Elgin County Economic Development & Tourism Office
Open Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas 519-631-1460 x163
tourism@elgin.ca elgintourist.com
Tourism Kiosks Open Victoria Day through Labour Day
Port Stanley Visitors Centre 199 Carlow Road, Port Stanley 519-631-1460 x321
Mobile Tourism Kiosk at events in Elgin and surrounding area.
The 2025 Elgin County Official Visitor's Guide was designed by AE Graphics Group.
Reproduction of any material without the written permission of Elgin County is strictly prohibited.
TRAVEL TIMES TO ELGIN
from TORONTO (2 hours 15 minutes)
from LONDON (20 minutes)
from WINDSOR (2 hours)
from SARNIA (1 hour 15 minutes)
There is more Elgin County than we can fit into these pages, but we have done our best to share Elgin County through your eyes. So please don’t stop sharing your photos with us, tagging @elgincountytourism, and Instagramming your photos with #ElginCounty Who knows, you might just see your Elgin County photo in next year’s guide!
@elgincountytourism
SENSATIONAL SHOPPING
Avoid long lines and crowded parking lots by doing your shopping in the idyllic towns and villages of Elgin County. Explore quaint boutiques for trendy clothing and jewellery pieces, select fine local wines, pick up handcrafted home decor pieces, fresh flowers, natural skin care products, hand-made pottery, homemade fudge, sweet local honey, artisan candles and more!
174 CURRIE
Dutton | facebook.com/TheClothesHangar/ ANYTHING USED & SPARTA COUNTRY CANDLES
Sparta | spartacandles.com
THE DECORATING DIVA
Rodney | thedecoratingdiva.ca
BEAR FRIEND FACTORY HOME OF THE WHISTLE STOP PEDDLERS
Sparta
CAMPBELLS II
Aylmer | campbells2.myshopify.com
CANADALE NURSERIES
St. Thomas | canadale.ca
FAMILY FLOWERS INC.
St. Thomas | familyflowers.ca
LAKEHOUSE BOOKS
Port Stanley | lakehousebooks.ca
THE HARVEST TABLE RUSTIC DESIGNS
St. Thomas
JOSHUA + COMPANY
Port Stanley | joshuaandcompany.com
MENNONITE FURNITURE GALLERY
Aylmer | mfgi.ca
PEPPER TREE SPICE CO.
Port Stanley & St. Thomas | peppertreespice.com
online shopping available
CHARMING
SENSATIONAL SHOPPING
FUNKY FASHION FINDS
BELA BOOTEEK
Aylmer | belabooteek.com
DURKEE’S
Aylmer | durkees.ca
STUDIO STYLE
Port Stanley | studiostyle.ca
FRANKLY SCARLETT
Port Stanley | franklyscarlett.ca
APROPOS FOR WOMEN AND MEN
Port Stanley | aproposandaproposformen.com
SELF CARE
BUTTER ME UP
Aylmer | buttermeupsoapcompany.com
FROM THE MEADOW
Belmont & St. Thomas | fromthemeadow.com
GROOVY MOON
Aylmer | groovymoon.com
WILDFLOWERS FARM
St. Thomas | wildflowers.farm
FROM THE LAND
Port Stanley
ARTS, CULTURE HERITAGE
Explore Elgin County’s vibrant history and culture through its museums and cultural attractions, preserving the tales of Attawandaron villages, Colonel Thomas Talbot, the 1850s railway boom, and our agricultural heritage with captivating artifacts and historical collections.
ARTISAN ALLEY
174 CURRIE
Dutton
ART EMPORIUM PORT STANLEY
Port Stanley | artEmporium.ca
GATHERED
Sparta | spartagathered.ca
JULIA HANSFORD STUDIO
Sparta | juliahansford.com
MINERVA ART GALLERY
Aylmer | minerva-art.com
MODERN MAPLE ARTISAN BOUTIQUE
Port Stanley | shopmodernmaple.com
PETER ROBSON STUDIO
Sparta | peterrobsonstudios.com
PINECROFT POTTERY
Aylmer | pinecroft.ca
ST. THOMAS-ELGIN PUBLIC ART CENTRE
St. Thomas | stepac.ca
YELLOW BRICK POTTERY
Port Stanley | yellowbrickpottery.ca
online shopping available
Discover the Art Emporium & Gift Boutique, Port Stanley’s largest art gallery, which showcases the talent of over 100 local and regional artists. Immerse yourself in a vibrant collection of handcrafted art pieces, from stunning paintings and sculptures to unique gifts and décor.
