2013 Experience Elgin County & St. Thomas Visitor's Guide by Elgin County Tourism

OFFICIAL 2013 VISITOR’S GUIDE

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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St. Thomas, ON

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519.633.2050

WELCOME

CONTENTS Visit our website to discover all there is to see and do in Elgin County & to learn more about the programs & publications below. Look for this symbol throughout the guide for information on other publications available. Pick up copies at one of the following Elgin-St. Thomas Tourism locations, call, or download a copy at www.elgintourist.com. Elgin-St. Thomas Tourism Locations Main Tourism Office – Mon-Fri 8:30am–4:30pm 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, 519-631-1460 x 168 Tourism Kiosks – Open mid-May to the end of Aug • Port Burwell Marine Museum & Lighthouse 18 Pitt Street, Port Burwell, 519-874-4807 • New in 2013: Replica L&PS Railway Station Station Parkette, Talbot St, St. Thomas • Port Stanley Units #3 and #4, 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley • Backus-Page House Museum 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown, 519- 762-3072

Savour Elgin members are identified throughout the guide by this symbol Learn more about the program on page 40.

Welcome 5 Our Municipalities 7 Map & Information 12 Experience 15 Arts & Entertainment 16 Museums & Attractions 19 Shop 25 Stay 31 Taste 34 Explore 41 Agritourism 42 Golf 47 Recreation 48 Services 53 Events 59 ELGIN COUNTY & ST. THOMAS TOURISM SERVICES 450 Sunset Drive in St. Thomas 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 mobile site:

Elgin Arts Trail members are identified throughout the guide by this symbol Learn more about the program on page 18.

Printed by Aylmer Express

Experience Elgin County & St. Thomas 2013 was produced by Relish Marketing & Promotions Inc. Reproduction of any material is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the Publisher. WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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

WELCOME

FROM THE WARDEN OF ELGIN COUNTY

FROM THE MAYOR OF ST. THOMAS

Welcome to Elgin County! Elgin County has just the right balance of city and country. We are located in the heart of Southwestern Ontario where you will find the best combination of urban and rural attractions. Great beaches? We’ve got them. Rich history and traditions? Got them, too. Unique culture? That too. Talented artists and artisans? These, too. Terrific dining and golf? Yes! We have it all. Enjoy your stay, please come back again soon.

On behalf of City Council and the residents of St. Thomas, I would like to welcome you to the city we call home. With a rich railway heritage, one of the province’s leading farmers’ markets and beautiful scenic parks, St. Thomas has something to offer everyone. During your stay in St. Thomas I encourage you to take time to visit many of our great restaurants, attractions and stores. Enjoy your visit and please accept our sincerest invitation to visit us again. Mayor Heather Jackson

Warden Cameron McWilliam

Elgin COUNTY & ST. THOMAS MAYORS MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF WEST ELGIN Bernie Wiehle

MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ST. THOMAS Heather Jackson

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF DUTTON/DUNWICH Cameron McWilliam

MAYOR OF THE TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE Dave Mennill

MAYOR OF THE TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD Jim McIntyre

MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF AYLMER Jack Couckuyt

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CENTRAL ELGIN Bill Walters

MAYOR OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM Paul Ens WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

OUR MUNICIPALITIES

Arts & Cookery Bank, West Elgin Waterworks Park, St. Thomas

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

THE FINGAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

SHEDDEN’S ROSY RHUBARB FESTIVAL

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.

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

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

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 6

Come for a day, or stay a while...

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

WEST ELGIN

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

WEST LORNE • RODNEY PORT GLASGOW

www.westelgin.net 519-785-0560

Arts & Cookery Bank photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios | Waterworks Park photo by Relish Elgin

CENTRAL TO EVERYTHING, SECOND TO NONE

OUR MUNICIPALITIES

Port Bruce, Malahide Bayham

John E. Pearce Provincial Park, Dutton/Dunwich

Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre

Fingal Wildlife Management Area, Southwold

Port Stanley Terminal Rail, Central Elgin

Municipality photos by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

WELCOME TO ELGIN-ST. THOMAS! Located in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, the area offers visitors a delightfully unique mix of urban and rural experiences. Elgin-St. Thomas boasts kilometres of stunning shoreline, picturesque towns and villages, a rich agricultural heritage, historic railway attractions, and high quality dining establishments that feature fresh produce and wine from our local orchards and vineyards. From vibrant streets of lively towns and villages to peaceful hiking trails, the eight municipalities of Elgin-St. Thomas have something for everyone!

THE MUNICIPALITY OF 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, including ‘Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys’ and the Rodney-Aldborough Agricultural Fair. 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 a historic bank turned cultural hub in West Lorne, friendly country restaurants, shops, B&Bs, and even a tiny historic jail in Rodney.

THE MUNICIPALITY OF 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 BackusPage 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 enjoy. 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 and then return at the end of October for a “howling good time” at the very popular Haunted Fairgrounds.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

OUR MUNICIPALITIES THE TOWNSHIP OF 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 Festival, 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.

THE MUNICIPALITY OF 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 and a traditional tearoom reflect that era. The village includes the studio of a world renowned artist, unique shops, candle maker, and a nearby lavender farm and winery.

THE CITY OF 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.

Central Elgin The Municipality of

Discover Central Elgin and enjoy hospitality at its best. Discover the enjoyment of a rural getaway that will take you to unique shops, relaxing accommodations, highly recommended restaurants, country wineries, matinée and evening theatre, art galleries, picturesque parks and clean sandy beaches.

King George VI Lift Bridge, Port Stanley

Main Street, Sparta

Belmont Lions Community Park

www.centralelgin.org • 519-631-4860 8

450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

OUR MUNICIPALITIES 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.

THE TOWNSHIP OF Malahide

Including Springfield & Port Bruce

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. 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 adventure farm with tons of 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.

THE Town of Aylmer

On a stroll around Aylmer, you will find a busy downtown lined with specialty shops and services, Aylmer Farmers Market on Tuesdays, beautifully restored Old Town Hall Theatre, active area museum and newly-built community complex. Linger awhile in the extensive park system includ-

Dutton

ing Rotary Park, only the second in Canada to be certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Take the heritage walk or visit the murals that illustrate the town’s history, then stop at one of the fine restaurants to complete your touring, walking or shopping experience. Are you visiting from a distance? Aylmer has a beautiful bed and breakfast in a heritage home, an Inn with country charm, and a cottage in the pines—all great places to stay awhile.

THE MUNICIPALITY OF 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, Port Burwell Provincial Park and, starting in spring 2013, the HMCS Ojibwa, Canada’s first Oberon Class submarine, centerpiece of the Elgin Military Museum of Naval History. 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.

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

CULTURE THRIVES ON ONTARIO’S SOUTH SHORE

Explore the Township of

MALAHIDE

Escape the pace of the everyday and immerse yourself in the bountiful harvest of Malahide Township. Venture through Malahide’s rolling farmlands and discover the various sites blossoming amid beautiful agricultural landscapes. Whether you long for delicious locally grown food served at tranquil restaurants or are searching for an outdoor camping and fishing adventure, Malahide boasts diverse attractions for all visitors. Allow the beautiful walking trails, winding bike paths, natural parks, gorgeous waterways, and sunny beaches to transform you. Savour the fruity bouquets of award winning wines served at the local winery and dine on fresh fare served beachside. Nourish your soul by visiting a unique art gallery, rural pottery shop and tearoom, and discover the talents of many local artists. Find yourself surrounded by nature; enjoy the Muskoka woodlands and Carolinian forests planted centuries ago and enjoy the new crops just beginning to sprout. Gather family and friends and explore the Ontario Police College, migratory bird viewing area, Port Bruce beach and pier, or enjoy a day program at one of our Community Centres. Come discover a community rooted in rich heritage where horse and buggies line country side roads, farmers live and harvest crops without the use of modern conveniences, and farm-gate shopping is welcome. Visit and find Old Order Amish community members tending their crops and raising livestock or come and explore a fully operational apiary and bee education centre. From picturesque horizons on the waterfront of Port Bruce’s beach to the colourful fields of rolling farmland, Malahide offers a bountiful array of sincere small town charm and service, creating memories that last a lifetime.

www.malahide.ca 519-773-5344

MAP & INFORMATION

ELGIN-ST. THOMAS AT-A-GLANCE 402

PROXIMITY TO MAJOR CENTRES Sarnia, ON/Port Huron, MI, USA – 117km/73mi Kitchener/Waterloo, ON – 128km/80mi Hamilton, ON – 144km/89mi Windsor, ON/Detroit, MI, USA – 185km/115mi Toronto, ON – 209km/130mi Niagara Falls, ON/NY, USA – 230km/143mi Fort Erie, ON/Buffalo, NY, USA – 252km/156mi Oshawa, ON – 256km/159mi Cleveland, OH, USA – 456km/283mi Kingston – 459km/285mi Pittsburgh, PA, USA – 610km/379mi

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Chicago, IL, USA – 642km/399mi Ottawa, ON – 648km/403mi New York, NY, USA – 889km/552mi Philadelphia, PA, USA – 903km/561mi Boston, MA, USA – 984km/611mi

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AIRPORTS • St. Thomas Municipal Airport (YQS) • London International Airport (YXU)

• Tillsonburg Airport (YTB) • Toronto Pearson International l Airport (YYZ)

Population • The population of Elgin County and St. Thomas is 87,461 (2011 census) with more than 35,000 households. • • • • 12

City of St. Thomas – 37,905 Municipality of Bayham – 6,989 Municipality of Central Elgin – 12,743 Municipality of Dutton/Dunwich – 3,876 WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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Municipality of West Elgin – 5,157 Town of Aylmer – 7,151 Township of Malahide – 9,146 Township of Southwold – 4,494

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• Elgin County enjoys one of Canada’s longest growing seasons and an above average number of sunny days, making it an ideal location for solar energy production and agri-business. • We are located within the unique 1% of Canada’s geographic area called the Carolinian Zone, which is home to more species of flora and fauna than anywhere else in Canada. • Average temperatures: 20°C in July, -6°C in Jan • Average precipitation: 77mm in July, 69mm in Jan

IMPORTANT Numbers POLICE – FIRE – AMBULANCE ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE (EMERGENCY CALLS - TOLL-FREE IN ONTARIO)

911 1-888-310-1122

Poison Control Hotline (Toll-Free in Ontario)

1-800-268-9017

OPP General Inquiries (Non-Emergency) St. Thomas Office – 42696 John Wise Line Dutton Office – Currie Road North at Hwy 401

519-631-2920 519-762-2833

Aylmer Police Service (General Inquires) 20 Beech St E, Aylmer St. Thomas Police Service (General Inquires) 30 St. Catherine St, St. Thomas

519-773-3144 519-631-1224

HOSPITALS & WALK-IN CLINICS St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital – 189 Elm St, St. Thomas Tillsonburg Memorial Hospital – 167 Rolph Street, Tillsonburg St. Thomas Walk-In Medical Clinic – 230 First Ave, Suite 105, St. Thomas

519-631-2020 519-842-3611 519-633-9627

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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.

2013 EVENTS THROUGHOUT BAYHAM

Aug 24: Talbot Trail of Yard Sales Sept 14: Doors Open East Elgin

VIENNA

MAY is Museum Month!

June 1: Edison Fest Nov (TBA): Edison Museum’s Annual Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction

Wind Interpretive Centre Information Kiosk

PORT BURWELL

Museums Open Daily Mid-May to Labour Day 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

HMCS Ojibwa Submarine, Port Burwell www.elginmilitarymuseum.ca

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

July 1: Canada Day Celebrations with Parade at 11am Aug 2-5: Tub Daze - Fireworks at dark on Sunday Nov 10: Armistice Day Parade Dec 7: Santa Claus Parade at 6:30pm

STRAFFORDVILLE

Aug 24: Watermelon Fest Parade at 10am; Family Fun Day Dec 14: Santa Claus Parade at 10:30am Visit www.bayham.on.ca for more information on Bayham events.

Edison Museum, Vienna

EXPERIENCE

Pinecroft Pottery photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Inspired by the natural beauty of presentday and the drama of its past, Elgin County is bursting with artists, entertainers and historians. You’ll find them in venues large and intimate, busy and serene. They are passionate about bringing you a cultural experience to remember—get ready to be entranced, moved, entertained, intrigued…

Pinecroft Pottery

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Port Stanley Festival Theatre photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Port Stanley Festival Theatre

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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

DESCRIPTION

Aylmer Performing Arts Council 38 John St S, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-765-3039 | www.artsinaylmer.com

Located in the beautiful restored Old Town Hall Theatre, APAC presents its 2012-2013 playbill of seven live musical performances.

Clayworks by Catherine Craig 128 Dyer St, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-644-0893 | E: catherineacraig@hotmail.com catherinecraigart.blogspot.ca

Catherine has been a professional artist for over 40 years exploring clay and fibre art. She holds a bachelor of fine arts and teaches classes in her Belmont studio.

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— original and limited edition paintings, pottery, one of a kind gifts, lotions, potions & more.

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 four 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); 519-782-3932 E: box.office@portstanleytheatre.ca www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Located in the scenic lakeside village of Port Stanley, the Port Stanley Festival Theatre presents professional live theatre from May–Sept, and musical performances from Oct– April each year.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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EXPERIENCE â&#x20AC;˘ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Portside Gallery 187 1/2 Main St, Unit A, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1H6 Ph: 519-782-7066 | E: portside@cuttingpromotions.com portside.cuttingpromotions.com

Portside Gallery is an artist run gallery with 16 local artists offering art work in a broad range of styles, mediums and techniques.

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.

Rubyeyes Kraftwerks 235 Colborne St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1B9 Ph: 519-782-7443 | E: ruby@rubyeyes.com www.rubyeyes.com

Rubyeyes Kraftwerks specializes in one-of-a-kind glass artworks. Never creating the same piece twice, the studio's most popular work is pet portraits, dishware, 3-D items, Celtic designs and personalized pieces.

St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre 301 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1B5 Ph: 519-631-4040 | E: info@stepac.ca www.stepac.ca Ad p17

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.

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.

Cobblestones photo by Shelley McVittie

301 Talbot St., St. Thomas, ON N5P 1B5 www.stepac.ca â&#x20AC;˘ info@stepac.ca

Cobblestones Gift & Gallery of Shelley McVittie

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Live & Lively

Artistic inspiration is all around—local artists have formed several active art guilds and associations; galleries and studios dot the county. The St. ThomasElgin Public Art Centre is an inviting and exciting art hub for the region. Elgin Arts Trail Discovery Guide www.elginartstrail.ca Parade of Elephants Map

Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre

Portside Gallery, Port Stanley

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

The Elgin Arts Trail highlights fourteen studios and galleries exhibiting diverse collections of artwork. The program gives you the resources (a printed guide plus a website with all the latest news and happenings) to help you plan a trip of discovery. Your journey will take you through sprawling countryside, an historic city, charming towns and villages which are home to the creators of original paintings from charming to bold, pottery with a 65-year story, alluringly touchable fibre art, enticingly scented candles and more. Until August 2013, be on the lookout for The Parade of Elephants. The evolving exhibition of paper maché elephants will travel to different locations on the Elgin Arts Trail with a new elephant being created and added to the parade at each location. It’s a salute to Jumbo, and to the jumbo-sized talents of the Elgin Arts Trail members.

