By MPP Toby Barrett
Fall is a dichotomy of not only weather, but also emotion. The joy of the fall fair is offset by the solmness of Remembrance Day and the realization the grey days of winter are imminent.
Port Rowans’ Bayfest signalled to many that short and sandal weather was grinding to a halt. Although the weather didn’t permit the show on schedule, we were all able to cap the summer off on Labour Day with the spectacular firework show.
Speaking of Port Rowan, the War of 1812 re-enactment at Backus Heritage Conservation Area always draws an intrigued crowd. In Haldimand County, the Great Tricycle Race in Cayuga was plenty of fun and each year makes for fantastic photo opportunities.
Despite road reconstruction in Delhi, the annual Fall Fest continued with several bands of rock and country genres. The revised parade route provided a refreshing change to spectators and those like me in the procession.
Last week, I attended the 26th Canadian Outdoor Farm Show in Woodstock on Sept. 10-12. And, of course, the motorcycles customarily rallied on Friday the 13th in Port Dover.
This past Saturday and Sunday offered the Walpole Antique Farm Machinery Association beef barbecue and the 32nd annual Dead End Street Rodders Show ‘n Shine Car Show in Delhi. Nelles Corners once again, hosted the Touch-a-Truck event as a fundraiser for the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit.
Sept. 19 sees the Caledonia Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary celebrating their 70th anniversary. While regular Legion members are recognized for their contributions, this is an opportunity to tip our hat to our Legion ladies.
September is the month for small community fairs in Norfolk County, kicking off with Langton Fair on Sept. 18, followed by the Donnybrook Fair in Walsh on Sept. 21 and 22 and Houghton on Sept. 26.
The Canadian Drilling Rig Museum’s open house is Sept. 21 and 22. Delhi Community Health Centre is hosting its Harvesting the Bounty fundraiser at the Delhi German Hall on Friday, Sept. 20.
September start’s various hunting seasons in Ontario. Early goose season has already started and will be followed by the opening the duck hunt, plus seasons for grouse, squirrel and pheasant. Hunters are not only harvesters, but they are also conservationists who give back. Ducks Unlimited Canada’s first chapter is in Long Point and will be hosting its 45th annual dinner on Sept. 20.
The Battle of the Butter Tarts – a new event at the Caledonia Fair (Sept. 26-29), will undoubtedly draw the sweet tooth in many. The Norfolk County Fair starts the week before Thanksgiving. Headliners this year include High Valley and Gord Bamford.
Waterford Pumpkinfest runs Oct. 18 to 20, offering something for all ages including illusionist Lucas Wilson, the Delhi Archery Club, plus a craft beer and cider expo.
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 74 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.
Following quickly on the heels of Remembrance, Santa Claus parades start across the two counties. If you are looking for something different, check out the night parades in Dunnville, Delhi, Hagersville and Cayuga, plus day parades in Port Dover, Langton and Caledonia. Christmas bazaars and craft shows follow on the heels of the parades.
Toby Barrett is MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk