Go Mad for Maple in The County this March 🍁🥞

There is nothing sweeter than the first sign of spring, especially when that sign is sweet maple sap flowing through the trees. Here in The County, sugarbushes are already hard at work tapping maple trees and getting ready for their annual harvest.

Maple season celebrations have been impacted by COVID-19 for the last two years, and it’s no different in 2022. The annual Maple in The County festival is on hold for another year, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the region’s maple syrup this year. Read on to put together a maple tour and get your fix this spring.

Stop by a Sugarbush

While the Maple in the County festival is not going forward this year, the sap is still flowing at the affiliated sugarbushes. If you’re looking to pick up some syrup from the source, Sweetwater Cabin/Hubbs Sugarbush, Fosterholm Farms, Vader’s Maple Syrup, Nyman Farms, Loha Farms, Roblin’s Maple Syrup and Justin’s Maple Syrup are open throughout the season for sales of quality maple products.

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Attend a Maple Madness Event

Maple Madness is a new event series in The County which takes place every weekend throughout March, with different events and specials throughout the area to bring you a taste of maple. In addition to maple syrup producers, craft beverage producers, restaurants, and other County businesses are getting in on the fun. Here’s just some of what you can experience this month:

Waupoos Estates Winery & Restaurant

Head down to Waupoos to enjoy a maple-inspired two-course pre-fixe menu experience for $35pp. These dishes are created by Executive Chef Scott McInerney and are driven by Waupoos Restaurant’s their farm to table philosophy. Don’t forget to check out their Maple-themed drink specials while you’re there. Waupoos Estates is open 10am – 3pm each weekend throughout March. While you’re there be sure to stop across the street at Clafeld Cidery & Market to purchase maple products from the property.

Three Dog Winery and Moonlight Kitchen

Head to Three Dog Winery to celebrate the first harvest of the season with maple waffles and traditional French Canadian maple baked goods from Moonlight Kitchen alongside sugar shack experiences and bonfires. All of that Fun for the whole family!

County Shores

Over at County Shores there’s plenty of maple-y fun to be had. Enjoy their grounds on the beautiful Bay of Quinte while playing maple trivia and enjoying a maple-inspired menu filled with delights like Maple Pulled Pork, Maple Butter and fresh Maple Cinnamon Rolls. You’ll also have a chance to learn about the maple syrup harvesting process, watching as sap turns to maple syrup in their wood-fired evaporator. On every weekend throughout March.

Walt’s Sugar Shack

Walts Sugar Shack is open every weekend from February 19th-March 28th from 10:00am-4:00pm, and will be serving up a pancake and sausage breakfasts to showcase the best of their maple syrup harvest (some weekends will feature other menu items – check their Facebook page for updates). The store will be open for you to purchase, baked goods, beef, pork and of course Maple featured products! Free coffee will also be available.

Kinsip House of Fine Spirits

Head just north of Bloomfield to Kinsip for a maple-y outing where you can enjoy warm maple syrup cocktails made from their famous maple whisky and whisky barrel-aged maple syrup. Be sure to follow their Facebook and Instagram for more details.

The Waring House

Enjoy the iconic taste of maple at The Waring House with their Maple Cream Tea feature, plus a variety of Maple themed items on their weekend menu. Be sure to follow them on Facebook for up to date hours and menu details.

Related: 10 Fun Facts About Maple Syrup

Koopmans Maple Mountain

Get your hands on locally produced golden maple syrup at Koopmans Maple Mountain. This maple syrup is featured beautifully in maple candy, sugar and maple butter, which you can purchase alongside their maple syrups products while supplies last throughout March. While you’re there, be sure not to miss candles from The Sugar Shack Candle Co., which includes scents such as Maple Pancakes as part of their collection.  Note, Koopmans will not be open the first weekend in March, but will be open every other weekend.

Drake Devonshire & Motor Inn

The Drake is getting in on the fun with some maple-themed additions to their famous brunch menu. Plus, if you book a two night stay at the Drake Motor Inn this March they’ll include maple-inspired brunch for four.

The County Cider Company

County Cider is opening again after a long winter, just in time for maple season! They are celebrating with a maple-y food speicial of maple apple meatballs and maple apple hand pies for dessert. But you can’t go to County Cider without trying some of their cider! Luckily they have some cider perfect for the occasion: choose from Maple Bourbon Cider and Coffee Maple Cider in pints, or go the non-alcoholic route with mulled cider.

Prince Eddy’s Brewing Company

Make maple syrup season even more rad with a visit to Prince Eddy’s Brewing Company. They’ll be serving up a twist on their popular C.R.E.A.M Ale, this time made with dark maple syrup from Walt’s Sugar Shack. They’ll also be selling a limited number of 50ml maple syrup bottles in collaboration with Walt’s. Plus, enjoy a maple-filled pop-up from The County Canteen consisting of steamed bao buns three ways: Maple Five Spice Pork Belly with Maple Hoisin and Kimchi, Maple Soy Glazed Salmon with Maple Tonkatsu Sauce, Pickled Daikon and Carrot, and Crispy Tofu with Maple Gochujang Sauce, Garlic and Ginger Mayo, Cucumber, and Kimchi. Are you drooling yet?

In addition to Prince Eddy’s, three other breweries are celebrating maple throughout March. Barley Days, Midtown Brewing and Matron Fine Beer all have maple-y plans up the sleeves of their plaid flannel shirts, so be sure to follow them on Instagram for updates about their Maple Madness plans.