Concreations

St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre

Artist Peter Robson

Arts Trail & Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre photos by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Live entertainment draws crowds to a variety of intimate local venues. The Port Stanley Festival Theatre is a 140-seat professional summer theatre where you can laugh, romp and be surprised through a 2013 season that opens with Back in ’59, a rollicking journey through the top hits of the 50s and 60s and closes with Drinking Alone, a Norm Foster classic. Community players bring their considerable talents to fall–spring seasons at the Princess Ave Playhouse in St. Thomas, Aylmer Old Town Hall Theatre and Dutton Town Hall Theatre. Each location also hosts some fine musical performances during the year.

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS Jail photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Ye Olde Jail, Rodney

MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS Even non-history buffs will find it difficult not to be drawn into the stories kept alive at our museums, archives and historic sites—they are preserved through the efforts of curators, historians, re-enactors and hundreds of volunteers.

the death of Jumbo, who was hit and killed by a locomotive in St. Thomas in 1885. Let the brand new Elgin County Heritage Guide be your starting point as you discover a hero, admire a visionary or relive an adventure. You can also hit the trails to explore our heritage through three Barn Quilt Trails which link sites with colourful mounted “quilt blocks”, each with its own story.

The Attawandaron or Neutral Nation established villages in this area until the mid-17th century. In 1803, the enigmatic Colonel Thomas Talbot, son of an Anglo-Irish nobleman, arrived on the fertile shores of Elgin County, overseeing the settlement of an area from Woodstock to Windsor.

Settlement Stories Quilt Trail Brochure www.settlementstoriesquilttrail.org

From the 1850s onwards, five railway lines were established through St. Thomas and Elgin—much of that railway heritage is preserved in artifacts, attractions, events and in the psyche of our residents as they lay claim to the title “Railway Capital of Canada”. Railway history also played a role in

Dutton Dunwich Barn Quilt Trail www.elgintourist.com/heritage

The Southwest Ontario Barn Quilt Trail Booklet www.barnquilttrails.ca

Elgin County Heritage Guide The Railways of St. Thomas & Elgin County WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS ELGIN COUNTY’S LONGEST RUNNING TOURIST ATTRACTION

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

COME RIDE THE TRAIN! From The Lake Side Village of Port Stanley

www.pstr.on.ca • 519-782-3730

GAY LEA

DAIRY HERITAGE MUSEUM 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. HOURS

Victoria Day Weekend–Labour Day Mon–Sat 9am–5pm Labour Day–Thanksgiving Saturdays 9am–5pm ADMISSION

Adults $5, Children 12 & under $3

www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca 48075 Jamestown Ln, RR2 Aylmer

1-888-773-2955

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Arts & Cookery Bank, The 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne, ON N0L 2P0 Ph: 519-768-9986 | E: info@theartsandcookerybank.com www.theartsandcookerybank.com Ad p22

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.

Aylmer-Malahide Museum & Archives 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, March Tundra Swan Line 519-773-7926, Nov Tour of Homes, Coach guide. Mar–Nov: Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 11am–4pm.

Backus-Page House Museum 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-762-3072 | E: info@backuspagehouse.ca www.backuspagehouse.ca Ad p22

Located amidst the beauty of John E. Pearce Provincial Park, this restored Georgian 1850s residence is home to a living history museum.

Edison Museum of Vienna 14 Snow St, Vienna, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-866-5521 | 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–Labour Day. Off season by arrangement.

Elgin County Museum 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-1460 x159 | E: mbaker@elgin-county.on.ca www.elgincounty.ca Ad p24

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.

Elgin County Railway Museum 225 Wellington St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 2S6 Ph: 519-637-6284 | E: dawnm@ecrm5700.org www.ecrm5700.org

Re-live the great rail adventure! Discover why St. Thomas is known as the Railway Capital in the "St. Thomas—The Railway City" exhibit. Explore a railway artefact display, historical photos, locomotives, cabooses, rolling stock, the History in Motion model railway. Open Victoria Day– Labour Day, Tues to Sun 10am–4pm. Call or visit the website for off-season hours.

Ad p75

Elgin Military Museum 30 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A3 Ph: 519-633-7641 | E: curator@elginmilitarymuseum.ca www.elginmilitarymuseum.ca Ad p20

The museum focuses on military history, emphasizing Canada and Elgin County and its citizens through exhibits, tours and programs. Open year round.

Erie Shores Wind Farm 55094 Glen Erie Ln, Vienna, ON N0J 1Z0 Ph: 519-874-1461 | 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.

Gay Lea Dairy Heritage Museum 48075 Jamestown Ln, RR #2 , Aylmer, ON N5H 2R2 Ph: 519-773-2955 | E: museum@gayleafoods.com www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca Ad p20

Owned and operated by Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd., the museum offers a wide variety of dairy and agricultural artefacts for people of all ages. Open May to mid-Oct.

North America Railway Hall of Fame 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E1 Ph: 519-633-2535 | E: info@narhf.org www.narhf.org Ad p22

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”.

Old St. Thomas Church, The 55 Walnut St., St. Thomas, ON N5R 2Y7 Ph: 519-633-2610 | E: oldstthomaschurch@hotmail.com www.oldstthomaschurch.com Ad p22

Provincially designated historical Anglican Church and Churchyard built in 1822, open Mon to Sat 9am–5pm late May–Labour Day for guided tours.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

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

OLD ST. THOMAS CHURCH Open late May to Labour Day

(Tour Guides on Duty)

Available for Weddings For Information

519-633-2610

29424 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown, Ontario

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

“In the Heart of the Talbot Settlement”

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

Visit the largest train station in Southwestern Ontario

Come for a tour to see the progress on the station’s remarkable restoration. 1873

NOW BOOKING WEDDINGS & CORPORATE MEETINGS INTO 2014

Call us today to book your tour

519-633-2535

Visit the North America Railway Hall Of Fame website at

www.narhf.org

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Port Burwell Museum & Historic Lighthouse Corner of Pitt and Robinson St, Port Burwell, ON Ph: 519-866-5521 off season; Seasonal May-Labour Day 519-874-4807 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.

Port Stanley Terminal Rail 309 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N51 1C5 Ph: 519-782-3730 | E: info@pstr.on.ca www.pstr.on.ca

Ad p20

Experience the fun of a train ride through the scenic Kettle Creek Valley. Diesel powered trains travel over a 7km portion of the former London & Port Stanley Railway (est. 1856). Special Event Trains also available.

Ska-Nah-Doht Village & Museum 8348 Longwoods Rd, Middlesex Rd 2, Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0 | Ph: 519-264-2420 E: info@ltvca.ca | www.ltvca.ca Ad p49

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.

Sparta and District Historical Society PO Box 34, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-2292 | E: tcg@execulink.com

Own and operate the Forge and Anvil Museum (46316 Sparta Line) and the Sparta Church Museum and Cultural Centre in Sparta (6073 Quaker Rd) as well as host a re-enactment dinner the second Saturday in November and co-ordinate Doors Open in Sparta in conjunction with Port Stanley. Museums open every day May till Aug and weekends till Thanksgiving.

St. Peter's Anglican Church 29596 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-631-5515 www.stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org

Built in 1827, we are the oldest, active Anglican Church in the county, holding 11am Sun services year round. Nestled in the heart of the Talbot Settlement, our little rural church offers a unique setting for weddings and other special events.

Stork Club Big Band Museum & Hall of Fame Interpretive Centre 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J5 Ph: 519-709-5948 | 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.

Reenactment photo by Relish Elgin

WAR OF 1812

War of 1812 Reenactment, Talbot Street St. Thomas

Starting with the June 18th 1812 declaration of war by the United States on Great Britain, battles raged throughout North America for over two years. During this time American raids plagued Colonel Thomas Talbot’s settlement, creating havoc for the families who had worked so hard to create lives there. 2012 marks the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and events from 2012 to 2014 throughout the region commemorate 200 years of peace. The historic village of Sparta was settled in 1813 by Quakers seeking to build homes in a place less likely to be invaded than was the Niagara region during the War of 1812. In June 2013, the village will celebrate its 200th birthday with a parade, displays, a dinner and a garden party. www.westerncorridor1812.com WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPERIENCE • MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS

PROJECT OJIBWA Want to do something unusual? How about exploring a submarine? You can now that the Elgin Military Museum has brought HMCS Ojibwa to Port Burwell. Ojibwa participated in many clandestine actions during her 34 years in service, her astonishing capacity

for stealth making her a key player during the Cold War. Few Canadians know of the remarkable and often dangerous missions undertaken by our submarine service. Starting this summer, visitors will be able to explore the submarine’s nooks and crannies, learn about her inner workings and hear the extraordinary stories from the submariners who lived them. 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

2013 MUSEUM EXHIBITION SCHEDULE

CONTINUING TO MARCH 28

J. T. FINDLAY: ARCHITECT A photographic survey of a St. Thomas architect’s work from the early twentieth century.

JUNe 3 – AUGUsT 30 SHORT ROUTES AND EASY GRADES:

ApRIl 12 – JUly 6 MARCH OF TIME:

The Railway heRiTage of elgin/ST. ThomaS

a BicenTennial commemoRaTion of The waR of 1812-15

sepTeMbeR 9 – DeCeMbeR 20 ALMA COLLEGE

The 100th anniversary of the building of the Michigan Central’s locomotive shops, now home to the Elgin County Railway Museum, is the starting point for a tour of the visual history of the many rail lines that once ran through the county.

Features reproductions of works of art related to nearly every major action of the four years of the war. It provides an engaging overview of the war and its key figures. Includes artifacts of the era.

Explores the role the college played in educating women artists and supporting art and culture in the region. Drawing on the Museum’s Alma collection, it will unite paintings, photographs, and memorabilia from across a century of cultural activity.

MCR Locomotive Shops, 1984, Larry Broadbent Collection, Elgin County Archives

Marine art by Peter Rindlisbacher, Reproduced and circulated by Canadian Art Cards

Frederic Marlett Bell-Smith, Alma College art students, Eva Brook Donly, Marilla Adams, and Cornelia Saleno at work in the college’s art studio; STEPAC

WWW.ELGINCOUNTY.CA 24

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

anD The foRging of canaDian culTuRe 1880-1939

HMCS Ojibwa photo by John De Bour, from the collection of The Elgin Military Museum

HMCS Ojibwa, Port Burwell

Port Stanley photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

SHOP

SHOP Whether you are in the mood for an afternoon of browsing in a quaint village, or for being part of the main street bustle, you will find it at one of the spots below. Or head out to discover a unique find at one of the many hidden shopping gems on the quiet back roads of Elgin County. Downtown St. Thomas retains much of its Victorian streetscape, with several murals and parkettes adding to its shopping appeal. You can begin your trip at old Talbot Street in the west (behind Jumbo) with spas, salons and a wool shop, and continue on down Talbot with the Art Centre Gift Shop, eateries and more stores with everything from jewellery to fashions, sportswear, home décor, gifts, furniture, sportswear, and antiques, St. Thomas’s own brewery and the thriving Saturday Horton Farmers’ Market.

Port Stanley

Much of the charm of the Village 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. Stroll Downtown Aylmer for small-town friendliness and shopping at an un-hurried pace. Stop in at quaint fashion boutiques, fragrant bakeries, unique gift and souvenir stores and shops offering antiques, flowers, furniture and more. Savour a tasty homestyle meal or grab a bakeshop or deli treat and head to the park along the creek, just north of Talbot. Port Stanley has some intriguing history which adds to its unique charm. Today, it has become a mecca for “girls’ day out”, or a getaway with a little shopping thrown in. The village is small, but the shop owners have a knack for finding the best treasures for their customers, from fashions to home décor and gifts. Port is also home to two multi-artist galleries which are well worth a look. WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM 25

SHOP BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles 46361 Sparta Ln, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-0054 E: info@spartacandles.com www.spartacandles.com Ad p26

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.

Aylmer Sales Arena 51 Murray St, Aylmer, ON N5H 2A6 Ph: 519-765-2211 | E: e_lensink@yahoo.ca www.aylmersalesarena.ca Ad p28

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.

Berry-Hill Limited 75 Burwell Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3R5 Ph: 519-631-0480 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 | E: info@canadale.com www.canadale.com Ad p30

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.

Concreations 7579 Yarmouth Centre Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S9 | Ph: 519-631-8192 www.concreations.ca Ad p30

Home to hidden garden treasures. The new rustic barn store features unique, handmade outdoor ornaments, with statues varying from functional to fun.

FREE SHIPPING in Canada on all candle orders of $25 or more

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

46361 SPARTA LINE • WWW.SPARTACANDLES.COM 26

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SHOP BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Connections 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-7247 | E: ywca@bellnet.ca www.ywcaconnections.com

Featuring fair trade gifts from around the world. Owned, operated and in support of the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin. Ad p27

Family Flowers Inc. 44329 Talbot Line, RR #3, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-631-6004 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.

From the Meadow 3881 Avon Dr, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-269-3961 E: info@fromthemeadow.com www.fromthemeadow.com

Organic skin care products for real! Locally grown, harvested, and created especially for you in Southwestern Ontario. Creams, soaps, scrubs, mineral make-up and much more. Boutique open Mon–Fri.

Highland Drug mart 222 Colborne St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3324 Ad p54

Your local drug store and more. Independently owned & operated by Pharmacist Tam Mettias. Free local delivery including St. Thomas. Open weekdays 9am–6pm; Sat 9am–4pm.

Holistic Awakenings Day Spa 46349 Sparta Ln, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-2606 E: tammy_caughill@yahoo.ca www.holisticawakeningsdayspa.com

A holistic day spa devoted to providing a spa experience defined by excellence. Offering a unique combination of natural healing spa services and holistic body products.

In the pursuit of global equity & equality we are all connected. Featuring unique gifts that support fair trade & global initiatives including...

scarves, handbags, jewelry, arts & crafts, toys, journals, Owned, operated and in support pottery & more! of the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin OPEN ALL YEAR

302 Bridge St., Port Stanley (theatre building)

519-782-7247

www.ywcaconnections.com

QUAI DUVIN RETAIL STORE OpEn yEar rOunD

QUAI DU VIN REDS & WHITES Specialty WineS • Fruit WineS Wine JellieS • Sparkling cocktailS gourmet goodS • giFtWare

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SHOP Come and Experience

Southwestern Ontario’s Largest Yarn Shop Located in a charming 1842 home in the historic district of St. Thomas, across from the famous Jumbo monument, Little Red Mitten is a complete yarn shop with knowledgeable, helpful staff. We also offer spinning and weaving supplies, knitting Little groups and classes.

www.littleredmitten.ca

“a

86 Talbot Street, St. Thomas • 519-207-2880 Open Mon-Wed & Sat 10am-5pm, Thurs & Fri 10am-8pm • Closed Sundays & Holidays

Mitten ll y

insp

i r i n g p l a c e”

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

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

EVERY

TUESDAY All roads lead to the ...

Over 80 Years of Quality and Service

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!

4683 Sunset Road, Port Stanley

519-782-4052

www.moorewatergardens.com 28

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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

519-765-2211 • Vendor Inquiries Welcome

www.aylmersalesarena.ca

SHOP BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

LAVENDER SENSE 28011 Ash Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-762-2188 | E: info@lavendersense.com www.lavendersense.com Ad p42

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.

Little Red Mitten 86 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A5 Ph: 519-207-2880 | E: info@littleredmitten.ca www.littleredmitten.ca Ad p28

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 beginners to enthusiasts.

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.

Mennonite Furniture Gallery 10 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-765-4386 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 Tue–Sat 9am–5pm.

Mobelhaus Furniture Direct 11938 Imperial Rd, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R3 Ph: 519-859-3113 | 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.

Moore Water Gardens 4683 Sunset Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J4 Ph: 519-782-4052 | E: moorewg@execulink.com www.moorewatergardens.com Ad p28

Growers of the finest water lilies and aquatic plants. Great selection of goldfish, pond liners, pumps and filters. Everything for the water garden enthusiast.

Picard's Peanuts 10683 Sunset Dr (Hwy #4 at Hwy #3), Talbotville, 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, ice cream in the summer months. Make your own peanut butter.

Pinecroft Pottery & THE GREEN FROG TEAROOM 8122 Rogers Rd S, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-773-3435 | E: pinecroft@amtelecom.net www.pinecroft.ca Ad p34

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.

Unique gifts & Local Flavours...

Dripping with Natural sweetness!

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SHOP BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Silverthorn Landscape Supplies 46400 Talbot Ln, RR #3, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-765-2379 | E: silverthorn@amtelecom.net www.silverthornlandscape.com Ad p30

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.

Stan Portley's - Timeless & Unique 288 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-3805 | E: info@stanportleys.com www.stanportleys.com

Painted Furniture Boutique. Home Décor & Design from Urban Chic, to cottage style and Paris Apartment. Van Gogh Chalk Paint Collection. Unique Canadian made gifts.

Steed AND Company Lavender 47589 Sparta Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-494-5525 E: buds@steedandcompany.com www.steedandcompany.com Ad p44

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.

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.

Ad p28

Winter Wheat 5277 Quaker Rd, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 Ph: 519-775-2618 E: lucyogletree@winter-wheat.com www.winter-wheat.com

Great Weekly Specials Unique & Rare Ornamental Trees, Shrubs & Perennials Knowledgeable Staff Excellent Selection

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.

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

www.silverthornlandscape.com

MAKE YOUR GARDEN OR PATIO COME ALIVE

One of a kind handmade outdoor ornaments 269 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas 519-631-7264 • www.canadale.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Mar-Dec: Tues-Sat 11-6, Sun & Mon by appt

www.concreations.ca

7579 Yarmouth Centre Rd, St.Thomas • 519-631-8192

Kettle Creek Inn photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

STAY

Kettle Creek Inn, Port Stanley

No matter how long you have to visit, Ontario’s South Coast has what it takes to make your stay fun and relaxing. Select from bed and breakfasts, fully furnished cottages, motels, inns or cabins. From luxurious to rustic, quaint to modern, there’s a spot for you. CAMPGROUNDS / RV PARKS BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Lakewood Trailer Estates 22499 Gray Ln, RR #3, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-2020 | E: info@lakewoodte.com www.lakewoodte.com Pearce Williams Christian Centre - Summer Camp & Retreat Facility 8009 Iona Rd, RR #1 , Fingal, ON Ph: 519-764-2317 | E: info@pearcewilliams.org www.pearcewilliams.org Red Oak Travel Park 54428 Talbot Ln, Eden, ON N0J 1H0 Ph: 1-866-964-6936 | E: contact@redoaktravelpark.com www.redoaktravelpark.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. Elgin County's only full service Summer Camp & Rental Facility. Hiking trails open to public year round. Discover and explore Elgin's natural spaces. All welcome.

COTTAGES

Beautiful, friendly family campground activities. Large sites, large pool, close to golf course, historical sites, fishing, lakes, reasonable rates and group discounts.

BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Alma Villa 201 Lakeview St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1A1 Ph: 519-782-3881 | E: almavilla@sympatico.ca www.cottagesincanada.com/almavilla Bluebird Hideaway 5761 Union Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J2 Ph: 519-782-4959 | E: michaelagrouven@hotmail.com www.bluebirdhideaway.com Otter River Farms 53688 McQuiggan Line, RR 1 Port Burwell, ON N0J 1T0 Ph: 519-874-4038 | E: otterriverfarms@gmail.com www.otterriverfarms.ca Shoreline Getaways 720-195 Dufferin Ave, London, ON N6A 1K7 Ph: 1-877-231-6421 | E: info@shorelinegetaways.com www.shorelinegetaways.com

Beautifully restored century old lakeside home in Port Stanley! 6 bedrooms with upper and lower decks offering the most unforgettable views of Lake Erie. B&B/cottage close to Port Stanley in a quiet country setting. Newly renovated cottage, offers two bedrooms, one bathroom, living room and full kitchen facilities. Come visit Otter River Farms—guest house, rustic cabins, wilderness sites, hiking, birding, fishing, equestrian and nature retreat. Located 3 miles north of Lake Erie. Shoreline maintains and rents 6 cottages located in the heart of Port Stanley. Our cottages are clean, cozy, affordable and available during all seasons.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

STAY HOTELS / MOTELS BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Best Western Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London, ON N6L 1H5 Ph: 519-652-6022 | E: hotelinfo@stoneridge.com www.stoneridgeinn.com Ad p32 Cardinal Court Motel 10401 Sunset Rd, RR #7, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T2 Ph: 519-633-0740 | E: theaulakhs@execulink.com www.cardinalcourt.ca

Renovated in 2012, this 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.

Comfort Inn 100 Centennial Ave, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5B2 Ph: 519-633-4082 | E: comfortinnstthomas@rogers.com www.choicehotels.ca Howard Johnson - Tillsonburg 92 Simcoe St , Tillsonburg, ON N4G 2J1 Ph: 519-842-7366 | E: info@hojotillsonburg.ca www.hojotillsonburg.ca New Elgin Motel 9701 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T2 Ph: 519-633-0580 | E: newelginmotel@hotmail.com www.newelginmotel.ca

PLUS

Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre

Convenient Highway location, comfortably appointed guest rooms, complimentary hot breakfast, on-site dining at Pastoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Windjammer The

INN

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. Located on the corner of Hwy #3 & Centennial Ave. We have 78 rooms and offer complimentary continental breakfast and high speed Internet. 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. Very clean, comfortable and affordable rooms available. Two minutes to downtown and fifteen minutes to Port Stanley. 24 hour check-in available.

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

RECOMMENDED IN WHERE TO EAT IN CANADA & LAKE ERIE LIVING

PORT STANLEY

BED, BREAKFAST & BISTRO Open Year Round

FEATURING LOCAL FARM TO TABLE CUISINE

519-782-4173

324 Smith St, Port Stanley www.thewindjammerinn.com 32

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Main Street, Port Stanley (519)782-3388 www.kettlecreekinn.com information@kettlecreekinn.com

STAY BED & BREAKFASTS / INNS BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Arbour Bed & 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.

Grey Gables Bed & 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 or dine at one of Port Burwell’s fine restaurants. Make Grey Gables “your home at the Lake.”

Inn On the Harbour & Little Inn 202 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1H6 Ph: 519-782-7623 | E: innkeeper@innontheharbour.ca www.innontheharbour.ca Ad p33

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!

Kettle Creek Inn 216 Joseph St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3388 | E: information@kettlecreekinn.com www.kettlecreekinn.com Ad p32

Historical 1849 inn with 10 guest rooms and 5 luxury suites (whirlpools & gas fireplaces). Great pub food plus fine dining. Gazebo and patio dining!

Mulberry Lane B&B 6324 Stone Church Rd, 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.

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, ON, on the Talbot Trail. It boasts 3 warm and inviting guest rooms, 2 with ensuites, 1 with private 3 piece bathroom. Close to beaches, shopping and live theatre.

Telegraph House 205 Main St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3006 | E: welcome@telegraphhouse.com www.telegraphhouse.com Ad p33

Heritage Inn, Bed & Breakfast where history meets hospitality. New ensuite bathrooms in spacious historical guest suites. Fabulous breakfast included in room rates.

The Windjammer Inn - Bed, Breakfast & Bistro 324 Smith St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C6 Ph: 519-782-4173 | E: grrlmet@sympatico.ca www.thewindjammerinn.com Ads p32 & p35

Beautifully restored heritage house is home to award winning restaurant and cozy Bed & Breakfast. Luxury jacuzzi suites in carriage house. Pet friendly.

MEMBER OF ONTARIO’S FINEST HOTELS, INNS & SPAS

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

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

TASTE Pinecroft photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Pinecroft Pottery Gift Shop & Green Frog Tearoom

It’s our 65th Anniversary!

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

Come Celebrate with Us LAKE ERIE PERCH FRY

EVENT ADDRESS

ENTIRE WEEKEND

For further information: 519-773-3435 pinecroft@amtelecom.net

Saturday June 22nd, 6pm $25/person (plus tax) Includes beverage and dessert

VALDY CONCERT

Saturday June 22nd, 8pm $20 (plus tax) in advance $25 (plus tax) at the door

RON MEYERS WORKSHOP

June 22nd & June 23rd 9am-4pm, $150 (plus tax)

Workshop, Perch Fry & Concert $200 (taxes in)

8048 Rogers Rd S, Aylmer (2nd Pinecroft entrance) Extra parking available

TICKET INFO

PLEASE PURCHASE TICKETS EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

GTs photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

TASTE

GTs Beach Bar & Grill, Port Stanley

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. Some specialize in local cuisine and carry selections from local wineries and our craft brewery. You’ll also find several country diners and quaint tearooms—great places to take a break on a day of trekking the back roads. FROM THE CHEF/OWNER OF THE WINDJAMMER INN & BISTRO

LOCAL & ARTISANAL TREATS FROM OUR KITCHEN TO YOUR TABLE

519-782-4173

172 William St, Port Stanley www.thewindjammerinn.com

Two Wineries & a Brewery

With vineyards first planted in 1970, Quai du Vin Estate Winery continues a long-term commitment to using high quality grapes from their vineyards, a combination of Old World and New World techniques in production, and leaving time for wines to evolve naturally. The winery is also wellknown for their popular Summer Sounds Delicious event series. Visit them year-round to taste the latest vintage, tour the vineyards or just relax with a glass on the Wine Press Terrace. Rush Creek Wines captures the essence of summer in 21 varieties of wine produced from local fruit, much of it from their own farm and ranging from dry to sweet. They won a 2011 Premier’s Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence for their Strawberry Decadence Wine combining fruit and chocolate flavours. Several winery tours are available and can be customized to your interests. In less than five years Railway City Brewery has established a reputation for good beer and good fun with branding that’s played on Jumbo the Elephant and Railway City themes. A move and expansion are planned for 2013—it will enable them to keep up with ever-increasing demand for their popular brews and grow into the future. Dead Elephant anyone? WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM 35

TASTE BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Broderick's Ice Cream Parlour 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C3 Ph: 519-782-4492 | E: fred.heintz@rogers.com www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

Ad p38

Broderick's, a world famous and favourite destination in Port Stanley since 1984! Offers a total ice cream experience in a unique 50s style store design.

Cold Stone Creamery 995 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON

Ad p36

Dairy Queen Orange Julius 417 Wellington St, St. Thomas, ON Ph: 519-637-2542

Visit Tim Horton’s at First & Talbot St for the ultimate ice-cream experience. A whole new way to chill, at Elgin Mall in St. Thomas.

Ad p38

GTs BEACH BAR & GRILL 350 Edith Cavell Blvd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E2 Ph: 519-782-4555 | E: management@gtsportstanley.ca www.gtsportstanley.ca Ad p38

Southwestern Ontario's largest beach patio! We boast 8 beach volleyball courts, lounge chairs, full menu, weekday food specials and live entertainment weekends. Open May–Sept.

Heritage Line Herbs & The Silver Birch Tearoom 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R1 Ph: 519-866-5577 | E: heritagelineherbs@amtelecom.net www.heritagelineherbs.com Ad p44

Delightful rural destination. Shop in our quaint country store, stroll through our gardens & dine in our open air tearoom. Special events & tours year round.

Kettle Creek Inn 216 Joseph St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-3388 | E: information@kettlecreekinn.com www.kettlecreekinn.com Ad p32

Historical 1849 inn with 10 guest rooms and 5 luxury suites (whirlpools & gas fireplaces). Great pub food plus fine dining. Gazebo and patio dining!

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. Hours: 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 Ad p39

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.

Mackies 124 William St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E1 Ph: 519-782-4390 | E: mackies1911@rogers.com

Family owned and operated, located on the beach in Port Stanley since 1911. Famous for our fresh cut fries, homemade sauce, relishes and orangeade. Celebrating 102 years on the beach in Port Stanley!

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

TASTE BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

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.

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.

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 Ad p39

Casual family dining in a relaxing country atmosphere. Local memorabilia. Established in 1943. Banquet facilities. AGCO, full menu. Open 7 days a week 8am–9pm.

Pinecroft Pottery & THE GREEN FROG TEAROOM 8122 Rogers Rd S, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-773-3435 | E: pinecroft@amtelecom.net www.pinecroft.ca

Ad p34

Pizzaworx On The Beach 115 William St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1E1 Ph: 519-782-4500 | E: info@pizzaworx.net www.pizzaworx.com

Experience the best pizza on Lake Erie! Open seasonally from May to Sept for slices, snacks, ice cream, 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 | E: info@QuaiduVin.com www.QuaiduVin.com Ads p27, p37, p45 & p73

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.

Railway City Brewing Company 168 Curtis St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3W9 Ph: 519-631-1881 E: info@railwaycitybrewing.com www.railwaycitybrewing.com Ad p40

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.

QUAI DUVIN RETAIL STORE OpEn yEar rOunD

QUAI DU VIN REDS & WHITES Specialty WineS • Fruit WineS Wine JellieS • Sparkling cocktailS gourmet goodS • giFtWare

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

TASTE BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

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 N5H 2R2 Ph: 519-773-5432 E: winemaster@rushcreekwines.com www.rushcreekwines.com Ads p39, p42 & p67

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.

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 to you what we consider the world’s best ice cream!

Sparta House Tea Room Main St, Sparta, ON N0L 2H0 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.

hole new way to chill. A whole new way to chill.

ates

ation.

Open Mon-Sun 10am-10pm

airy Queen Corp., Distributed by IDQ Canada Inc.

417 Wellington St., St. Thomas - Elgin Mall

519-637-2542

Q/OJ

Pubs: Newspaper

TASTE BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

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, and was the Roxy Theatre in the mid-fifties.

The Windjammer Inn - Bed, Breakfast & Bistro 324 Smith St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C6 Ph: 519-782-4173 | E: grrlmet@sympatico.ca www.thewindjammerinn.com Ads p32 & p35

Beautifully restored heritage house is home to award winning restaurant and cozy Bed & Breakfast. Luxury jacuzzi suites in carriage house. Pet friendly.

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.

Ad p63

Victorian Elegance 109 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON Ph: 519-765-3634 www.victorianelegance.ca

Ad p28

Village Square Coffee House 284 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C4 Ph: 519-782-7777 | E: info@villagesquarecoffeehouse.com www.villagesquarecoffeehouse.com

Two levels of one-of-a-kind giftware, the latest in ladies’ fashions and the delightful cuisine of Savanna’s Magical Garden & Tea Room. Centrally located with a focus on local traffic and tourists. Serving direct trade coffee, house baked treats, sandwiches, made with love soups, chili, and more. Open every day!

Lotus Thai Restaurant

www.lotusthairestaurant.ca 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

www.newsarum.com

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

Daily Tastings • Picnic Area • Gift Store • Shipping Available

Distinctively Different!

