Fergus/Elora – Grand and Gorgeous

Tag Archive: Centre Wellington

  1. Riverfest Elora 2018

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    Happy 10th  anniversary
    Riverfest Elora,
    you charmer, you.

    We’ve waited all year for this party. ALL YEAR. And we’re okay with it because, we already know that Riverfest Elora 2018 is totally worth the wait.

    How can we be so sure?  Experience. We haven’t missed a Riverfest yet, which means we have TEN years of adoring the little backyard festival that grew into an epic summer music festival and yet, has never lost its charm. True fact.

    You have likely been to many concerts in many venues and taken part in music festivals in all kinds of venues from sports stadiums, outdoor arenas and maybe a few big parties held in cow pastures. Yep, us too. Good times, but no charm there.

    But when you plan a giant party in Elora’s Bissell Park, with the beautiful Grand River running alongside it, complete with three stages, food trucks and vendors galore, an Artisan Alley, beer and spirits, art exhibits and beautiful greenspace all around, in the heart of one of the prettiest villages in Ontario, honestly, you cannot beat that. You just can’t. Because, when you imagine the ultimate music festival with the audience experience in mind – you grow it organically. And well, you can’t go wrong.  So come and get charmed.

    Because the Riverfest Elora organizers turns this ….

    Into this ….

    TEN ways we believe Riverfest Elora will charm you
    into becoming a true heart Riverfriend:

    1. They care about the environment. Riverfest Elora is a bottled water free and waste conscious event. They were awarded the Live Music Industry Awards’ Green Operations Festival of the Year 2018, for all their efforts to keep the festival environmentally-friendly. You won’t find packaged water here. Period. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottles, or to bring their reuseable Riverfest Elora mugs from previous years. But if you are new to the scene and plan to enjoy a beverage or three, you can purchase your very own Riverfest Elora Mug for $6. Free water stations are on-site to keep you hydrated. Just a head’s up though – this year, plastic straws are banned too.
    2. Riverfest Elora loves their beer, wine and cider They only serve the good stuff. So, remember – bring your resuseable Riverfest Elora mugs from previous years, or buy a brand new one for $6. Drink tokens are $7. The line-up moves fast, so no worries there. And just think of all the friends you’ll make in line.
    3. Three stages. Back-to-back performances. Triple bang for your buck. Be sure to plan your bands with the FREE Riverfest Elora App … and you won’t miss a thing
    4. Foodies love Riverfest Elora. It tastes good! Check out the complete list of vendors tucked into the food village set a short walk down the boardwalk. The food options are as diverse as the acts playing the festival, so we’re pretty sure your taste buds will be charmed too.
    5. Riverfest Elora is joining the Keychange Pledge, a European initiative that aims to empower women to transform the future of the music industry, encouraging festivals to achieve a 50-50 gender balance by 2022. Riverfest has always strived for gender parity and for 2018 features 55 per cent of the acts that will take the stage fit the female-fronted band goal.
    6. Yoga. Mind. Body. Soul. Sun Salutations. A little downward-dog. Stretch that musical festival experience with the incredible sessions of Yoga with Tania. You’re welcome.
    7. Karaoke makes everyone a star, right? Sure it does. So sign up your friend or let out your inner Carly Rae Jepsen out and join the Boo Radley Project as you belt out your emotions in song. Or, just keep up with the live band. These guys are hilarious and they’re here for you.
    8. Ukuleles make everyone happy. Admit it. That’s why Riverfest Elora is featuring the Big Bag o’Uke’s with Adrian Jones. Strum along. Get happy. It’s that simple.
    9. Artisan Alley is full of unique treasures by unique artisans, because who wants the same-old, same-old? Nobody, that’s who. Browse. Chat. Shop. Get inspired.
    10. Hockey. Yep, hockey. On Friday, August 17, the crew from Riverfest Elora are getting involved in the McGinn Brothers BIG Game in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Centre Wellington. This charity ball hockey tournament takes place in the groovy town of Fergus, (just a slap shot away) and will welcome NHL players Jamie, Tye and Brock McGinn, Ryan O’Reilly, Nathan Beaulieu, Lawson Crouse, Tyler McGregor, Korey Jarvis, Rich Peverly and more. Doesn’t get more Canadian than this really, does it? And nobody will yell “car!” because the street will be closed, so it will just be hockey, hockey and more hockey. And then rock’n roll. Sigh. It’s good to be Canadian.

