Hit the road: Ending the summer with a bang in Ontario

Canada Travel Tips

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Monday, 30 July 2012 18:45

Before the warm summer months come to a close, holidaymakers may want to travel through Canada to experience the best of Ontario. While the capital offers a number of activities for every season, many of its neighbouring towns conclude the summer with food festivals, family friendly street fairs and sporting events.

Curious about how to savour the last bite of summer? Here are a few things to do before September rolls around:

Puppets Up!

The town of Almonte, located just under an hour's drive west of Ottawa, will put on the Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival on August 11 and 12, which will surely be a weekend to remember. This year's theme, It's Magic, will not only feature puppets of all shapes and sizes, but dozens of magicians as well, who will put on amazing shows in makeshift theatres situated along the Mississippi River. Tickets are only $10, and kids under the age of 3 get in for free - so bring the entire family.

Perth Garlic Festival

Visitors may want to bring a few packs of gum to the Perth Garlic Festival on August 11. This town has grown the potent plant for several decades, and during the two-day-long event, travellers can wander through more than 50 vendors and garlicky activities. The air will be filled with the mouthwatering scent of the aromatic vegetable, which contains numerous health benefits, including natural antibodies, and lowering cholesterol.

Calabogie Blues and Rib Fest

Grill masters are welcome to the Calabogie Blues and Rib Fest, where Canada's greatest barbecuing ladies and gentlemen will slather meat with their secret recipes all weekend long. Beginning on August 17, visitors can feast on smokey bites while listening to Canadian blues artists like the Powder Blues Band. Travellers can even rent a campervan and stay in designated camping grounds, where they can mingle with blues and ribs loving locals.

North Lanark Highland Games

Kilts are optional for the North Lanark Highland Games, a celebration of Scottish culture in Canada. With athletic events, music and live bagpipe performances, the event attracts thousands of attendees, whether or not they come from Scotland. Visitors can even purchase their own kilt to fit right in at the beer garden.