100% Ontario Fruit Award Winning Wines

www.rushcreekwines.com

519-773-5432 • Mon-Sat 10-5 & Sun 12-5 48995 Jamestown Line, Aylmer

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

TASTE

Savour Elgin celebrates local food, wine and agritourism in partnership with quality restaurants. Members of Savour Elgin must either grow or produce their own products and in the case of restaurants have 25% of their food purchased locally (within 100km).

The program also connects producers and chefs. Our restaurants are proud to say they utilize member markets and agritourism locations in preparing their signature dishes—look for their Savour Elgin member signs on display. Member listings in the “Food & Drink” and “Agritourism” sections of this guide are indicated with an S-symbol.

Savour Elgin provides opportunities for tourists to engage all five senses in savouring the bounty of Killer Desserts

The Windjammer Inn Bed, Breakfast & Bistro

Great Lakes Farms ALWAYS FRESH

Rush Creek Wines

Savour Elgin Culinary Guide www.savourelgin.ca Harbourtown Fudge

Mad Hatters Tearoom

BREWED LOCALLY

NEW LOCATION OPENING SOON AT

130 Edward Street, St. Thomas

VISIT US FOR A TOUR AND TASTING IN OUR NEW TAP ROOM 168 Curtis Street, St. Thomas • 519-631-1881 • www.railwaycitybrewing.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • TOURS AVAILABLE • ALSO AVAILABLE AT AREA LCBOs

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Savour Elgin photos by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Elgin. The Trail takes you on a tour of twenty locations and some of the best restaurants, breweries, wineries, farms and other taste-tantalizing culinary attractions.

EXPLORE There’s a world of outdoor opportunity ready for you to explore in Elgin County, every season of the year.

Port Stanley Harbour photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

You’ll find places for adventure and recreation on land (at golf courses, trails, conservation areas and farms), water (on lazy creeks or the big water of Lake Erie) and in the air (at the busy St. Thomas Municipal Airport). Get out there and enjoy!

Port Stanley

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPLORE • AGRITOURISM Silver Birch Tearoom photo by Relish Elgin

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

The Silver Birch Tearoom at Heritage Line Herbs

Buy Local! Buy Fresh!

The farmers and producers of Elgin County grow a bounty of amazing tastes to be savoured throughout every season of the year. In order that you don’t miss any of the taste parade, let the Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Elgin County Map be your guide. Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Elgin County Map

COME FOR THE EXPERIENCE Daily Tastings • Picnic Area • Gift Store • Shipping Available Experience a Rush Creek

DELUXE TOUR

farm • boutique • retreat

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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

519-773-5432 • Mon-Sat 10-5 & Sun 12-5 48995 Jamestown Line, Aylmer

EXPLORE • AGRITOURISM BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Beary Blue Acres 23301 Queens Ln, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-0450 | E: sandenacres@yahoo.ca www.bearyblueacres.com

Family farm offering ready picked and pick-your-own blueberries mid-July to late August. Frozen blueberries available year round. Children welcome!

Berry Hill Fruit Farm 48937 Glencolin Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R6 Ph: 519-765-1752 | 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.

Clovermead Bees & Honey 11302 Imperial Rd (Hwy 73), Aylmer, ON N5H 2R3 Ph: 519-773-5503 | E: info@clovermead.com www.clovermead.com Ads p29, p43, p44 & p77

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.

Empire Valley Farm Market 27983 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown, ON Ph: 519-762-3504 | 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. Fresh fruits & vegetables available thru to October.

Ad p44

Farmtown Canada 46703 Mapleton Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R6 Ph: 519-773-2292 E: info@farmtowncanada.ca www.farmtowncanada.ca

South of the 401, enjoy a rustic rural adventure on the “Funny Farm Tour”. Start at the 1850 Log Cabin with Trinkets & Trash antiques and souvenirs to purchase or admire. All ages can learn about farming and help with animals. Wagon rides, hand lead horse rides and picnic spots.

Ferguson's Produce 11026 Wellington Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T1 Ph: 519-631-6589 | E: fergusonproduce@gmail.com www.fergusonproduce.com Ad p46

In season strawberries, sweet corn, pumpkins, fall raspberries, scarecrow festivals every weekend in Oct. Corn maze, school tours, birthday parties.

Great Lakes Farms 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J2 Ph: 519-782-3433 | E: contact@greatlakesfarms.ca www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Great Lakes hosts a wide variety of activities including pick-your-own strawberries, apples, peaches, pears, and pumpkins. In the fall the apple barn is open daily.

ONE FREE

Adventure Farm Admission

Buzzing with

Excitement!

with the purchase of two admissions Valid June till October, 2013. No cash value. Cannot be exchanged for food or merchandise. Admission is $10.17 (includes tax).

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPLORE • AGRITOURISM WE HAVE EVERYTHING TO MAKE SALSA!

HERITAGE LINE

HERBS

Country Store & Tea Room

FARM MARKET & GREENHOUSES

Full menu in the Tea Room, including High Tea Featuring over 180 varieties of potted herbs and heirloom vegetable plants 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

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

27983 Talbot Line, Wallacetown • 519-762-3504

www.empirevalleyfarms.com

DISCOVER • INDULGE • ESCAPE

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

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

2013 EVENTS AT STEED & CO LAVENDER

May 12 - Mother’s Day Season Opening June 22 - July 1 - Lavender In Bloom Celebration August 10 - Lavender Fairy Festival November 23 & 24 - A Lavender Christmas

buds@steedandcompany.com

47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta

519-494-5525

www.steedandcompany.com ONE FREE

Adventure Farm Admission

with the purchase of two admissions

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPLORE • AGRITOURISM BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Heritage Line Herbs & The Silver Birch Tearoom 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R1 Ph: 519-866-5577 | E: heritagelineherbs@amtelecom.net www.heritagelineherbs.com Ad p44

Delightful rural destination. Shop in our quaint country store, stroll through our gardens & dine in our open air tearoom. Special events & tours year round.

Howe Family Farm Market 48956 John Wise Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-808-1171 | E: ryanz71@hotmail.com Ad p46

Come and enjoy farm fresh food just for you. Strawberries, garden vegetables, sweet corn, cantaloupe, melons, pumpkins, squash, jams, jellies, preserves and so much more!

Koscik Greenhouse Tomatoes and Produce 6602 Sawmill Rd, RR #6, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R5 Ph: 519-773-2648 | E: robkoscik@hotmail.com

Koscik Greenhouse Tomatoes is a family business. Our beef steak tomatoes are grown in ground just like field tomatoes. Other in-season veggies available at the farm stand.

Lake Erie Salmon and Trout Club 4255 Thomas Rd, RR #2, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J2

8+ acres of natural beauty, 114 species of native trees and shrubs, wildflowers, birds, stream, 2 fish passages, rainbow trout hatchery, 6 ponds.

LAVENDER SENSE 28011 Ash Ln, Wallacetown, ON N0L 2M0 Ph: 519-762-2188 | E: info@lavendersense.com www.lavendersense.com

Ad p42

McSmith's Organic Farm 42828 Shorlea Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T1 Ph: 519-631-0279 | E: mcsmith@amtelecom.net www.McsmithsOrganicFarm.com Ad p46

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.

St. Thomas Horton Farmers' Market Manitoba St, St. Thomas, ON Ph: 519-317-3398 | E: manager@hortonfarmersmarket.ca www.hortonfarmersmarket.ca Ad p46

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.

Steed and Company Lavender 47589 Sparta Ln, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519-494-5525 | E: buds@steedandcompany.com www.steedandcompany.com

Ad p44

QUAI DUVIN WINERY TOURS

Tour our vineyards, processing area, fermentation and barrel rooms, then enjoy a tasting, all in the good company of one of our resident winemakers. aVaIlaBlE yEar rOunD On DEmanD

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

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EXPLORE • AGRITOURISM

HOWE

FAMILY FARM MARKET

Grown Fresh For You

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

OPEN EARLY JUNE TO NOVEMBER Our own strawberries, watermelon, canteloupe, squash, pumpkins, garden vegetables and much more, plus other local products grown nearby

ERGUSON’

11026 Wellington Rd • 519-631-6589

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

Strawberries . Raspberries . Sweet Corn . Pumpkins . Preserves

Mon-Sat 8-6pm & Sun 11-5pm

48556 John Wise Line, Aylmer

519-773-3779 www.howefamilyfarms.ca Making Memories Since 1878

ALMA

MANITOBA

FLORA ROSS

HORTON

KAINS

BALACLAVA

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.

WELCOME TO OUR COMMUNITY

Saturdays 8am-12pm • May 1 1 - NOVEMBER 2

www.hortonfarmersmarket.ca

TALBOT HORTON FARMERS’ MARKET

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www.facebook.com/Horton.Farmers.Market

The Bluffs photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

EXPLORE • GOLF

GOLF

The Bluffs Golf Club, Port Stanley

The variety of Elgin County’s picturesque landscapes is reflected in its golf courses. From serene to breath-taking, there’s one to suit every mood and ability. BUSINESS

DETAILS

Belmont Golf Club 45809 Ferguson Ln, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-644-1370 Ad p47 Bluffs Golf Club, The 35593 Lake Ln, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1J1 Ph: 519-782-7447 | E: info@thebluffsgolfclub.com www.thebluffsgolfclub.com Ad p47 Fore Golfers Only Ltd. 43765 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-631-8617 | E: fgo@rogers.com www.foregolfersonly.on.ca Hancox Homestead Driving Range 31897 Silver Clay Ln, Iona Station, ON N0L 1P0 Ph: 519-762-6048 | E: info@hancoxhomesteadgolf.com

Challenging 18 holes; easy walking or carts available; no tee times required; fun, friendly atmosphere.

Pleasant Valley Golf & Country Club 46343 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S7 Ph: 519-773-2911 | www.pleasantvalleygolfcc.com Tarandowah Golfers Club 15125 Putnam Rd, Avon, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-269-9656; 1-888-869-9656 | E: info@puregolf.net www.puregolf.net

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. Fore Golfers Only has the largest selection of golf equipment, both new and used in the country. A must see for any golfer. 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! A family owned recreational facility where everyone is made welcome. There is fun and challenge for all at Pleasant Valley. 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. The Bluffs Golf Club is 5 km west of Port Stanley on the bluffs overlooking Lake Erie, with breathtaking views that will make your golfing experience a day to remember.

A friendly place to golf. Owned & Operated by Jan & George Loughlean, C.P.G.A. PRO

45809 Ferguson Line

519-644-1370

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

35593 Lake Line • 519-782-7447

Book online at www.thebluffsgolfclub.com

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EXPLORE • RECREATION

Springwater Conservation Area photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

RECREATION With four unique ports, beaches, marinas, a myriad of trails, Conservation Areas, Carolinian Forest, sprawling parks and smaller green spaces, horse ranches, golf courses, a bee adventure farm, and more, you can chose a different playground every day of your stay, or every day of the year. Hike, run, cross-country ski, boat or paddle, bird-watch, golf, ride a horse, cruise (via bike, motorcycle or car), fish or swim… how will you play today? 48

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Springwater Conservation Area

Cruise the Coast Elgin’s temperate climate lets you enjoy your motorcycle just a little bit longer. The Cruise the Coast Map takes you on two routes through Elgin County. One guides you along the shoreline for scenic vistas and the pleasures of Elgin’s back roads. The other follows the Talbot Trail to discover a vibrant heritage built on the spirit of the early settlers. Cruise the Coast Motorcycle Map www.cruisethecoast.ca

Biking & Cycling Trail Map Explore our beautiful trails and parks by biking, walking, hiking, jogging or cross country skiing throughout Elgin and St. Thomas. This comprehensive map will help guide you along the way. Cycling & Hiking Trail Map

EXPLORE • RECREATION

Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse and Port Stanley photos by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse

Port Stanley

of Fame, great shops, renowned restaurants, three golf courses, and a thriving arts community.

Over one hundred kilometres of breathtaking Lake Erie shoreline await 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! The wild beauty of undeveloped lakeshore makes Port Glasgow a recreationist’s dream, whether bird-watching, tramping through the trails of 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. With one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on the North Shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley offers visitors a unique mix of attractions—theatre, Port Stanley Terminal Rail, Stork Club Museum and Big Band Hall

Port Bruce, a 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. A trip to nearby attractions like Rush Creek Wines can nicely complement your visit. Port Burwell is known as the “Jewel of Erie’s North Shore”. 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 birds and butterflies. History buffs will be intrigued by the Historic Lighthouse and Marine Museum’s fine collection of lighthouse lenses and other Lake Erie marine artefacts. They will also be impressed in a BIG way by the new kid in town—the HMCS Ojibwa submarine. The Ports of Elgin County www.elgintourist.com/ports

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPLORE • RECREATION BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

East Elgin Community Complex 531 Talbot St W , Aylmer, ON N5H 2T9 | Ph: 519-773-5631 E: tklachan@eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca Ad p50 Ferguson RV World Inc. 1249 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G8 Ph: 519-631-1092 | E: dferguson@fergusonrvworld.com www.fergusonrvworld.com Ad p51 Helping Unite Belmont (the HUB) 14090 Belmont Rd, Box 309, Belmont, ON N0L 1B0 Ph: 519-644-2320 | E: belmont_hub@hotmail.com www.belmonthub.ca Horseshoe J Dude Ranch 32553 Erin Ln, Fingal, ON N0L 1K0 Ph: 519-762-5402 | E: duderanch@xplornet.ca www.duderanchontario.com

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. Recreational vehicle sales, service, parts and accessories. Fifth wheels, travel trailers and fold downs. We service most brands.

Kettle Creek Conservation Authority 44015 Ferguson Ln, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3T3 Ph: 519-631-1270 | E: luiza@kettlecreekconservation.on.ca www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca Ad p51 Kettle Creek Marina Ltd. 220 Colonel Bostwick St, Port Stanley, ON N5L 1C2 Ph: 519-782-3261 | E: info@kettlecreekmarina.com www.kettlecreekmarina.com

The HUB is dedicated to bringing together the residents of Belmont, Ontario through a common meeting place, programs and opportunities for people of all ages. Events and programs year round. For over 50 years, Horseshoe J Dude Ranch has been offering a unique Horse Camp experience and trail riding. Enjoy family camps, children's camps, hourly public trail riding, birthday packages, lessons, horse clubs and group outings. 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. 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!

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

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 ST, 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 • 25+ Shinny • Speed Skating • Shuffleboard Indoor Walking • Horseshoes • Day Camp • 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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EXPLORE • RECREATION BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Lower Thames VallEY Conservation Authority Ph: 519-354-7310 | E: info@ltvca.ca www.ltvca.ca Ad p49 Port Glasgow Yacht Club & Marina PO Box 315, Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 Ph: 519-785-2408 | E: portglasgowyachtclub@gmail.com Spirit's Whisper 55807 Jackson Ln, Straffordville, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-872-8800 | E: kristi@callofthehorse.ca www.callofthehorse.ca Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Rd, RR #5, Aylmer, ON N5H 2R4 Ph: 519 773-9037 | E: springwater@catfishcreek.ca www.catfishcreek.ca Ad p52

Elgin County conservation areas include E.M. Warwick Conservation Area near Eagle, Dutton-Dunwich Conservation Area, and Crane Conservation Area. Operation of full service marina on Lake Erie, between Port Stanley and Erieau. 3 launch ramps, food booth, washrooms, public hiking and picnic shelters. 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. We offer a wide range of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy—camping, fishing, swimming, picnics, special events, and hiking. Discover Our Good Nature at Springwater.

