Author: David Levesque

Stay Niagara-on-the-Lake: Medicine for the February Blahs

Last modified: February 23, 2023

 

 

Feeling moody, as if your energy is sapped? Not to worry… planning a quick escape is the ideal medicine for overcoming such common wintertime symptoms. And historic Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect destination for your winter break — and for good reason.

 

We’re thrilled to announce that TripAdvisor ranked our Town No. 2 “Best Popular Destination Canada.” Not only that. TripAdvisor also listed four of our local wineries as top attractions in all of Ontario: Konzelmann Estate Winery, Reif Estate Winery, Château des Charmes Winery and Peller Estates Winery. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, three local restaurants were listed by OpenTable as Canada’s most romantic places to dine: The Drawing Room at Prince of Wales Hotel, Kitchen 76 at Two Sisters Vineyards and Treadwell Farm to Table.

We’re All About Choice

Whether you prefer a self-catering experience or long to be pampered by hosts, STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake has you covered. Browse through a list of member properties featured on their website where an array of accommodation choices ranges from country-style inns and bed and breakfasts to private vacation homes, apartments and luxury villas.

 

Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts are experts in the area and are only too happy to offer insider tips on what’s happening in the region or where to dine, park, shop, tour… Consider them your personal concierges. An interactive digital map under the “Plan Your Stay” section makes it simple for you to choose where to stay at a price that suits your budget.

Scroll down the page a little further to find numerous activities for you to experience: tours and popular attractions, wineries, restaurants, spas, performing arts, specialty stores, galleries, bicycle and scooter rentals, outdoor recreation, museums and historical sites… the list goes on and on. Can’t decide where to dine? Check out the online Menu Book for a wide selection of culinary suggestions.

 

What’s Up and Coming

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, you may have your heart set on amping up the romance factor, and we offered many recommendations in an earlier blog. However, there’s much more beyond Cupid’s favourite day.

 

Here is just a sampling of upcoming events planned for mid- to late-February and beyond:

 

Calling Wine, Chocolate & Cheese Lovers: Hopefully, fun and self-care are among your New Year resolutions for 2023. And what better way to reward yourself than with these favourite delicacies at the Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Experiences offered by Twenty Wineries every weekend throughout February.

All That Jazz: Treat yourself to a smorgasbord of musical talent presented by the TD Niagara Jazz Festival at various Niagara venues from February through May 28. Scheduled performers include the Neil Brathwaite Group, Faith Amour Trio, Alex Bird & The Jazz Mavericks, Melissa Lauren Trio, Roberta Hunt and Her Quartet, Alexander Brown Quartet and Sundar Quartet.

Foodie Moments: Cozy up with some of your best friends at your personal fire pit at Trius Winery as you sip a glass of their Showcase wine or a hot beverage paired with offerings from their Fireside Menu. Or, perhaps a puff pastry-wrapped triple-cream baked brie with icewine jelly glaze and praline candied nuts complemented by two Sparkling Wine flights at the Lakeview Wine Co. is more your style.

 

For the Artist in You: Participate in a meditative and fun two-part painting workshop at the Riverbrink Art Museum, which introduces you to two types of ancient folk artforms practised in India: Mandala Dots and Madhubani painting. Not quirky enough for you? For out-of-the box experiences, check out the workshops hosted at the Gate Street Studio.

An Astronomer’s Delight: Did you ever wonder what the end of the Universe might look like? This six-part series at the Niagara-on-the-Lake  Public Library turns your gaze skyward to focus on the beginning of the Universe, the lifecycles of stars, the creation of the elements, the creation and life of black holes, and more.

 

All the World’s a Stage: It’s never too early to snap up tickets to the Shaw Festival’s 2023 lineup of live stage performances. You don’t want to miss the magic that’s about to unfold at the Festival Theatre, the Royal George Theatre, the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre, BMO Stage and the newly added Spiegeltent — a beautifully styled outdoor cabaret venue.

 

Bloomin’ Gardens: Spring is coming! Between now and March 31, take advantage of early-bird savings to the ever-popular 17th annual Shaw Guild Garden Tour happening on June 24.