The County Canteen

Speaking of The County Canteen, they’ll also be cooking up a maple feast as their Picton Main Street restaurant throughout March. On the menu is Pork Belly with Maple Cotton Candy, a Waffled Ham and Cheese Melt with Maple Butter, and a Maple Old Fashioned. Dining at The County Canteen is first come, first served, so head there early to guarantee a table.

Sugarbush Vineyards

One of the things we love most about maple season is getting outside in the early spring weather, and a great place to do that is at Sugarbush Vineyards. Go for a hike on their 2km Walking Trail that loops through the Sugarbush and Vinyard, which is open from 11:00am-4:00pm (dogs welcome). Play maple trivia as you hike, be on the lookout for fairy doors and beware of bigfoot lurking back there! After you’re done, head back to the winery for complimentary hot chocolate and a maple cookie! But if it’s wine you’re craving, wine will be available to taste, enjoy by the glass, or to purchase to take home. Be sure to wear good boots  as it could be muddy or snowy. They will be collected cash donations or non-perishable food items for the Wellington Food bank.

Lacey Estates Winery

Head to Lacey Estates Winery on Closson Road for 100% estate grown, small batch wines and while you’re there enjoy a perfect pairing of smoked sausage appetizers with maple cheddar and maple chevre.

Fifth Town Artisan Cheese

Want even more maple cheese in your life. Down in Waupoos you’ll find Fifth Town Artisan Cheese where you can sample and purchase a selection of cheeses infused with the sweet nectar. Let maple chevre, maple bourbon capreggio goat taleggio, and maple chestnut rum cressy blue cheese grace your cheese boards this March.

7 Numbers Picton

For an Italian twist on Maple, head to 7 Numbers Picton. All month they’ll be serving up maple specials like maple-brined pork belly and maple creme brulee.

Norman Hardie Winery

Join Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard for some fine wine alongside home-smoked maple-smoked trout on their lunch menu and enjoy it all from their heated enclosures. While you’re there be sure to pick up some local maple syrup from their retail stores.

Rosehall Run

Rosehall Run is getting in on the maple fun with featured maple products for sale — Nyman Farms Pure Maple Syrup & Kinsip Whisky Barrel Aged Maple Syrup — alongside featured products for sampling and wine pairing, such as Maple Cheddar Cheese Biscuits with Pink Peppercorns.

Huff Estates Winery

Huff Estates is going all out this year with a complementary menu of maple munchies. Don’t miss such craveable snacks as “ultimate” maple bacon french toast, maple buttermilk pudding cake, maple chili, and maple blondie bars.

Hello Bonjour

Local cafe Hello Bonjour is the perfect hangout spot for Maple Madness. Open Saturdays & Sundays 8:00am-1:00pm for this event, this is a spot you want to check off your list! They’ll be serving up organic & gluten free blueberry pancakes (serve with maple syrup, of course!), maple pecan butter tarts, and extra large vegan maple “bacon” cinnamon rolls.

Sandbanks Estate Winery

You won’t want to miss maple season at Sandbanks Estate Winery. With maple s’mores, maple hot chocolate, and maple-inspired menu features each week, you’ll find something for everyone here.

Indergaard Farm

At Indergaard Farm you’ll find Walt’s Maple Syrup in their farm stand alongisde their farm fresh free range eggs. They’ll also be serving up free popcorn flavoured with Walt’s Maple Syrup. If that hasn’t already made this a must-visit stop, you’ll be excited to know that you can also visit with their alpacas and chickens!

Lakeside Motel

The Lakeside Motel is also getting in on the maple fun. On Fridays from 4-8PM, Saturdays from 9-11AM and 4-8pm, and Sundays from 9AM – 2PM throughout March, you can head to this enjoy maple in delicious style. Think Maple themed charcuterie boards, Waffles served with Kinsip Whiskey Barrel Aged Maple Syrup (or Walt’s Sugar Shack syrup if you prefer), Maple bacon, granny smith and gorgonzola pizza, as well as Maple themed caesars and cocktails. They’ll also have local artist Trevor Norris playing live music on Saturday March 12th from 5:30 – 8pm with campfires to get cozy by, as well as a heated enclosure.

Gillingham Brewery

Head to Gillingham Brewery to experience their CG County Maple Ale. An annually celebrated Canadian Spring treat fused into a delightful medium-bodied brew. A combination of honey, brown and caramel malts brewed with 100% Canadian maple syrup from LOHA Farms here in Prince Edward County. Expect aromas of soft whiskey notes which elude aged oak barrels. A smooth silky palate that finishes with a gentle hop bitterness that’s precisely balanced and lingers warming maple syrup. The perfect Canadian Spring Ale!

Karlos Estates

Karlo Estates is offering gluten-free buckwheat pancake medallions topped with Melt vegan “butter” paired to their 2020 Bubble, Sausage Party Toronto Seitan Salami paired with their 2020 Ontario Chardonnay, and maple-candied pecans with Fleur de Sel paired to their 2018 VanAlstine White. All of these delights will be available for purchase Saturdays and Sundays at the winery.

Also get tickets to their “Dinner and a Show” tasting series by clicking the link in our bio or on our website. All March “Dinner and a Show” Tastings will not only feature a local musician and a one plate meal paired to three wines, and a delectable maple treat will be offered to finish the meal. Check out all “Dinner and a Show” events on our events page.

