By MPP Bobbi Ann Brady
Fall brings with it mixed emotions – the joy that a new season is upon us mixed with the realization that summer is over.
The name says it all with Hagersville Summer’s End Festival taking place on Sept. 2. While in that area of Haldimand County, Ruthven National Historic Site is hosting its treasure hunt from Sept. 1-4, and check out their Celtic Festival Sept 9.
Port Rowan’s Bayfest is a sign that sunny days on the Long Point beaches are dwindling. The Labour Day weekend is full of activities, from midway rides, vendors and fireworks. Don’t miss the parade, Sunday at 2pm.
The pace of activities doesn’t slow as the month advances. Delhi’s Fall Fest is Sept. 8 -10. Another parade, a car show, and a variety of activities as well as several bands taking the stage. I will be cooling off in the Optimist Dunk Tank at noon. Come take your best shot.
Although not in the riding, I will likely attend the Canadian Outdoor Farm Show in Woodstock Sept. 12-14. It is always fascinating to see the latest machinery in the industry and catch up with all the farmers. Also, out of the riding but equally interesting, the International Plowing Match begins Sept. 19 in Dufferin County.
On Sept. 17, Trucks to Touch is a wonderful family friendly and free event hosted by The Week of the Child & Youth H-N. There will be trucks, heavy equipment, tractors and cars for kids to touch, see, feel and explore in Jarvis’ Lions Park.
Artists and artisans will be showcased during the Norfolk Studio Tour Sept. 24-25. The tour is always a highlight of my fall.
The annual Caledonia Fair, Sept. 28-Oct. 1, has the town bustling. There is a full slate of entertainment, plus the midway, games, baby show and demolition derby and a wide array of animals.
The small community fairs in Norfolk shouldn’t be judged by their size. Donnybrook Sept. 15-17, Langton Sept. 20 and Houghton Sept. 28; these small fairs are examples of communities with big heart. Largely, they give us the opportunity to preserve and celebrate our local heritage.
I had the distinct pleasure to open the Norfolk County Fair last year. This year I plan on taking part in several events and always love the school competitions, entertainment, concerts, food and don’t forget the games and midway. Be sure to visit my booth in the southeast corner of the Commercial Building. I just love catching up with folks that I haven’t seen in at least a year.
Waterford Pumpkinfest runs Oct. 13-15, offering something for all ages including illusionist Lucas Wilson, the Delhi Archery Club, plus a craft beer and cider expo. The parade is always colourful and lively too.
After two months of fairs and festivals, the often-grey days of November bring the somberness of Remembrance. The ranks of veterans who served in the Second World War have thinned as it’s been 78 years since its end. We continue to pay tribute to both those who gave their lives and those who fought for our freedom and returned home.
Santa Claus parades across the riding start in mid-November. The night parades in Dunnville, Delhi, Hagersville and Cayuga are incredible as are the day parades in Port Dover, Langton and Caledonia. Christmas bazaars and craft shows also abound.
The good times just keep rolling in Haldimand-Norfolk. If we have missed anything, be sure to let my office know so that we can give you a shout out at a future time. Get out there and have some fun!
Bobbi Ann Brady is the MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk