Arts Trail

The Launch of the Arts Trail Pilot

Why an Arts Trail?

This initiative is the result of conversations with artists, galleries, and cultural organizations across Prince Edward County. The Arts Trail Pilot is designed as a foundational year to test ideas, gather feedback, and build a strong program that reflects The County’s vibrant creative community.

By working together in 2026, we aim to shape a coordinated Arts Trail experience that supports local artists and strengthens Prince Edward County’s reputation as a destination for arts and culture.

Strengthen Prince Edward County’s Creative Identity
Highlight the depth and diversity of The County’s arts community and position The County as a leading arts and culture destination.
Increase Awareness
Showcase working studios, galleries, and creative spaces to help visitors discover and engage with the local arts scene.
Support Artists and Creative Spaces
Create opportunities for artists to connect with visitors, grow audiences, and increase sales through coordinated promotion.
Build Toward a 2027 Consumer Launch
Use the 2026 pilot year to gather insights, refine the program, and prepare for a full public launch alongside the Taste Trail in 2027.

Key Dates

Phase 1: Planning & Build (Feb–May)
Focus on setting the foundation for launch. This includes participant onboarding and communication, asset collection (photo/video), brand and map development, and building the new Arts Trail web hub with itineraries and interactive mapping. Social content, PR materials, and print assets are developed and prepared for rollout.

Phase 2: Launch (June)
Public launch of the Arts Trail hub and supporting campaign. This includes website go-live, social content rollout (carousels, reels, highlights), newsletter feature, media outreach, and distribution of printed materials and in-market visibility (e.g., Regent Theatre display).

Phase 3: Peak Season & Optimization (July–Oct)
Drive visitation and engagement through paid media, social campaigns, influencer hosting, and targeted PR. Collect participant and visitor feedback to assess performance and identify opportunities.

Phase 4: Review & Future Planning (Nov–Dec)
Analyze results across web, social, and PR. Use insights and partner feedback to refine the program and inform a more integrated Arts Trail strategy for 2027.

The Benefits

For You (Artists & Creative Spaces)

Increased visibility is offered through coordinated destination marketing. You’ll have opportunities to connect with visitors who are interested in arts and culture. Participating also gives you a chance to help shape the future Arts Trail program. Details on participation guidelines and expectations will be shared with interested participants following the Expression of Interest stage.

For Visitors

The Arts Trail makes it easier to discover galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Visitors will have opportunities to meet local artists and experience the creative process firsthand. It provides a curated arts experience that complements food, wine, and outdoor exploration in The County.

For Destination Growth

The program strengthens Prince Edward County’s cultural tourism offering. It encourages longer stays and deeper visitor engagement. Participation also builds a stronger foundation for future arts-focused programming.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 Arts Trail Pilot is a year dedicated to collaboration and growth. Feedback from participants will play a key role in shaping the program as we prepare for a coordinated consumer launch alongside the Taste Trail in 2027.