By MPP Bobbi Ann Brady
Canada Day is our nation’s birthday, and it is also the unofficial start of what is a busy summer full of events across our area. And as an historical note, I’ll add that since July 1, 1868, Canadians have been celebrating the birth of Canada, which was on July 1, 1867. From 1879 to 1982, it was officially known as Dominion Day.
July 1 is done well in our neck of the woods. Caledonia and Port Dover both host parades that could compete against any in Canada, and I’m sure the large crowds that are always on hand would concur. Although PD13 is massive, the First of July has usually been Dover’s biggest gathering every year since Confederation.
Yeehaw! I plan to break out my cowboy boots and hat to attend the 6th annual Norfolk Ram Rodeo at Timmerman’s Ranch July 14 to 16. This is an all-out rodeo that is part of the Ram Rodeo tour with bucking broncos, bull riding, and the works. Look for me on the Sunday welcoming the crowd and then in the stands, and if the opportunity presents, in the ring. There is also some top-notch music with Eric Etheridge and the River Town Saints performing. www.norfolkramrodeo.ca
Hagersville Rocks has an incredible line-up this year www.hagersvillerocks.com. It’s showtime on July 14 and 15 with Colin James, Big Sugar, Daniel Lanois, Jess Moskaluke, Shawn Austin and many more great acts. I’d hazard a guess that if you’re into music, they’ve got your sound covered.
On the August long weekend, August 5, 6, and 7, it’s a trip down machinery lane with the Walpole Antique Farm Machinery Association’s Heritage Days in Jarvis. www.wafma.ca .
August 10-13 is Turkey Point’s annual Summerfest. Plenty of fun this season as always. Barbecues, beach volleyball, corn hole, and my favourite the car show, are all part of the weekend. Oh, and this year, they’ve got a scavenger hunt — can you find the hidden turkeys?!? http://www.turkeypointsummerfest.ca/
The Dunnville Fair, put on by The Dunnville Agricultural Society, is back on August 12 and 13 — www.dunnvillefair.ca. But before the Fair, on July 8th, the Agricultural Society is having their Loonie Toonie Rooster Raffle at the Optimist Hall from 11 am to 7 pm. While you’re checking out the raffle items, be sure to patronize local vendors and eat some tasty food, like the renowned Rooster Burger. Yum!
Long Point Region Conservation Area’s parks in both Haldimand and Norfolk are always worth a visit. But the children’s fishing derbies at Backus and Deer Creek on July 8 and July 12, respectively, are an especially great time for the whole family. Visit lprca.on.ca for more information.
Back again is The Civil War Re-enactment on August 17 and 18 at the Circle G Ranch. This Cayuga favourite acknowledges the role Canadians played in what is sometimes known as the Battle Between the States.
Rounding out the summer is Port Rowan’s Bayfest on September 2 and 3. So much to do and see and great folks to do it with. Haldimand-Norfolk truly is a wonderful place to be in the summertime. What more could you ask for? Get out there and celebrate!
Bobbi Ann Brady is MPP for Haldimand and Norfolk