Master a “Living Well Lifestyle” in Niagara

Posted on February 25, 2024

Research shows that a “Living Well Lifestyle” is undeniably important for our wellbeing, yet so many of us ignore that simple fact.

We now find ourselves in the final three weeks of the winter season. And soon, the world will start waking up again for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. What would you like to complete, accomplish, do or experience before this winter ends?

You may find yourself overwhelmed by all the duties and responsibilities you’re facing and yearning to escape and avoid them instead. That’s natural.

Here’s the good news. A full Moon in Virgo on February 24 gave us a permission slip to be gentle with our thoughts and words and to pay attention to our health during these final weeks of winter as we ready ourselves for the busy Spring season ahead.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Is All About Lifestyle
Now is an especially good time to adopt and indulge in a Living Well Lifestyle, a ground-breaking discovery that unveiled five regions, known as Blue Zones, around the world where people live exceptionally long lives. An important aspect of this lifestyle is our ability to take our cues from and be in sync with nature. The tangible benefits of the Living Well Lifestyle become apparent in the remarkable health, happiness and low stress levels of residents and visitors alike.

Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a way of life that pays homage to the lessons learned from such vibrant communities by integrating the 9 main pillars of a Living Well Lifestyle:

Freedom
Access to nature
Sense of community
Tranquility
Walkability
Activity (fitness, adventure)
Beauty (architecture, design and spaces)
Connection/sociability
Nourishment

Let’s look at how these nine pillars are so effortlessly incorporated into daily life in Niagara-on-the-Lake and how everyone benefits from such a lifestyle.

Movement: Moving Naturally
The opportunities for movement within Niagara-on-the-Lake arise naturally, and often, spontaneously and unplanned.

A typical day may start with an early peaceful walk on the network of natural trails that meander through the Commons, along the waterfront and on the Niagara Escarpment in Queenston and St. David’s. A variety of versatile sports and recreational choices available include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, yoga, high-intensity training at the community gym, golf, swimming, tennis, biking, hiking and running.

Additionally, friends and family meet for lunch at one of the many restaurants, followed by a walk to the beach or to any of the town’s boutiques and art galleries or taking in a live stage performance at the Shaw Festival. At day’s end, many meet at a park on Lake Ontario to unwind and watch the sun go down.

Love and Being Loved: Putting Family and Friends First
In a walkable town like Old Town in Niagara-on-the-Lake, skipping time in traffic allows more time and energy for what is important.

There are wonderful opportunities where you can spend time with family and friends at organized weekly activities such as movie nights, live music events, festivals, arts and crafts sessions and workshops, wine tastings, kids’ clubs, BBQs, art exhibitions, moon ceremonies, stargazing, yoga, pizza nights and more.

Downshifting: Slowing it Down and Reducing Stress
Stress is part of everyone’s life, and finding ways to reduce its impact is a significant focus for Niagara-on-the-Lake residents and visitors. Fortunately, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers an array of options and spaces for downshifting in and around town.

This might include engaging in healing sessions at one of the numerous spas, hitting the trails on foot or bike, taking a walk in nature, forest bathing, practising yoga, meeting for outdoor workouts, joining friends for a sunset drink, journaling on a rocking chair at your favourite B&B while sipping a cup of coffee or tea, meditating in one of our historical churches or simply strolling through Old Town, admiring the beautiful architecture that imparts a sense of calm from another era.

Nourishment: Benefits of a Plant-Slant Diet
While food choices, preferences and habits are entirely up to the individual, restaurant chefs and your B&B hosts in Niagara-on-the-Lake have ramped up their efforts to increase the availability of organic produce that is grown locally.

In collaboration with local farms, vegetable gardens and agricultural cooperatives, chefs encourage agricultural practices that support a respectful cycle of the food’s growth and their interaction with it. This fosters a sustainable and efficient nourishment of the soil, and as a result, of our bodies.

Purpose: Belonging and Being Part of a Tribe
While this may look quite different for most people, choosing to become part of such a community, even for a short time, naturally leads to the pursuit of similar purposes, at least regarding health and lifestyle.

Niagara-on-the-Lake offers an unparalleled lifestyle for both residents and visitors. It’s a place where people can feel better and healthier at any time of the year.

The highly walkable Old Town of Niagara-o-the-Lake includes hotels, bed and breakfasts, cottages, villas, shops, restaurants, day spas, parks and recreational facilities, all nestled between the Niagara River and Lake Ontario. Throughout the region of Niagara-on-the-Lake, walkable public spaces are interwoven with nature, emphasizing an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that is healthier, more satisfying, more fun and more sustainable.

So Many Reasons to Visit Year-Round
With summer fast-approaching, you may want to book your preferred spot as early as possible because Niagara-on-the-Lake is especially popular during the high season (May through October). To help you plan your next escape to Niagara-on-the-Lake, here are a few tempting events slated for 2024:
Until February 29: SeaSky International Light Show at Reif Estate Winery
Until Mid-March: Skating at the Great One’s Backyard Rink and at The Gardens at the Pillar and Post
March 16 & 17 and 23 & 24: Around the World Event at Reif Estate Winery
April 2 to 8: Coming of Age exhibit at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
April 8: Solar Eclipse Events at Wayne Gretzky Estates, Niagara Cycling Tours, and Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery
Until April 29: Strike a Pose: The Art of Self-Obsession at the NOTL Museum
June 7: White Effect Dinner
June 15: Shaw Garden Tour
June 15: St. Andrew’s Strawberry Festival
June 29, 30 & July 1: Artistry by the Lake
July 6: St. Mark’s Cherry Festival
August 10: Peach Festival
August 11: Shades of Rose Dinner
August 18 to 25: 2024 World Rowing Championships in St. Catharines
October 4: Shaw Autumn Soirée
October 5 & 6: NOTL Beer/Harvest Festival
December 6: Candlelight Stroll
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.