 

As you can see, there’s never a scarcity of things to do in historic Niagara-on-the-Lake. Let STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake and our charming hosts be your go-to guides.

Stay Niagara-on-the-Lake: Spice It Up on a Perfect February Getaway

Last modified: February 23, 2023

Traditionally, February is a month of celebration around the world. For instance, New Orleans has Mardi Gras; Québec City has its Winter Carnival; and Brazil has Rio Carnaval. Likewise, in Niagara-on-the-Lake, we keep the New Year champagne glow alive. February is a time for love, intimacy and revelry.

 

Plan Your Picture-Perfect Escape Online

Nothing is more memorable than a romantic stay in historic Niagara-on-the-Lake. STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake offers an assortment of accommodation choices, ranging from country-style inns and bed and breakfasts to private vacation homes, apartments and luxury villas.

 

Browse through the member properties listed on STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake’s website where an interactive map of the area helps you pick the perfect location that suits your budget. From popular tours and relaxing spas to performing arts and scenic golf courses, an endless array of experiences and attractions await you year-round in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

 

Need help? Your hosts know the area well and are happy to help you map out your perfect February getaway. If you need an excuse to visit us, here are a few suggestions.

Indulge in Chocolate, Cheese & Wine

It’s been said the best way to the heart is through the stomach. What better way to express your love than sampling decadent sweet chocolate and savory cheese artfully paired with wine.

 

On four weekends throughout February, 20 Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries invite you to indulge in these tempting pairings. Couples’ passes to the Chocolate & Cheese Festival are now on sale and provide access to all participating properties.

 

If you’re a frequent visitor to Niagara-on-the-Lake, may we suggest the Winemakers’ Selections Tasting Pass, which entitles you to one tasting of a Winemaker’s Selection wine at each winery any Monday through Friday throughout the year.

 

Pair Up to Create Magic on Valentine’s Day

This is when Venus and Cupid wing in like a love fairies to set the stage for seduction and ramp up the chemistry between you to create wonderful wintertime memories together as a Supercouple. Apply one or more of our ideas, and you can bet your amour will brag about this day for weeks to come.

 

Once you’ve booked your overnight accommodation, be sure to arrange delivery of your sweetie’s favourite flowers to your room from one of many florists in the area. Perhaps, a selection of chocolates and nuts is preferred. Either way, your hosts can help you with that.

 

Begin your day with a stroll down Queen Street lined with whimsical boutiques filled with tempting delights. Saunter down to the lake to take in the majestic view. Meander through the Commons or admire the natural beauty along the mighty Niagara River. Head over to the Monet-inspired gardens at John & King where a skating rink, an outdoor sandwich and beverage bar and warming stations help to keep winter’s chill at bay.

 

With nearly 40 wineries in the immediate area, Niagara-on-the-Lake features countless award-winning vintages. Book a late-morning or early afternoon tour of your favourite winery to set the tone for an evening of romance.

 

Or schedule a couple’s full-body massage at one of several spas around Old Town.

 

As dusk settles in, cuddle up close under a warm blanket as you tour the picturesque streets of Old Town and relive the romance of centuries past. This a good time to slip out that little gift you bought for a moment just like this.

 

When it comes to dining, you’ll not be disappointed. Niagara-on-the-Lake is renowned for its array of fine restaurants where seasoned chefs prepare thoughtfully curated cuisine using fresh local ingredients and regional flavours, paired with delicious Niagara wines. From here on, you’re on your own…

February is Black History Month

Is history more your style? Follow the Freedom Trail along the majestic Niagara River and learn about the legendary role Niagara played in the Underground Railroad that welcomed an estimated 40,000 African American slaves to freedom throughout the 19th century.

 

Stand in the spot where Harriet Tubman crossed into Canada in 1856. Rediscover landing points where freedom-seekers entered Canada. Visit the Mackenzie Printery in Queenston where Upper Canada’s 1793 Act Against Slavery was printed. These are just a few of more than 20 plaques and displays found along the scenic Parkway highlighting some of Canada’s most historic moments that happened right here in Niagara.