LIVE THEATRE
AYLMER PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL
Aylmer | artsinaylmer.com
ELGIN THEATRE GUILD
St. Thomas | elgintheatreguild.ca
PORT BURWELL PERISCOPE PLAYHOUSE INC.
Port Burwell | periscopeplayhouse.com
PORT STANLEY FESTIVAL THEATRE
Port Stanley | psft.ca
WEDS THEATRE
Dutton | get-weds.ca
ARTS, CULTURE HERITAGE
Experience World-Class Performances Close to Home! The Aylmer Performing Arts Council brings Grammy and Juno Award-winning talent to life with several different shows a year. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy unforgettable live entertainment!
BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE MUSEUM
Explore Southern Ontario’s rich dairy and agricultural heritage through over 22,000 fascinating artifacts at the Gay Lea Dairy Museum. Situated on 98 acres of Carolinian Forest, the site features scenic trails, event fields, and cozy cabin accommodations, blending history, nature, and recreation. Whether visiting for education, exercise, or group events, this unique destination offers something for everyone!
ARTS, CULTURE HERITAGE
HISTORY LIVES HERE
AYLMER-MALAHIDE MUSEUM & ARCHIVES
Aylmer | aylmermuseum.ca
BACKUS-PAGE HOUSE MUSEUM
Wallacetown | backuspagehouse.ca
BAYHAM HISTORICAL SOCIETY/ THE EDISON, VIENNA & AREA MUSEUM
Vienna
ELGIN COUNTY ARCHIVES
St. Thomas | elgincounty.ca
ELGIN COUNTY HERITAGE CENTRE
St. Thomas | elgincounty.ca
FORGE AND ANVIL MUSEUM
Sparta | villageofsparta.com
GAY LEA DAIRY MUSEUM
Aylmer | cec-dairymuseum.com
HMCS OJIBWA SUBMARINE
Port Burwell | hmcsojibwa.ca
PORT BURWELL MARINE MUSEUM
Port Burwell | bayham.on.ca
SOUTHWOLD EARTHWORKS NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Fingal
ST. PETER’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
Wallacetown | stpeterschurchtyrconnell.org
1 - st. thomas elevated park
An iconic railway bridge transformed into Canada’s 1st elevated park. Enjoy stunning views of the Kettle Creek Valley & vibrant public art.
2 CENTRE ST | ELEVATEDPARK.CA
2 - CASO Station
3 - jumbo the elephANT monument
Imagine the awe of circus crowds marveling at the elephant hailed as the "largest ever held in captivity." In 1985, St. Thomas unveiled this 38-ton statue to mark the 100th anniversary of Jumbo's tragic death after being struck by a locomotive.
76 TALBOT ST | RAILWAYCITYTOURISM.COM/JUMBO
Travel back to the year 1873 when the largest station of its type was the hub of the Railway City - explore it today at the CASO Station.
750 TALBOT ST | CASOSTATION.CA
4 - elgin county railway museum
Explore epic trains, a remarkable collection of artifacts, and the inner workings of a 1913 railway shop—the oldest of its kind in North America.
225 WELLINGTON ST | ECRM.CA
5 - murals
Discover murals on everything from boxcars to buildings, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of St. Thomas. From evolving industries to the stories of people and places we call home, street art brings it all to life. VARIOUS LOCATIONS | RAILWAYCITYTOURISM.COM/MURALS
6 - public art centre
Be inspired by this inviting art hub for the region. View rotating exhibits, take part in a class, or attend a special event!
301 TALBOT ST | STEPAC.CA
7 - historic parks
Enjoy peaceful or active leisure in St. Thomas' historic parks, Pinafore and Waterworks, featuring splash pads, natural areas, and multiuse trails.
8 - horton farmers' market
Discover farm-fresh produce, meats, homemade preserves, baked goods, and local artwork at this Saturday market. Open year-round with a limited winter market.
9 - downtown
Downtown St. Thomas blends Victorian heritage with modern culture. Explore everything from unique boutiques and parks to murals, local dining, a brewery, and a variety of art
and museums.