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 $400. 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.

Raise a Glass at the 2024 Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival

Posted on December 21, 2023

December 21 marks a special time when Earth and the Sun align with the heart of our solar system and the surrounding constellations. Solstice means “sun stands still.”

The December Solstice is the longest night in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a symbolic turning point in the wheel of the year when a shift happens for all on Earth! Not surprisingly, a variety of traditions celebrate holidays with “the return of the Light.”

The December Solstice is also the start of the Capricorn season — a time to make practical plans, a time to be effective and efficient, a time to take care of business, a time to delegate tasks, a time to acknowledge ancestors and family history, and a time to honour past traditions. It’s no mistake that Christmas festivities and setting New Year goals play such prominent roles between December 21 and January 20.

It’s Party Time at the 2024 Icewine Festival
And with our friend Mercury Retrograde in effect until January 1, we’re reminded to take extra time to reflect and reconnect with loved ones who matter most. What better way to enjoy the camaraderie and ring in the New Year than with a glass or two of Niagara’s celebrated “liquid gold” dessert wine at the 2024 Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival.

Every January, historic Queen Street turns into a pedestrian-friendly Icewine Village lined with tents and musical performers welcoming visitors from far and wide. And this year’s homage to this exquisite Canadian nectar promises to be better and more magical than ever.

Ice Bar at the Outlets
The fun begins on January 13 and 14 in the Outdoor Courtyard at the Outlet Collection at Niagara where, for the first time, shoppers have the opportunity to add a whole new dimension to their shopping excursion. The Ice Bar will showcase VQA Icewine from 16 wineries plus a signature VQA Icewine cocktail along with live music and cozy fire pits.

Icewine Village
Celebrations continue over the next two weekends: January 20 & 21, and 27 & 28. Set against the backdrop of our beautiful Queen Street, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Festival promises a unique and immersive experience for all who come. Sample a diverse array of exceptional icewines. Indulge in culinary delights that complement the distinct flavours of this cherished Canadian specialty. Enjoy live entertainment, engaging activities and festive atmosphere.

Sparkle & Ice Celebration
On January 26, a lavish gala at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Courthouse features the fan favourite Icewine Cocktail Competition. In traditional style, the evening culminates with a stunning firework display and Icewine toast.

Treat Yourself to a VIP Lounge Experience
Elevate your Icewine Festival experience at the VIP Lounge where luxury meets the enchantment. Your $100 ticket entitles you to entry to a private tent featuring cozy fire pits, Muskoka chairs and a signature cocktail compliments of Spirit in Niagara — all conveniently located across from the stage. As you unwind by the fire, comfy and warm in your complimentary VIP toque and blanket, enjoy a flight of three Icewine varieties expertly paired with a charcuterie box of tasty delights from Cheese Secrets.

Looking for Accommodation?
STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a variety of lodging options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts and inns to self-catering apartments, cottages and villas located throughout Old Town and the neighbouring communities of St. David’s, Queenston, Virgil and Glendale.

Looking Ahead
After the Holiday Season, some of us need a rest or something to look forward to. After all, we don’t want you to miss out on the fun.
December 31: New Year’s Eve at Peller Estates Winery
January 20: A Naval Dinner — An Evening with the Captain
January 22: January Blues at The Hare Winery
February Weekends: The Chocolate & Cheese Passport Event
February 3: Black History in NOTL: Commemorating National Historic Significance
February 5: Celebrating Black History & Culture at The Harry Winery
February 9: Brock: The Man, the Myth, the Legend at Navy Hall
Until February 25: Inniskillin’s Illumination Nights
February 27: Reif Estate Icewine Dinner
Until February 29: Seasky International Light Show at Reif Estate Winery
Until Mid-March: Skating at the Great One’s Backyard Rink and at The Gardens at the Pillar and Post
Until April 29: Strike a Pose: The Art of Self-Obsession at the NOTL Museum
June 7: White Effect Dinner
June 15: Shaw Garden Tour
June 15: St. Andrew’s Strawberry Festival
June 29, 30 & July 1: Artistry by the Lake
July 6: St. Mark’s Cherry Festival
August 10: Peach Festival
August 11: Shades of Rose Dinner
October 4: Shaw Autumn Soirée
October 5 & 6: NOTL Beer/Harvest Festival
December 6: Candlelight Stroll
December 14: Christmas Parade

Helpful Tips
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.

Celebrate the Holiday Magic of Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted on December 11, 2023

If you missed the Santa Clause Parade and the Candlelight Stroll on December 10, don’t worry… There are plenty more opportunities — and reasons — to celebrate the magic of the Holiday Season in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Stay in one of STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake’s member bed and breakfasts, cottages, villas or apartments. Sip Icewine in one of 38 wineries that dot the immediate countryside. Enjoy the Shaw Festival’s two Christmas shows — A Christmas Carol and Brigadoon. Shop in the authentic Christmas village or at one of the holiday markets for handcrafted artisan-made gifts. Get pampered in one of five spas.

But wait… there’s so much more.

Vote for Your Favourite
Queen Street has been transformed into a Christmas wonderland with decorated shop windows and Christmas trees lining the main thoroughfare. Get into the spirit and vote for your favourite Christmas tree and shop window at the Chamber of Commerce at 26 Queen Street. Voting for the People’s Choice Awards is open until December 31 at 5 p.m., and winners will be announced at the 2024 Icewine Festival.

Take in a Light Show
The Reif Estate Winery invites you to experience Niagara-on-the-Lake’s First Light Experience. The Seasky International Light Show runs from 5 to 9 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays, from December 21 to February 29. This spectacular event is crafted by artisans featuring scenes of magic, animals, nature, festive delights and Chinese culture. Take it all in with some warm mulled wine, hot apple cider, Vinea hot chocolate, award-winning Icewine and more. It’s the perfect date night or family outing!

