Our Experiences
Ontario’s Southwest has a lot to see and do. There are great festivals, events, historical and culinary experiences; and not to mention, the great outdoors to explore. As we travel around this great region, we will write about and share our experiences from a variety of locales.
Spring has Sprung
There are so many unique waterfront options throughout Ontario’s Southwest that will gladly help you shed your winter coat. No matter what type of day at the beach you are looking for, you will find it with just a short drive on scenic county roads through charming country towns.
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A Tasting Journey, All in One Convenient Place
For the eighth year now The Forest City has been host to a fantastic culinary event. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m a little embarrassed to say that this is the first time I’ve attended the London Wine & Food Show. The show ran for three days in the Western Fair District. Those who attend the show had the chance to taste the products of a variety of breweries, wineries, food producers and restaurants from all over Ontario’s Southwest.
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A Sample of History at Canadian Club and Walkerville
While in downtown Windsor I visited a charming little neighbourhood known as Walkerville. If you have never been, it is definitely something to check out. What many people don’t know is that Walkerville gave birth to Windsor and not the other way around. Walkerville has a long and colourful history and there is no better place to learn about its past than at The Canadian Club Brand Centre.
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Family, Friends and a Glass of Cheer in Chatham-Kent
This summer, Early Acres Estate Winery and Bayside Brewing Company joined the growing list of wineries and breweries in Ontario’s Southwest. We made our way to Chatham-Kent to visit the new winery and microbrewery and had a chat with the owners of Early Acres Estate Winery as well as one of the owners of Bayside Brewing Co. View our visit to the new winery here or the new microbrewery here.
Click Here to read about our visit.
Western Fair
London was home again to one of the largest fairs in Ontario. The Western Fair entertained young and old with numerous rides and countless vendors. Entertainment was not in short supply with jugglers, magicians, dancers, monster trucks and numerous other attractions. If I could only attend one fair each year, it would defiantly be the Western Fair.
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Shores of Erie International Wine Festival
Taking place on the banks of the Detroit River at Fort Malden in Amherstburg, the 8th annual Shores of Erie International Wine Festival featured some of the best food and wine the region has to offer. The four day celebration featured over 50 vendors, continuous live entertainment, wine seminars, master chef cooking demonstrations and more.
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Cowapolooza
The annual summer tradition in Woodstock once again celebrated the dairy roots of the region. With great food, great fun and great entertainment, Cowapolooza had something for everyone.
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Boot Hill Country Jamboree
Every Civic Holiday weekend is the Boot Hill Country Jamboree brings the spirit of music and country to life. With five days of camping on-site and three days of music, there is a lot to behold at this memorable event including numerous country music stars, “the Redneck Games” and much more.
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Home County Music & Art Festival
A summer tradition for indie/roots music fans, the Home County Music & Art Festival once again packed Victoria Park in down-town London. A musical line-up featuring exclusively Canadian musicians plus Canadian crafts artisans and global cuisines brought the park alive.
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Sarnia Bayfest
Sarnia was vibrating on metal night at Roger’s Bayfest. The city’s annual music festival has grown over the years to become a premier attraction in the province attracting visitors from all over Canada, the US and even overseas. This year’s event took place from July 12-15 and features acts from rock, country, metal and more.
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London Bluesfest
The annual International Bluesfest is a world class music festival that promotes local, regional, and international blues artists. The sister festival of the Windsor Bluesfest rocked London from July 13th-15th. The Buzz was definitely of the Blues this weekend.
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Friday 13th
Set on the scenic shores of Port Dover, the Friday the 13th festivities need to be experienced by anyone with even just a passing interest in motorcycles. With such a variety of vendors and motorcycles on display, there is something to see for every type of rider.
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Canterbury Folk Festival
Taking place July 13th to 15th, the annual Caterbury Folk Festival offers visitors from throughout the region a weekend of music, dance, arts and crafts. Great food was available from numerous vendors and the annual Swine & Wine pig roast was held on Friday evening followed by a Breakfast in the Park on Sat. and Sun. morning.
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TD Sunfest
Running from July 5th to 8th, TD Sunfest packed the historic Victoria Park in London with great international cuisine, world class music, diverse crafts and art. The event really offered something for everyone and made a new fan of this first time visitor.
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TOURISM PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DONE RIGHT!
A Southwest Gem Sparkles Even Brighter -Elmhurst Inn & Spa
General Manager Alon Gurman and Sales Manager Theresa Pinkerton show justifiable pride when giving a tour of their newly renovated property. They now have a showcase example of marrying the best of a classic 140 year old building with 49 gorgeous rooms, all with the most modern touches.
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Turtlefest 2012
On June 16th, Tillsonburg hosted its annual Turtlefest, a celebration of history and conservation. It was a wonderful day taking in various Turtle-themed events including the Turtle Dragon Canoe races, a Classic Car show, and the numerous local merchants displaying their finest wares and offering tasty treats. It was a day to remember for the whole family.
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