 

On the last Sunday of the month in January, February and March, Niagara Parks is hosting a three-part speaker series exploring perspectives on Black history and culture in Canada, delivered by prominent historians, community leaders and commentators.

 

Come Just for the Fun of It

Maybe you don’t have any agenda at all. You just want a mid-winter break. We have you covered there too. History buffs, artists, fitness enthusiasts and music lovers will find a host of activities happening.

 

Start with Fireside Fridays Speakers Series at Navy Hall where hour-long presentations include original artifacts from the War of 1812. Or maybe you’re interested in the various artistic programs and classes at The Pumphouse Arts Centre. Raise a glass of local brew with your Trivia colleagues or share a laugh or two at The Exchange Brewery. Relax in Muskoka chairs in the warmth of an enclosed winter patio at the Konzelmann Estate Winery as you sample a seasonal wine flight, perfectly paired with your very own Smores and Chilli Board.

 

We know that time spent with family is special too. A vacation rental is the ideal solution to any getaway with kids. And what better place to celebrate your upcoming Family Day Weekend (February 20) than right here in Niagara-on-the-Lake. In addition to the outdoor skating rinks at the Monet-inspired gardens mentioned earlier, the Niagara Falls Wonder Pass from Niagara Parks features a number of venues and exclusive benefits that are sure to capture young imaginations.

 

Isn’t it time you booked your February escape with STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake?

Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake Passport Programs

Last modified: December 12, 2019

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Great News!!! Just in time for Christmas tickets to all of our 2020 passport programs are on sale now!

If you are short on time and dreading the thought of venturing into a crowded mall to find the perfect gift for that hard to buy person on your list, there is no need to panic.

You can get your loved one the ultimate gift of a wonderful Niagara-on-the-Lake wine country experience in a few easy clicks without leaving the comfort of your own home. Take a look at the great options below. 

There is something for everyone, from the chocolate lover who embraces winter’s chill, to the sun seeker eagerly awaiting the return of grilling season, to the wine aficionado seeking terroir-driven wines hand selected by their winemakers.

Days of Wine & Chocolate

Explore the decadently sweet and savoury art of wine and chocolate pairing. Visit our wineries every weekend in February and taste over 20 VQA wines matched with delectable chocolate-infused dishes – from classically sweet flavour combinations to unexpected surprises. A romantic celebration for two or a great reason for a girls’ getaway weekend! PURCHASE TICKETS!

Sip & Sizzle

What could be better than a spring weekend afternoon with a few friends, a barbecue, and fine wine? Well how about if we do the hosting? Join us in Niagara-on-the-Lake every weekend in May and experience a unique grilled food item perfectly paired with a premium VQA wine at over 20 wineries. The perfect way to kick-off barbecue season! PURCHASE TICKETS!

Taste the Season

Taste the Season is Niagara-on-the-Lake’s must-do event in November! This is when our wineries celebrate the bountiful fall harvest by pairing premium VQA wines with locally-inspired culinary creations that highlight the flavours of the season. The pass entitles the holder one VQA wine tasting and food pairing at over 20  member wineries any weekend in November. PURCHASE TICKETS!

Winemakers’ Selections Tasting Pass

Our Winemakers’ Selections Tasting Pass is a great way to visit all of our member wineries year-round. So slow down, take your time and savour carefully selected terroir wines at over 20 member wineries for one convenient price. PURCHASE TICKETS!

Any don’t forget to book your stay at one of the world-class bed and breakfasts, country inns, vacation homes and cottage rentals.

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Taste the Season at Wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Last modified: October 21, 2019

(Version française)

Taste the Season at Wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Taste the Season, Niagara-on-the-Lake’s must-do event in November, is only a couple of weeks away!

Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake celebrate the bountiful fall harvest by pairing premium VQA wines with locally-inspired culinary creations that highlight the flavours of the season.

A $55 touring pass (taxes and fees not included) entitles you to one VQA wine tasting and food pairing at each of our 25 member wineries and is valid November 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, and 22-24 from 11am to 5pm.

