Soaking Up Summer
Well, we're well into August and the sun and heat of summer is strong! The long, sunlit days mean there's also a lot of activity in the region. Festivals, fairs and events of all kind are going on. There's something for everyone of all ages and to indulge all manner of interests.
We thought it would be fun to review just a few of the options in the area, including one-time occasions, multi-day and weekend events, and recurring activities. Let's see what's happening here in Thorold, Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fonthill, Winona, Niagara Falls, and St. Catharines...
Pen Pals with Cobblestone Gardens
As a stationery shop, we're always delighted to see writing-related activities that foster friendship and community in our local area! This program is organized by the Thorold Public Library every Thursday afternoon from 3:30 to 4:15pm. It's an opportunity for children to learn about letter writing and make friends with a resident of Cobblestone Garden Retirement Home. There are so many benefits to this, including creating a bridge between generations.
Shaw Festival in Niagara-On-The-Lake
Already underway are this season's performances at Shaw Festival (all showing until October 4th, unless otherwise noted):
At the Festival Theatre
- The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe
- Anything Goes
- Wait Until Dark (until Oct 5th)
At the Royal George Theatre
- Murder-on-the-Lake
- Tons of Money (until Oct 5th)
- Major Barbara
At the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre
- Gnit
- Blue For An Alabama Sky
Yoga In The Park
Each Saturday morning from 9-10am, join others at Memorial Park in Thorold for an hour of all ages, gentle yoga. It’s free! Meet beside the Thorold Centre 50+ at the corner of Albert Street East and Chapel Street South. Pop by historical Front Street afterward and tell us how it was at Figg Street Co!
Niagara Irish Festival
Celebrate Irish music in Niagara Falls at Fireman's Park on Dorchester Road! This is a two day festival this coming weekend. Friday, August 22nd there will be folk songs under candlelight in the evening. On Saturday, August 23rd you can enjoy a high energy show with lively tunes.
Winona Peach Festival
Also this weekend is the annual peach festival in Winona! This runs from Friday August 22nd to Sunday, August 24th. There will be a midway with rides and games, an arts & crafts section, commercial exhibits with over a hundred vendors, entertainment on the main stage, a community area and food, including baked goods made from peaches!
Welland Salsa & Cumbria Festival
The following weekend, on Saturday August 30th and Sunday, August 31st, enjoy the Salsa festival at Merritt Park in Welland. This runs from 11am to 11pm each day. There will be live music and dancing, including dance workshops where you can learn a few moves. Also enjoy the food and artisan market.
Summer Chill Series
Feeling hot? Stressed? Visit Peace Park in Fonthill on Thursdays until September 4th to discover all the ways to "chill". The farmers' market, supper market featuring a wide assortment from Niagara's culinary establishment, and live entertainment will be there. Every-other-week the Lincoln Pelham Library Bookmobile will also be making an appearance.
Niagara Grape & Wine Festival
Of course, no mention of end-of-summer festivals in Niagara would be complete without mentioning the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival! This runs from September 5th through the 28th with events throughout the region. Many of the grand events, concerts, grape stomping, parade etc. will be happening in downtown St. Catharines, including Montebello Park on the final weekend of the festival.
We hope you're soaking up as much of summer as you can. Are you attending any of the events mentioned in this issue? If you do go, we'd love to hear about it! There's certainly lots to see and do here in Niagara at this time of year.