Follow the code to our Trail Guide including maps from St. Thomas & area.
NATURAL AREAS OF ELGIN
JOHN E. PEARCE PROVINCIAL PARK
3 km
Easy accessible trails
29424 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown
LAKE ERIE SALMON AND TROUT CLUB
8 acres
Short easy accessible trail
RR #2 4255 Thomas Rd, Port Stanley
PEARCE WILLIAMS SUMMER CAMP & RETREAT
FACILITY
170 acre site. 7 km of trails
Moderate hiking
8009 Iona Rd, RR#1, Fingal
SPRINGWATER CONSERVATION AREA
370 acre Carolinian Forest with various lengths of trails
Easy to moderate accessible hiking
8079 Springwater Rd, RR #5, Aylmer
SOLITUDE NATURE RESERVE
3.5 km’s with various loops
Easy accessible trails
45388 Dexter Line, Sparta
YARMOUTH NATURAL HERITAGE AREA
208 acres of forest, ponds, wetlands and streams
3 km of easy-moderate accessible trails
47502 Sparta Line, Sparta
AYLMER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
112 acres with 4 wildlife viewing stands and trails throughout 10594 Hacienda Rd, Aylmer
DALEWOOD CONSERVATION AREA
10.2 km loop trail around the Dalewood Resevoir
Moderate trail 10518 Dalewood Rd, St. Thomas
DAN PATTERSON AREA
2 loop trails totalling 5.8 kms
Moderate trails
44014 Mapleton Line, St. Thomas
EM WARWICK CONSERVATION AREA
Short moderate hiking trail down ravine to lakeshore 26135 Warwick Line, West Lorne
FINGAL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
724 acres
27 km of easy accessible trails 34469 Fingal Line, Fingal
The AYLMER WILDLIFE AREA is an annual favourite staging area for migrating Tundra Swans. These beautiful swans can be viewed annually during late Feburary-March
CYCLING
Hike, cross-country ski, boat, paddle, bird watch, ride a horse, cruise (via bike, motorcycle or car), fish or swim all here right in Elgin!
Let the Elgin County Cycling and Hiking map guide you along the way.
Ride, run, roam your way through kilometres of lush landscape stretching all the way from the historic Railway City to the harbour of Port Stanley.
Elgin is proud to be a part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a signed route connecting 155 communities and First Nations along 3600km of the Canadian shores of the Great Lakes region.
Ride a piece of Elgin’s history along the Highwheel Way from Aylmer down to Port Bruce. Learn about Doolittle, an Elgin County native who was a famous Highwheel bicycle racer!
Two wheels and twice the fun! From the Waterfront Trail to off-road trails at Springwater Conservation Area, cycling through Elgin County’s beautiful countryside is sure to impress!
CYCLE MURAL, PORT BRUCE
Didyouknow?
TARANDOWAH GOLFERS CLUB brings the spirit of Scotland and Ireland’s famous links right to Elgin County! Ranked #32 in Canada, this course is celebrated worldwide for its authentic charm, clever design, and great value.
ST. THOMAS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
THE BLUFFS GOLF CLUB
Tourists and residents alike relish the opportunity to golf at Elgin County’s top-notch private and public courses scattered throughout the region. These courses provide a variety of challenges that cater to players of all skill levels.
COURSES
take your best shot...
fore
BELMONT GOLF CLUB
Belmont | belmontgolfclub.com
THE BLUFFS GOLF CLUB
Port Stanley | thebluffsgolfclub.com
DUTTON MEADOWS GOLF CLUB
Dutton | duttonmeadows.ca
EDEN GOLF CLUB
Eden | edengolfclub.ca
FORE GOLFERS ONLY LTD.
St. Thomas | foregolfersonly.ca
IRON CREEK GOLF AND COUNTY CLUB
St. Thomas | ironcreek.ca
KETTLE CREEK GOLF + COUNTRY CLUB
Port Stanley | kettlecreekgolf.ca
PUTTING ZOO
St. Thomas | puttingzoo.ca
RAILWAY 1856 ULTIMATE MINI GOLF
St. Thomas | railway1856minigolf.ca
ST. THOMAS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
Union | stthomasgolf.com
TARANDOWAH GOLFERS CLUB
Springfield | tarandowah.ca
KETTLE CREEK GOLF CLUB
Solitude Nature Reserve offers a peaceful escape with scenic day-use hiking trails and a perfect picnic spot by the pond. For a deeper connection with nature, six secluded campsites in the woods are available for overnight stays. Camping is free, but permits are required.