Bird Watching

A couple of very popular local sites attract flocks of people and birds each year. Aylmer Wildlife Management Area (north of Aylmer, near 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 displays are featured during two Hawkwatch weekends in September.

Enjoy a refreshing day or weekend with all that Mother Nature has to offer.

People in Harmony with Nature seasonal and overnight camping beach • fishing • picnic areas bird watching • playground hiking trails • swimming pools disc golf canoe rental kids’ activities

FERGUSON RV WORLD ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO

Proudly Serving Elgin for Over 40 Years

DALEWOOD CONSERVATION AREA

Haek Cliff photo by Relish Elgin

519-631-1009

LAKE WHITTAKER CONSERVATION AREA

519-269-3592 RESERVE ONLINE AT

www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca /KettleCreekCA

Bird Watching at Hawk Cliff

@KettleCreekCA

Motorhomes Folding Trailers Travel Trailers Fifth Wheels Service Local: 519-631-1092 Toll Free: 1-800-668-4903 Parts & Accessories 1249 Talbot Street • www.fergusonrvworld.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EXPLORE • RECREATION

Active Elgin

The 2013 Active Elgin Guide contains sports, leisure and recreational activities for people of all ages and abilities, located across St. Thomas and Elgin County. The activities range from team sports to art classes, walking programs, martial arts, music, dance classes and many more. The guide is produced by the Active Elgin Coalition, made up of organizations committed to building healthy communities and making sports, leisure and recreational information easier to find. The guide was delivered to homes across the area in January, and copies are also available at ElginSt. Thomas Public Health and local public libraries. 2013 Active Elgin Guide www.activeelgin.ca YMCA St. Thomas-Elgin

Outdoor Pools & SplashPads

Facilities are generally open early or mid-June to the end of August. Swimming pools offer a variety of open swims and classes—call for details. Aylmer • Swimming Pool Balmoral Park, 17 Myrtle St, 519-773-3164 St. Thomas St. Thomas Parks & Recreation Department • Jaycees Pool 93 Inkerman St, 519-633-7112 • Rotary Club Splashpad Pinafore Park, 89 Elm St, 519-633-7112 • Waterworks Splashpad Waterworks Park, 2 South Edgeware Rd, 519-633-7112 Dutton • Dutton/Dunwich Community Pool 198 Queen St, 519-762-2772 (seasonal) Rodney • West Elgin Community Pool 259 Ridout St, 519-785-0750 (seasonal) West Lorne • Miller Park Splashpad, Miller Park 52

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DISCOVER OUR GOOD NATURE

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

• SEASONAL & OVERNIGHT CAMPING • • HIKING • FISHING • PICNIC AREAS • • CANOE & PEDAL 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

Splashpad photo courtesy of St. Thomas Parks & Recreation Department | Kids swimming photo by Mark Girdauskas

Rotary Club Splashpad, St. Thomas

Jumbo photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

SERVICES

Monument to Jumbo the Elephant

BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce 44 Talbot St W, Aylmer , ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-773-5655 | 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 | E: jreynaert@town.aylmer.on.ca www.aylmer.ca Ad p10

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.

Bayham, Municipality of 9344 Plank Rd, Straffordville, ON N0J 1Y0 Ph: 519-866-5521 | 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.

Ad p14

Cedarhurst Salon & Spa 76 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1A5 Ph: 519-631-7629 | E: cedarhurstsalonandspa@rogers.com www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com Ad p54

Our dedicated professionals and quality products, guarantee to bring you the absolute best in care. Make an appointment…relax…enjoy!

Central Elgin, Municipality of 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-4860 | 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 370kms of municipal roads. Central Elgin encompasses 325 square kms in area and has a population of 12,700 citizens.

Daytripping in Southern Ontario 624 Broadway St, Wyoming, ON N0N 1T0 Ph: 1-800-667-0337 | E: info@daytripping.ca www.daytripping.ca

Ad p8

The Daytripper is a magazine promoting the most unique shops, stops, towns and events. Available free at tourist booths, in shops and online.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Make us part of your

Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse

Spa Services for Men & Women Gift Certificates & Gift Baskets Spa Parties & Bridal Parties Guinot, Jane Iredale & More

519-631-7629

76 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (Across from Jumbo) Open Mon 9am-5pm, Tues-Fri 8:30am-7pm & Sat 8am-4pm

www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com

DRUG MART

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

Jeff Yurek, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London

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 54

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

www.library.elgin-county.on.ca

because you deserve it...

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

Port Burwell Historic Lighthouse photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

vacation

SERVICES

SERVICES BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

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 | E: tfarrell@duttondunwich.on.ca www.duttondunwich.on.ca Ad p8

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.

Elgin Business Resource Centre 300 S Edgeware Rd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4L1 Ph: 519-633-7597 | E: dwebster@elgincfdc.ca www.elgincfdc.ca

EBRC assists Elgin/St. Thomas entrepreneurs with all aspects of business development including new business planning, growth, access to capital, networking, and business incubation services.

Elgin County Library 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-1460 x148 | E: crobson@elgin-county.on.ca www.library.elgin-county.on.ca Ad p54

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.

German Canadian Club, Saxonia Hall 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 2T8 Ph: 519-773-5271 | E: bookings@saxoniahall.com www.saxoniahall.com

The Saxonia Hall has been proudly serving Aylmer and surrounding area for over 40 years. Offering a combination of delicious food, and high quality service. Whether it's a small business meeting in a WIFI environment, or a large wedding reception, we do it all!

Hayhoe Homes 1 Barrie Blvd, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4B9 Ph: 519-633-2050 | E: joe.hayhoe@hayhoehomes.com www.hayhoehomes.com Ad p2

Build your next home with an award winning home builder, Hayhoe Homes! See pictures and floor plans online or drop by for a visit at one of our fully furnished presentation centres.

Jeff Yurek, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London 750 Talbot St, Suite 201, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2 Ph: 519-631-0666 / 1-800-265-7638 E: jeff.yurekco@pc.ola.org Ad p54

Ready and available to help you with your Provincial concerns.

Jim Harris, Broker M.V.A Royal LePage Triland Realty-Brokerage 491 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C3 Ph: 519-857-5429 | 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 www.joepreston.ca Ad p57

Ready and available to help you with your Federal concerns: Passports; Revenue Canada; Service Canada; Citizenship & Immigration; Employment Insurance.

Mainstreet Aylmer 44 Talbot St W, Aylmer, ON N5H 1J7 Ph: 519-773-5655 | 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 | E: aadams@malahide.ca www.malahide.ca

Local government. Ad p11

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SERVICES BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

Norfolk County Tourism: Port Dover to Long Point 30 Peel St, Simcoe, ON N3Y 1R9 Ph: 519-426-9497 | E: tourism@norfolkcounty.ca www.norfolktourism.ca

Your official source for tourist information in Norfolk. Summer visitor information centres include Port Dover, Long Point and Simcoe. Or, look for the South Coast Van.

Otter Valley Chamber of Commerce PO Box 36, Port Burwell, ON N0J 1T0 Ph: 519-866-3770 | E: president@ottervalleychamber.com 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 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1 Ph: 519-631-4860 | E: dwilson@centralelgin.org www.portstanley.net Ad p58

Port Stanley BIA is the strong voice for over 85 businesses in the village. We continually strive to increase beautification, tourism and economic development.

Relish Elgin St. Thomas, ON 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.

Southwold, Township of 35663 Fingal Ln, Fingal , ON N0L 1K0 Ph: 519-769-2010 | E: southwold@twp.southwold.on.ca www.twp.southwold.on.ca Ad p6

Local government

St. Thomas / Elgin Weekly News 15 St. Catharine St, St. Thomas , ON N5P 2V7 Ph: 519-633-1640 | E: terry@theweeklynews.ca www.theweeklynews.ca

Metroland Media Group Ltd. publishes "The Weekly News" and a monthly magazine "Elgin This Month" which includes the St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce section "Business Beat."

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 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.

St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation 545 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V7 Ph: 519-631-1680 | 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.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

SERVICES BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION

St. Thomas Public Library 153 Curtis St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3Z7 Ph: 519-631-6050 | E: stpl@st-thomas.library.on.ca www.st-thomas.library.on.ca Ad p56

St. Thomas Public Library provides programs, computers, and reading, multimedia, research, and local history material. Sign up for a free membership today!

St. Thomas, City of 545 Talbot St, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 Ph: 519-631-1680 | E: mayor@city.st-thomas.on.ca www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

City of St. Thomas providing services through the following departments: Planning, Treasury, Economic Development, Parks & Recreation, Valleyview, Ontario Works, Police, Human Resources, Fire, Environmental Services, Library, Clerk's, Mayor's Office.

The 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

myFM delivers the most local news and information. We air updates every hour all day and provide immediate local breaking news when it happens. Involved in the community, 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.

Tourism London 267 Dundas St, London, ON N6A 1H2 Ph: 519-661-5000 | 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.

Voyageur Transportation 573 Admiral Crt , London, ON N5V 4L3 Ph: 519-495-5195 | E: d.mills@voyageurtransportation.ca www.voyageurtransportation.ca

Voyageur provides a full spectrum of professional transportation services including: charter and shuttle services, school bussing, freight delivery services, non-emergency patient transfers, executive sedan service and event first aide.

West Elgin Chamber of Commerce Rodney, ON N0L 2C0 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 www.westelgin.net

The Municipality of West Elginâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a place where the past and the future live side by side. A minute from the 401, it's your link to Lake Erie's beautiful South Coast.

Ad p6

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 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: (519) 637-3358 Toll Free: 1-866-404-0406

www.joeprestonmp.ca

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

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, June 29 to Monday, July 1 CanFest Friday, July 19 to Sunday, July 21 Port Stanley Pride Weekend Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28 HarbourFest & Tall Ship Saturday, September 21 Doors Open Port Stanley/Sparta Friday, November 8 to Sunday, November 10 Village Open House Weekend November is Girls Getaway Month in Port Stanley

The Jewel of Lake Erie’s North Shore

www.portstanley.net

EVENTS

Port Stanley Harbourfest photo by Relish Elgin

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

Port Stanley HarbourFest & Tall Ship Festival

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Month of Feb

12 Annual Miniature Art Show Portside Gallery, 187½ Main St, Port Stanley

519-782-7066 portside.cuttingpromotions.com

Feb 1

Quiz Night Rodney Legion, 171 Victoria St, Rodney

519-785-0328

Feb 6

St. Thomas Random Act of Kindness Day

519-633-6936

Feb 7

Tyrconnell Heritage Society AGM Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

Feb 8

Guy’s Night Out—What Happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery! The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Feb 9

Valentine’s Dance & Anniversary Banquet Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Feb 12

Rodney Kiwanis Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper West Elgin Recreation Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney

519-785-0241

Feb 15

Dinner & The Theatre The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Feb 16

Rodney Kiwanis Indoor Yard Sale Rodney Community Centre, 135 Queen St

519-693-7070

Feb 18

Sparta Family Day Get-Away Side Room of The Sparta House Tea Room

519-775-2312 www.spartahouse.com

Feb 22

Girl’s Night Out—Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Feb 23

West Lorne Optimist Club Adult Fun Night Rodney Legion, 177 Victoria St, Rodney

519-768-3306

Feb 28– Mar 10

Heart’s Desire Princess Ave Playhouse, 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas A play by Rick Whelan. Thur–Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm.

519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca

Mar TBA

West Lorne Optimist Club Oratorical Contest

519-762-3213

Mar 1

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

March Weekends & March Break

Springwater Maple Syrup Festival Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer Enjoy wagon rides through Springwater Forest. Tour the old-fashioned sugar shanty for demonstrations on maple syrup production. Maple products are available for sale. Dine at our pancake house which is operated by local community organizations.

519-773-9037 www.catfishcreek.ca

March Weekends

Palmer’s Maple Syrup Festival 34308 Lake Ln, RR #1, Port Stanley Saturdays & Sundays in March, 9am–3pm. 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.

519-769-2245

Mar 5–10

Fore Golfers Only Clearance Sale St. Anne’s Centre, 20 Morrison Dr, St.Thomas

519-631-8617

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

LEGION EVENTS WEST LORNE LEGION

142 John St, West Lorne | Ph: 519-768-1890 Breakfasts Apr 7, May 5, Jun 2, Aug 4, Sep 1, Oct 6, Nov 3, Dec 1 Lunches Feb 15 & 22, Mar 22 & 29, Apr 19 & 26, May 24 & 31, Jun 21 & 28, Jul 19 & 26, Aug 23 & 30, Sep 20 & 27, Oct 18 & 25, Nov 22 & 29 Springwater Maple Syrup Festival

RODNEY LEGION

Springwater Maple Syrup Festival photo by Relish Elgin | Canadale Spring Garden Show photo by Mark Girdauskas

177 Victoria St, Rodney | Ph: 519-785-2111 Ham & Turkey Bingo Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10, Apr 14, May 12, Jun 9, Jul 14, Aug 11, Sep 15, Oct 13, Nov 10, Dec 15 Lunches Feb 1, Mar 1, Apr 5, May 3, Jun 7, Jul 5, Aug 2, Sep 6, Oct 4, Nov 1, Dec 6 Brunches Apr 21, May 19, Jun 15, Jul 21, Aug 18, Sep 22, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15 Meat Draws Every Saturday, 4:30–5:30pm

Canadale Spring Garden Show

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Mar 6

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Mar 7

Thursday’s Tempting Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Mar 11–15 March Break Day Camp St. Thomas Timken Centre

519-633-7112 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Mar 11–15 Boot Camp: Savour the Flavour, A Five-day KIDS Culinary Adventure The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Mar 11–15 Public Skating Sponsored by EastLink East Elgin Community Complex

519-773-5631 www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

Mar15-17

6th Annual CANADALE Spring Garden Show Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas Celebrate Spring! Explore landscape displays, enjoy seminars and demos. Discover local artisans. A sneak peak at new plant introductions! Kids Club activities. Charity lunch. Fri & Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 9am–5pm.

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Mar 16

Everything Celtic Romantic Designs Studio, 120 Wellington St, St.Thomas

519-860-6851 www.romanticdesigns.ca

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

The Arts & Cookery Bank

Mayor’s Charity Hockey Game

EVENT

CONTACT

Mar 17

Chicken and Cabbage Roll Dinner Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Mar 20

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Mar 21

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Mar 21

Musical Showcase West Elgin Secondary School, 139 Graham Rd, West Lorne Sponsored by West Lorne Kiwanis Club. 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 WESS to further assist music students with their studies. 7–9pm.

519-768-1798

Mar 23

Schnitzel and Cabbage Roll Sale Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Mar 30

West Lorne Optimist Easter Egg Hunt 142 Chestnut St, West Lorne

519-768-1055

Mar 30

Easter Bunny Visits Sparta Side Room of the Sparta Tearoom One free picture with the Easter Bunny! Easter egg hunts, gifts, draws and picture mounting. Fun and surprises. Donations to Caring Cupboard appreciated. 12–3pm.

519-775-2312 www.spartacandles.com www.spartahouse.com

Mar 30

RODNEY Easter Egg Hunt Rodney Park, 135 Queen St, Rodney

Mar 31

Broderick’s Ice Cream Parlour Season Opening Broderick’s Ice Cream, 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

Apr TBA

West Lorne Kiwanis Club Highway #76 Cleanup Graham Rd South to Eagle

519-768-1224

Apr 4

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Arts & Cookery Bank photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios | Mayor’s Charity Hockey Game photo by Mark Girdauskas

DATE

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Apr 5

Dinner & The Theatre The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 6

Annual Vimy Lecture Elgin County Museum, 450 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas Elgin County Museum honours the memory of Wallacetown native Lance-Sgt. Ellis W. Sifton, who was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his actions on the first day of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, by hosting a lecture on some aspects of the battle. 2pm.

