The Great Ontario Communities Series (Campbellford)

During the past few years Judi and I have visited almost 150 Ontario community festivals and events. The majority have been planned and managed by dedicated community volunteers. As a salute to these wonderful communities and their hard working residents, I will be writing a series of blogs entitled “Great Ontario Communities”. These blogs describe the communities we have visited and will tell you about some of the interesting things we have experienced and the people we have met. The fifth article will be about Campbellford, located along the banks of the Trent River.
CAMPBELLFORD – Fortunately for Judi and me, Campbellford is only an hour’s drive away! This is one of the most picturesque towns along the Trent-Severn Waterway. As you enter Campbellford from the south on County Road 30, you encounter a long park strip that is nestled between the county road and the waterway. Follow the park (Old Mill Park) far enough and you come to the downtown area plus you will be greeted a giant replica of the Canadian “Toonie” (two dollar coin). Campbellford is the hometown of the Toonie’s creator, internationally collected artist, Brent Townsend. In the summer, the park is a beautiful place to stop and have a picnic lunch! Judi and I try to do this a least twice a year. As you can probably tell from my enthusiasm, Campbellford is a wonderful place to visit (and live)! There are lots of interesting shops in the downtown area including Bennett’s Furnishings and a “to die for” bakery! I can still feel the “sugar rush” from their decadent donuts! So far Judi and I have visited two of their annual events, the Polar Bear Plunge (January) and their Canada Day Celebrations (July 1). Other annual events include the Campbellford Bridal Fair (February), the Trillium Walk in Ferris Park (May), Chrome on the Canal (July), Campbellford BIA Waterfront Festival (July), Campbellford-Seymour Agricultural Fair (August), the Santa Claus Parade (November) and finally, the Showcase of Lights (December). Nearby, “must see” attractions include Westben Arts Festival Theatre and Ferris Provincial Park. Westben Arts Festival Theatre is renown for its “World Class Music and its Wide Open Countyside”. The following is an excerpt from their website. “Bringing culture and nature together in perfect harmony, the magnificent 400-seat timber-frame barn opens onto a lush meadow, surrounded by the gently rolling hills of Northumberland County.” and “The stage hosts an incredible array of renowned Canadian and international artists, from full symphony orchestras & choruses to chamber music and soloists.” Ferris Provincial Park is located just outside of Campbellford. It’s trails are open summer and winter. The 300 foot long suspension bridge, 30 feet over the Ranney Gorge, gives all its visitors an adventure to remember! So, whether it’s picnicking along the waterfront, shopping in the downtown or visiting on of the town’s terrific festivals or attractions, Campbellford is a “must” visit! To find out more about Campbellford, visit the BIA website at http://www.campbellfordbia.ca/.