Ready, Set, GLOW!
Not to be outdone, Canada’s Original Estate Winery — Inniskillin — is aglow in glittering lights until February 25. You’re welcome to experience an unforgettable evening as you get cozy and sip Icewine. The magic happens Fridays and Saturdays, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Lace Up Those Skates
Head over to the skating rink in the beautifully decorated Monet-inspired gardens across the street from the Pillar and Post Hotel. Then, cozy up to one of many warming stations located throughout the gardens with a snack and a hot drink or a glass of wine from the Outpost. It’s the perfect place to reminisce and share family Christmas stories and lots of laughter with one another. Go ahead, take a selfie or two while you’re at it. You’ll want to share your special day or evening with friends and family back home.

Experience a Fine Scottish Tradition
In honour of the Shaw Festival’s production of Brigadoon, the Prince of Wales Hotel is serving a Highland Candlelight Tea from 7 to 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday evening in their Drawing Room. The menu features Sloane premium teas, housemade finger sandwiches, sweet cakes and pastries, signature scones and savory steak pie.

Run, Santa, Run!
Grab your family and friends, put on a Santa suit and run the Annual 5K Santa Run at 10 a.m., December 17. Later, enjoy breakfast and an award ceremony at The Irish Harp where prizes for best race times and keepsake medals will be doled out to participants. All proceeds support the NOTL Youth Collective, a program committed to creating a safe, accessible and inclusive environment for youth aged 12 to 18 in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Strike a Pose
Step out of the cold and into the warmth of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum where an exhibit called The Art of Self-Obsession is on display until April 29. The desire to leave a mark on the work and chronicle our lives is not a new concept. Over centuries, we have recorded our likeness through drawings, portrait paintings, sculpture, photography, and now, through social media and selfies. This exhibition shows how the people of Niagara-on-the-Lake documented themselves through paintings, drawings, photography and pixels.

Get Set for the New Year 2024
After the Holiday Season, some of us need a rest or something to look forward to. After all, we don’t want you to miss out on the fun.
January 13 & 14: Icewine Festival Kick-Off Weekend at the Outlet Collection
January 20: A Naval Dinner — An Evening with the Captain
January 20 & 21 and 27 & 28: 29th Icewine Festival Icewine Village on Queen Street
January 26: Sparkle & Ice Celebration at the Court House

Helpful Tips
Parking is free in Old Town and at Fort George during the month of December.

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.

The Shaw Festival Reveals its 2024 Season

Posted on November 25, 2023

Nestled in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Shaw is one of North America’s finest cultural attractions. Featuring some of the best theatre ever created, the Shaw’s 2024 calendar is filled with an eclectic array of quirky comedies, bold dramas, entertaining musicals and favourite classics.

Perhaps a “well-behaved” someone on your list would love to see a ticket or two to a Shaw performance in their Christmas stocking. Add a gift certificate from a STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake member property, and you have a winning combo.

At the Royal George Theatre
It all kicks off on April 6 at the Royal George Theatre with Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution. Regarded as one of the writer’s greatest stage mysteries, the story revolves around the murder of a wealthy widow whose handsome, charming and much younger gentleman friend becomes the obvious suspect. Will he escape the hangman’s noose?

From May 31 to October 13, the world premiere of The Secret Garden tells the story of an orphan, Mary Lennox. Upon discovering a walled garden with a locked door on her reclusive uncle’s manor grounds, her curiosity is sparked into life. There’s fun here for the whole family.

Another world premiere, The Orphan of Chao, previews on June 13. In this one-act lunchtime play, known by many as the Chinese version of Hamlet, a violent palace power struggle leaves an infant, the last of the house of Chao, orphaned. Later adopted by his family’s killer as son and heir, the orphan of Chao discovers the truth about his identity and exacts vengeance for the death of his clan.

Candida, another one of Shaw’s popular and enduring romantic comedies, previews on July 13. Caught in an emotional tug-of-war between her charming socialist vicar husband and her young aristocratic, but penniless poet, Candida must decide which one truly needs her most.

At the Festival Theatre
From May 4 to December 22, Lerner and Loewe’s ever-popular My Fair Lady, the adored adaptation of Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture, Pygmalion, takes centre stage with Kristi Frank as Eliza Doolittle, Tom Rooney as Professor Henry Higgins and David Alan Anderson as Colonel Pickering.

On June 8, One Man, Two Guvnors is a commedia dell’arte-styled comedy about Francis Hensall who is dually employed by petty East End criminal, Roscoe Crabbe, and an upper-class buffoon, Stanley Stubbers. Enjoy the mayhem-filled antics Hensall goes through to keep his “two guvnors” apart in order to prevent discovery.

For the third time, Damien Atkins takes on the role of everyone’s favourite master of deduction and observation in the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart on July 24. This time round, Holmes faces off against a villain so clever that he may have met his match.

At the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre
From June 12 to October 12, The House That Will Not Stand is set in early 19^th-century New Orleans where a wealthy free Black woman with three unwed daughters finds herself facing an uncertain future as racial divides widen and society around her begins to change.

Beginning August 8, another classic Chinese tale, Snow in Midsummer follows a young widow Dou Yi who is sentenced to death for a murder she didn’t commit. Adapted from a 13^th-century drama from the Yuan Dynasty, this reimagined work is part ghost story, part murder mystery and part family drama.

In the Spiegeltent and Elsewhere
A number of unique performances continue the trend begun during the pandemic of tapping the varied talents of members of the Shaw ensemble. The lineup includes a cabaret, a variety show and two musical revues.

Also returning for 2024 are the coffee concerts, jazz speakeasies, gospel choir performances and intimate and interactive songbook events. And the ever-popular A Christmas Carol returns to the Royal George in November, just in time for the 2024 Holiday Season.

For tickets and more information, visit shawfest.com/2024-season.

Celebrate the Holiday Season in Wine Country
A number of events and performances are scheduled to bring the Holiday Cheer to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and you’re invited to take part.

December 1-10: Holiday Market at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
December 1: 2023 Candlelight Stroll — a full-day event
December 1 & 2: Rotary Holiday House Tour & Holiday Market at the Riverbrink Museum
December 1 & 2: A Festive Event at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
December 2 & 3: Reif Holiday Market at Reif Estate Winery
December 3: Holiday Market at Ravine Vineyard
December 5: Christmas Classics at The Irish Harp
December 7-9: Holiday Brew Haha Festival at the Brewery Exchange
December 9: Breakfast with Santa at Q124
December 9: Santa Claus Parade
December 9: Beaded Tree Workshop at the Riverbrink Art Museum
December 9 & 10: McFarland House Heritage Christmas
December 17: Annual 5K Santa Run
December 18: Twilight Jazz & Blues Series at The Hare Wine Co.
January 13 & 14: Ice Bar at the Outlet Collection
January 20 & 21 and 27 & 28: 29th Icewine Festival on Queen Street
January 26: Sparkle & Ice Celebration at the Court House

Helpful Tips
Parking is free in Old Town and at Fort George during the month of December.

Holiday Shopping in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted on November 10, 2023

Collage of photos for Christmas shopping ideas

If there is one thing Niagara-on-the-Lake knows how to do well, it’s celebrate and honour each season with grace, elegance and fanfare. And the Christmas Season is the crown jewel in its cap as the historic town turns into an old-fashioned Christmas Wonderland.

By mid-November, storefront windows along Queen Street in Old Town are all dressed up for the festive season. Twinkling lights, theme-decorated trees and favourite Christmas songs fill the air to set the mood. It’s a sight to behold! And one that brings us back to a simpler era at a time when the world desperately needs a ray of hope.

Niagara-on-the-Lake invites you to unite in sharing the Christmas cheer and a soulful prayer for world peace.

Shaw’s Holiday Shows Light up the Season
On November 5, the Royal George Theatre opened its doors to the all-time holiday favourite by Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. As an extra special treat, following the performance, audience members have the opportunity to take a photo with the cast.

Starting November 15, Brigadoon, a musical production by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe, takes centre stage at the Festival Theatre. This romantic celebration of song and dance features classic tunes like “Almost Like Being in Love” and “I’ll Go Home with Bonnie Jean.”

Both shows run until December 23.

Two Heartwarming Traditions
The Holiday Season in Niagara-on-the Lake kicks off on December 1 with the 34th Annual Candlelight Stroll. It all begins with an afternoon showcase featuring multiple talented musical performances from 2 to 6 p.m. in front of the Old Courthouse. Even Jolly Old Saint Nick will be on hand for pictures from 3 to 5 p.m. The guided stroll begins at 6:30 p.m. from the Old Courthouse on Queen Street and winds through historical Old Town, accompanied by local choirs and seasonal entertainment. Candles are $5 cash and non-perishable items are welcome in support of Newark Neighbours, which provide Christmas hampers for more than 50 families in the area.

Tired of fighting the crowds to catch a glimpse of Santa? Set aside Saturday, December 9 and treat yourself and the kids to the sweetest, most enjoyable, old-fashioned Santa Claus Parade this side of the North Pole. It all begins at 11 a.m. at the intersection of King and Centre Streets and winds its way down Castlereagh, Wellington, Byron/Prideaux, Simcoe and Queen Streets in Old Town.

House Tours and Holiday Markets
On December 1 and 2, six beautifully decorated homes in Niagara-on-the-Lake will welcome more than 3,000 guests. If you like interior design, architecture and seasonal decorations, the annual Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Holiday House Tour is for you. Later, take advantage of the specially priced luncheons available to attendees. Your day ticket is good for both Friday and Saturday.

Looking for something special for everyone on your list? Niagara-on-the-Lake invites you to poke around some of the holiday markets happening in December.

From December 1 to 10 (except Monday, December 4), the Holiday Market at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre will feature a wide range of one-of-a-kind, handmade holiday gifts, ornaments and décor creations crafted by more than 25 artisans. The assortment of products includes personal care, wood carvings, jewellery, pottery, glass, candles, birdhouses, textiles, treats, baked goods and more. Proceeds from the event benefit children and seniors’ programs. Admission is free with a food item donation to Newark Neighbours Food Bank. Debit, Visa and Mastercard are accepted.

On December 2 and 3, the Reif Estate Winery promises a fun-filled weekend when it hosts a unique and creative Holiday Market featuring more than 25 vendors, live music, art classes, Tarot reading, food, and of course, wine.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Shops Are Open
A multitude of gift ideas are on display in the variety of shops, spas and art galleries in and around Niagara-on-the-Lake. To get into the mood, make your first stop Just Christmas, a longstanding year-round emporium dedicated to all things Noël.

From there, the options are endless. How about a stylish winter hat or gloves from Beau Chapeau? Or a beautiful knit sweater, scarf or shawl from Irish Design? Maybe someone on your list loves body lotions. A basket of NEOB Niagara or One Earth products may be just up their alley. Might the chef on your list appreciate a bottle or two of flavoured olive oil from Oliv? Browse through the many antique shops in the area to find that perfect gift for your avid collector. A gift certificate from any of the many spas in town would surely have someone on your list grinning from ear to ear.