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Cook Up a Maple-y Recipe

Grab your bottle of County-made maple syrup and cook up one of these recipes we’ve previously shared here on the blog:

Smokin Rednex County Maple Dressing

Ingredients
2 cups vinegar of your choice, such as apple cider|
1 cup County maple syrup
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon each salt and pepper

Instructions
Mix and drizzle at will.

County Cider Company‘s Honeycrisp Cocktail

2 oz Rye Whiskey
1 tbsp Maple Syrup
1/2 oz Orange Juice
a twist of Orange Peel
3 dashes of bitters
4oz of County Apple Cider

In a tall glass (or awesome cocktail mug) stir together the whiskey, maple syrup, and orange juice. Add the bitters and orange peel, then top off with the cider.

Flame & Smith‘s Ember Roasted Squash with Maple Syrup, Whiskey, Candied Pecans, and Torched Herbs

This recipe is a little more involved, so we’ve have a downloadable recipe card for you!

Download Flame + Smith’s Ember Roasted Squash Recipe

20+ Things to do with Kids in Prince Edward County in the Fall & Winter 🎃⛄

The County is kid paradise – even in the fall and winter. From apple picking to snowshoeing, there’s plenty here to keep the kiddos entertained on a cooler-weather getaway.

PLEASE NOTE: COVID-19 containment measures are keeping us hopping – new announcements about what’s open are being made every day. Please call ahead to be sure activities are still available. Find essential COVID travel info here.

Get Outside

1. Hit the trail and go for a nature walk in Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area. The walking trails are suitable for bigger kids and it’s a great place to squeeze some forest bathing into your day. Sometimes it can be a little muddy though, so bring your wellies! While there be sure to check out Birdhouse City to see some of The County’s most iconic buildings and attractions in miniature.

2. Beach season may be over but Sandbanks remains open until October 31st and their Dunes Trail is just as fun to explore in Fall. Be sure to book a day use permit up to 5 days in advance to guarantee entry to the park.

3. Go for a family-friendly cycle on The Millennium Trail. We love the stretch between Talbot Street and County Road 49 near Picton for a family ride. When you hit the end of the trail at County Road 49 you’ll come out right across the road from kid-friendly Parsons Brewing. Can you think of a better weekend activity?

4. Speaking of Parsons, if visiting in winter be sure to check if their skating rink is open and operational. You usually need to book a slot in advance, but when you do you’ll also get to visit their brewery, enjoy their fire pits and have some s’mores, making for a perfect winter day.

5. Enjoying the open road while you plan your next stop? Keep the kiddos busy with our very own local BINGO card to see what they can spy in PEC.

RELATED: Reserve Now, Relax Later

Experience Life on the Farm

6. Campbell’s Orchards is the go-to in The County for pick-your-own family fun on a farm. Whether you’re after apples or pumpkins (or a variety of other produce and baked goods at their farm stand, it’s the perfect destination for an idyllic fall day complete with wagon rides and a corn maze.  Their farm shop is open through the winter as well

7. While many farms close their doors in the late fall and through the winter, some allow appointments for groups if the weather allows. For instance, The Bloomin’ Welly Alpaca Trekk experience at Noble Beast Farms is a fantastic experience for kids which will allow them to meet and walk with alpacas and learn directly from farmers about these incredible creatures.

 

 

RELATED: Plan Your Fall 2021 Visit to Prince Edward County

Catch a flick

8. When you need a break from sun and surf, try the historic Regent Theatre for blockbusters, art films and documentaries.

Build Art Appreciation

9. The Department of Illumination hosts a number of magical public art events throughout the fall and winter that are perfect for the whole family. Celebrate the harvest season with their annual Scarecrow Festival fundraiser, bring light to darker nights with the Firelight Lantern Festival in November, and discover a winter wonderland of art, music, dancing and more with Ice Box. Please note that events are subject to change depending on COVID-19 restrictions at the time of the event. 

10. The Sculpture Garden at Oeno Gallery is a great way for kids to experience art in the great outdoors, and it’s open year-round for your enjoyment. Contemporary and abstract sculptures of vibrant colours and head-scratching construction pair beautifully with the perennials around them and are stunning in winter in contrast with the serene backdrop of the landscape covered in snow.

RELATED: Fall for Arts & Culture in The County

For Bigger Kids

11. The state-of-the-art skate park, also on the Picton fairgrounds, caters to beginner and intermediate skaters, and features bowls, hips, spines, a clam shell, flat banks, rails, hubbas, manual pads, ledges, curbs and gaps. (If you know what any of that means, then you know where to go!) The skate park is open year-round but best enjoyed before the snow settles in.

12. Escape Camp Picton takes inspiration from its location at a decommissioned WWII air base – blending heritage, history and an unforgettable game experience. Indoor escape rooms are open again (proof of vaccination required for kids-at-heart over 12) through the end of October and from November through February sessions can be booked on demand (with 48 hours notice).

13. Spend a day riding horses at Diamond J Ranch, offers scenic rides for families, with ponies for kids through the end of October. Please contact outfitters directly for availability.

14. Outside Bloomfield, Rapidfire Paintball & Airsoft offers junior paintball for kids as young as eight: junior paintball uses low-powered guns that are lighter and easier to hold, as well as smaller paintballs that leave no bruises. During fall & winter sessions are by reservation only – great for a birthday party!

