Introducing Base31, a Destination in Progress in PEC
The rumours are true – Loch Sloy, Camp Picton, The Heights – whatever name you have known it by, is now revamped and under new management.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Base31 – a destination in progress, on the site of a former WWII airbase at the top of the hill overlooking Picton, Ontario.
The Drill Hall at Base31. All Rights Reserved. Johnny C.Y. Lam © 2022. Do not use without permission.
What is Base31?
Base31 is a destination in progress on the site of a former WWII airbase in Picton, ON. An evolving fusion of art, ecology, heritage, industry and innovation, Base31 invites you to peer into the past and co-create its future.
Base31 is a springboard for makers, creators, artisans, and entrepreneurs. They are weaving a thread between the incredible history of this place and a future where anything is possible. The site is an up-and-coming event venue that aims to curate collaboration with the community to offer the best of the best through their historical and iconic property.
Learn More about the Military History of Base31, the Former Camp Picton
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What can I expect from Base31 in 2022?
Since PEC Community Partners purchased this site in December of 2021, the small but mighty Base31 team has been hard at work planting the Aviators Garden, preparing The Drill Hall for some major concerts this summer – including Sarah Harmer, David Wilcox, a Queer Comedy Cabaret Festival, Big Lake Arts Chamber Orchestra and SLOAN, and will be hosting the PEC Community Craft Beer Festival in October (details to come!).
Rock out at one of Base31’s upcoming summer concerts. All Rights Reserved. Johnny C.Y. Lam © 2022. Do not use without permission.
You can also be inspired by Alvar, a new project by The Department of Illumination, experience Canada’s first travelling theatre on wheels, Roamin’ Theatre Roulant (be sure to stay tuned to the event listing here on VisitPEC.ca for performances in locations throughout The County this summer), and be serenaded by the sweet sounds of Bedouin Soundclash.
Simply can’t wait to check out this sweet new destination in PEC? Be sure to grab tickets to the free Community Open House this Saturday, July 9th and the grand re-opening of the historic Drill Hall happens July 22nd, featuring Sarah Harmer in concert.
Among these events, Base31 is also offering Site Walking Tours and Music in the Aviator’s Garden every Saturday this summer.
What would you like to see from Base31? Share your ideas with their team here.
Experience a historical walking tour of Base31. All Rights Reserved. Johnny C.Y. Lam © 2022. Do not use without permission.
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How is Base31 transforming the space and landscape of this former WWII airbase?
Among the work done so far, Base31 has made two public art calls and selected artists to install works on their buildings. They have transformed the landscape through the use of berms, walking paths and sculptural public art, curated a calendar full of exciting programming, and hired 18 local county residents to join their team!
On site, there have been dozens of trees planted, the team has consulted and worked alongside All Welcome Here to start their diversity and inclusion efforts, secured 31 partnerships and community investments in Prince Edward County and have collected dozens of pieces of cardboard for an art project on site. Base31 also continues to call out to community for photos. If you know anyone with photos of family on the Base in the 1940s or 1950s please tell them to email: art@base31.ca
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What about the businesses we know and love on-site at Base31?
They aren’t going anywhere! When visiting Base31 you can still peruse galleries like Melt Studio & Gallery (including their PAUSE experience), Maison Depoivre Art Gallery, and Side x Side Studio featuring potter Wendy Vervoort and guitar maker Edward Klein. You can also try your hand at an escape room with Escape Camp Picton and visit Wallis Design Build.
Save the world with your team of spies with Escape Camp Picton at Base31. Image by Escape Camp Picton.
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To check out more on Base31, check out the site in person, visit their website, and immerse yourself in their YouTube channel.
This post was written in collaboration with the Base31 team.
Header image by Johnny CY Lam, used with permission from Base31.