Gift Certificates
Speaking of gift certificates, maybe you’d like to gift a Niagara-on-the-Lake getaway to someone who really would appreciate some much-needed R&R. All of our STAY Niagara member properties, which range from comfy cozy B&Bs and cottage rentals to upscale apartment and villa rentals, are happy to sell you a gift certificate… or two. Why not book a stay for yourself while you’re at it? (Tip: Niagara-on-the-Lake is introducing a 3% accommodation tax effective January 1, 2024. If you book before then, the tax won’t apply.)

Niagara-on-the-Lake loves the Holiday Season! Why not join in the fun?

Helpful Tips
Parking is free in Old Town and at Fort George during the month of December.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Remembers Our Heroes

Posted on October 29, 2023

Many Canadians have family members who served in World War I and II as well as other wars since then. In Niagara-on-the-Lake, their service and sacrifices are not taken lightly.

The Cenotaph at the corner of Queen and King Streets in Old Town is a daily reminder of the freedom we enjoy as Canadians, thanks to the bravery and patriotism our veterans exhibited over the years. For that, we are forever grateful.

Every year on November 11, as a nation, we honour them with a few moments of silence at 11 a.m.

A Poppy Path
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum chose to expand this annual ritual in 2021 by introducing the Niagara-on-the-Lake Poppy Project, headed by an energetic group of local volunteers. In 2022, the project was expanded to the Court House at 26 Queen Street in Old Town. Poppy wreaths adorned shop doors on Queen Street and poppy wraps draped lamp posts to create a “poppy path” from the Museum to the Court House. A fabric poppy garden at the Museum was expanded and soldiers’ names were added to these poppies.

In 2023, from November 2 to 13, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum on Castlereigh and the Court House Building at 26 Queen Street will once again be dressed in handmade poppies supplied by dedicated volunteers. The project is expanding to include two more nets of poppies at the Royal Canadian Legion on King Street and more poppy wreaths for shop windows along Queen Street.

A Fitting Tribute
STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake is proud to be part of a community that cares so deeply for our fallen and living heroes. Our only wish is that someday there will no longer be any need for anyone to go to war because freedom, peace and respect for the sacredness we see in each other will be the order of the day for all here at home and around the world.

Until then, thank you to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum and all the volunteers who brought this project to fruition. We are humbled by your dedication to keep the memories of our veterans alive in our hearts. Our members praise and deeply appreciate all your efforts.

Some Poppy Stats
40+ volunteers
2,000 hours of hand labour
7,500+ poppies
19,000 zip ties
2,500 square feet of bird netting
200 feet of steel cabling
Days of laughter and remembrance

Spooked by Canada’s Most Haunted Town

Posted on October 10, 2023

In ancient times, there were holidays during which everyone believed the veil between this world and the next one grew thin. Spirits could commune with us, and humans could visit the spirit world. Halloween still has some echoes of those lost times — especially in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada’s most haunted town!

October is a time for leaf-peeping, Halloween and dancing in the moonlight. Maybe you don’t believe in all this hocus-pocus, but don’t let that stop you from opening up and enjoying life’s little surprises. Go find some moonlight, dance in it and see what happens. (Pssst… there’s a full moon on October 28.)

And the perfect place to do all that and more is Niagara-on-the-Lake — Canada’s Most Haunted Town. A few sites in and around town might have you “seeing” things differently.

Book a Ghost Walk
Begin your spooky adventure on a guided ghost walk. One tour features the town’s most memorable haunts, such as the Olde Angel Inn, the iconic Courthouse, the Royal George Theatre, and the Prince of Wales Hotel. Another introduces you to the most famous ghost in Niagara and North America’s oldest legend at the Apothecary. On another, a hidden gem reveals its secrets and dark history in the biggest battlefield of the War of 1812.

During the month of October, “investigate” the scariest aspects of Fort George, a location so rich in paranormal activity that an entire book has been written on the subject. In fact, a young playful child named Sarah Ann may decide to join your tour group.

Expect the Unexpected
Of course, there are plenty of ghost stories to go around, and as you go about your business of sightseeing, you may encounter a few apparitions or inexplainable incidents of your own.

For instance, the ambience may be greatly enhanced by a chance encounter with the spectral Captain Swayze, the resident ghost at the Olde Angel’s Inn pub.

Gazing out over a foggy Lake Ontario, you may hear the creaking of wood out on the water. Or the curtain of grey may part to reveal a small sailing vessel that appears to be derelict, abandoned and adrift in the open water. Some say the ghosts of the victims on board the Foam, which met its tragic end offshore in 1874, still linger in St. Mark’s Cemetery.

Many people insist that the 1812 Battle of Queenston Heights occasionally erupts from the past to be re-fought by phantom soldiers. Many died upon the Heights during the battle, and their souls have yet to leave.

The Lakefront Gazebo at Queen’s Royal Park is among the most frequently visited attractions in Niagara-on-the-Lake. But at night, things change. Many after-dark visitors feel a tightness in their chest. The gazebo, alluring by day, takes on the shape of a cage by night, while tree branches resemble grasping claws and a dark mass of shrub looks like a crouching animal. And then, there are the faint sobs of the ghostly woman in eternal torment who wanders along the water’s edge.

And who can explain the random appearances of a flogged soldier and headless Native walking aimlessly at Fort Mississauga on storm-tossed nights? Or the ethereal little girl that appears at the Cannery Restaurant?

Few realize Cork’s restaurant, a fixture in town, was the site of a horrible tragedy that left two dead during a murderous rampage in 1850. The haunting echoes of that crime are still heard within the building today in the form of footsteps and disembodied whispers.

Unearth Mysteries at St. Mark’s Cemetery
St. Mark’s Anglican Church is the most attractive and historic church in Niagara-on-the-Lake. You can easily spend an afternoon roaming through the cemetery headstones and delving into the stories they hint at. Don’t miss the 200-year-old trenches.