Driver passes are also available at a cost of $30 (taxes and fees not included) and they include one non-alcoholic beverage and food pairing at each member winery.

One of the best features of this passport program is that the passes can be used any weekend in November, giving you plenty of time to make it out to our wineries and enjoy each unique pairing at a relaxed pace. We recommend a maximum of eight wineries per day to ensure an optimal experience.

Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake celebrate the bountiful fall harvest by pairing wines with locally-inspired culinary creations.

The Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake encourage you to tour and taste responsibly. Please designate a driver who is not drinking and purchase one of our Designated Driver Passes or arrange transportation with one of our transportation partners.

If you are traveling with a group of 8 or more guests, please have your organizer call ahead a minimum of 48 hours in advance to the wineries you plan to visit to discuss appropriate timing so they can plan for your group’s arrival and serve you better.

Click here to download this year’s pairings list which includes a handy map to help you plan your itinerary. And while you’re visiting wineries for Taste the Season don’t forget to stock up on your favourite wines for all your Holiday celebrations!

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Christmas in July

Last modified: July 27, 2019

(Version française)

Don’t miss Christmas at the Shaw Festival.

The Shaw has not one, but two Christmas shows lined up this November and December! “A Christmas Carol” will be back for its third season at the Royal George Theatre and the Festival stage will be decking its halls in anticipation of the musical classic “Holiday Inn”.

Ticket sales have already been strong for both shows – so don’t miss out – we wouldn’t want anyone feeling they got a lump of coal in their stocking.

Holiday Inn will kick-start your holiday season in a joyful way.

The cherished Christmas classic features a host of hummable songs such as White Christmas, Cheek to Cheek and Easter Parade. It will be the perfect way to ring in the holiday season!

Michael Therriault returns as the miserly Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. It’s the perfect reminder of what Christmas is all about. Arrive feeling “Bah, humbug!” and leave full of warm, fuzzy Christmas spirit.

Book your stay at one of over 100 world-class bed and breakfasts, country inns, vacation homes and cottage rentals, courtesy of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Bed & Breakfast Association. World-class accommodations are just the beginning. Together, our association members and partners can help you create an endless variety of getaway experiences in Ontario’s historic Niagara-on-the-Lake region.

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A Beautiful Escape: Why You Must Explore and Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake

Last modified: April 30, 2019
Niagara-on-the-Lake – One of the Prettiest Towns in Canada

(Version française)

When it comes to the natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls continues to intrigue. However, you don’t need to stay at a hotel in the busy tourist-filled area. Niagara-on-the-Lake is just a short drive from the Falls along the scenic Niagara River Parkway.

One of the best-kept secrets of Southern Ontario’s most popular and picturesque villages, Niagara-on-the-Lake, is an ideal home base for touring the Niagara region. And it is surrounded by renowned wineries, breweries and even distilleries. Not to mention the Shaw Festival and the many historical sites and scenic walks.

If you’re looking for a great place to escape for a quick weekend trip, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the best option. The area holds plenty of beautiful ways to spend your time. To know more, here’s a guide to look at as to why Niagara-on-the-Lake is worth visiting.

Explore the Town for Its Arts and Entertainment

Exploring the arts and entertainment scenes in the region of Niagara will always keep you on your toes with something to do. If you are someone who enjoys watching plays, the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake is a must see.

Without a doubt, Shaw is one of many reasons to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake. You should plan a trip during festival season from April through October. Once you visited and witnessed the Shaw Festival, you’ll be in awe with its top-notch actors, the world-class production and performance, and the look of its beautiful facilities is a plus too.

You could also listen to the enthralling music that the Niagara Symphony Orchestra provides, as well as perfromances from Bravo Niagara! and Music Niagara. You will find that the cultural hub in the area is warm and relaxing through the hospitality and music they offer.

Diverse Attraction, Limitless Fun!

In the Niagara Region, there are many indoors and outdoors attractions that you can explore.

There are lots of indoor activities that the region offers such as amusing art galleries and lovely historical sites and museums that provide fun-filled hours.