519-631-1460 x159 www.elgin-county.on.ca

Apr 7

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 9

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 11

Thursday’s Tempting Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 13

Wallacetown Ag Society Dinner & Silent Auction Dutton Community Centre

519-762-2617

Apr 13

Electronic Cleanup CASO Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas

519-633-2535 www.narhf.org

Apr 13

Diva’s Day Out Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Apr 14

Mayor’s Charity Hockey Game Timken Community Centre, 2 Third Ave, St. Thomas 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. 4-5:30pm.

519-631-1680 x4196

Apr 17

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 20

Museum & Grounds Clean Up Day Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

Apr 20

Canadale Nurseries 2013 Grand Opening & Draws Canadales Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Apr 20

Cooking with Herbs Demo—International Cuisine Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Always Fresh. With 8 locations to serve you in

St. Thomas

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

Apr 20

Tiny Tots Scrap-A-Thon West Elgin Community Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney

519-785-2164

Apr 21

Singer Songwriters Circle Princess Ave Playhouse, 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas Singer Songwriters Circle with Dave Gunning, Suzie Vinnick, Ennis. Tickets $30. 2pm.

519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca

Apr 25

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Apr 26

Friends of Youth BBQ Steak Dinner & Elimination Draw Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Apr 27

Opening Day of Trout Fishing Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer

www.catfishcreek.ca

Apr 27

Winemaker’s Dinner Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas

519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

Apr 28

Train Show CASO Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Please check website or call for more information.

519-633-2535 www.narhf.org

MAY IS MUSEUM MONTH

“May is Museum Month” is a province-wide campaign organized by the Ontario Museum Association. Check out the museums listings starting on page 19 and visit one of our remarkable museums today! May 1

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 1– Oct 14

Accounts of a Hard Day’s Work Exhibit Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

May 2

Thursday’s TempTing Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Hike for Hospice

Winemaker’s Dinner

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Hike for Hospice photo by Mark Girdauskas | Winemaker’s Dinner photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS

St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

May 4

Build a Pond Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 4

Build a Water Feature Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 4

Create an Inukshuk Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 4

Rodney Horticulture Plant Sale Rodney Community Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney

519-785-0937

May 4

Planning & Growing an Herb Garden Workshop Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR#1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

May 4–5

St.Thomas-Elgin Studio Tour—Open Studio Various studios around Elgin-St. Thomas will be open to visitors.

519-631-4040 or 519-860-6851 www.stepac.ca

May 5

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 5

Hike for Hospice Location TBA Why hike? Funds raised through the hike can insure 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 7

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 9–12 & 16–19

Old Love Princess Avenue Playhouse, 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas A play by Norm Foster. Tickets $15. Thur–Sat 8pm; Sun 2pm.

519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca

May 10

Girl’s Night Out—Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 10

Education Day (Grades 3 and 7) Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

War of 1812 Weekend at Backus-Page House

EVENT

CONTACT

May 11

Celebrating Sparta’s Beginning Quaker Cemetery, 45 Sparta Ln

519-775-2292

May 11

Four Seasons Long Lunch: Spring The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 11

Tim Horton’s Trout Derby Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer

www.catfishcreek.ca

May 11–12

Mother’s Day Open House Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

May 11–12

War of 1812 Weekend Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown It’s the British vs. the American’s in the War of 1812. Re-enactment, learn early settler skills, and visit historic merchants. Visit our website for schedule. 10am–4pm.

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

May 12

Mother’s Day Treats Broderick’s Ice Cream, 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

May 12

Mother’s Day Dinner Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

May 12

Mother’s Day Countryside Tour & Winery Tour Rush Creek Wines, 48995 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer Cost $10pp, children $5. Every Mom will get a free gift. Horse drawn wagon rides will run from 1–4pm. Registration required.

519-773-5432 www.rushcreekwines.com

May 12

LAVENDER SENSE Season Opening LAVENDER SENSE, 28011 Ash Ln, Wallacetown

www.lavendersense.com

May 12

Steed & Co Lavender Mother’s Day / Season Opening Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta

519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com

May 15

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

War of 1812 Weekend photo by Mark Girdauskas

DATE

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

May 17–20

Weekend Ice Cream Specials Broderick’s Ice Cream, 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

May 18

Build a Water Feature Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 18

Build a Pond Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 18

Create an Inukshuk Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 19

Optimist Club of West Lorne Breakfast Old Boy’s Trailer Park, 8650 Furnival Rd, Port Glasgow

519-785-0568

May 23

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 24

Guy’s Night Out—What happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery! The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

May 25

Customer Appreciation Day Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

May 25

Tiny Tots Tike-a-Thon 217 Furnival Rd, Rodney

519-785-2164

May 25

Sparta Community Wide Garage Sale The Village of Sparta Come to Sparta and enjoy the bargains at the 3rd annual Sparta Community Garage sale, rain or shine. 9am–3pm.

519-775-0054 or 519-775-2312 www.spartacandles.com

May 25

Winemaker’s Dinner Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas

519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

May 28– Jun 8

Back in ‘59 Port Stanley Festival Theatre Back In ‘59 delivers a non-stop parade of jukebox hits with energy and style… once again we’ll set your heart pounding and your feet stomping. Matinees 2pm; evenings 8pm.

519-782-4354 www.portstanleytheatre.ca

May 30– Jun 4

Pink Plants for a Cure Canadales Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Daily Tastings • Picnic Area • Gift Store • Shipping Available 2013 RUSH CREEK WINES EVENTS

May 12: Mother’s Day Countryside & Winery Tour Aug 1 to Oct 28: Explore the Corn Maze Sept 14 & 15: 17th Annual Harvest Festival Visit our website for more events and details.

www.rushcreekwines.com • 519-773-5432 • Open 7 days a week: Mon-Sat 10-5 & Sun 12-5

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

May 31 (Rain date Jun 7)

Motorcycle Ride for United Way County of Elgin Building, 450 Sunset Dr, St.Thomas The Charity Motorcycle Ride is organized by the Elgin County United Way Special Events Committee (ECUWSEC) and all proceeds will go to the Elgin-St. Thomas United Way. A great opportunity to cruise the County, have some fun, and contribute to a meaningful cause.

519-631-1460 x164 www.elgincounty.ca

Summer Mon-Sat

Free Tours of Old St. Thomas Church The Old St. Thomas Church, 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas

www.oldstthomaschurch.com

Jun, Jul & Aug Every Sun

Music in the Park: Concert Series Pinafore Park, Morris F Jones Bandshell, 93 Elm St, St. Thomas 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. 6–8pm.

519-633-7112 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Jun TBA

West Lorne Optimist Club Bike Rodeo Aldborough Public School

519-768-1456

Jun 1

Edison Fest Vienna Memorial Park, 6226 Plank Road, Vienna Family fun, music, craft & art vendors, food, contests, children’s activities & free draws. 9am–6pm. Edison Museum, 14 Snow Street, open daily mid-May to Labour Day.

519-866-5521 www.bayham.on.ca

Jun 1

Brodericks Ice Cream 29th Birthday Broderick’s Ice Cream, 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

Jun 1

Build a Pond Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 1

Create an Inukshuk Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 1

Build a Water Feature Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 1

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986www. theartsandcookerybank.com

St. Anne’s Community Festival

Port Stanley Art Guild Annual Show & Sale

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

St. Anne’s Community Festival & Port Stanley Art Guild Annual Show & Sale photos by Mark Girdauskas

DATE

EVENTS Rosy Rhubarb Festival

Rosy Rhubarb photo by Relish Elgin | Nostalgia Weekend photo by Mark Girdauskas

Nostalgia Weekend at Elgin County Railway Museum

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Jun 1–2

Planes, Trains & Automobiles—Nostalgia Weekend Elgin County Railway Museum, 225 Wellington St, St. Thomas Visit and explore the museum’s collection of locomotives, cabooses, jiggers and other rolling stock on outdoor display. Enjoy classic cars, model aircraft, historical demonstrations, music and activities for the whole family. 10am–4pm.

519-637-6284 www.ecrm5700.org

Jun 2

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Jun 5–8

St. Anne’s Community Festival 20 Morrison Dr, St. Thomas A local family fun tradition since 1972! Midway, crafters, entertainment, face painting, bingo, food and fun. Free admission. Wed/Thur 4pm–close; Fri noon–close; Sat 11am–close.

519-631-3640 stannesfestival.com

Jun 6

Thursday’s TemPTing Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

June 7–8

Relay For Life St. Joseph’s High School, St.Thomas The 13th annual Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life involves teams of around ten people who participate in an overnight non-competitive relay. Participants take turns walking, running or strolling around the track at St. Joseph’s High School. 7pm–7am.

519-207-0437

Jun 7–9

Port Stanley Artists’ Guild 23rd Annual Show & Sale Royal Canadian Legion, 310 George St W, Port Stanley The talented artists of the Port Stanley Artists’ Guild are once again pulling out the stops for their annual Gala, Show and Sale. Fri 7–10pm; Sat 12–8pm, Sun 12–5pm.

www.portstanleyartguild.com

Jun 7–9

Van Fest Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer Come see Canada’s Premiere Truck Show, including custom vans, pickups, and 4x4’s. Show and Shine is Saturday from 11am-5pm.

www.catfishcreek.ca

Jun 7–9

519-764-2600 Rosy Rhubarb Festival www.rosyrhubarbfestival.com Shedden Keystone Complex and surrounding community, Shedden The 21st Annual Rosy Rhubarb Festival celebrates rhubarb, fun and community spirit. The community welcomes visitors, tourists and vendors from near and far. Come browse the yard sales or participate in the rhubarb pie auction. Hope to see you there.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS Pick-Your-Own Strawberries

Shedden Tractor Pull

EVENT

CONTACT

Jun 9

Wingfield’s Folly Princess Ave Playhouse, 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas A play by Dan Needles, performed by Rod Beattie. Tickets $40. 2pm.

519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca

Jun 9

Grape Escape Vineyard Run Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas Run features 2.5, 5 & 10 km races as well as a kid’s race. Fun for the whole family. Includes lunch, entertainment and prizes. Early registration discounts available. 9am–noon.

519-631-8085 www.runningroom.com

Jun 12– July 6

Henry and Alice: Into the Wild Port Stanley Festival Theatre The long-awaited sequel to last season’s Sexy Laundry. Follow Henry and Alice into the woods as they discover the delights of camping… army rations, motorcycles, and skinny dipping… they try them all! Matinees 2pm; evenings 8pm.

519-782-4353 www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Jun 13

Summer Open House Cedarhurst Salon and Spa, 76 Talbot St, St. Thomas

519-631-7629 www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com

Mid-June– Strawberry Season Mid-July Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley

www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Jun 14–16

Shedden Tractor Pull Shedden Keystone Complex, Hwy #3, Talbot Line It’s fun, it’s loud and it’s exciting. Come watch the competition!

519-769-2010

Jun 15

Create an Inukshuk Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 15

Build a Water Feature Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 15

Build a Pond Seminar Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Jun 19

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Jun 21

Girl’s Night Out—Real Food, Real Fun, Real Culinary Conversation The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Shedden Tractor Pull and strawberries photos by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS

GREAT LAKES INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW June 28-30, 2013

Book your boarding pass to summer excitement this June for the Great Lakes International Air Show at the St. Thomas Municipal Airport! Now the largest tourist draw in the region, attracting over 20,000 fans in 2011, the Great Lakes International Air Show (GLIAS) returns to the skies of Southwestern Ontario with another action packed family oriented event. With the continuing support of title sponsor Ascent, our community partners and show volunteers, the 2013 show will be jam packed with aircraft displays, exhibitors, souvenir/food vendors and much more.

JUNE 28-30

2013

ST. THOMAS MUNICIPAL AIRPORT ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO

Presented by and support from our community partners

Prior to the flying display, get up close and personal with some of the world’s most exciting aircraft, chat with air crew from Canada and around the world, collect autographs and take in the many other exciting educational ground displays including the free Kid’s Zone. Then pamper yourself by taking in the show from our new upgraded ‘theatre’ style seating venue or move up to first class in the premium Flight Deck Chalet (includes on-site parking) where flight crew and fans relax, enjoy preferred show centre seating and a catered buffet. These tickets sold out last show, act early to avoid disappointment. For General Admission and ‘Theatre Seating’ ticket holders, getting to the airport has never been easier. Multiple off-site parking lots ($10.00/ vehicle all day) are conveniently located just a short five minute shuttle bus ride from the airport. Shuttle service is FREE and runs throughout the day. Since its inception, this biennial show’s mandate has been two fold; educating the general public on all things related to aviation, and raising public awareness of the sacrifices and contributions, both past and present, made by the men and women serving in our Canadian Forces. The show is also a successful fund-raiser. In 2011 surplus proceeds of over $75,000 were distributed back into the community benefiting a broad range of regional service organizations.

FEATURING THE

Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds Air Demonstration Team Tickets available at the gate, on-line and at participating Libro Financial Branches For more information visit our website at

www.greatlakesinternationalairshow.ca Raising funds for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation, St. John Ambulance, Military Family Rescue Centre (London), Cadets and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS Great Lakes International Air Show

West Lorne Optimist Show & Shine in the Shade

EVENT

CONTACT

Jun 22– Jul 1

Lavender Bloom Celebration Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta

519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com

Jun 23

Victorian Tea Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

June 23

Summer Swing Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas The Stork Club Group presents Summer Swing, an outdoor concert and dance. Enjoy live music from the Big Band Era!

519-709-5948 www.quaiduvin.com

Jun 27

519-631-1460 x164 5th Annual Warden’s Charity Golf Tournament www.elgincounty.ca St. Thomas Golf & Country Club, Sparta Ln, Union The golf tournament is being organized by the Elgin County United Way Special Events Committee (ECUWSEC) and all proceeds will go to the Elgin-St. Thomas United Way. A great opportunity to have some fun, socialize with others while at the same time realizing the benefits the tournament will provide to the United Way.

Jun 28–30

Great Lakes International Airshow St. Thomas Municipal Airport Third largest airshow in Canada held at the St.Thomas Municipal Airport June 28-30, 2013. Proceeds benefiting five charities including the St.Thomas-Elgin General Hospital Foundation.

greatlakesinternationalairshow.ca

Jun 29–30

Celebrating 200 Years of Sparta Parade in Village of Sparta; Dinner/Dance at Quai du Vin; Garden Party at Sparta Church Museum Join the 200th anniversary celebration starting with the parade of historical floats followed by displays of old Sparta at the community hall and a dinner/dance in the evening. Sunday, visit an historical Sparta display at the garden party.

519-775-2292

Jun 29–30

Association of Port Stanley Artists Show Omstead Building, Port Stanley Harbour An art show displaying works from members of the Port Stanley Art Association. Please check the website for more detailed information.

www.portstanleyartists.com

June 30

West Lorne Optimist Club Show & Shine in the Shade Miller Park, 134 Chestnut St, West Lorne Car show from 8:30am–noon with cash prizes and a great prize table; breakfast 8:30–11am.