NATURE’S OASIS RETREAT
From lavish to rustic, charming to contemporary, there is a perfect spot waiting for you in Elgin County.
BEE LINE PARKS
Port Bruce | beelineparks.com
DUTTONA FAMILY CAMPGROUND
Wallacetown | duttonapark.com
THE LAKEWOOD RV RESORT
Port Glasgow | thelakewoodrvresort.com
PORT GLASGOW TRAILER PARK
Port Glasgow
PORT BURWELL PROVINCIAL PARK
Port Burwell | ontarioparks.com
RED OAK TRAVEL PARK
Eden | redoaktravelpark.com
SOLITUDE NATURE RESERVE
Port Stanley
SPRINGWATER CONSERVATION AREA
Aylmer | catfishcreek.ca
GREY GABLES BED AND BREAKFAST
CONNY’S B & B ON THE FARM
St. Thomas | bbcanada.com
GREY GABLES BED AND BREAKFAST
Port Burwell | bbcanada.com
INN ON THE HARBOUR & LITTLE INN
Port Stanley | innontheharbour.net
KETTLE CREEK INN
Port Stanley | kettlecreekinn.com
LUMLEY & CO. B&B
Iona | AirBnB.ca - Lumley & Co
NATURE’S OASIS RETREAT
Southwold | naturesoasis.ca
TELEGRAPH HOUSE HERITAGE INN
Port Stanley | telegraphhouse.com
THE WINDJAMMER INN
Port Stanley | thewindjammerinn.com
St. Thomas | cardinalcourt.ca
St. Thomas | comfortinnstthomas.ca HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES
St. Thomas | ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
St. Thomas
Port Stanley | portstanleybeachhotel.com
TASTE
Sip and savour your way through locally-inspired farm-to-table restaurants, wineries and breweries to experience the best Elgin County has to offer.
SWEET TREATS
ABBY MAE’S GLUTEN FREE BAKERY
Aylmer | abbymaes.square.site
BRODERICK’S ICE CREAM PARLOUR
Port Stanley brodericksicecreamparlour.com
THE CANDY GRAM
Port Stanley | thecandygram.ca
GRANDMA’S OVEN BAKERY AND CAKES INC.
Aylmer | grandmasoven.ca
HARBOUR CHEESECAKE
Port Stanley Firehall Market harbourcheesecake.ca
KNEADED KNOOK BAKERY & CAFE
Straffordville
MISTYGLEN CREAMERY
Belmont | mistyglencreamery.com
PICARD’S ORIGINAL
Talbotville | picardsoriginal.ca
THE RODNEY SCOOP
Rodney | msha.ke/therodneyscoop
SHAW’S ICE CREAM
St. Thomas | shawsicecream.com
SIMPLY SCOOPS
Port Burwell | simplyscoops.ca
WALKER DAIRY BAR
Aylmer | walkerfarms.ca
Explore a variety of dining options across Elgin County! Visit our website for more suggestions.
RESTAURANTS
CORNER VIEW CAFÉ
Port Bruce
CY’S RESTAURANT AND BOWLING LANES
Aylmer
ELGIN HARVEST
St. Thomas | elginharvest.ca
FRANKIE’S HUNGER HUT
Located at the Port Glasgow Marina
GTS ON THE BEACH
Port Stanley | gtsonthebeach.com
KETTLE CREEK INN
Port Stanley | kettlecreekinn.com
MACKIES
Port Stanley
NEW SARUM DINER
New Sarum | newsarum.com
OUT TO LUNCH CAFÉ
West Lorne | outtolunchpizza.com
PINECROFT
Aylmer | pinecroft.ca
THE POINT BBQ & PIZZA CO.
Springfield | pointbbq.ca
RUBY’S COOKHOUSE
Aylmer | rubyscookhouse.com
SHORS PUB & EATERY
WAYSIDE DINING LOUNGE
Port Bruce | shors.ca
SMOKIN CABOOSE BBQ
St. Thomas & Port Stanley
TWO FORKS
Port Stanley | twoforks-portstanley.ca
RIVA ITALIAN
Port Stanley | rivaitalian.com
STRAIKO’S BY THE LAKE
Port Burwell
TALBOT TRAILS RESTAURANT
Eagle
THE POINT BBQ & PIZZA CO.