Moreover, if you want to go for something fun in the air, you can hop on a Niagara Helicopter and ride above the Falls or watch it from the Niagara Skywheel. If you are fond of challenging adventures, try zip lining and skydiving or have fun thrilling in a jet boat ride.

If you are one of those sporty and outdoorsy types of people, you can indulge yourself in a wide range of outdoor activities, games, and sports. There are many adventurous activities that you can try such as swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and other thrill activities.

Additionally, you can also indulge yourself in other water sports in the Niagara Region such as scuba diving which is a beautiful way to explore the waters that contain sunken ships and reefs.

Wine Tasting and Wineries

Away from the Falls, the other thing that the Niagara area is popular for is its wine. One look at the expansive, lush hills and valleys of Niagara and you’ll know. The climate in Niagara-on-the-Lake is ideal for grape growing. Not just the place is perfect, but it’s also warm enough in the summer to get red wine and cold enough in the winter season to make ice wine.

If you have never been to a tasting room or a winery tour, you’ll quickly become hooked. Also, if you have never tried ice wine, you are missing out. The ice wine is full of the tastes of tropical fruits which is sticky just like pudding in a glass. The process of making this wine involves allowing the grapes to freeze on the vines, and they are also hand-picked.

Furthermore, you can also explore the local wineries through biking. The area offers tours to suit every need of the tourists. Other than ice wines, there are also cheese and wine tasting, and chocolate and other different wine experiences.

Family Fun!

Spending time with your family such as going on vacation is an essential way of enjoying quality time. You might be thinking about how hard it would be to keep your kids entertained during a vacation. But you will never experience such a problem in the Niagara Region because they provide activities for kids of all ages, and parents as well.

Plenty of activity centers and game hubs can be found in the Niagara Region. Taking your kids for arcade-style games and rides can be exciting to them. You can also take them to experience indoor skydiving and go bowling. You can let them play darts and pool tables and have fun watching the birds and beautiful butterflies.

Takeaway

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a sanctuary of wine, history, culture, and food. The avenues of Niagara-on-the-Lake have served as a getaway destination for visitors and tourists for over a century. The guides as mentioned above are one way to make your free time more enjoyable and filled with fun. So, get your things and pack your bags and discover the great experiences that Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer.

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Article contributed by Clarence Rivera. Clarence is an enthusiastic writer who loves writing about innovations and anything interesting. His interest also extends to engineering and architecture. He is also a part-time contributor to The Sleepy Owl. During his free time, Clarence enjoys watching movies and playing board games with friends.

Dig Our Roots – Events for Avid Wine Lovers

Last modified: February 12, 2019


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Dig Our Roots is a weekend-long (April 12-14) celebration of the Niagara-on-the-Lake appellation. It will offer avid wine lovers an exclusive opportunity to discover the rich history and unique terroir of this one-of-a-kind wine growing region.

During the Dig Our Roots weekend our member wineries will open their doors and offer one-of-a-kind and unique experiences that showcase our wines, our winemakers and our terroir like never before.

Winery events will be held at various times on each of the 3 days offering wine lovers plenty of options and a variety of formats to suit everyone’s preference.

Details about these exclusive winery events will be available on the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake website.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the birthplace of the modern Canadian wine industry and home to some of Canada’s most renowned winemakers and iconic wines.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is classified by VQA Ontario as a distinct area and our wineries share a climate moderated by the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario.

A unique set of geographical elements create a specialty crop area where tender vinifera grapes thrive and flourish best.

This expanse of land is comprised of 4 unique sub-appellations:

  1. Niagara River
  2. Niagara Lakeshore
  3. Four Mile Creek
  4. David’s Bench

Each sub-appellations has distinct elements of terroir (geology, soil, elevation, temperature, precipitation) that result in wines of exceptional quality and surprising diversity.

The Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake span across these 4 distinct areas and produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards.

Wineries in the Niagara-on-the-Lake appellation have been growing and producing world-class wines from premium vinifera varieties for nearly four decades. Grape growers have a deep knowledge of what grows best in different locations and winemakers understand how to treat the grapes in the winemaking process to capture the best expression of terroir in their wines.