Life’s a Masquerade
Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey at the Halloween Masquerade hosted by Spirit in Niagara Distillery. The fun begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 28. Be prepared to immerse yourself in an evening of spine-tingling excitement with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live music, a costume mask contest and ghoulish gifts.

Bumps in the Night
Perhaps you want the full ghostly experience. You may be surprised to learn that a few bed and breakfasts, inns and short-term rental cottages and villas harbour ethereal residents of their own. We won’t single them out for you here, but you can find them at STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake. The owners are only too happy to share the history and their own stories and experiences at the breakfast table. It’s all part of the fun of the hallowed season.

Fall Celebrations in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Check out what’s in store this fall:
October 14: Oktoberfest at the Exchange Brewery
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 21: Reif’s Annual Harvest Dinner at Reif Estate Winery
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara!
November 3 & 4: Sip & Savour in the Gardens
November 1-26: “The Power of Water” Solo Exhibit at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
November 5 – December 23: A Christmas Carol at the Royal George Theatre
November 10: “Hello, It’s Me! ADELE” at the Court House Theatre
November 15 – December 23: Lerner and Loewe’s BRIGADOON at the Festival Theatre
December 1 & 2: Holiday Market at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
December 1 & 2: Rotary Club’s Holiday House Tour
December 1: 2023 Candlelight Stroll
December 2 & 3: Reif Holiday Market at Reif Estate Winery

Most Town parking meters, except for four located in the Heritage District, no longer accept credit card payments. They do, however accept credit card payments via the Honk Mobile app. The Town understands the frustrations this has caused visitors and apologizes for the inconvenience. Town is working on short- and long-term solutions to the matter. In the meantime, coins are accepted at all parking machines, and the four machines that still do accept regular credit card payments are located in the Court House lot, the Prince of Wales lot, Queens Royal Park lot (down by the lake) and near the Post Office on Queen Street. Parking is free after 8 p.m.

Fall in Love with Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted on September 25, 2023

Fall is for lovers. It’s also the ideal time to fall in love with Niagara-on-the-Lake with those you cherish by your side. In order to live happy and prosperous lives, we are meant to go through every season differently and align with the energy of the season. In Chinese Medicine, autumn is the season of:

Embracing a new beginning
Letting go of what is no longer needed
Appreciating the gifts of life
Honouring what we value the most
Realigning with our purpose and destiny

The Autumnal Equinox also coincides with the start of Libra season — a time when everyone’s focus turns to balance, relationships and beauty. Temperatures are cooler. Vibrant colours explode to create a feast for the eyes. The fields have been harvested. Come October 9, we’ll rejoice in the bounty Mother Nature has provided us as we give thanks for and to those we love and value most.

So double up, slow down, set your mood to “happy” by listening to one of the happiest songs on Earth (according to science), breathe in the freshness, and book your fall escape to Ontario’s prettiest town.

Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy the best of what the season has to offer in Niagara-on-the-Lake:

Snuggle Up
STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake features a wide assortment of accommodation choices ranging from charming, one-of-a-kind bed and breakfasts and inns to self-catering apartments, cottages and villas. Whether you prefer historic, quaint or contemporary lodgings, with or without breakfast, there is something to suit everyone’s budget, needs and tastes. A convenient online map helps you to determine where each property is located so you have the experience you desire.

Savour Nature’s Bounty
Surrounded by fields of rich, fertile soil, Niagara-on-the-Lake is blessed with fresh, local produce, which is hand-picked and incorporated into creative menus prepared by some of Ontario’s best chefs. Roadside stands are laden with vegetables, fruits, flowers and preserves if you prefer to lay out a feast of your own at your self-catering facilities.

Get Into the Spirit
A host of wineries, distilleries and breweries in the area are open and ready to welcome you in for tours, tastings, food-and-wine pairings and educational workshops. Some even offer cooking classes and live entertainment. The Dig Our Roots event on October 13 and 14 at the NOTL Museum is a great way to experience more than 40 VQA wines in one single setting. On Monday nights, grab your dancing shoes and head over to Spirit in Niagara for jazz, blues, cocktails and food. Perhaps a pint or two of craft beer is more your style? Live music and food await you at Silversmith Brewing Company on Thursday nights and at Oast House Brewers on Friday evenings.

Embrace the Arts
The world-renowned Shaw Festival continues to engage audiences with a variety of stage performances and musical events until October 15, and then begins its Holiday Season repertoire through December 23, starting with A Christmas Carol on November 5 and followed by Brigadoon on November 15. Art galleries and studios throughout the area feature exhibits by local artists, potters and photographers. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts are happy to point them out.

Practise Self-Kindness
Everyone deserves a little TLC. And when it comes to self-care, Niagara-on-the-Lake is hard to beat. The spa experiences featured at the Oban Inn, Q124, the Prince of Wales, and the Pillar and Post are second to none. For instance, why not indulge in a one-of-a-kind hydrotherapy wellness circuit at Q124, featuring the only snow room in Canada? Breathe in the soothing aromas of fresh, locally grown lavender as you roam the NEOB Lavender Flower Farm or visit their Queen Street boutique in Old Town. Explore a world of medicinal herbs on a self-guided tour at the Apple Hill Apothecary. Caress your body with beautiful scents of Fall at One Earth, where you’ll find all natural products made with high-quality, ethically sourced products.

Admire the Natural Beauty
Outdoors, Mother Nature will be putting on a splendid show as leaves magically turn to shades of red, burgundy, gold and rust and sparkle under the bright sun. Drive, cycle or walk along the beautiful Niagara River Parkway, dubbed “the prettiest drive in the world” by Winston Churchill in 1943 — and it still is. Follow the 10-kilometre Upper Canada Heritage Trail on foot, bike or horseback though a variety of landscapes from urban and Carolinian forest to rural orchards and vineyards. Hike a portion of the Bruce Trail along the Niagara Escarpment in Queenston to take in the majestic view of the valley and Lake Ontario in the distance. Explore the well-marked trails at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre along the shores of the mighty Niagara River.

