Throughout the year, almost every community in Middlesex County has a festival or event that is sure to entertain. From early spring maple bush tours to late winter Santa Claus appearances you can spend every season enjoying the small town charm that the towns and hamlets have to offer.
Ailsa-Craig Quilt Festival
The Ailsa-Craig Quilt Festival is unlike any other in the world. This weekend long event showcases the best local and international art quilts for both Quilters and art lovers alike. These quilts have been specifically curated and displayed by some of Southwestern Ontario's most distinguished fiber art judges. A "Quilt Cafe" and various other special events are interspersed throughout the week. This year's theme is "Quilts of Iceland" and features an exhbition of over 100 Icelandic quilts, live interactive workshops, and a Viking village reenactment!
Events: Corbett Fun Day/Antique & Classic Car Show
The Corbett Fun Day/Antique & Classic Car Show is held annually in August. This event includes music, a steak and chicken BBQ, a live auction of donations, a cash draw, and car show.
Events: Culture Days
Culture Days is a collaborative, Canada-wide volunteer movement to raise the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities. This event features free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to participate “behind the scenes”—and to discover the world of artists, creators, historians, architects, curators, and designers at work in their community.
Events: Lower Thames Conservation
Check out the various events taking place at the longwoods Conservation Area and Ska-Nah-Doht Village and museum throughout the year
Events: Rockin Wheels
Rock and Roll Music Festival featuring Canadian Artists to support and raise awareness and prevention research programs for neuro-traumatic injuries.
Events: The Purple Hill Country Hall
A place where farming blends very nicely with history, specialization, diversification and unique sense of vision. Enjoy great Roast Beef dinners and Country music balls played by Canadian Talents from Country Music Hall of Farmers, top recording artists to Juno Award winners and budding stars on the way up!
Events: Tri-County Heritage Club's Heritage & Antique Show
The Tri-County Heritage Club’s Heritage & Antique Show is held annually on the second full weekend in July. The attractions include antique automobiles and tractors, gasoline and steam engines, parade, jamboree music and a “just for fun” tractor pull.
Events: Ye Olde Towne Hall
The Friends of Ye Olde Towne Hall invite one and all to enjoy this lovely Community Hall; it is one of many fine buildings in Ailsa Craig representing the rich history of this once vibrant shipping center. The hall is the perfect venue for small parties, receptions, meetings, and theatrical productions. They are always events happening at the Ye Olde Towne Hall, from community fundraisers, concerts, theatre productions and much more. Make sure to visit their website for all events happening throughout the year.
Festival: Ailsa Craig Gala Days
The Gala Days is an annual three-day, family-oriented festival, held on the third weekend in July. Friday Night Family Dance, Main Street Parade, Show n’ Shine, Outside Video Dance, 5km & 10km Run, Face Painters & Children's Entertainers, 4 on 4 Road Hockey, Midway. A highlight to the festival is the KubCar Races, where competitors have the opportunity to construct their own KubCar, following strict specifications, and then race them on a dedicated KubCar track.
Festival: Art in the Barn
Southwestern Ontario's largest summer arts and crafts festival. With over 200 vendors, there is sure to be something for everyone. Plus, demonstrations, live music, and a food tent! Complete list of vendors on their website.