Do a Little Shopping

15. There are a number of shops in The County that have fun gifts and toys for kids of all ages. Be sure to check out Books & Company in Picton for an excellent selection of books, toys and games that will keep kiddos entertained back at your accommodations or in the back seat.  You don’t want to miss Little Kokito in Bloomfield for a curated selection of gorgeous baby and kids products, and across the street at Green Gables Gifts & Greetings you will find a huge kids section that will keep them entertained while you browse the rest of this fun gift shop.

Kid-friendly eats.

16. If hunger strikes on the road be sure to stop by Sunnydale Farms for locally made – and grown – popcorn as well as some of The County’s best butter tarts, visit Hagerman Farms‘ Bakery for a sweet treat or treat your kiddos to a caramel apple at Campbell’s Orchards.

17. In the cooler months it’s no secret that kids love hot chocolate. Luckily you can find the goods throughout PEC. Try Beacon Bike + Brew, Bean Counter Café & Bakery or Lily’s Café in Picton, Bloomfield Public House Market in Bloomfield and Good Place PEC in Wellington for the perfect cool weather pick-me up.

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18. For lunch and dinner there are a ton of kid-friendly options. Try The County Canteen and The Vic Drive-in, Bermuda in Bloomfield and Saigon Restaurant in Wellington.

19. It is a truth universally acknowledged that kids love pizza. It is also a truth universally acknowledged that you can find delicious pizza almost anywhere in The County. For pizza available year round be sure to check out 555 Brewing Co. in Picton and Midtown Brewing Company in Wellington. Here in October (or the summer months)? You can also find pizza at many wineries throughout the region such as Black Prince Winery, TerraCello Winery, Huff Estates Winery and Hillier Creek Estates Winery.

But what about wine?

20. It is a family holiday, so there’s got to be some activities for the grown-ups too, right? And yes, it is possible to taste the terroir with little ones in tow.

• Sandbanks Winery helps kids feel like VIPs, with popcorn and juice boxes on offer. (Speaking from experience, the steampunk moose sculpture at the winery’s entrance is surprisingly entertaining – the village at its feet has roofs that move and my nephews spent a good deal of time moving fallen pine cones from one to the other.)
• The Grange has an absolutely gorgeous setting and board games for kids and kids-at-heart. In cooler months, their grand fire place makes an excellent place for a fam-jam huddle.
• Hinterland has bubbles for the grown-ups and lots of toys and outdoor games for the kids – plus a fleet of those iconic orange and yellow tiny cars that will take just about anyone who can squeeze in.
• Sugarbush Vineyards has an outdoor space and a 2-km loop around its vines, which becomes a snowshoe path in the winter, perfect for kids who need to let off a little steam.

21. Parsons Brewing is just north of Picton and has an excellent selection of beers, a gorgeous patio, big fire pit, great South American food and a huge playground for the kiddos. Socially distant circles help mark the perfect picnic spot.

22. Sweet and alcoholic cider are part of The County scene too. Loch Mor Cider Company has a kids’ corner, complete with pint-sized kitchen, while Apple Falls Cider Co. at Campbell’s Orchards has a pretty awesome playground, hilariously large Muskoka chair you can climb into for pictures, a network of walking trails and usually some sort of festival or special programming on the weekends. Add their ‘all you can carry‘ pumpkin patch event to your  fall calendar.

23. Kinsip distills spirits – and hand sanitizer! – in an ancient barn and oast house (where they used to dry hops) and it’s got a venue that is Insta-worthy, with a tree swing and friendly chickens strutting about the farm, both sure to entertain curious kids. Their over-sized jenga and appropriately necessary jenga-hammer also keep the adults entertained while you sip your cocktails.

 

25+ Things to do with Kids in Prince Edward County 🍦

The County is kid paradise. In addition to beaches and baseball fields, alpaca farms and apple orchards, there are a wealth of year-round outdoor activities to keep your half-pint County-ites busy.

PLEASE NOTE: COVID-19 containment measures are keeping us hopping – new announcements about what’s open are being made every day. Please call ahead to be sure activities are still available. Find essential COVID travel info here.

Beyond the beach.

1. There’s a splash pad on the historic fairgrounds in Picton, for when you’ve had it with sand in swimsuits. Built with a nautical theme – ships and water cannons firing water around the pad – it has the latest in high-tech to manage water runoff. Check COVID protocols

2. Caddy Shack is a mini-putt place right outside the entrance to Sandbanks where the 18-holes have been professionally designed with water hazards and sand traps, enough to challenge any golfer.

3. Of course, there is no shortage of water sports here, from stand up paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, ice fishing, fishing, even kite surfing. In the winter months there’s snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Find rentals at Cabin Fever Kayak or PEC Kayaks.

4. Enjoying the open road while you plan your next stop? Keep the kiddos busy with our very own local BINGO card to see what they can spy in PEC.

RELATED: Reserve Now, Relax Later

Experience life on the farm.

5. For all its hip restaurants and vibrant artistry, The County is, at its heart, a rural destination. Visit the Millefleurs Lavender & Honey Farm, The SHED (an alpaca farm with a great gift shop), Honey Pie Hives and Herbals, Campbell’s Orchard (with playgrounds and walking paths), Curious Goat General Store, Quinta do Conde or Hagerman Farms to get a sense of how what’s for sale at the grocery store gets grown.

6. Field of Friends welcomes families – especially your  littles! – to meet the herd at Mayrose Farm Miniatures: Tori, Buddy, Peanut, Polly and Harley! Grab a brush and build a bond with the farm’s little teachers, who love to share lessons on building relationships. Groom, pet and cuddle the ponies before leading your horse through an obstacle course custom designed to learn valuable life skills in a fun and exciting atmosphere with each interactive challenge. These miniature horses are used for equine-assisted learning, and they’re seasoned pros at helping kids and adults discover new ways of speaking without saying a word! Memories of a lifetime are made here at Mayrose Farm Miniature Learning Centre. Make a booking at mayrosefarmminis.com. 

RELATED: Summer 2021 Visitor Checklist

7. See the world through a bee’s eyes at Curious Goat General Store. Join beekeeper Elis for their Bees & Blooms experience, which highlights how the hive works together and pollinates the plants that put food on our tables. Guests will taste honey collected through the season, make their own bee balm, and plant or harvest from The People’s Garden, depending on the time of season. Make a book at curiousgoatgeneralstore.ca

8. To get up close and personal with farm animals, stop by Carsons Garden + Market to commune with their small herd of highly entertaining goats. The petting zoo at Waupoos Winery also fits the bill, with pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, mini-mules and chickens.  (Remember that other farms are working farms – please refrain from feeding those cute cows or fancy strutting chickens and keep the safety of you and the animals in mind by staying off fences and out of fields.)

9. Alpaca No Zoom Zoom takes kids and grown-ups away from their screens and shows them what they wouldn’t normally see on a farm tour, encouraging visitors to connect with the land and the animals and see how they work together. There’ll be plenty of time to spend with the alpacas, and guests will also be encouraged to keep a keen eye for how Noble Beast Farms works to create a welcoming environment to native flora and fauna, and give back to the land. Full details and booking information for a variety of farm experiences can be found at noblebeastfarms.com.

RELATED: Insider Tips for a Summer County Holiday

Catch a flick

10. When you need a break from sun and surf, try the historic Regent Theatre for blockbusters, art films and documentaries. (The theatre is currently unable to open, but is offering films and other cinematic delights online.)

11. The famous Mustang Drive-in opens June 24 and they’re eager to take film-goers back in time. It’s a memorable experience for any kid! Check out their Sunday trunk sales in July and August.

History and heritage.

12. The County has a rich history, reflected in our museums. Visitors are welcome at Macaulay Heritage Park, Mariners, Ameliasburgh Heritage Village, Wellington Heritage – each presenting a slice of life in Prince Edward County by different people at different times. Ameliasburgh Heritage Village lets kids literally step back in time, with 20 buildings to explore and volunteers in period dress.

13. Take a walking tour where History Takes Flight, featuring the highlights of both Macaulay Heritage Park and Birdhouse City. Download the free GooseChase scavenger app and play for points, or follow the tour with this informative blog.

14. Birdhouse City is a mini version of some of the buildings you’ll find in The County and beyond, found at the entrance to Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area.

15. A visit to Macaulay Heritage Park includes displays on early life in The County and a new exhibit made in collaboration with our neighbours at Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory that focuses on Indigenous history, an under-told story from this region’s past, present, and future.

Please note that County Museums will have limited availability for the summer 2021 season. Please call ahead.

Build art appreciation.

16. The Sculpture Garden at Oeno Gallery is a great way for kids to experience art in the great outdoors. Contemporary and abstract sculptures of vibrant colours and head-scratching construction pair beautifully with the perennials around them. The garden was designed to make use of the limestone, sand dune and grass paths that shape the garden’s acres acres, with the art nestled perfectly among groves of maples and poplars, a grapevine arbour, an herb garden, a quarry and a rose garden. By appointment only for Summer 2021.

For bigger kids.

17. The state-of-the-art skate park, also on the Picton fairgrounds, caters to beginner and intermediate skaters, and features bowls, hips, spines, a clam shell, flat banks, rails, hubbas, manual pads, ledges, curbs and gaps. (If you know what any of that means, then you know where to go!)

18. Escape Camp Picton takes inspiration from its location at a decommissioned WWII air base – blending heritage, history and an unforgettable game experience. New for Summer 2021, Escape Camp Picton is offering an outdoor adventure and puzzle, incorporating the history of the site and brain-scratcher suitable for teams and families with children of all ages.

19. Spend a day riding horses at Diamond J Ranch, which offers group or private lessons and day or summer camps, giving kids a taste for life on the ranch. Diamond J also offers scenic rides for families, with ponies for kids and inexperienced riders of any level welcome. Archway Connections also offers day camps and retreats with horses and donkeys – for kids big and small alike. Please contact outfitters directly for availability.

20. Outside Bloomfield, Rapidfire Paintball & Airsoft offers junior paintball for kids as young as eight: junior paintball uses low-powered guns that are lighter and easier to hold, as well as smaller paintballs that leave no bruises.

Kid-friendly eats.

21. Let’s start with the most important food group: ice cream. We’ve no shortage of ice cream shops, including The Old Greenhouse, Cones & Shakes, and Slickers.