TASTE
NEW SARUM DINER
CAPS OFF BREWING
St. Thomas | capsoffbrewing.com
GREAT LAKES FARMS CIDER
Port Stanley | greatlakesfarms.ca
NATTERJACK BREWING COMPANY
West Lorne | natterjackbrewing.ca
SKYE CHASE ESTATE WINERY
Sparta | QuaiduVin.com
PORT STANLEY BREWING COMPANY
Port Stanley | facebook.com/port-stanley brewing-co
RAILWAY CITY BREWING
St. Thomas | railwaycitybrewing.com
RISE AND RUIN CIDER
Sparta | riseandruin.ca
Things TO DO
HMCS OJIBWA
Port Burwell
hmcsojibwa.ca
Discover Canada’s hidden gem, HMCS Ojibwa – the silent submarine unveiled. Embark on the region’s most unique adventure with tours available seven days a week, and book large group visits by appointment. Dive into the Museum of Naval History.
GREAT LAKES FARMS
Near Port Stanley | greatlakesfarms.ca
Plan a family-friendly outing to Great Lakes Farms, where there’s something for everyone! Pick your own apples and other seasonal fruits, and enjoy the Fall Adventure Farm with activities for all ages.
Visit the Apple Barn for fresh-baked treats like pies and crisps, unique local gifts, and hard cider made from farm-fresh apples. Whether savoring delicious goodies or exploring the orchard, Great Lakes Farms is your perfect escape to the heart of farm life.
ST. THOMAS DRAGWAY
Sparta | stthomasdragway.ca
Rev up your adventure at Canada’s inaugural purpose-built drag strip, St. Thomas Dragway – the top motorsports destination in Southwestern Ontario, featuring drag racing and off-road events from April to October.
CLOVERMEAD ADVENTURE FARM
Aylmer | clovermead.com
Discover a sweet escape at Clovermead Adventure Farm, where learning meets adventure! Perfect for families, this heritage honey farm near Aylmer offers endless fun, including interactive rides, farm animals, zip lines, and seasonal beekeeper events. From June to October, explore the adventure farm’s exciting attractions, and don’t miss the popular Pumpkin Festival in October. The farm’s Honey Shop is open year-round, offering a delightful selection of local honey and unique gifts.
LEGENDS OF LAKE ERIE BOAT CRUISES
Port Stanley | legends-of-lake-erie.square.site
Explore Port Stanley’s charm from the water with Cruise & Dine. Enjoy private charters, themed cruises, and make unique memories for special occasions, connecting with the local culture and cuisine.
ST. THOMAS FLIGHT CENTRE SIGHTSEEING TOURS
St. Thomas Airport | learntofly.on.ca
Explore Elgin County from the sky with St. Thomas Flight Centre’s exciting sightseeing tours, featuring stunning coastal views and the area’s rural beauty.
BRIDGEVIEW MARINA RENTALS
Port Stanley
Explore the beauty of Port Stanley from the water at Bridgeview Marina! Offering rentals of paddleboards, kayaks, pedal boats, and canoes, it’s the perfect spot for a summer adventure. Open 7 days a week during the summer season.
MUST VISIT Destinations
PINECROFT POTTERY AND GREEN FROG TEAROOM
Pinecroft Pottery and the Green Frog Tearoom are fondly known as “a little Muskoka serenity.” Housed in a log cabin overlooking a pond, the gallery and tearoom feature locally made Pinecroft pottery, Canadian gifts, and a relaxing atmosphere. Set on 54 acres of pine forest, the site attracts a variety of wildlife, providing a calm setting for visitors to explore the pottery and enjoy classic comfort dishes.
JOHN E PEARCE PARK
Nestled in the heart of Elgin County, John E. Pearce Provincial Park offers scenic hiking trails that wind through lush Carolinian forests. Visitors can explore the Backus-Page House Museum, a beautifully restored 19th-century homestead, and the Agricultural History Centre, both showcasing the region’s rich heritage. It’s the perfect destination for discovering nature and history in one visit.
