On June 22, Centre Wellington residents and visitors alike will once again have the opportunity to participate and explore the many “doors opened” during this annual celebration of heritage, architecture, arts and culture.
Attendees can look forward to visiting 20 diverse sites, ranging from community buildings to heritage homes and unique businesses. The event is free of charge with sites being open from 10am to 4pm. PasSports will be included, to document the tour.
Each location is full of history, character and grand style. New additions to this year’s tour include: Charles Allen Homestead, The John Gow House and the Ennotville Historical Library.
The Wellington County Museum and Archives tour will highlight the renovated barn, original cemetery and, back by popular demand, the tunnels.
As a part of the Doors Open celebration, organizers will be offering Historical Walking Tours in both Fergus and Elora. Travel back in time with two costumed characters from Older Voices, local historians. The walking tours explore the colourful past of Fergus and Elora; the temperance movement, new scientific theories and so-called drink interests.
The Fergus tour starts at the Fergus Library at 11am. Elora tour starts at Elora Information Centre at 2pm.
Foodies can enjoy Elora Culinary Walking Tours, starting at the Village Olive Grove at 2pm.
Stroll through the streets of historic Elora and enjoy the culinary delights found there. During the tour, visitors can sample specially created dishes at various locally owned and operated restaurants and shops while learning about the history and architecture of the area.
The walking tours bring together food, history and architecture in a unique and fun way. Admission is $15 per person.
Tours begin at 2pm. Reservations in advance are required. Contact 226-384-7000 or www.eloraculinarywalkingtour.com for more information.
Participants who visit at least five Doors Open Fergus-Elora sites will collect a passport stamps and will be eligible for a chance to win a one night stay for two people at the Breadalbane Inn and Spa or Stonehurst B&B, in Fergus, or a $25 gift certificate from Café Creperie, in Elora. The winning draw will take place the following week.
As a joint undertaking of Heritage Centre Wellington, the Wellington County Museum and Archives and Elora Fergus Tourism, Doors Open Fergus-Elora is also part of Doors Open Ontario, and the Ontario Heritage Trust province wide initiative to celebrate community heritage.
For a brochure featuring this year’s entire site listings visit the Elora Information Centre or go online www.doorsopenontario.on.ca and enter Fergus Elora into the event section.
Volunteers are needed and appreciated. Contact Robyn Mulder at Elora Fergus Tourism at 519-846-9841 or tourism@centrewellington.ca.
