Exploring Huron County: Attractions, Festivals and Events
Huron County is a beautiful region located in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Known for its rich history and culture, stunning natural scenery, and friendly communities, Huron County is a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. In this guide, we will explore some of the top things to see and do in the region, including historical and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, festivals and events, and business and employment opportunities.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Huron County is one of Ontario’s largest agricultural regions, with a population of approximately 61,000 people. The region is home to several small towns and communities, including Goderich, Clinton, and Grand Bend. The economy of Huron County is diverse and includes agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
Huron County has a rich history and culture, and visitors can explore a variety of museums, historical sites, and cultural events throughout the region. Some of the top attractions include:
Wingham Museum
The Wingham Museum is a great place to learn about the local history of the region. The museum features exhibits on agriculture, military history, and pioneer life, as well as a collection of artifacts from the area’s past.
Huron County Museum
The Huron County Museum, located in Clinton, is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum has exhibits on a wide range of topics, including natural history, agriculture, and local industries, and an impressive collection of artifacts from the area’s past.
Goderich Museum
The Goderich Museum is another great destination for history buffs. The museum has exhibits on the history of the town, including displays on local industries, such as salt mining and shipping, and a collection of artifacts from the area’s early settlers.
Timothy Eaton Statue and Eaton Store Directory in Clinton
The Timothy Eaton statue in Clinton is a tribute to the founder of the Eaton Store, which operated in the town from 1923 to 1977. Today, the building houses a directory of businesses in the area, and visitors can explore the statue and learn about the store’s legacy.
Bannockburn, Historic Site of a Scottish Settlement
Bannockburn is a historic site in Huron County that was settled by Scottish immigrants in the mid-1800s. Today, the site is a popular tourist attraction that celebrates the Scottish heritage of the region, and visitors can explore the site’s historic buildings and learn about the daily life of early Scottish settlers.
Alice Munro Short Story Locations
Alice Munro, the Nobel Prize-winning Canadian author, grew up in Huron County and often used the region as the setting for her short stories. Fans of Munro’s work can visit several locations in the area that are featured in her stories, including the towns of Wingham and Clinton.
Outdoor Activities in Huron County
Huron County is a beautiful region that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and fishing to theatre and outdoor movies, there is something for everyone to experience. Here are some more details about the top outdoor activities in Huron County:
| Activity | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Falls Reserve Conservation Area | A beautiful park located on the Maitland River that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, campsites, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. | Benmiller |
| Huron Country Playhouse Grand Bend | A professional theatre company located in Grand Bend that produces live performances throughout the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plays and musicals in a beautiful outdoor setting. | Grand Bend |
| Huron Country Playhouse II | Another theatre company located in Grand Bend that produces live performances throughout the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shows, including plays and musicals, in a beautiful outdoor setting. | Grand Bend |
| Huron Playhouse Theatre | A community theatre located in Clinton that produces several shows each year. The theatre is run by volunteers and provides a great opportunity for local talent to showcase their skills. | Clinton |
| Starlight Drive-In Grand Bend | An outdoor movie theatre located in Grand Bend that shows movies on a large outdoor screen. Visitors can enjoy a movie from the comfort of their car while taking in the beautiful scenery of the town. | Grand Bend |
| Starlite Drive-In Shipka | Another great destination for movie lovers, the drive-in theatre shows movies on a large outdoor screen and provides a unique and nostalgic movie-going experience. | Shipka |
| Bayfield Flea Market | A great place to shop for antiques, collectibles, and other unique items. The market is open on weekends and features vendors selling a variety of items. | Bayfield |
| Aquafest Grand Bend | An annual event held in Grand Bend that celebrates water sports and outdoor activities. The event features a variety of activities, including a beach volleyball tournament, a sandcastle-building contest, and a live music festival. | Grand Bend |
| Port Albert Inn | A historic hotel located in the small town of Port Albert. The inn is a popular destination for tourists and offers a unique and charming place to stay while exploring the region. | Port Albert |
In addition to these activities, Huron County is also home to beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque parks. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports and outdoor activities on Lake Huron, including boating, fishing, and swimming. With so many options to choose from, Huron County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Popular Festivals and Events
Huron County is a vibrant region that hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. These events celebrate the region’s diverse culture, heritage, and natural beauty. Here are some more details about the popular festivals and events in Huron County:
Goderich Celtic Festival
The Goderich Celtic Festival is an annual event held in August that celebrates the region’s Celtic heritage. This three-day festival features live music, dance performances, and cultural exhibits. The festival attracts over 25,000 visitors each year and has been named one of the top 100 festivals in Ontario.
Deep Roots Festival
The Deep Roots Festival is an annual event held in September that celebrates the town of Clinton’s agricultural heritage. This family-friendly festival features a farmers’ market, live music, and a variety of activities for all ages. The festival attracts over 5,000 visitors each year and is a great opportunity to explore the town’s rich history and culture.
Multicultural Festival
The Multicultural Festival is an annual event held in Wingham that celebrates the region’s diverse cultural heritage. This one-day festival features live music, dance performances, and cultural exhibits from around the world. The festival attracts visitors from across the region and provides a great opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Exeter Rodeo
The Exeter Rodeo is an annual event held in July that celebrates the region’s cowboy culture. This three-day rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, and other exciting events. The rodeo attracts visitors from across Ontario and is a great opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West.
Local Business and Employment
Huron County has a thriving business community, and visitors can explore a variety of local businesses and employment opportunities throughout the region. Some of the top resources for business and employment in the area include:
Goderich Business Directory
The Goderich Business Directory is a great resource for anyone looking to do business in the area. The directory lists local businesses and provides contact information for each one.
Huron County Employment and Jobs
Huron County Employment and Jobs is a website that provides information about employment opportunities in the area. The website lists job openings in a variety of industries and provides resources for job seekers, including resume-writing tips and interview preparation advice.
Microage Basics Goderich
Microage Basics is a local computer and technology store located in Goderich. The store provides a range of services, including computer repair and tech support.
McGee Fencing
McGee Fencing is a local fencing contractor located in Clinton. The company provides a range of fencing services, including installation and repair.
The Livery Goderich
The Livery is a historic event venue located in Goderich. The venue is a popular destination for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.
Lake Huron Chrysler
Lake Huron Chrysler is a local car dealership located in Goderich. The dealership provides a range of services, including sales, financing, and service.
Welcome to Huron County!
Huron County is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of southwestern Ontario. From visiting museums and historical sites to enjoying outdoor activities and attending festivals and events, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming region. The area’s thriving business community also provides a great resource for visitors and residents alike. We hope this guide has provided you with some inspiration for your next trip to Huron County, and we encourage you to explore everything the region has to offer.