A Bounty of Fall Events Awaits You in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Check out what’s in store this fall:
September – October 4: Paint & Collage Course at Riverbank Art Museum
September 30: Reif’s Fire Dinner! at Reif Estate Winery
October 7: Portraiture Photography Workshop at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
October 14: Oktoberfest at the Exchange Brewery
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 21: Reif’s Annual Harvest Dinner at Reif Estate Winery
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara !
October 28: Halloween Masquerade at Spirit in Niagara Distillery
November 10: “Hello, It’s Me! ADELE” at the Court House Theatre
December 1: 2023 Candlelight Stroll
December 2 & 3: Reif Holiday Market at Reif Estate Winery

7 Unforgettable Wine-Tasting Experiences

Posted on September 10, 2023

Taste of the Season with wine bottle, red wine glass, food - fall

Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to some of the oldest and most established wine producing vineyards in Canada. Unforgettable wine-tasting experiences await you at Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries where expertly trained staff are always on hand to introduce you to unique winemaking techniques and flavourful wines. Some go out of their way to make your visit memorable. Your hosts at STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake can help you make your visit one to remember.

Step Back in Time
Colaneri Vineyard transports you to a time when donkeys were farmers’ greatest assets. Your experience begins with a tasting of sparkling wine. After learning what makes these beautiful creatures so valuable, you’re taken on a fully guided tour of the Colaneri Vineyard with a staff member and your friendly donkey companions. Your journey concludes with a tasting of three wonderful wines.

Taste the Season
You don’t want to miss the Taste the Season event in Niagara-on-the-Lake when 15+ wineries invite you to visit and taste their vintages over four weekends in November. Passports go on sale October 1, 2023. Choose from an Individual Tasting Pass or a Couple’s Pass, which permits you to visit up to eight wineries per day.

Culinary Classes
Book an afternoon of fun, pizza and wine at Ravine Winery where Chef John Vetere instructs you on how to make your own Wood Oven Neapolitan style pizza followed by a sit-down lunch, including wine. For something a bit more elaborate, Strewn Winery offers hands-on Saturday Cooking Classes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. geared for home/recreational cooks.

Dig Our Roots
This 2023 fall event is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that celebrates decades of winemaking history in Niagara-on-the-Lake. From October 13 to 14, head over to the NOTL Museum where you’ll be treated to an incredible selection of over 40 VQA wines at various stations throughout the museum as well as live music and light food fare.

Wine-Tasting at its Best
Discover Inniskillin‘s craftwork with an intimate wine-tasting experience at their Winemaker’s Retrospective Master Classes in the winery estate’s Barrel Cellar where Estate Winemaker, Nicholas Gizuk, guides you through a curated selection of current releases and exclusive back vintage wines paired with cheeses. Another option is the Obsessions Wins Dinner where seasonally inspired hors d’oeuvres and a four-course tasting menu are paired with Inniskillin’s award-winning wines.

A Season for All Tastes
Of course, there’s more to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Here’s a sampling of what’s in store this fall:
September – October 4: Paint & Collage Course at Riverbank Art Museum
September 14: This is Anne — Older & Wiser at Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 21: Black Music History in Canada at Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 25: Famous & Infamous Lecture Series at Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 30: Reif’s Fire Dinner! at Reif Estate Winery
October 7: Portraiture Photography Workshop at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
October 14: Oktoberfest at the Exchange Brewery
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 21: Reif’s Annual Harvest Dinner at Reif Estate Winery
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara !
October 28: Halloween Masquerade at Spirit in Niagara Distillery
November 10: “Hello, It’s Me! ADELE” at the Court House Theatre
December 1: 2023 Candlelight Stroll
December 2 & 3: Reif Holiday Market at Reif Estate Winery

Niagara-on-the-Lake: June is for All Lovers

Posted on June 11, 2023

If a June night could talk, it would probably boast
it invented romance. – Sir Bernard, English Philosopher

From weddings and honeymoons to vow renewals and anniversaries, couples want to celebrate their special day in a setting of their dreams. Niagara-on-the-Lake has become one of those dream destinations — and for so many reasons.

Wine Lovers
The world’s prime wine-producing regions are located between the 30^th and 50^th parallels of latitude in both hemispheres. Situated at roughly 43 degrees latitude, the Niagara Region is the geographic centre of winemaking excellence in Canada. In addition to its ideal location for wine production, fertile, complex soil conditions and a unique climate create a winning combination for growing grapes and producing quality Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet France as well as rosé, sparkling wine and Canada’s famous Icewine.

A popular way to enjoy wine country is on a guided half- or full-day winery tour with one of the many tour companies in the area. However, you are free to explore on your own as well. Most wineries offer tasting opportunities and a variety of tours of the vineyard and wine-making facilities. Some include food-tasting options ranging from flight-pairing snacks to full-service dining rooms and restaurants. Feel free to ask your accommodation hosts for some recommendations.

Food Lovers
What is fine wine without some tasty creations to accompany it? One thing is certain: you will never go hungry or thirsty in Niagara-on-the-Lake. In addition to all the food-and-wine pairing menus offered by winery restaurants and dining rooms, our little town has attracted some of the most creative chefs in the culinary field. Our menu book lists a number of our favourite dining options.

From fast-food restaurants, pubs and four-course fine dining to Italian, Greek and Thai, there’s something for every budget and taste. Ice-cream and gelato lovers will have a fine time comparing the variety of flavours served at numerous locations along Queen Street. Sample all Niagara-on-the-Lake has to offer on a Niagara Culinary Tour. Fancy yourself a chocolate connoisseur? A chocolate-lover’s paradise awaits you in St. David’s at The Chocolate Factory where you can learn all about the intricate process of chocolate-making on a complimentary tour.

