Seasonal Events in Prince Edward County

Put on your Spring boots and come to The County!

Eagerly awaited, each spring brings blooming lilac hedges as tall as houses, rare migratory birds stopping for a rest, the return of asparagus, wild leeks and spinach to local restaurant menus and our sweetest treat, maple syrup. Lake Ontario is warming up but it’s worth it to bundle up for beach days, hit the trails for trillium-filled forest hikes, get dancing at music festivals, do some art studio hopping, and explore popular spots without the crowds of summer.

It’s not just about the beach…

Hot summer days are when you’ll find enough visitors to make up a small city at Sandbanks or North Beach Provincial Parks enjoying the clear shallow waters and running down the dunes. Campgrounds and popular spots are full, festivals are plentiful, boats and canoes are docked in the harbours and The County is bustling. Vacationers from Ontario, Quebec and across the ocean line up for the chance to sip and savour what The County has to offer.

Experience the bounty of The County during harvest season!

True to our agricultural roots as the former Garden County of Canada – when we were canning one third of the country’s tomatoes and pumpkins (no big deal) – fall is when warm days and cool nights prompt harvesting from fields and vineyards. There’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy at the beach when escaping the city and the summer crowds. Check out the tractor pull at the local fair, hit the Farmers’ Markets for seasonal eats or perhaps get your hands dirty helping out at a winery picking party. Bring your bike or rent one here to explore the natural beauty of the island on two wheels.

The County is magical in winter

Swimsuit weather may be over, but the icy lakeshores make for stunning sunsets and unforgettable winter photography. Warm up at a local winery, brewery, cidery, or restaurant, where you’ll often find bonfires and even snowshoes on hand. Head downtown to browse boutique shops and pick up a County-made gift or two. Winter in The County feels both nostalgic and vibrant. It’s the season when the winemaker pours your samples and you can explore like a local. Some businesses adjust their hours after the busy summer months, making it an ideal time for slower, quieter travel. Be sure to call ahead before you visit.