22. For charcuterie or picnic items, try the Agrarian Market, GOOD Place PEC or Hagerman Farms, a veritable cornucopia of fresh vegetables grown nearby plus their bakery in the back. Taste of Country and Bloomfield Public House Market offer grab-and-go options and Enid Grace Culinary can fill a box with Italian-inspired pastries and savouries. Angry Bird’s has a menu reminiscent of a certain Swiss chicken Chalet, with a wallet-friendly price point to match.

But what about wine?

23. It is a family holiday, so there’s got to be some activities for the grown-ups too, right? And yes, it is possible to taste the terroir with little ones in tow.

• Sandbanks Winery helps kids feel like VIPs, with popcorn and juice boxes on offer. (Speaking from experience, the steampunk moose sculpture at the winery’s entrance is surprisingly entertaining – the village at its feet has roofs that move and my nephews spent a good deal of time moving fallen pine cones from one to the other.)
• The Grange has an absolutely gorgeous setting and board games for kids and kids-at-heart. In cooler months, their grand fire place makes an excellent place for a fam-jam huddle.
• Hinterland has bubbles for the grown-ups and lots of toys and outdoor games for the kids – plus a fleet of those iconic orange and yellow tiny cars that will take just about anyone who can squeeze in.
• Sugarbush Vineyards has an outdoor space and a 2-km loop around its vines, which becomes a snowshoe path in the winter, perfect for kids who need to let off a little steam.

24. Parsons Brewing is just north of Picton and has an excellent selection of beers, a gorgeous patio, big fire pit, great South American food and a huge playground for the kiddos. Socially distant circles help mark the perfect picnic spot.

25. Sweet and alcoholic cider are part of The County scene too. Loch Mor Cider Company has a kids’ corner, complete with pint-sized kitchen, while Apple Falls Cider Co. at Campbell’s Orchards has a pretty awesome playground, hilariously large Muskoka chair you can climb into for pictures, a network of walking trails and usually some sort of festival or special programming on the weekends. Add their ‘all you can carry‘ pumpkin patch event to your  fall calendar.

26. Kinsip distills spirits – and hand sanitizer! – in an ancient barn and oast house (where they used to dry hops) and it’s got a venue that is Insta-worthy, with a tree swing and friendly chickens strutting about the farm, both sure to entertain curious kids. Their over-sized jenga and appropriately necessary jenga-hammer also keep the adults entertained while you sip your cocktails.

BONUS: If after all that you just need a little time away from the family, the Bloomfield Beauty Co. offers upscale mani, pedi and massages or dash in to Picton’s Natural Beauty Mini Spa which has been getting raves for its facial massages and nail work.

25+ Places for Art in Prince Edward County 🖌️

Art runs in our veins – and down our back roads. Find an array of work in a variety of styles and price points or a wealth of workshops at a range of creative spaces, from intimate studios to restored barns and modern galleries. Here’s where you can find the muse or take home a piece of The County.

Amelie Silks & Fine Arts is set on the shore of West Lake, a stunning backdrop to the silk blouses, scarves, shawls, uni-sex shorts, accessories, sarongs, chemises and camisoles made by Amelie Koning de Bourbon. Her two dimensional work varies from paintings in mixed media, graphic arts and silk paintings. 

Andara Gallery is home to Love Nest Studios and the Andrew Csafordi Studio Gallery. A newly constructed year-round contemporary gallery features the encaustic sculptural paintings of Andrew Csafordi, and the photographs and fibre art nest sculptures of artist and photographer Tara Wilkinson. Andrew’s luminous, textural paintings bring the viewer into an organic sky or landscape, while Tara’s fibre art nest sculptures and works in mixed media and photography are inspired by nature and world travels.

Armstrong Glassworks is the hottest place in The County – sometimes quite literally, with three huge furnaces used for melting, shaping and colouring glass. Explore the fascinating world of glass in the demonstration room and then visit the showroom, where the light intensifies colours and patterns in each glass creation, casting shadows as beautiful as the pieces themselves. 

Baxter Arts Centre provides varied arts programs for visitors to and residents of Prince Edward County, giving people of all ages opportunities to be creative and to connect with the area’s vibrant arts community. In addition to painting and sculpture, the Baxter Arts Centre offers classes on dance, writing, jewellery making, pottery, singing, yoga and more, with Saturday morning programs specifically for children.

Bloomin’ Barn Studio is home to the vibrant and joyous work of Margaret McFetridge, a painter specializing in large-scale florals that are definite mood-boosters. Nestled in the garden of her Victorian 1880s Carriage House, Margaret’s work features large brushes and confident strokes, bringing poppies, peonies and hollyhocks to life on canvas. 

BlizzMax Art Gallery Studio is home to Alice Mennacher and the late artist Peter Mennacher, who was an etcher, painter and wood carver. BlizzMax is summertime host to some of the most exciting contemporary art shows between Montréal and Toronto. 

Carbon is an art space located in a former coffin manufactory behind  The County Canteen. Curated by Hri Neil, aka DJ Ombudsman, the space is a gallery, studio and common creative space in the heart of Picton.

Guildworks in Bloomfield stocks an eclectic mix of work in ceramic, glass, textile, jewellery, metal and wood; they also curate a small collection of visual art by both established and emerging artists. They also offer workshops where people can learn a new craft from some of Canada’s best artists and makers. 