519-768-2972

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Great Lakes International Air Show photo by Mark Girdauskas | Show & Shine in the Shade photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Jul & Aug Summer Days with the Beekeeper (Every day) Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer

519-773-5503 www.clovermead.com

Jul TBA

Free Movie in the Park Pinafore Park, 93 Elm St, St. Thomas Free movie in beautiful Pinafore Park at 9pm. New release family movie on a 25’ screen! Please bring a non-perishable food item for the food bank.

519-633-7112 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Jul TBA

Optimist Club of West Lorne Breakfast Old Boy’s Trailer Park, 8650 Furnival Rd, Port Glasgow

519-768-2972

Jul TBA

West Lorne Optimist Club Junior Golf Tournament Wardsville Golf Club

519-768-2691

Jun 29– Jul 1

Port Stanley Canfest Port Stanley 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’.

www.portstanleycanfest.ca

Jul 1

Dutton Canada Day Celebrations Sons of Scotland Park, Dutton Enjoy fun activities throughout the day, starting at noon! Free swim, volunteer awards, opening ceremonies, musical entertainment, kids activities, fireworks at dusk.

519-762-3209 www.duttondunwich.on.ca

Jul 1

Port Burwell Canada Day Celebrations Port Burwell Legion to Cenotaph Parade at 11am followed by flag raising ceremony, music, entertainment, children’s activities, food, fun & cake cutting. Visit the Marine Museum & Historic Lighthouse.

519-874-1190 www.bayham.on.ca

Jul 1

St. Thomas Canada Day Celebrations Pinafore Park, St. Thomas The City of St. Thomas is hosting a spectacular fireworks display at 10pm. Food, fun and family entertainment.

519-633-7112 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Jul 1

519-785-0560 West Lorne Canada Day Celebrations www.westelgin.net Miller Park, West Lorne 1pm Kids Country Carnival & other activities; 5pm fish fry; 7pm opening ceremonies, baseball games, Snake Lady show; 9:30 fireworks.

QUAI DUVIN 2013 EVENTS

apr 27 / may 25 WINEMAKERS DINNERS Jun 9 GRAPE ESCAPE VINEYARD RUN Jul 7 ULTIMATE TRIBUTES Jul 28 MOTOWN MEMORIES aug 11 DISCO MANIA aug 25 REDS, WHITES & THE BLUES

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

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

Jul 1

Malahide & Aylmer Canada Day Celebrations East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St, Aylmer Something for everyone—inflatables, carnival games, mini golf, photo booth, crafts & activities, BBQ and entertainment. All ages are guaranteed a great time. Free public skating. Fireworks at dusk. 5–9pm.

519-773-5631 www.eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

Jul 1

Half-Price Herb Sale Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Jul 1

Canada Day Karaoke & Sundae Specials Broderick’s Ice Cream, 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

Jul 1

Fingal Canada Day Celebrations Fingal Ball Park

519-769-2010

Jul 2– Aug 30

Summer Day Camps Pinafore and Waterworks Parks, St.Thomas

519-633-7112 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Jul 4–16

Customer Appreciation Sale Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Jul 5–7

Balls Bike Rally Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer Ride with a thousand for charity. Ride, eat and enjoy the entertainment. Camping is available.

www.catfishcreek.ca

Jul 7

RODNEY KIWANIS CLUB Kids Fishing Derby Port Glasgow Marina Registration open at 9:30am, fishing 10-2pm. Free hotdog and pop. Must have parent/guardian present. Prizes for biggest fish in age groups but all children are well rewarded!

519-785-0163

Jul 7

Ultimate Tributes Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas 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. 2–7pm.

519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

Day Out With Thomas

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Fingal Canada Day Celebrations

Day Out With Thomas photo by Mark Girdauskas | Fingal Canada Day Celebrations photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS

JULY

St.Thomas-Elgin Memorial Centre

19-21 & 26-28

80 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas, ON

2013

Hosted by the Elgin County Railway Museum

JULY

™

St.Thomas-Elgin Memori

19-21 & 26-28

80 Wilson Ave, St. Thom

2013

Hosted by the Elgin County Railway Mu

www.ticketweb.ca /dowt or call 888.222.6608

Ultimate Tributes photo by Relish Elgin

Ultimate Tributes at Quai du Vin

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Jul 7

Port Glasgow Yacht Club Annual Steak BBQ Port Glasgow Marina Over 300 dinners served. Cost $15 and all are welcome. Not In My Backyard Port Stanley Festival Theatre Political satire, love among the vegetables, and some hard lines drawn in the dirt. Organizers of a local community garden get more than they bargained for when an organic food dream turns into a practical nightmare in this musical tour de force. Matinees 2pm; evenings 8pm. Daylily Ensemble Gardens—Open Garden 25 Mandeville Rd, St. Thomas Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne FRESHFEST: A LOCAL TASTE EXPERIENCE CASO Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Featuring food and drink from local producers, wineries and breweries. Port Stanley Pride Weekend Events throughout the village of Port Stanley. Please see website. Day Out With Thomas St. Thomas Elgin Memorial Centre, 80 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas All aboard! Take a 25-minute train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt, enjoy live music, storytelling, Thomas inflatables, hands-on activities, Sodor Island hay bale maze & much more! 8am–6pm. For tickets, call 1-888-222-6608.

519-785-1765

Jul 10–27

Jul 12–14 Jul 17 Jul 19–20

Jul 19– 21 Jul 19–21 & 26-28

519-782-4353 www.portstanleytheatre.ca

519-631-8927 519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com www.freshfest.ca

www.portstanley.net 519-637-6284 www.ticketweb.ca/dowt

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys Western Festival

Clovermead Bee Beard Competition

EVENT

Jul 20

Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys Western Festival 1-866-401-2965 West Lorne www.cactuscattleandcowboys.ca 7am West Lorne Fire Dept breakfast; 9am vendors, family events, farmers market. Dog agility show, petting zoo, Battle of the Bands, trail rides (BYOH). Noon horse parade.

Jul 20

Dutton Lions Sportsfest Sons of Scotland Park, Dutton Come out for some fast hitting ball during this weekend hosted by the Dutton Lions.

Jul 20

Annual Street Dance 519-762-3209 Co-Trac Ford Parking Lot, Main Street, Dutton www.duttondunwich.on.ca Annual street dance featuring Radio. Proceeds to Dutton Dunwich Parks and Recreation and Minor Sports. Age of majority in effect. 9pm–1am.

Jul 20

Four Seasons Long Lunch: Summer The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Jul 20–21

Horse Camp & Trail Rides 28660 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown Trail rides on Trans Canada Trails and private trails to Lake Erie. Overnight horse stalls available, advance booking required. Camp fire and jamboree. Sat 3pm; Sun 10am.

519-762-2783 or 1-866-401-2965

Jul 21

Dutton Community Pool Swim Meet Dutton Dunwich Community Pool

519-762-2772 www.duttondunwich.on.ca

Jul 26–28

Port Stanley Harbourfest & Tall Ship Port Stanley Harbour Nautical celebration of the War of 1812, the St. Lawrence II Brigantine ship, battle re-enactments, midway, vendors, entertainment, merchants’ specials. Come and ‘SHOP, DINE, STAY’. Fri noon–Sun 5pm.

519-782-3673 www.portstanley.net

Jul 27

Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Derby Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer 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! 9am.

www.catfishcreek.ca

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

CONTACT

Cactus, Cattle & Cowboys and Clovermead Bee Beard photos by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Jul 27 (Rain date Aug 10)

Clovermead’s 9 Annual Bee Beard Competition & Pioneer Games Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer Teams of beekeepers compete for title of World’s Bee Beard Champion. They load up their faces with bees and dance down the catwalk. Pioneer Games include seed spitting, cross cut sawing, tug o’war, sack, human buggy, and spoon races. Admission $11+tax; group of 5 is $50+tax. Includes access to adventure farm fun! Competition starts at 2:30pm.

519-773-5503 www.clovermead.com

Jul 27–28

www.portstanleyartists.com

Jul 28

Motown Memories 519-775-2216 Quai du Vin Estate Winery, 45811 Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas www.quaiduvin.com Five hours of live entertainment featuring some of the best Motown tribute artists in the area. Visit website for full event details. Tickets $20 advance $25 at the gate. 2–7pm.

Jul 29– Aug 2

Kids Summer Grief Camp Please check website for details

519-637-3034 www.serenityhousehospice.ca

Jul 31– Aug 17

Mini Putt Port Stanley Festival Theatre Taking a last gasp at success, a down and out bachelor buys a derelict miniputt and tries to give it new life, while looking for love, redemption, and power tools in all the wrong places. Matinees 2pm; evenings 8pm.

519-782-4353 www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Month of Aug

Peach Season Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley

www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Aug 1– Oct 28

Rush Creek Corn Maze Rush Creek Wines, 48995 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer Test your skills all day in a fun family friendly maze! $5/person. Children in strollers free. School groups welcome. Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 12–5pm.

519-773-5432 www.rushcreekwines.com

Aug 2–5

519-874-4450 Port Burwell Tub Daze www.bayham.on.ca Port Burwell East Beach Family fun & food, beach volleyball, fire truck pulling contest, beer tent, music, kid’s activities. Marine Museum & Historic Lighthouse. Fireworks Sun Aug 4th at dark. 9am–10pm.

Join us for our Not-to-BEE-Missed ANNUAL

Annual Events!

BEE BEARD COMPETITION

Bring your friends and try the

before the Bee Beard Competition

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

Aug 4

Annual Fish Fry & Fireworks Port Glasgow Marina Starts with a family fish fry put on by West Elgin volunteer groups. Dinner $15, over 600 dinners served annually. Live band throughout the day and fireworks at dusk. 4:30–10pm.

519-785-1765

Aug 8-11

Iron Horse Festival St. Thomas A community festival celebrating our heritage, featuring entertainment, food booths, midway, vendors, artists in the park, kids’ junction, and Iron Chef grill-off. Thurs–Sat 11am–11pm; Sun 11am–5pm.

www.ironhorsefestival.com

Aug 9–11

Aylmer & East Elgin Agricultural Fair Aylmer Fair Grounds, 139 Pine St E, Aylmer 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. 10am–10pm.

519-773-3445 www.aylmerfair.ca

Aug 9–11

Elgin Historical Show Dan Patterson Conservation Area, Highbury Ave, just N of St. Thomas The Elgin Historical Show, organized by the Kettle Valley Pioneers, is always the second full weekend in August. Antique show demonstrates how farming was done in the pioneer days. 9am–5pm.

Aug 10

Meet & Greet a Contractor Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, 46400 Talbot Ln, St. Thomas

519-765-2379 www.silverthornlandscape.com

Aug 10

Home Building Centre Horseshoe Tournament Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer 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.

www.catfishcreek.ca

Aug 10

Lavender Fairy Festival Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Ln, Sparta 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! Noon–4pm.

519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com

Aylmer & East Elgin Agricultural Fair

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Lavender Fairy Festival

Aylmer Fair photo by Mark Girdauskas | Lavender Fairy Festival photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS

3 Port Cycle Tour photo by Dave Helsdon of Aylmer Express

3 Port Cycle Tour

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Aug 10–11 Peachfest www.greatlakesfarms.ca Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley Enjoy the harvest with pick your own peaches, some farm fun including tractor rides and a corn maze and also enjoy some of our new peach baked goods. Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 11am–5pm. Aug 11

Victorian Tea Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown Enjoy tea, sandwiches and desserts served by costumed volunteers in the charming atmosphere of our museum grounds. $10/person.

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

Aug 11

Disco Mania Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas See website for more information.

519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

Aug 11

Brunch by the Waterfalls Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Aug 12–16 Kids Summer Grief Camp Aug 15

519-637-3034 www.serenityhousehospice.ca

Fred Eaglesmith Concert CASO Station, 750 Talbot St, St. Thomas Please check website or call for more information.

519-633-2535 www.narhf.org

Aug 16–18 Fred Eaglesmith Charity Music Festival Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer 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. Visit www.fredeaglesmith.com or purchase tickets at the gate. Aug 17

www.catfishcreek.ca

www.threeporttour.com 3 Port Cycle Tour Port Burwell, Port Bruce, Port Stanley 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.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

Straffordville Watermelon Fest

EVENT

CONTACT

Aug 17

Ribs & Rubies: Signature Annual Fundraiser Event The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne The experience… come for an evening of gourmet tastes and inspiration. Don’t miss this gem-studded evening—an opportunity to experience and celebrate our local culture while helping to fund future “community spirit” programming offered by The Bank. 6pm.

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Aug 18

Optimist Club of West Lorne Breakfast Old Boy’s Trailer Park, 8650 Furnival Rd, Port Glasgow

519-785-0568

Aug 21

Elgin Cattlemen’s Association Annual Barbecue Pinafore Park, Elm St, St. Thomas Come out and enjoy great local food. The event runs rain or shine the third Wednesday of August each year. It serves approximately 700-800 people. Adults $12. 5–7pm.

519-762-3749

Aug 21– Sept 14

Drinking Alone Port Stanley Festival Theatre Trivial Pursuit gone bad, a role-playing first time escort, a hard drinking news anchor, and way too much family history! Matinees 2pm; evenings 8pm.

519-782-4353 www.portstanleytheatre.ca

Aug 23–25 Shedden Agricultural Society Fall Fair Shedden Keystone Complex, Hwy #3, Talbot Line Come out for the fun, food, and friendship. Something for everyone! Aug 24

Straffordville Watermelon Fest Straffordville Community Centre Park, 56169 Heritage Ln Parade at 10am. Pancake breakfast at firehall, family fun, music, entertainment, children’s activities, pony & midway rides, silent auction, craft vendors, great food, movie at dark. 8am–11pm; Parade at 10am (school to park).

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

519-769-2010

519-866-5573 www.bayham.on.ca

Straffordville Watermelon Fest photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Aug 24

Talbot Trail of Yard Sales County Wide 100 kms of yard sales, farm produce stands, unique shops, museums, wineries, art galleries, and so much more. Just follow the Talbot Trail.

www.elgintourist.com

Aug 24

Talbot Trail of Yard Sales: Bayham Throughout Bayham Follow Talbot Trail of Yard Sales filled with fun & treasures throughout Bayham along Heritage Line to Plank Road through Richmond, Straffordville & Vienna to Port Burwell. 8am–3pm.

519-866-5521 www.bayham.on.ca

Aug 24–25 Talbot Trail of Yard Sales: Country Seat Country Seat Upholstery Studio, 28143 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown Many vendors and charities with a wide variety of goods. Antiques, collectables, kitchen ware, furniture, Christmas décor and home décor. Please come and browse. 8am–4pm.

519-762-2965

Aug 24

Talbot Trail of Yard Sales: Empire Valley Farm Market 27983 Talbot Ln, Wallacetown For lots of unique treasures plan on stopping here on your way down the Talbot Trail. Outdoor farmers market, multi-family yard sales, unique vendors, firefighters breakfast & lunch, hot roasted sweet corn. Proceeds to Dutton/Dunwich Fire Dept. 8am–2pm.

519-762-3504 www.empirevalleyfarms.com

Aug 25

Reds, Whites & the Blues Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Fruit Ridge Ln, St. Thomas Five hours of live entertainment featuring some of the best Blues artists in the area. Tickets $20 advance; $25 at the gate. 2–7pm.

519-775-2216 www.quaiduvin.com

AUGUST 8-11

NEW WEEKEND ! Food Vendors, NEW MIDWAY!

Shops & Artisans Exciting Performers Something Different Every Day!

MIDWAY

BUSKERS

ARTISAN’S VILLAGE

CAR SHOW

KIDS’ JUNCTION

RIB FEST

www.ironhorsefestival.com WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

Aug 31

Friends of Springwater Fireworks Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer Whether you’re camping or like to come for the day, you won’t want to miss the evening’s spectacular display of fireworks over the Springwater Pond.

www.catfishcreek.ca

Aug 31– Sept 1

St. Thomas Fire Muster Pinafore Park, St. Thomas Firefighter competitions, car show, parade, entertainment, antique trucks and apparatus. Weekend of free family fun!

519-631-0210

Saturdays in Sept

Clovermead Annual Honey Harvest Festival Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer Come watch honey harvested from the hive, dip your own beeswax candle, safely see a live bee hive opened. Bee Beard demonstration at 2:30 pm. Admission $11+tax; group of 5 $50+tax. 9am–5:30pm.

519-773-5503 www.clovermead.com

Sept 7– Nov 3

Apple Season Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley

www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Sept 7–8

Applefest Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley Help us kick off the apple season and sample some of our early apple varieties. Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 11am–5pm.

www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Sept 7–8

Fall Mum Festival Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Sept 8

Broderick’s Ice Cream Celebrates Grandparents Day 290 Bridge St, Port Stanley

www.brodericksicecreamparlour.com

Sept 8

Wingfield Unbound Princess Ave Playhouse, 40 Princess Ave, St. Thomas A play by Dan Needles, performed by Rod Beattie. Tickets $40. 2pm.

519-633-8530 www.elgintheatreguild.ca

St. Thomas Fire Muster

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

St. Thomas Fire Muster photos by Mark Girdauskas (left) and Relish Elgin (right)

DATE

St. Thomas Fire Muster

EVENTS

COME OUT FOR SOME

Horsin’ Around at the 159th Rodney ALDBOROUGH AGRICULTURAL Fair

SEPTEMBER 13, 14 & 15

Horse Shows/Competitions, Farm Olympics, Tractor Pull, Lawnmower Races, Demo Derby and sooo much more.

www.rodneyfair.ca

Great Lakes Farms photo by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios

Great Lakes Farms

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Sept 13–15

Rodney Aldborough Agriculture Society Fair Rodney Park, Queens St, Rodney

519-768-1858

Sept 14

Doors Open East Elgin Aylmer, Malahide, Bayham Visit participating sites of cultural, recreational or local interest in the Town of Aylmer, the Municipality of Bayham and the Township of Malahide. Info also at www.doorsopenontario.on.ca. 10am–4pm.

www.bayham.on.ca www.aylmer.ca www.malahide.ca

Sept 14-15 17th Annual Harvest Festival Rush Creek Wines, 48995 Jamestown Ln, Aylmer Winery open house! Cheese sampling, entertainment both days, horse drawn wagon rides, corn maze and crafts. Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 12–5pm.

519-773-5432 www.rushcreekwines.com

Sept 14–15

Heritage Farm Show Backus-Page House, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown This annual show features steam engines, working horses, threshing, blacksmithing, antiques, tractors, farmer’s market, children’s activities, machinery exhibits and more! 10am–4pm.

519-762-3072

Sept 14–15

Fall Bulb Festival Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Sept 15

Brunch by the Waterfalls Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS

Wallacetown Fair

Rush Creek Wines Harvest Festival

EVENT

CONTACT

Sept 17

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking DemoNSTRATION The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Sept 18

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Sept 20–29

Friends of Portside Show & Sale 519-782-7066 Portside Gallery 187½ Main St, Port Stanley portside.cuttingpromotions.com 3rd Annual Art show by regional artists of works in various sizes, styles, mediums and prices. Admission free and everyone welcome. Opening reception Sept 20, 7–9pm. 11am–5pm daily.

Sept 21

Doors Open Port Stanley/Sparta Port Stanley, Sparta & surrounding area This event presents a unique opportunity to visit many historical and cultural venues. Guides in historical costumes will share our heritage with you as you tour many sites not usually open to public. 10am–4pm.

www.portstanley.net

Sept 21–22

Fall Harvest Festival Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas Fun for the entire family! Enjoy fall decorating seminars and fun Kid’s Club activities. Sat 8am–5pm; Sun 10am–5pm.

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Sept 22

Elgin County’s Amazing Race Join us for an adventure you will not soon forget. Register your team, collect your pledges, and then show up on race day to receive your first clue. Decipher each clue to find your next checkpoint— compete in physical or intellectual challenges, have a blast and win awesome prizes!

www.escf.ca

Sept 26

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Sept 27–29

Wallacetown Fair Wallacetown Fairgrounds Bring the whole family out and enjoy the 153rd Annual Wallacetown Fair!

www.wallacetownfair.com

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Wallacetown Fair and Rush Creek Wines Harvest Festival photos by Relish Elgin

DATE

Scarecrow Pumpkin Festival and Wallacetown Fair photos by Philip J Bell of Shutter Studios | Active Elgin Day photo by Mark Girdauskas

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Sept 28

Active Elgin Day Across Elgin-St.Thomas For one day only organizations across Elgin County will open their doors and offer residents and visitors of all ages and abilities a chance to try various sport, leisure and recreational activities for free or at a discounted rate!

519-631-9900 www.activeelgin.ca

Sept 28

Four Seasons Long Lunch: Fall The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Fall (Date TBA)

Elgin Federation of Agriculture Car-a-Van Tour This tour allows you to visit several farms or agri-businesses in East Elgin. Tour maps are available the beginning of September. 10am–3pm.

519-633-0114

Weekends in Oct

Ferguson’s Scarecrow Pumpkin Festival Ferguson’s Produce,11026 Wellington Rd, St. Thomas Corn maze, wagon rides, scarecrow making (bring own clothes), pumpkin launcher, face painting, concession booth and harvest decorations. School tours and birthday parties welcome. 11am–5pm.

www.fergusonproduce.com

Saturdays in Oct & Thanksgiving Monday

Clovermead Pumpkin Festival Clovermead Bees & Honey Adventure Farm, 11302 Imperial Rd, Aylmer Celebrate the world of pumpkins, the great pumpkin drop, pumpkin seed spitting, apple sling shot, pumpkin cannon show, pick your own pumpkin. Bushels of family fun. Admission $11+tax, group of 5 $50+tax. 9am–5:30pm.

519-773-5503 www.clovermead.com

Oct 1

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 3

Thursday’s Tempting Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 6

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 8

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 16

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com Active Elgin Day

Ferguson’s Scarecrow Pumpkin Festival

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS EVENT

CONTACT

Oct 19

Elgin Fall Colours Studio Tour Various Locations Featuring artist studios in Elgin, including Romantic Designs at 120 Wellington St, St. Thomas. Sat & Sun 9am–5pm.

519-860-6851

Oct 19

Tiny Tots Scrap-a-Thon West Elgin Community Centre, 135 Queen St, Rodney

519-785-2164

Oct 24

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986

Oct 24–26

Wallacetown Haunted House Wallacetown Fairgrounds Come out for a frightfully good time! 7–10pm.

519-762-2617

Oct 25

Guy’s Night Out—What happens in The Cookery, Stays in The Cookery! The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Oct 26

Adult Halloween Dance Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Oct 26–27

Pumpkinfest Great Lakes Farms, 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley Get ready for Halloween with free pumpkin decorating. Also enjoy watching pumpkins fly from our pumpkin launcher! Sat 10am–5pm; Sun 11am–5pm.

www.greatlakesfarms.ca

Oct 27

Children’s Halloween Party Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Oct 31

Halloween Treats Olde Rodney Jail, 135 Queen St, Rodney

www.westelgin.net

Nov 1

Annual Art Auction St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, 301 Talbot St, St. Thomas 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. 6:30pm–11pm.

519-631-4040 www.stepac.ca

Fall Train Rides on the Port Stanley Terminal Railway

Canadale’s Christmas Open House

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Canadale Open House photo by Mark Girdauskas | Port Stanley Terminal Railway photo by Relish Elgin

DATE

EVENTS

St. Thomas Remembrance Day Service photo by Mark Girdauskas

St. Thomas Remembrance Day Service

DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Nov 1

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 2

Trachtenball Dinner & Dance Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Nov 3

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 5

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next Cooking Demonstration The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 7

Thursday’s Tempting Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 8–10

Village Open House Weekend Village of Port Stanley Visit the merchants and business owners of Port Stanley for special deals and activities.

www.portstanley.net

Nov 9

Feast at the Forge Forge & Anvil Museum, 46316 Sparta Ln, Sparta

519-775-2292

Nov 9–10 & 23–24

Christmas Open House Canadale Nurseries, 269 Sunset Dr, St. Thomas Christmas at Canadale! Celebrate the season with decorating demos and workshops. Free photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus and their live reindeer. Hot charity lunch. Sat 8am–5pm; Sun 10am–5pm.

519-631-7264 www.canadale.com

Nov 10

War Memorial Services Shedden Keystone Complex, Hwy #3, Talbot Line Truly one of the nicest memorial services around. Great community coming together to remember.

519-769-2010

Nov 10

Port Burwell Armistice Day Parade Port Burwell Legion to Cenotaph

519-874-4308

Nov 11

Rodney Remembrance Day Service Rodney Library

Nov 11

St. Thomas Remembrance Day Service St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, 189 Elm St, St. Thomas

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS Annual Christmas Carol Sing at Old St. Thomas Church

12 Days of Christmas Cookie Bake at the Bank

EVENT

CONTACT

West Lorne Remembrance Day Service West Lorne Cenotaph, Arena, Graham Rd

519-768-1890

Nov 11

Aylmer Remembrance Day Ceremonies Cenotaph, Talbot St, Aylmer

Nov 16–17 9th Annual Christmas Open House Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln RR #1, Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Nov 19– Nov 30

12 Days of Christmas: A Bank Holiday Extravaganza The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne Nov 19 Holiday Market Opens; Nov 20 Nine Wednesday Experience; Nov 23 Cookie Bake; Nov 24 Yuletide Brunch; Nov 26 Traditional Festive Market; Nov 28 It’s time to Hang It Up; Nov 29 Light It Up— Gingerbread House Making & Santa Parade; Nov 30 Celebration Cook Off Long Lunch

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 20

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 21

Reviving the Lost Arts: From One Generation to the Next (Cooking Demo) The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 21

8th Annual Open House Cedarhurst Salon and Spa, 76 Talbot St, St. Thomas

519-631-7629 www.cedarhurstsalonandspa.com

Nov 22– Dec 6

Home For Christmas Shopping Event Rodney, West Lorne, Dutton and Wallacetown Western Elgin shop local event. Visit each business location for draw tickets to win in-store draw prizes. Draws to be held on Dec 9.

Nov 23–24 Sparta Country Christmas 519-775-0054 or 519-775-2312 Side room of the Sparta House Tea Room, 46342 Sparta Ln www.spartacandles.com Free picture taken with Santa and mounted. Letters to Santa forwarded to the North Pole. Free hot chocolate and gift. Donations to Caring Cupboard appreciated. 12–3pm. Nov 29

Port Stanley Dickens Day Parade Starts at 7pm.

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

Annual Christmas Carol Sing photo by Relish Elgin | Cookie Bake photo courtesy of the Arts & Cookery Bank

DATE Nov 11

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Nov 29

West Lorne Santa Claus Parade 519-768-2691 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 the children at the West Lorne arena. Parade at 7pm; free public skating until 9pm. Please join us for the activities.

Nov 30

A Lavender Christmas Steed & Co Lavender, 47589 Sparta Line, Sparta

519-494-5525 www.steedandcompany.com

Nov 30

Four Seasons Long Lunch: Winter The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Nov 30â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dec 31

Holiday Fantasy of Lights Pinafore Park, Elm St, St. Thomas 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 are available. On weekends the people mover will take your family through the light displays at the park. A free will donation is accepted at the gate. 5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;10pm nightly.

www.fantasylights.org

Dec 1

Annual Christmas Carol Sing The Old St. Thomas Church, 55 Walnut St, St. Thomas Annual Carol Sing with emcee Steve Peters, and the Salvation Army Band plays carol requests. Church shaped cookies, mince tarts, hot cider served. Free will offering to Salvation Army Family Services. Dress warmly. 3pm.

www.oldstthomaschurch.com

21st Annual

Holiday Fantasy of Lights November 30th to December 31st, 2013 Pinafore Park, Elm St., St. Thomas, Ontario Lights on Nightly from 5-10pm Free Admission Freewill Donations Welcome

Free Weekend Entertainment In the Dance Pavilion

Free Rides Through the Park

On the People Mover Every Weekend, 7-9pm Warm Up in the Pavilion with Coffee, Hot Chocolate and Popcorn

For information, email HFofLights@gmail.com or visit

www.fantasylights.org

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

EVENTS DATE

EVENT

CONTACT

Dec 1

Fingal Santa Claus Parade Downtown Fingal starting at 2pm. Come and see the many floats and participants. The jolly elf himself will be there!

Fingal Optomist Club

Dec 5

Thursday’s Tempting Tastes The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Dec 7

Christmas Spirit Walk Springwater Conservation Area, Aylmer 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!

www.catfishcreek.ca

Dec 7

Rodney Parade & Christmas Celebrations 2pm free Library program; 3:30pm Snake Lady Show, wagon rides plus other activities; 4:30pm hot dogs/hot choc sponsored by Lions Club & Fairles; 5:30pm evening parade downtown; Santa Claus at Rodney Legion after parade.

519-785-0560

Dec 7

Port Burwell Santa Claus Parade Santa Claus community parade starts at 6:30pm. All floats and entries welcome. Port Burwell Legion on Wellington St to Library. Goodies and hot drinks.

519-874-4450 dtravis@amtelecom.net

Dec 7

1850s Christmas Dinner Backus-Page House, 29424 Lakeview Ln, Wallacetown

519-762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

Dec 7

Customer Appreciation Day Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Dec 8

Six Sundays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Dec 14

Straffordville Santa Claus Parade Santa Claus community parade at 10:30am. All floats and entries welcome. Straffordville Public School to Community Centre. Visit Santa. Goodies and hot drinks.

519-866-5521

Dec 14

Customer Appreciation Day Heritage Line Herbs, 53443 Heritage Ln, RR #1 Aylmer

519-866-5577 www.heritagelineherbs.com

Dec 18

Nine Wednesdays: Culinary Hands-on Experiences The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Dec 19

Fest-A-Month: Cultural Dinner Celebrations The Arts & Cookery Bank, 242 Graham Rd, West Lorne

519-768-9986 www.theartsandcookerybank.com

Dec 31

New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance Saxonia Hall, 522 Talbot St W, Aylmer DJ Eugene Burge. Our famous all-you-can-eat: garden salad and bun, chicken, beef, cabbage rolls, mashed potatoes and gravy, veg, dessert, coffee/tea. 5:30pm.

519-773-5271 www.saxoniahall.com

Dec 31

Family New Year’s Eve Party East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer Face painting, cotton candy, crafts, carnival games, inflatables, photo booth and Val the Snake Lady. Public skating in the Kinsmen Arena. $10 per family. 6–9pm.

519-773-5631 eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

Christmas Holidays

Tim Hortons Free Public Skating East Elgin Community Complex, 531 Talbot St W, Aylmer

519-773-5631 eastelgincommunitycomplex.ca

WWW.ELGINTOURIST.COM

ELGIN COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM 450 Sunset Drive in St. Thomas • LOCAL PHONE 519-631-1460 x168 • TOLL FREE 1-877-GO ELGIN x168 FAX 519-631-4549 • EMAIL tourism@elgin-county.on.ca