SKYE CHASE WINERY
Skye Chase Estate Winery, opening Spring 2025 at 45811 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas, Ontario, is transforming the oldest winery in Southwestern Ontario into a vibrant, innovative destination. This 4,000+ sq. ft. venue will feature a retail store, restaurant, and the exclusive Skye Chase Lounge, all designed with meticulous attention to detail. With a mezzanine offering breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and heritage forest, Skye Chase is redefining the social experience and is set to become the region’s premier wine destination. Visit www.SkyeChaseWinery.com for updates.
SPARTA LAVENDER FARM
Visit Sparta Lavender Farm, home to the most stunning lavender gardens on Ontario’s South Coast, where you can stroll among over 7,500 fragrant lavender plants. Explore the wildflowers, sunflowers, and butterfly gardens, and relax while enjoying the beautiful views overlooking the Carolinian forest. Prearrange the charcuterie picnic offering which provides the perfect opportunity to relax and connect with nature while enjoying the farm’s peaceful atmosphere. The on-site gift shop features a variety of natural, locally made lavender products, hand-crafted with care in small batches right here on the farm. Sparta Lavender Farm hosts seasonal markets, yoga sessions, and more.
WILDFLOWERS FARM
From June to September, every Friday night transforms Wildflowers Farm into a vibrant gathering of community and creativity. Stroll through our Friday night market and discover the incredible talents of local farmers, food artisans, chefs, makers, and musicians. Savor the flavors of the season with fresh produce and farm-to-table delights. Sip botanical cocktails under twinkling lights in the garden patio, surrounded by the hum of live music that sets the perfect summer vibe. But Wildflowers Farm is more than a market—it’s a year-round destination. From yoga classes that nurture your soul to boutique weddings and unforgettable special events, every moment here is designed to inspire and connect.
Come experience the heart and soul of Wildflowers Farm—where nature, creativity, and community bloom.
RIVA ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND PORT STANLEY BREWING COMPANY
Located along the harbourfront in the heart of Port Stanley, Riva Italian Restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience, blending the charm of this quaint lakeside town with authentic Italian flavors. The building also houses the Port Stanley Brewing Company, set to open in 2025, adding to the area’s growing culinary and craft beer scene. From homemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, Riva uses the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that transport guests straight to Italy.
174 CURRIE
Step into the enchanting world of 174 Currie Road in Dutton, Ontario, where T Hockin & Co’s 100-year legacy meets modern innovation. This stunning 10,000 sq. ft. mid-1800s building has been transformed into 174 CURRIE, a dynamic hub featuring a 24-hour virtual golf lounge, ceramics studio, wellness services, consignment shops, artisan market, flower and bake shop, and more. Showcasing approximately 100 local and Canadian businesses, it offers unique handcrafted and mindfully sourced goods.
MISTYGLEN CREAMERY
Mistyglen Creamery is a family-owned dairy farm located near Belmont, proudly operated by the Pettit family. Specializing in fresh, high-quality milk products with milk from only their own cows, Mistyglen Creamery offers a variety of their own dairy items, including their famous cheese curds, along with other local artisanal goodies. Visitors can enjoy the farm stores welcoming atmosphere and take part in tours and events throughout the year, including the popular Big Daddy Dairy Days, where guests can experience farm life up close and celebrate the local dairy community.
OLD IMPERIAL FARMERS MARKET
Open year-round on Saturdays, the Old Imperial Farmers’ Market in Aylmer is a bustling market showcases live music, handcrafted goods from local artisans, fresh produce, delicious food vendors, and a welcoming community atmosphere. The Café and select vendors are also open Monday–Friday, giving you more opportunities to enjoy all the market has to offer throughout the week!
PORT STANLEY FESTIVAL THEATRE
Nestled in the picturesque lakeside village of Port Stanley, the 200 seat Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT) offers a dynamic range of professional live theatre performances and musical acts, captivating audiences year-round. From May to September, the theatre presents a variety of engaging live professional plays, while from October to April, it showcases music and an assortment of entertaining performances. PSFT is renowned for its commitment to supporting Canadian talent. The theatre’s stunning location, combined with its rich cultural offerings, makes it an integral part of Port Stanley’s vibrant arts scene. This is a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts and visitors alike.
MARCH 8-16
Springwater Maple Syrup Festival
Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Road, Aylmer
Enjoy wagon rides throughout the 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. catfishcreek.ca
JUNE 14
Kettle Creek Food Truck Festival
Dan Patterson Conservation Area
The Kettle Creek Environmental Trust is serving up some real must-eats. Enjoy great food trucks, live music, lawn games & more! Admission is free. kettlecreektrust.com
JUNE
7
Vienna EdisonFest
Vienna Memorial Park 6226 Plank Road, Vienna
BBQ/Food options, vendors, lotteries, silent auction & free draws. Kid games, air bouncers, contests, music & much more! bayham.on.ca
JUNE 5-8
Vanfest
Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Road, Aylmer
This amazing Truck Show is held annually at the Springwater Conservation Area in Aylmer, Ontario. Show-goers have come to Vanfest to see the unique and outstanding displays of trucks that our sport has to offer. Show and shine is on Saturday, June 8th from 10:00am to 4:00pm. vanfestcanada.com
JUNE 21
Aylmer Community Festival
Enjoy delicious local cuisine, shop unique goods, and enjoy performances by local artists. Families will love the variety of kids’ activities, making this festival a celebration of community and culture for all ages.
The event features various classes from the Empire State Pullers, the Southwestern Ontario Tractor Pullers Association, the Ontario Truck and Tractor Pulling Association, and Semi-Trucks. Visit sheddentruckandtractorpull.com for more details.
Experience life on the homefront during both The Great War and WW2. Music, dancing, food rations, farming, fashion, authors and historians, car show, children’s zone, exhibits and more. backuspagehouse.ca
Visit elgintourist.com for a full calendar of event happenings in #elgincounty
JULY 12
Colours On The Beach
Port Stanley Main Beach
Presenting Holi Festivals of Colour. Colours On The Beach! A celebration of culture with music, dancing, and food.
JULY 10-14
JULY 19-20
Pawsitively Elgin Dog Festival
London Canine Association Dog Show
Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Road, Aylmer
Join us for some fun-filled days at the London Canine Association Dog Show! Whether you’re a proud pup parent or just a dog lover, this event is sure to have something for everyone. Watch as dogs of all shapes and sizes compete in various categories. catfishcreek.ca
Pinafore Park, St. Thomas
Come out and see Ontario Dock Dogs in action, Agility Dogs running their courses, and even take the opportunity to give your dog the chance to try all the events that are coming. Food, Prizes, Draws, Entertainment, Family activities to last the day.
pawsitivelyelgin.com
JULY 19
Bayham Historical Society’s Car Show
Vienna
AUGUST 2-4
Calipso Festival
Village of Port Stanley
Events, exhibitors, art show, boat parade, and more! Explore all that Port Stanley has to offer.
Facebook page “CalipsoPortStanley”
Join the Bayham Historical Society Car Show for a day of vintage cars, great tunes, delicious food, and family fun. Don’t miss the 50/50 draw, games, and contests!
facebook page “BayhamHistoricalSociety”
AUGUST 16
3 Port Tour Bicycle Ride
Start/Finish at East Elgin Community Complex
50, 100 and 160 km routes throughout Elgin County’s quiet, challenging and scenic roads. Fully supported ride includes lunch at Port Bruce and a t-shirt. Best ride in Southwestern Ontario. threeporttour.com
AUGUST 16-17
Elgin Historical Show
Dan Patteson Conservation Area Highbury Ave
The Elgin Historical Show offers a nostalgic journey through time, showcasing pioneer-era farming with antique tractors, children’s activities, food booths, entertainment, live music, vendors, and captivating displays. kettlecreekconservation.on.ca
AUGUST 8-10
Aylmer Fair
Aylmer Fair Grounds
139 Pine St E, Aylmer
Something for everyone! Cattle show, homecrafts, midway, food, demo derby, 4H exhibits, and lots of local vendors. aylmerfair.ca
AUGUST 14-17
Railway City Music & Arts Festival
Pinafore Park, St. Thomas
Gather up the entire family for a fun-filled day of activities, including food and artisan vendors, a classic car show, free arts and crafts in Children’s Village, live muisc featuring amazing artists, and much more!
railwaycitymusicandartsfestival.ca
AUGUST 23
Middle River Music Fest
Common Ground Farm
6986 Middle River Rd, Southwold
Middle River Music Fest is an onfarm outdoor, family-friendly music festival. 2025 will feature 4 bands, food vendors, a farm tour, and much more.
middlerivermusicfest.ca bayhambeachfest.com
AUGUST 23
Straffordville Watermelon Fest
Straffordville Community Centre 56169 Heritage Line
Join us for a day of free family fun, rain or shine. Entrance by donation. Follow us on Facebook Straffordville Community Committee. bayham.on.ca
AUGUST 30-31
Heritage Farm Show
Backus Page House 29424 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown
Explore your rural roots through heritage, art, artisans and music. Experience the museum, barn, grounds and Agricultural History Centre. Enjoy a car show as well!
AUGUST 23-24
Shedden Fair
Keystone Complex, Shedden
Shedden Fair and Demolition Derby has fun for the whole family! Events and attractions include midway rides, livestock shows, vendors, kids zone, farm equipment displays and more! sheddenfair.com
SEPTEMBER 12-14
Rodney Fair
Rodney Recreation Centre 135 Queens St, Rodney
The Fair includes a tractor pull, parade, sheep show, miniature horse & cattle show, demo derby & lots of entertainment. rodneyfair.ca
Wallacetown Fair is a small town fair with a big heart. Events include Sheep & Beef Shows, Rides, Tractor Pull, Demolition Derby, free kids events, petting zoo and more!
SEPTEMBER 27-28
Elgin County Studio Tour
The Elgin County Studio Tour is a FREE self-directed tour of artists’ studios, providing a unique opportunity to meet the artists in their workspaces. It takes place on the last weekend in September annually , and offers a chance to view and purchase artwork, observe artist demonstrations, and engage in conversations about the creative process. elgincountystudiotour.ca
OCTOBER
4
Shaw’s Fall Scoop & Shop Market
Shaw’s Ice Cream
6598 Sunset Road, St. Thomas
Come and enjoy a cozy fall day filled with local shopping, pumpkins, delicious ice cream, and some live music! Bring all your friends and family for a fun-filled day celebrating autumn! shawsicecream.com
SEPTEMBER 27-28
Hawk Migration Weekend
OCTOBER
4-5
Oktoberfest at Saxonia Hall
Elgin’s longestrunning Oktoberfest with authentic German music, food, and dancing.
Hawk Cliff Woods, 4107 Hawk Cliff Rd, Union
Celebrate the spectacular fall migration of hawks and other raptors and Monarch butterflies at this free outdoor event featuring presentations with live animals! thamestalbotlandtrust.ca
Celebrate the wonderful world of pumpkins this fall! Enjoy a wagon ride, visit the farm animals, get lost in the corn maze, go pumpkin picking, and enjoy the fall decorations and family photo spots. Bee sure not to miss the Pumpkin Cannon Show and Candy Cannon Show! clovermead.com
NOVEMBER 15
Rodney Night Market
Downtown Rodney Downtown Rodney will be transformed into a fun outdoor holiday shopping event for the whole family! Vendors, food trucks, storytime and more.
Facebook: kiwanisclubofrodney
DECEMBER 7-8
Country Holiday Tour
Rodney, West Lorne, Dutton & Wallacetown
Enjoy shopping at unique, small businesses in West Elgin County and Chatham-Kent. westelgin.net
DECEMBER
6
NOVEMBER
8
Wildflowers
Christmas Market
42338 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas Wildflowers Farm transforms into a winter wonderland with unique gifts, homemade treats, cozy fires, hot drinks, and live holiday entertainment. Don your ugly Christmas sweater and soak in the festive cheer at the Wildflowers Farm Christmas Market! wildflowers.farm
Rural Roots Christmas Market
Dutton Dunwich Community Centre
Indoor and Outdoor local vendors, Free Admission to public with donation of non perishable item. 50/50 draw, non-profit displays and more!
Facebook: Rural Roots Public Market
DECEMBER
6
Christmas Spirit Walk
Springwater Conservation Area 8079 Springwater Road, Aylmer
Stroll through the candlelit paths at Springwater Forest and let the sound of seasonal music under the stars put you in the Christmas spirit. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies and meet Santa. The event runs from 6 to 8pm. catfishcreek.ca