Hatch Gallery features exhibitions of established, mid-career and emerging contemporary artists, with the work highlighted by the surrounds of a converted industrial space. Exhibitions primarily include painting, photography and sculpture, having featured work by Ronald, Mead, Urquhart, Bentham and other important Canadian artists. 

iconoclast studio is the home of the vibrant abstract art of Jennifer Topaz Bruce, who works primarily with acrylic on canvas and prefers the cut of a palette knife to the stroke of a brush. Her use of lines and colour, coupled with her attraction to angles and edges, result in paintings that have bite and are unapologetic.

J.D. Thompson Fine Paintings is a study of light, the way it travels across the grasslands, the way it interacts with stormy waves, the way it softens in the evening, producing subtle rust shades. His large, painstakingly-detailed acrylic paintings attempt to depict various atmospherics caused by light interacting with water in all forms, whether grand cumulous clouds, fog, waterfalls or crashing waves. His paintings are also personal metaphoric expressions of light-filled with hope, in juxtaposition to the challenges of life. 

Yes, there are really dogs at Mad Dog Gallery | Photo Credit: Eve Harvey

Mad Dog Gallery features outstanding traditional and contemporary fine arts exclusively by local artists, including Rosemary Brown, Brian Clark, Julie Duff, Ian Forbes, Elizabeth Jackson-Hall, Anne House, David James, Andrew Innes, Andrew King, Bill Reddick, Doris Richardson, Celia Sage, Marianne Sanders, Gerald Reilly, Susan Straiton and Susan Wallis. Group and solo shows alternate throughout the year. 

Melt Studio and Gallery is located just outside Picton in a historical air force barracks in the former Camp Picton. The gallery is managed and run by Canadian encaustic artist Susan Wallis and is the home to her encaustic working studio. Susan showcases her work in the gallery space along with a selection of other talented artists and artisans. Melt Studio and Gallery also offers PAUSE, a nature and art experience.

Mena Dragonfly Studio is home to deceptively simple, gorgeously hand-thrown and yet completely functional pieces for use in the home. Melanie’s beautiful ceramics are complemented by unique décor items. Visit to view the collection, or stay in the on-site B&B for a chance to learn how to throw pottery in a guided workshop.

Mixd Nutz Studio features the photography of Carol Noël, whose enhanced vibrant images can be viscerally felt. Common threads: curiosity, noticing what is often passed-by, oddities and love of human story, domicile and place.

Oeno Gallery is renowned for exceptional fine art, both dynamic contemporary and historical art, including paintings by the Group of Seven, Tom Thomson and other important Canadian and European artists. Situated at the Huff Estates Winery, the 2,400 square foot gallery hosts monthly exhibitions and a unique three-acre Sculpture Garden with more than 60 works by Canadian artists. 

Pamela Carter Studio is filled with light and classical jazz– perfectly reflected in Pamela’s warm, vibrant paintings in a range of sizes and genres: still life, local lush landscapes, dancing, joyful County living. Pamela’s work captures the people and places of The County, giving them life on canvas. 

SideStreet Gallery is housed in an historical 1862 building located on Main Street Wellington, featuring an extensive collection of works by regional artists. SideStreet’s focus is “authentically County” with art exhibits running during the year. It’s a good place to browse for a memento of The County, including the series of iconic “County Posters” by Marc Keelan-Bishop.

Spark Box Studio offers art and craft workshops, specializing in screen printing. Artists Chrissy Poitras and Kyle Topping are genius at customizing workshops based on what you’d like to learn, and adapting those workshops for kids, groups, parties and more. Their screen printing equipment allows you to return home with a truly handmade souvenir of your time in The County.

Art can be appreciated by all species | Photo Courtesy: Sybil Frank Gallery

Sybil Frank Gallery offers fine art ranging from contemporary modern to landscapes, a bit of whimsy and bold sculptural pieces. Named after the proprietor’s grandmothers, the gallery honours two amazing women, one bold and daring, the other graceful, elegant and ethereal. Sybil Frank promises to be an art experience where one can find unique talent with vision, artistry and the unexpected. 

The Local Store gathers the best of County art under one roof, showcasing pottery, jewelry, quilting, basketry, wood working, prints, original works of art and books in a converted barn and milking parlour. Find County-made preserves, jams, jellies and chutneys in the former lamb building and take in the gallery of large oil paintings and antiques in the hayloft.

Wellington Pottery is home to the work of Maggie Murdoch, David Drown and Hannah Melnyk. Maggie’s porcelain seems “caught in the act of becoming” with its free-form organic shapes and movement. David extrudes and hand-builds clay work to create highly-functional, inviting designs with strong graphic lines and an eastern flair. 

 

Content updated January 2020

15 Spots to Search for Antiques & Vintage Gems ⚓

Prince Edward County is renowned for its many antique stores and vintage shops, and there are more than a dozen different sellers stocking a large variety of furniture, collectibles, glass, china, pottery, tools, ephemera, home décor items, garden furniture and ornaments and more.

Written by Sue Hierlihy, updated by staff August 2020.

An antique by another name is vintage, and all things vintage are in favour at present.

Reduce, reuse, recycle is a necessary mantra of our times, and repurposing quality pre-owned goods ticks all the boxes with one-of-a-kind flair. Mid-century modern (MCM) is very popular, reviving décor from the 50s and 60s. Painting furniture is a trendy way to reuse quality outdated pieces. Think “What else could this be?” and you’ll be on your way to creating your own eclectic style.

