Summertime is all about celebration! At least it is in Niagara-on-the-Lake where cause for celebration can be anything from weddings and bachelor/bachelorette events to birthday/anniversary parties, wine-and-dine events and new vintage releases. And Niagara-on-the-Lake knows how to amp up your celebrations and turn them into an extravaganza.
SUMMERTIME VIBES
The Sun moves into fire sign Leo on July 22, bringing playful, vibrant and colourful vibes into the collective energy field. If you’re a typical Leo, you love to party and spread the joy, so go ahead and plan your birthday jamboree. Crank up the music so we can all dance and sway to the rhythm.
Off course, everyone is invited to join in. After all, Leo’s motto is, “Come one, come all. The more, the merrier!” And that joyous mood will likely carry us right through August. So, grab your party hat and start planning your 2024 summertime escape in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
What better place to stage a special day than at one of the many Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries where event planning is one of their specialties. They can make your wedding into the storybook spectacle of your dreams. Or they can transform your bachelor/bachelorette or birthday/anniversary party into one worthy of the record books. They love a challenge, so dream big.
Of course, wineries have a few events of their own planned this summer and everyone is welcome to partake in the festivities. Here are a few to get you thinking.
CELEBRATE WITH PELLER ESTATES
Care for a Chardonnay rendezvous in the vineyard? It all begins with a tour that includes wine tastings and pairings among the Chardonnay vines with winemaker, Katie Dickieson. Following the tour, retreat to the terrace for lunch where fresh culinary creations are paired with Chardonnay from two esteemed visiting wineries, namely Deux Roches from France and Hamilton Russell Vineyard from South Africa. It all begins at noon on July 20.
Consider yourself a luxury automobile enthusiast? Usher in the 2024 Niagara 5000 powered by McLaren Toronto on August 8 at the official opening party when Peller’s Executive Chef, Jason Parsons and his culinary team promise to excite your tastebuds. Then, let loose and dance the night away to live music.
INDULGE AT THE REIF ESTATE WINERY
Always dreamed of travelling to far-off lands? Reif is bringing the world to its doorstep with a couple of events that are sure to tickle your inner explorer.
How does Sipping in Sicily sound? On July 27, the winery invites you to an enchanting evening, featuring a delightful culinary journey through Sicily with celebrity chef, Christian Pritchard. Music performed by an Italian band is sure to enhance the flavours and ambiance.
Heat up the evening air on September 28 at Reif’s ever popular Fire Dinner, a celebration of Brazilian cuisine, served with a night of live entertainment. It sold out last year, so be sure to book early.
UNDER THE STARS AT JACKSON-TRIGGS
For two decades, Jackson-Triggs has hosted more than 150 Canadian artists in their intimate, open-air 500-seat Amphitheatre. And Summer 2024 is no different. This year’s Summer Concert Series line-up includes the likes of Chantal Kreviazuk, Bahamas, the Jim Cuddy Band and many more. Why not round up your friends and make a night of it?
Then, on September 6, there is yet another opportunity to share the excitement and indulge in an interactive dining experience with fellow wine enthusiasts. Be the first to taste newly released 2022 vintages with Winemaker Chris Holman as he unveils Jackson-Triggs’ latest reds, including samples straight from the barrel.
START YOUR OWN PARTY
Maybe you and a couple of friends hope to expand your social circle – or find that special someone. Who knows who you’ll meet on August 15 at the Mix & Mingle singles event at the Queenston Mile Winery? Until Mr. or Ms Wonderful comes along, enjoy delicious wine, excellent food, great music and a laid-back atmosphere.
The Barrelhead in the cherry orchard at Pillitteri Estates Winery is the perfect venue for an impromptu picnic table gathering. Start with a signature Icewine cocktail and enjoy the live music while you’re waiting for your food and wine. Later, continue the party at the Olde Angel Inn Pub or The Irish Harp, where there’s always reason to raise a glass and celebrate.
SWEET DREAMS
All this celebration is sure to tire you out, and you’ll want to retreat for some quiet and relaxation once it’s all done. STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a variety of well-priced accommodation choices ranging from charming bed and breakfasts and historical inns to fully furnished cottages, villas and apartments located throughout the region for your convenience.
MORE FUN IS ON THE WAY
There’s always so much more to celebrate in Niagara-on-the-Lake. In addition to all that was mentioned above, here is a list of what’s planned for the coming months:
July 28, August 25 & September 29: Sip and Paint Night at Peller Estates Winery
August 5: The Past is Present Heritage Festival
August 9: July 4: Angela Seeger Summer Concert Series at Corks Wine Bar & Eatery
August 10: Peach Festival
August 11: Shades of Rose Dinner
August 3 & 4: Juried original art show and sale at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
August 18 to 25: 2024 World Rowing Championships in St. Catharines
September 13: Heritage Garden Party
September 14: Niagara Polo at The Commons
October 4: Shaw Guild Autumn Soirée at Château des Charmes
October 5: Mom Market Niagara at Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery
October 5 & 6: NOTL Beer/Harvest Festival
December 6: Candlelight Stroll
December 6 & 7: Rotary Club House Tour
December 14: Christmas Parade
HELPFUL TIPS
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.
Drive Safely: As part of Niagara Region’s Vision Zero program, automated speed enforcement cameras have been installed in school zones. Please pay attention to the speed limits posted throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake as more cameras are planned.
Metered Parking: General information on metered parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is found here. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts feature complimentary on-site parking for guests and are happy to advise you on where to park for free in and around Old Town.
Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots. All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:
- Designated accessible zones/spaces; and
- At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and-display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.