with decorating demos & workshops. Free photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus & see his live reindeer. Charity Lunch.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun | www.canadale.com Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas | 519-631-7264 Nov 11 Remembrance Day Service Time: 10:45am | Remembrance Day Service at the Boy Soldier St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, 189 Elm St, St. Thomas Nov 11 Remembrance Day Service Time: 11am | West Lorne Cenotaph, Arena Graham Rd Contact: Robert White, 519-768-2795 Nov 11 Remembrance Day Ceremonies Time: 10:30am | Cenotaph, Talbot St, Aylmer Nov 15 7th Annual CEDARHURST Open House Join us—Draws, Demos, great savings off all our products, enjoy refreshments and snacks!

Time: 3–8pm | Contact: Kathy, 519-631-7629 Cedarhurst Salon and Spa 76 Talbot St, St. Thomas www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com

Nov 23–Dec 1 12 Days of Christmas: A Bank Holiday Extravaganza Nov 16–24: Traditional German Festive Market; Nov 24: It’s time to Hang It Up Evening; Nov 25: Light It Up– Gingerbread House Making; Nov 26: Cookie Bake–the most beautiful designs; Nov 27: Yuletide Brunch; Nov 28: Nine Wednesday Experience; Dec 1: Fest–a–Month Celebration Time: See website for details | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Nov 24–25 Sparta Country Christmas Come and visit Santa and have your picture taken. Enjoy a free hot chocolate and write your letters to Santa. Draws, specials and goodies at all of the participating stores.

Donations to Caring Cupboard would be greatly appreciated.

Time: 11am–3pm Sat, 12–3pm Sun Contact: Mary Muscat, 519-775-0054 or Norma Roberts, 519-775-2312 Village of Sparta | www.spartacandles.com Nov 24–25 A Lavender Christmas Drop in for some festive cheer and delightful lavender treats.

And while you’re here, fill out a ballot to win a lavender gift collection.

Time: 10–5pm Sat, 12–4pm Sun Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta 519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com

Nov 17 Edison Fish Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction Enjoy a perch dinner, dance, silent auction and cash bar.

Door prizes and fun for all. Visit website or call for more info.

Vienna Community Centre, 26 Fulton St, Vienna Time: 5–10pm | 519-866-5521 | www.bayham.on.ca

Nov 24–25 Christmas Open House AT CANADALE Christmas at Canadale! Celebrate the season with decorating demos & workshops. Free photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus & see his live reindeer. Charity Lunch.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com

Nov 17–18 9th Annual HERITAGE LINE Christmas Open House Sample our herb products and other gourmet foods, as well as many stocking stuffer sales. Gift baskets and gift samples are available. Other vendors will join us both days.

Time: 10am–4pm Sat, 11am–4pm Sun Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

Nov 30 West Lorne Santa Claus Parade Santa arrives in West Lorne! His sleigh follows a parade of floats, horses and walkers adorned with brightly coloured lights and decorations. Santa will greet children at the arena. Face painting and free skating until 9pm Time: 7pm | 519-768-2691

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DECEMBER EVENTS Dec 1 Fest–A–Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations We celebrate the culinary traditions from around the world and around the corner. Our guest Chef brings the aromas and flavours of traditional foods to our spectacular studio kitchen and we serve you in our elegant Heritage Hall. You bring your taste for the new—and your friends.

Time: 6:30pm | 519-768-9986 The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne www.theartsandcookerybank.com Dec 1 Christmas Celebrations IN RODNEY 2pm Free Library Program; 3pm Snake Lady Show, wagon rides plus other activities; 4:30pm hotdogs/hot chocolate sponsored by Lions Club and Fairles; 5:30pm evening parade downtown; Santa Claus at Rodney Legion after parade.

Time: 2–6:30pm | 519-785-0560 | www.westelgin.net Dec 1 Port Burwell Santa Claus Parade Santa Claus community parade. All floats and entries welcome. Legion to Library. Goodies and hot drinks.

Time: 6:30pm | www.bayham.on.ca Port Burwell Legion on Wellington St to Library Contact: Deb, 519-874-4450, dtravis@amtelecom.net

Dec 1 Rodney Santa Claus Parade 3pm–wagon rides, Snake Lady display, plus other children’s activities; 5:30pm–parade.

DEC 1 1850s CHRISTMAS DINNER A limited number of seats are being offered to enjoy an authentic 1850s dinner served by costumed interpreters inside the museum. $100/person (14 advanced tickets available) | Time: 7pm Backus–Page House 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown 519-762-3072, tryconnell@execulink.com www.backuspagehouse.ca

CANADALE CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE (Photos by MG)

20th Annual

Holiday Fantasy of Lights December 1st to December 31st, 2011

Pinafore Park, Elm St., St. Thomas, Ontario Lights on Nightly from 5-10pm Free Admission Freewill Donations Welcome

Free Entertainment

On Weekends in the Dance Pavilion

Free Rides Through the Park

On the People Mover Every Weekend, 7-9pm For information, email HFofLights@gmail.com or visit

www.fantasylights.org

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ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CAROL SING AT THE OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH(Relish Elgin)

Dec 1–31 Holiday Fantasy of Lights Fantasy of Lights is a Christmas light display located throughout Pinafore Park. Entertainment is provided in the Main Pavilion on weekends from 6:30pm to 9:30pm; hot chocolate, coffee and popcorn is available. On weekends the people mover will take your family through the light displays. A free will donation is accepted at the gate.

Time: 5–10pm nightly | Pinafore Park, 95 Elm St, St. Thomas HFofLights@gmail.com | www.fantasylights.org Dec 1 Christmas Spirit Walk Stroll along a candle lit path through the Springwater Forest and join local performers as they celebrate the spirit of Christmas. Sip on a hot beverage and see who awaits you at the end of the trail! Purchase tickets at the gate.

Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer www.catfishcreek.ca Dec 2 Annual Christmas Carol Sing Annual Carol Sing featuring the Salvation Army Band.

Church shaped cookies, hot cider and mince tarts served.

Free will offering to Salvation Army. Dress warmly.

Time: 3pm | oldstthomaschurch@hotmail.com The Old St. Thomas Church, 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas www.oldstthomaschurch.com Dec 8 Straffordville Santa Claus Parade Santa Claus community parade. All floats and entries welcome. Public School to Community Centre. Visit Santa.

Goodies and hot drinks.

Time: 10:30am | Straffordville School to Community Centre 519-866-5521 | bayham@bayham.on.ca www.bayham.on.ca

Dec 8–9 Christmas Open House Encore!

We can’t get enough of Christmas! Celebrate the season with decorating demos & workshops. Free photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus and Kids Club activities. Charity Lunch.

Time: 8am–5pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 | www.canadale.com Dec 12–22 12 Days of Christmas Sale Many gifts on sale and stocking stuffer sales the whole family would love. Finish your Christmas shopping in our warm and friendly country store.

Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com Dec 15 Customer Appreciation Day 10% off everything in the store this Saturday. Enjoy a cup of cider while you browse through the store. Enter a draw for a gift basket.

Time: 10am–4pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com Dec 31 Family New Year’s Eve Party Ring in the New year with family and friends. Face painting, cotton candy, crafts, carnival games, inflatables, public skating, Val the Snake Lady, and so much more! Cost is $10 per family.

Time: 6–9pm | 519-773-5631 East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

DETAILS MAY CHANGE BETWEEN THE PRINTING OF THIS GUIDE AND THE TIME OF THE EVENT - PLEASE CALL AHEAD TO CONFIRM. HOLIDAY FANTASY OF LIGHTS (Photos by MG)

Dec 8 Customer Appreciation Day 10% off everything in the store this Saturday. Enjoy a cup of cider while you browse through the store. Enter a draw for a gift basket.

Time: 10am–4pm Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer 519-866-5577 | www.heritagelineherbs.com

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SHOP • DINE • STAY The businesses of Port Stanley invite you to shop, dine, stay all year round. Visit our unique shops, dine on our fresh and local cuisine, then stay in our relaxing inns and B&Bs, and so much more! Frolic in the sand and surf at our ‘Blue Flag’ main beach and enjoy our upcoming special events:

Saturday, May 12, 9am-4pm Spring Sidewalk Sale & Community-Wide Yard Sale Saturday, June 30 to Monday, July 2 CanFest Friday, August 17 to Sunday, August 19 HarbourFest & Tall Ship Wednesday, September 12, 5:30pm Canadian Snowbirds Air Show ‘Smoke on the Water’ Saturday, September 22, 9am-4pm Fall Sidewalk Sale & Community-Wide Yard Sale

The Jewel of Lake Erie’s North Shore

www.portstanley.net