Curated Collections

County antique shops are as diverse as the people who own them. When you walk through the door, nine times out of 10, you will be greeted by the owner. The antique and vintage market qualifies as very small business and few owners can afford to hire staff.  Many of the shops in The County are on the owner’s home property so be aware that opening hours can be less than exact due to life getting in the way!

Shopping at an antique store is not like shopping at Walmart.  There are no suppliers, or offshore factories, or the ability to “order 20 more by next week.” Each and every article in the shop has been painstakingly found, purchased, transported, cleaned and placed for you to find as you search through many hundreds of inventory items.

Antique dealers are hunters by nature, and there is an auction, yard sale, house call, newspaper ad, or phone call preceding the acquisition of every single piece in the shop. Time is spent curating each wonderful, beautiful, individual element and presenting it to you.

Settling on a Fair Price

While haggling is a time-honoured practice at flea markets and bazaars, there may not be as much wiggle-room for a bricks-and-mortar antique shop with overhead costs like heat and hydro.

If an item is priced at $10 and you ask for a discount, chances are you will be refused.  The dealer probably paid $5 after driving somewhere to acquire it and then cleaned it and placed it in the store that requires heat and light.

On bigger ticket items (more than $100) asking for a 10% reduction in price may not be out of line, but be advised that there are times when the dealer’s margin is very thin indeed. Asking for a discount is best done politely and respectfully. The fastest way to ire a shopkeeper is to say, “I’ll give you….” Let’s face it; you wouldn’t say that at Whole Foods.

“Would you take [a figure that’s more than 75% of asking price]” is a good beginning. Cash is always preferred, but most shops can take a credit card, and some can take debit thanks to internet banking.

Planning a Trip

Hours of operation can be quite fluid from November to May.  The ambient temperature inside the bricks and mortar, and the proclivities of the owners, dictate whether a shop will remain open over the winter. It is always best to call ahead to make sure the shop is open. Some shops are happy to open by appointment.

Plan your trip, check store websites for days and hours of operation and call ahead if necessary, then head out to see what treasures you can find. Most of all have fun and enjoy your antique hunting adventure!

Feeling inspired to hunt Prince Edward County for something new old? Check out these antique shops in The County:

 

1. Amor’s Antiques 212 County Rd 16 Black River, 416-835-1770 |  Curated collections of transferware, Canadiana and English furniture in a century barn. Lover of natural patina, brass and all things rattan, bamboo and wood.

2. Carbon Life 281B Main Street Picton, 613-885-1796 | An art-gallery-turned-market, Carbon Life is a curated collection of products from County makers and pickers, featuring vintage clothing, retro housewares, books and art. 

3. Collier Collection 2594 County Rd 13 South Bay, 613-438-9057 | Barnboard and hardware, duck carvings, paintings, photos, frames, Japanese handpainted items, majolica, pyrex, retro glass and glass caddies and much more.

4. County Traders 39 Stanley Street Bloomfield, 613-393-9993 | A consignment warehouse of furniture, art, books, kitchenware and other finds.

5. Hickory Tree 14938 Loyalist Pkwy Bloomfield, 613-393-5040 | Specializing in furniture restoration and custom furniture built from recovered century old  and new wood.

6. MacCool’s Reuse 1149 County Rd 12 West Lake,  613-393-5797 | Mid-century modern and cool 50s finds abound in this old barn, where vintage pieces are mixed with handmade pieces.

7. Memory Factory 21712 Loyalist Pkwy,  613-438-2331 | Stocking contemporary and vintage books, depression and carnival glass, primitives, vintage and costume jewelry, Nippon china, kitchenware, bakers’ tables, postcards, Gate-leg tables, vintage furniture, Royal Doulton figurines, vintage buttons and military items.

8. Porkie’s Place 1540 Hwy 62, 613-393-5027 | Tools, dishes, antiques, toys, oil cans, blacksmith anvils, tongs, hammers, forges, vises, planes, cast floor grates and tractor seats, furniture, old hardware, books and pictures.

9. Retrospective 280 Main Street Bloomfield, 613-393-3339 | Dishes, furniture, decor and more.

10. Stowaway Vintage 1606 Cty Rd 10 Cherry Valley, 613-920-1085 | Selling quality vintage clothes and furniture, old school toys, art, vinyl records, lighting, collectibles and more, it’s worth a stop for the amazing vintage toy train running through the rafters.

11. The Local Store 768 County Rd 12 Bloomfield, 613-393-1797 | Canadian folk art, baskets, crocks, English serving pieces, crystal, pottery, silver plate everything, American pressed glass goblets, European china, silks and more. bi-weekly car boot (trunk) sales too!

12. The Sword 20581 Loyalist Pkwy Consecon, 613-392-2143 | Specializing in antique muskets, rifles, shotguns and pistols, reproduction and replica weapons, costume jewelry, Blue Mountain pottery (including Collingwood, Ontario potters), ceramics, crystal and art glass.

13. Tick in Tyme 35 Wellington Street (Loyalist Parkway) Bloomfield, 613-393-5886 | Featuring interesting clocks, watches, china, pottery, kitchen collectibles, linens, oddities and small furniture.

14. Young’s Antiques 1214 Cty Rd 3 Rednersville, 613- 969-1905 | Re-purposing specialists, Young’s also offers a wide range of vintage wooden wares, pottery/yellowware, along with sporting, nautical, hunting and fishing items, old church and century home windows, vintage whimsical folk art pieces.

Content updated August 2020