Music Lovers
Food and wine always tastes better with a little music thrown into the mix. And perhaps no one does it better than Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate where incredible performances take place under the stars at their one-of-a-kind amphitheatre. The Music Niagara Festival kicks off its 2023 season in June with performances by the Toronto Children’s on June 18, Dang Thai Son on June 19 and soprano Katelyn Bird, countertenor Christian Massuci Facchini and baritone Alexander Dobson on June 29.

Concert under the stars at Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate

And who doesn’t love the performing arts and a Broadway-inspired musical? The Shaw Festival’s musical fable, Gypsy, will surely captivate starry-eyed audiences throughout its run at the Festival Theatre until October 7. Other musical productions, Lerner and Loewe’s Brigadoon and The Amen Corner, will have you tapping your feet and swaying to the music. More musical events are planned throughout the summer at the Shaw’s BMO Stage, in the new Spiegeltent and their Pop-up Patio.

A couple of pubs in town, like the Angel’s Inn and The Irish Harp, regularly feature local entertainers as does the Barrelhead at Pillitteri Winery on Stone Road where delicious pizzas, salads and wine are served daily in their cherry tree orchard from noon to 10 p.m.

Art Lovers
The beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake has been the inspiration behind many an artist. While Old Town is filled with art galleries that display local creations, you’ll want to explore some of the gems found in the surrounding area as well.

Art by Sandra Iafrate

In town on Queen Street, the King Street Gallery displays a wide variety of amazing art by very talented artists. The Edward Spera Gallery specializes in the art of wildlife photography. The Pandaya Gallery features a wide variety of items from around the world. Upper Canada Native Art showcases aboriginal artwork from across North America. ARTSPACE106 sells contemporary and traditional paintings and sculptures as well as hand-blown glass, pottery, stained glass and jewellery by Canadian artists. The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre on Ricardo Street displays works by local artists and artisans. Be sure to check out their programs as well. At her Gate Street Studio, Sandra Iafrate brings a nostalgic feel to her fresh colourful work. The Steele Gallery at 233 John Street West features the work of Scott and Richard Steele, which can be viewed on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or by appointment Monday to Friday). The gift shop at the Festival Theatre also carries some delightful gems.

A little further afield at the Niagara Image Gallery located at 1627 Niagara Stone Road, you’ll find works of art by Trish Romance, Tanya Jean Peterson, Jordan Morrison and Alex Colville. At 755 Lakeshore Road, Ron and Barb Zimmermann sell unique stoneware pottery at their Lakeside Pottery Studio. You’ll find more stoneware pottery creations at the Queenston Pottery Studio at 1648 York Road in Queenston. Or maybe you want to create your own designs in a Bélisle Pottery workshop.

Outdoor Lovers
Mother Nature has blessed Niagara-on-the-Lake and its surrounding countryside with spectacular beauty that changes with the seasons. In June, gardens become a feast for the eyes as they burst with colour and leave visitors in awe. Visit the best Niagara has to offer on the Shaw Guild Garden Tour on June 24, which features nine fabulous private gardens in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The NEOB Lavender Farm located at 933 Niagara Stone Road invites you to roam through their lavender fields. Just look for the lavender picnic tables. Or drop by their shop at 38 Queen Street.

June blooms

There are so many more ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Fill a picnic basket with local fresh fruits and vegetables from one of the many roadside stands in the area. Or order your picnic from Picnix Niagara. Then, cycle along the off-road pathway that follows the mighty Niagara River to choose your super scenic spot to spread out and watch the world go by. The banks along the river are also popular for birdwatching and fishing.

Organized outdoor activities abound. Get soaked on a Whirlpool JetBoat Adventure or challenge yourself on an adventure course at WildPlay. Several tour companies, like ZOOM Leisure, Grape Escape and others, offer guided cycling tours to various wineries, breweries and distilleries throughout the area. They’re a great way to meet fellow cyclists from around the world.

Cycling through the vineyards

As you can see, the possibilities for entertainment and enjoyment are endless in Niagara-on-the-Lake. And so are your accommodation options. STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake is your go-to website to check out availability at licensed bed and breakfasts and cottage, apartment or villa rentals in Old Town and the surrounding countryside and communities of Virgil, St. David’s, Queenston and Glendale. And our hosts are only too happy to help you plan your time with them so you come away with memories that last a lifetime and have you coming back for more.

So Many More Reasons to Visit

June is strawberry time

June 9–September 15: Jackson-Triggs Summer Concert Series
June 17: Strawberry Festival
June 17 & 18: Outdoor Juried Art Show & Sale at RiverBrink
June 18–August 29: Music Niagara Summer Festival Concert Series
June 21: Drumming Down the Sun & Yoga (Summer Solstice) at Ryerson Park
June 22: NOTL Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
June 23: Humor and Hops at the Exchange Brewery
June 24: Shaw Guild Garden Tour
June 24: Seafood Dinner at Reif Estate Winery
June 24–25: Fort George in the Great War
July 1: Canada Day at Fort George
July 1–3: Artistry by the Lake; Canada Day Fireworks;
July 8: St. Mark’s Cherry Festival
July 10–14: Kids’ Summer Art Camp at RiverBrink Art Museum
July 15-16: Battle of Fort George Re-enactment
July 15–23: TD Niagara Jazz Festival
August 12: Peach Festival
August 12: Sip, Savour & Stroll
August 23: Shades of Summer Dinner
August 19-20: Fife & Drum Muster & Soldiers’ Field Day
August 31: Heritage Garden Party at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum