By Michelle Mahoney
From bountiful farmers’ markets and fun-filled festivals to cool nights on the beach, fall is a beautiful time to visit Prince Edward County. As the summer crowds head home and everything settles into a slower pace, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore scenic small towns and quiet country roads, soaking in spectacular views of colourful fields, vineyards and the Lake Ontario shoreline. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend escape, there are endless ways to experience the charm of The County in autumn.
Celebrate the Harvest
Prince Edward County is bursting with events during the cozy season, and the region’s three fall fairs offer the perfect blend of nostalgia, tradition and excitement. From agricultural exhibits and local food to live entertainment, each one has its own unique appeal. The Picton Fall Fair – one of the oldest in Ontario – takes place September 11–13, followed by the Milford Fall Fair on September 19 and the Ameliasburgh Fall Fair on September 26. If you love a good county fair, you can visit them all!
Food lovers will want to experience Taste! Community Grown on September 12 at Macaulay Heritage Park in Picton where local growers, chefs and makers gather to celebrate the region’s exceptional food and drink. Another seasonal favourite, Countylicious (October 22 to November 15), invites visitors to savour the flavours of The County through special menus created by participating restaurants featuring local ingredients.
A Season Worth Savouring
Autumn is an inspiring time to experience the creative side of Prince Edward County, with something new to discover around every corner. Follow the self-guided Arts Trail to discover galleries, studios and artisan shops at your own pace, or visit during the PEC Studio Tour (September 18–20) for the opportunity to meet even more of The County’s talented artists and explore their creative spaces.
The celebrations continue throughout the season with community favourites such as Wellington Pumpkinfest and the Firelight Lantern Festival, while colourful hiking trails, patios, and breathtaking sunsets make every day an adventure. Prince Edward County is worth the visit any time of the year, but autumn offers countless reasons to relax and delight in the season.
As Lindsay Medeiros of the Visit The County team says, “Prince Edward County in the fall is my favourite time of year. Summer’s crowds have headed home, the backroads are lined with fiery fall colour, and the whole region settles into a slower pace. Spend the morning wandering a farmers’ market, pull over at a roadside stand because the pumpkins looked too good to pass up, sip cider overlooking an orchard, or linger over a long lunch at a winery while the harvest rolls in. Hike a trail, browse an artist’s studio, catch a local festival, and finish the day watching the sun set over Lake Ontario with something warm in hand.”
Plan your fall trip to Prince Edward County at visitthecounty.com.