During the Dig Our Roots weekend, participants will discover what makes this place and our wines so special from the renowned winemakers who have been instrumental in positioning Niagara-on-the-Lake as a premium wine growing region.

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Is there anything better than wine and chocolate?

Last modified: January 21, 2019

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Indulge in decadence at Days of Wine & Chocolate this February

The only thing better than wine and chocolate is when they are expertly paired to deliver a harmonious balance of flavours.

This is what you can experience at Days of Wine & Chocolate.

So mark your calendars as this popular touring pass program is only a couple of weeks away!  Get ready to explore the decadently sweet and savoury art of wine and chocolate pairing at the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake every weekend in February.

Visit our member wineries and taste over 20 premium VQA wines perfectly paired with chocolate-infused dishes. There is something to satisfy everyone’s palate from classically sweet flavour combinations to unexpected surprises.

The Days of Wine & Chocolate pass entitles you to one VQA wine tasting and food pairing at each of our 26 member wineries and is valid February 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, and 22-24 from 11am to 5pm.

Driver passes are also available for purchase and they include one non-alcoholic beverage and food pairing at each member winery.

Take a look at this year’s pairings!

Explore the decadently sweet and savoury art of wine and chocolate pairing.

Our wineries have come up with some brilliant combinations that are sure to impress. From rich and indulgent sweet treats to inspired savoury creations – these mouth-watering delights are enhanced by the exceptional VQA wines that accompany them.

The Days of Wine & Chocolate touring pass program offers exceptional value and it’s a great way to embrace the winter season in the heart of wine country.

We encourage you to plan your winery visits over a few weekends so you can savour the decadent pairings at a relaxed pace and make the most of the experience. If you are travelling with a group of eight or more we recommend calling ahead to wineries you plan to visit with an approximate arrival time so hosts can plan for your group’s arrival.

Whether you are interested in a romantic celebration for two or a fun girls’ getaway weekend, Days of Wine & Chocolate is the must-do event of the season in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

PURCHASE YOUR PASS today and download the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake map to plan your personalized route.

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Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival Announces 2019 Lineup

Last modified: January 21, 2019

Oscar Peterson Jazz Festival

(Version française)

The 2nd annual Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival, with artistic director Renee Rosnes at the helm, will feature top jazz artists from both Canada and the United States in collaborative, once-in-a-lifetime performances.

The festival runs from Friday, February 15, 2019 through Sunday, February 17, 2019.

Friday, February 15, 2019, 8:00 p.m.
Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra featuring Ingrid Jensen

Venue: Niagara United Mennonite Church, 1775 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

The Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival opens with the JUNO Award-winning Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, featuring trumpeter Ingrid Jensen.

A highlight of the evening is sure to be the world premiere of Christine Jensen’s composition in tribute to Oscar Peterson, Something In His Smile, commissioned by the Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival.

Saturday, February 16, 2019 – 1:00p.m
Lecture & Performance by Bill Charlap – George Gershwin: The Blues and the American Soul

Venue: Cairns Recital Hall, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 250 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines, Ontario

“Jazz is the voice of the American soul,” declared George Gershwin in 1926. Acclaimed GRAMMY award-winning pianist Bill Charlap is not only recognized as one of the world’s greatest jazz pianists, he is also a renowned educator and enchanting story-teller. Charlap will discuss and demonstrate the important influence of jazz and the blues in George Gershwin’s music during this free afternoon event.

Saturday, February 16, 2019 – 8:00 p.m.
Singin’ & Swingin’: A Jazz Summit
Joe Lovano, Jeremy Pelt, Niki Haris, Renee Rosnes, Russell Malone, Peter Washington, Lewis Nash

Venue: Partridge Hall, FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 250 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines, Ontario

Sunday February 17, 2019 – 1:00 p.m.
Music with No Borders

Kenny Barron, Kirk MacDonald, Reg Schwager, Neil Swainson, Lewis Nash

Venue: Stratus Vineyards, 2059 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Music with No Borders features an incredible once-in-a-lifetime concert showcasing the exquisite pianism of NEA Jazz Master Kenny Barron with top echelon players from both Canada and the United States.

