Stone fruit season has arrived, and later this summer, you can celebrate Ontario’s juiciest harvest in a delicious way.
Since 1967, the Winona Peach Festival has been one of Southern Ontario’s favourite end-of-summer traditions. Located just one hour’s drive from Toronto, this volunteer-run festival invites visitors to wander through rows of fresh local peaches, enjoy an arts and crafts area, and participate in family-friendly fun.
The Winona Peach Festival is packed with a number of distinct areas that will keep you entertained all weekend long. Under a shady canopy of mature trees, you will find the Arts & Crafts section, where over 85 artisans from all over Ontario sell strictly handmade treasures. Right next to it, the Commercial Exhibit area hosts around 100 vendors showcasing everything from unique gadgets to fresh local produce straight from the region’s farmers.
Plus, don’t miss the thrilling midway hosted by Robertson Amusements, which has been bringing rides and carnival games to the festival for over 30 years. Families can head over to the main stage for free live music and children’s programming, or let the little ones try their luck at the classic, volunteer-run Fish Pond.
You cannot visit the festival without a trip to the massive food court. Operated entirely by local service clubs and non-profits, the food court is famous for its mouth-watering array of peach delicacies. Treat yourself to fresh peach pies, warm peach cobbler, delicate crepes, and the crown jewel of the entire weekend, the legendary Winona Peach Sundae.
Best of all, every single dollar spent on food goes directly back into supporting local community groups and charities.
The Details
The best part? Admission to the Winona Peach Festival is entirely free. This year’s event takes place on August 28 through 30, located at 1328 Barton Street, Winona.
To save some cash and skip the parking headache, you can leave your car behind. The Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) runs a completely free, wheelchair-accessible shuttle directly to the park from Eastgate Square. All they ask is that you bring along a non-perishable food donation to drop in the bins before you board. If you do prefer to drive, official offsite parking is available at the Winona Community Centre for $20 per car.
You can learn more about the Winona Peach Festival here.