    Oh – and there’s like a whole bunch of awesome bands playing too. You knew that right? There’s about 60 bands. And after parties.
    Check out the 10th anniversary Riverfest Elora line-up!

    (Photos: Dear Rouge and Blue Rodeo will return to Riverfest Elora to help celebrate the big anniversary!)

    So trust us when we say, you’ve never experienced anything like Riverfest Elora. When we say EPIC, we mean it! Pack in as much as you can. Enjoy Elora. Visit Fergus. Charm on every corner.  You’ll be a Riverfriend in no time!  Rock on, people. Rock on.

  2. Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games

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    Aye, can you hear the pipes calling you back?  Haste ye back to the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games!

    They say it’s like visiting Scotland, without the airfare. We think they’re right.  So pack your bags, your kilts and your Scottish pride (hey, you can even borrow it – be a Scots for a day!) and come to one of the best festivals in the province.

    The Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games is a true celebration of Scottish culture, in the spirit of promoting and preserving the cultural heritage, from the arts and ancestry to the traditional competitions of sport.  For the town of Fergus, rooted in Scottish history, this event is a source of great pride for the community, volunteers and organizers.

    And it’s party to be had!  With a full line-up of music performances, dance and pipe band competitions, the traditional Tattoo and even some celebrity guests, we like to think of it as “Scotland without the jet lag.”

    So get your tartan on and meet us there!

     

  3. Industry Day at Grand River Raceway

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    Don’t miss the marquee event of Grand River Raceway‘s race season:
    Industry Day 2018

    The annual event is a celebration of racing, highlighted by two major races – The Battle of Waterloo is the signature race, featuring Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing colts, and the Battle of the Belles is Grand River Raceway’s companion race, contested by Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing fillies.

    Another exciting race is the Ontario Sires Stakes event for three-year-old filly pacers in the Grassroots Series.

    But there’s more to the day, so bring the family along for an afternoon at the races:

    • Admission is free. Parking is too!
    • Kid-friendly activities from Noon to 4pm. There is plenty for the kids to do and they are permitted throughout the grounds, except in the Elements Casino
    • The day features 12 Races. Post time for Race 1 is 12:30pm
    • To participate in prize draws, a program ballot is required. They are available on-site on race day.
    • Hop on the free people-mover anytime between noon – 5pm. It can take you around the backstretch to enjoy the view.

    Come out and enjoy a beautiful day at the prettiest track in Ontario and take in the sights and sounds. Expect an experience!

     

     

     

  4. Centre Wellington Derby Nights

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    Locals love harness racing and we hope you will too.

    Come catch the action at this year’s newest series of races – Centre Wellington Derby Nights!

    A trio of Friday race nights at Grand River Raceway will celebrate our unique community, featuring a race named exclusively for Township of Centre Wellington residents and offering $1,000 in cash prizes.

    Plus for everyone:
    • BBQ specials ($2 hamburgers & hotdogs, $1 pop)
    • Drive a racehorse with the Hands On Horses Program (30 spots)
    • 10 races including Racing Under Saddle with RUS Ontario
    • Kids’ activities and barn tour in The NEIGHbourhood

    Admission and parking are always free.

    N0B vs. N1M in the Centre Wellington Derby:

    This summer, the residents of Centre Wellington will head to the track, bearing their postal codes with pride as they compete for $3,000 in prizes and bragging rights as the champions of Centre Wellington Derby NightsPresent your proof of residence at the Registration Table between 5:30 – 7:30.

    The track will host a trio of these events: June 29, July 27 and August 31. The feature race of each evening will be designated as the Centre Wellington Derby and the eight horses in the race will be randomly assigned to a postal code (N1M or N0B). The Centre Wellingtonians representing each postal code are registered for a draw following the race where 10 residents representing the winning horse will share a $1,000 cash prize.

    *Must be 18+. Proof of residency includes photo ID with postal code listed, or photo ID accompanied by addressed letter showing postal code.

    Centre Wellington Derby Nights at Grand River Raceway are presented by the Grand River Agricultural Society.

  5. Elora Festival: A Celebration in Song

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    The sweet sounds of summer rise above the village when the Elora Festival brings the world of music to our door, for three full weeks of world-class performers and performances in a variety of music genres from classical and choral to opera,  jazz and contemporary sounds and so much more. It’s not just a series of concerts – it’s a series of experiences as diverse as the audiences themselves.

    Prepare to be impressed.

  6. Fergus Medieval Faire

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    Fergus Medieval Faire logo

    Armour up! Fergus is about to go Medieval.

     

    Fergus is a beautiful historic town, but it’s about to go MEDIEVAL!

    On Saturday, July 28, the merchants of Downtown Fergus will host the Fergus Medieval Faire, inviting everyone to take a step back in time with a full day of fun. And seriously, who doesn’t want to see a Knight in Shining Armour parade through downtown on his trusted stead Fergus? Sign us up!

     

    Medieval Themed Activities

     

    The Medieval Faire will run from 11am to 6pm and feature an array of hands-on activities, interactive experiences, live Celtic music, specialty foods and more. Best of all – this event is FREE for all. It’s just about having a fun experience in a town that knows how to make an event special for everyone!

    Take part in some Medieval-themed games, or watch archery by professionals who know how to hit the mark. Watch the falcons take flight right over our heads. There is nothing like seeing these beautiful birds spread their wings and dip through the air. Incredible!

    We’re excited for the Medieval re-enactment group. Who doesn’t enjoy the sound of the clash of swords in make-believe battles, or some hand-to-hand combat stunts performed by trained professionals who love to bring history to life. We totally do.

    The Viking encampment sounds intriguing, so we’re keen to explore that. Hope they are ready for questions, ‘cause we’re going to have lots!

     

    Fight the Knight

     

    Gear up the kids for a chance to do battle too in a fun Fight the Knight competition.  For the wee ones, there will be puppet shows and Medieval story telling too. But we’re sure that the sight of horses, knights and fair maidens wandering the street will be enough to amaze them. It doesn’t get more interactive than that!

     

    Iron Forge Masters

     

    We’re stoked to watch the live iron forge masters craft unique metal pieces from the coals of their hot fire. It’s an art form like no other. The armour display will showcase the skill it takes to make these massive pieces. But in a completely different artistic format, textile artists will exhibit their weaving and spinning skills. It’s equally impressive.

     

    Shop in Downtown Fergus

     

    Downtown Fergus is a great place to shop in modern day, so imagine the fun to be had shopping on this historic Medieval Faire event. We’re sure the merchants will get into the spirit of the day and add to the character of the day. Plus, specialty vendors will make for a colourful outdoor marketplace too.

    The fun and frolicking will go on throughout downtown Fergus so be sure to pick up a map of the Medieval Faire Sites & Exhibits at the Welcome Station in front of the Fergus Library.

     

    Medieval Feast

     

    Once you’ve worked up an appetite, put your money on the table, because they’ll be serving up a Medieval Feast at 6pm. We’re sure they aren’t using utensils, so maybe don’t wear a white shirt. (That’s a free tip! You’re welcome.)

     

    Fergus Ghost Walk

     

    And if you are feeling brave, the Fergus Ghost Walk will bring history to life in a whole different way starting at 8pm. Admission fees are available here.

    See you in Downtown Fergus on July 28th!

     

     

    Share this event with your friends and family!

  7. Black Sheep Festival of Contemporary Art

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    Spotted any Black Sheep around Elora lately?

    The Elora Centre for the Arts is bringing a new festival to the village July 7th. Black Sheep Festival of Contemporary Textile Art will feature a curated marketplace highlighting the works of professional textile artists, makers and producers as well as weekend workshops, demonstration tents, a Honky-Tonk community breakfast and live Old-Time music.

    The Community Breakfast starts at 9AM. Festival marketplace opens at 10AM. Admission $8

    Community and art in a village that isn’t sheepish about their love of both!  See you there.

     

  8. Centre Wellington Derby Nights

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    Locals love harness racing and we hope you will too.

    Come catch the action at this year’s newest series of races – Centre Wellington Derby Nights!

    A trio of Friday race nights at Grand River Raceway will celebrate our unique community, featuring a race named exclusively for Township of Centre Wellington residents and offering $1,000 in cash prizes.

    Plus for everyone:
    • BBQ specials ($2 hamburgers & hotdogs, $1 pop)
    • Drive a racehorse with the Hands On Horses Program (30 spots)
    • 10 races including Racing Under Saddle with RUS Ontario
    • Kids’ activities and barn tour in The NEIGHbourhood

    Admission and parking are always free.

    N0B vs. N1M in the Centre Wellington Derby:

    This summer, the residents of Centre Wellington will head to the track, bearing their postal codes with pride as they compete for $3,000 in prizes and bragging rights as the champions of Centre Wellington Derby NightsPresent your proof of residence at the Registration Table between 5:30 – 7:30.

    The track will host a trio of these events: June 29, July 27 and August 31. The feature race of each evening will be designated as the Centre Wellington Derby and the eight horses in the race will be randomly assigned to a postal code (N1M or N0B). The Centre Wellingtonians representing each postal code are registered for a draw following the race where 10 residents representing the winning horse will share a $1,000 cash prize.

    *Must be 18+. Proof of residency includes photo ID with postal code listed, or photo ID accompanied by addressed letter showing postal code.

    Centre Wellington Derby Nights at Grand River Raceway are presented by the Grand River Agricultural Society.

  9. Doors Open Fergus Elora

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    Knock, knock. Who’s there?

    YOU ARE!

    Welcome to Doors Open Fergus Elora 

    We’re opening the doors to some of the coolest sites in Fergus and Elora. With 10 locations on the self-guided tour, each with their own unique history and experiences to be had, plus more than a few with local tales of great woman who have helped shape our nation’s history, you’ll be inspired by new experiences and a peak behind the scenes.

    Coordinated by the Township of Centre Wellington in association with Heritage Centre Wellington, the Wellington County Museum and Archives and Ontario Heritage Trust, Doors Open is a celebration of our community’s heritage.  It is part of the provincial Doors Open events that take place across Ontario from April to October each year.

     

     

     

  10. Opening – Insights 39th Juried Exhibition of Fine Arts

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    Join in the celebration of the opening of one of the most celebrated art shows of the year!

    Exhibit Opening Reception:

     

    The Insights Juried Art Exhibition will be returning to the Wellington County Museum and Archives this summer from June 13 to September 3, 2018. Admission is by donation.

    Organized and sponsored by the Elora Arts Council Insights Committee, this juried art exhibit displays a wide range of original art in a variety of mediums, showcasing the works of well-established artists with emerging artists.

    Now celebrating 39 years, Insights remains one of the largest and longest-running art shows in Ontario.

    Come out and enjoy the gallery space, the creative exhibition and the ceremonies to follow at 8pm, with live music and light refreshments.

    As an added feature, the Insights Committee has organized a Walk with the Jurors for Sunday, June 17 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm. Jurors John Kissick, Janice Mason Steeves and Tammy Ratcliff will share how their ideas and sensibilities shaped the exhibit. Admission for this event is $5.00.

     

Come for a day. Stay for a lifetime.

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