Sunday, February 17, 2019 – 6:30 p.m.
Canadian Jazz Master Awards Gala Dinner

Venue: Stratus Vineyards, 2059 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Under the auspices of the Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival, the annual Canadian Jazz Master Awards (CJMA) was founded to celebrate and honour Canadian jazz musicians of the highest artistic excellence who are deserving of national recognition. Each year two awards are presented, to one living and one past legend of Canadian jazz.

This year’s honourees are two jazz legends. The 2019 Canadian Jazz Master Awards will be presented to clarinetist, composer, and educator Phil Nimmons and to the family of influential trumpeter and composer, Kenny Wheeler.

Ticket Information

Single tickets range from $55-$100. “Under 30” ticket discounts available. Prices exclude HST and service fees. Save up to 20% on tickets with a 3-Day Festival Pass.

Tickets and 3-Day Festival Passes will be available at https://www.opjazzfest.org/tickets/.

About the Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival

The Oscar Peterson International Jazz Festival (OPIJF), one of Canada’s most anticipated winter music events, is named for the internationally renowned Canadian jazz giant. It was created to present the essence of jazz and the sound of swing.

Under the expert guidance of Artistic Director Renee Rosnes and Artistic Producer Kelly Peterson, this annual festival provides a unique opportunity to hear rare combinations of musicians and individual stars, in performance.

The OPIJF is produced by Bravo Niagara! Festival of the Arts in partnership with The Estate of Oscar Peterson. Celebrate the past, the present, and the future — all at the same time.

Learn more at https://www.opjazzfest.org/

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Voices of Freedom Park Official Opening

Last modified: January 21, 2019

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Voices of Freedom Park officially opens November 2, 2018, 2 pm at 244 Regent Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Voices of Freedom Park gives expression to the silenced and forgotten stories of people of African descent, enslaved, freed, and free, whose sacrifices, labour, skills, and talents contributed to the development of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

This significant art installation in the heart of Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake permanently inscribes these Black men and women on the historical and cultural landscape of the Town.

Curated by Bravo Niagara!, the official opening performances will feature acclaimed vocalist Alana Bridgewater, JUNO-winning pianist Robi Botos, and Shaw Festival actor Allan Louis.

For more information, visit www.vofpark.org

Voices of Freedom Concert

Bravo Niagara! Presents Voices of Freedom Concert November 3, 2018

On November 3rd, Bravo Niagara! presents the Voices of Freedom Concert at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines.

The concert comes one day after the official opening of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Voices of Freedom Park, dedicated to commemorating Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Black history and the 225th Anniversary of the Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada.

November 3, 2018, 7:30pm
FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 250 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines

Curated by Céline Peterson, daughter of legendary Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson, the Voices of Freedom Concert will bring together some of the best in Canadian jazz and soulful music to highlight inclusiveness, empowerment, and the importance of freedom.

“The entire Voices of Freedom concept excited me from the moment I first heard about the project. The park, the concert – it’s all such a beautiful and meaningful celebration,” says Céline Peterson, Artistic Producer and host of the Voices of Freedom Concert.

“Some of our nation’s greatest musical storytellers will be gathered in one place performing music that is bound to resonate with every audience member. As a lover of music and a proud Canadian, I can say with complete certainty that this will be an unforgettable and mesmerizing event.”

The evening will feature performances by Officer of the Order of Canada, singer/songwriter and philanthropist Molly Johnson.

The concert will also feature NAACP Image Award, Gemini, Dora, and JUNO Award-winning singer/actress Jackie Richardson, as well as performances by Grammy Award winner Larnell Lewis on drums (Snarky Puppy), multi-JUNO Award winners Robi Botos on piano and Mike Downes on bass, and up and coming saxophonist from Barbados, Joseph Callender.

These all-star Canadian artists will be joined by 80 students from the Laura Secord Secondary School Concert Choir.

For tickets and more information, visit www.bravoniagara.org/vofconcert.

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