Discover the Hidden Gem of Fergus, Ontario: 8 Minutes Away from Elora’s Beauty
When most people think of Ontario’s beautiful countryside, Elora often takes center stage. Known for its stunning scenery, historic charm, and vibrant arts scene, Elora is a top tourist destination. But just 8 minutes away lies a hidden gem—Fergus.
A charming town nestled along the Grand River, Fergus offers a rich history, scenic beauty, and a calendar full of unique festivals and events that make it a must-visit location on your Ontario getaway.
Photo from Enchanta Forest
While Elora is a beautiful place to visit, Fergus should not be overlooked. With a variety of activities, attractions, and festivals, Fergus is a fantastic destination to add to your travel itinerary. Let’s dive into everything Fergus has to offer and why you should make it part of your next trip to the area.
Fergus: The Town of Festivals
One of the best things about Fergus is its vibrant festival scene. Quickly becoming known as the "Town of Festivals," Fergus offers something for everyone, whether you’re into history, food, culture, or outdoor activities.
Here’s a roundup of the most exciting annual festivals you can experience in Fergus:
Fergus Medieval Faire: Step back in time to the medieval era with live performances, jousting, and themed activities. The Fergus Medieval Faire is a family-friendly event that takes place in July on the Fergus main strip and immerses visitors in the fun of medieval history, with costumed performers, delicious food, and vendors for all ages. It’s a must visit!
Fergus Steampunk Festival: For those with a love for Victorian-inspired fantasy and futuristic technology, the Steampunk Festival is an absolute must. This creative festival celebrates all things steampunk, from costume contests to unique art installations, and draws enthusiasts from all over.
Meadows Festival: The Meadows Festival is an exciting country music and alt rock festival that takes place in early June at the Sportsplex in Fergus. This lively festival brings together great music, food, and drink, with plenty of food trucks, craft beer, and local vendors to keep you refreshed while you enjoy the performances. It’s the perfect way to kick off the summer season and enjoy a laid-back festival atmosphere.
Fergus Ribfest: Meat lovers, rejoice! The Fergus Ribfest is the perfect event for enjoying delicious, smoky ribs from top-tier vendors. With live music, food, and plenty of activities, it’s the ultimate summer festival for families and foodies alike.
Fergus Fibre Festival: Fibre art enthusiasts will love the Fergus Fibre Festival. Featuring everything from wool products to handcrafted textiles, this event brings together artisans and crafters to celebrate the beauty and creativity of fibre arts.
Fergus Fall Fair: A fair dedicated to those who enjoy all things fall and fun! Enjoy rides, vendors, food trucks, contests & more!
Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games: Fergus is deeply rooted in its Scottish heritage, and the Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games is the perfect way to experience this rich culture. Watch as athletes compete in traditional Scottish events, enjoy highland dancing, and listen to the sounds of bagpipes—all while learning about Scottish traditions.
Enchanta Forest: Enchanta Forest is Elora and Fergus' one and only enchanted forest storybook fantasy, featuring a 1-hour symphony by The Toronto String Quartet beneath the trees, followed by magic performances, immersive theatre with Dance and Heart Production, and more timed surprises all night long. This enchanting experience runs on the third weekend of September and is an evening affair. Visitors are encouraged to dress as a fairytale suggests, adding to the whimsical, magical atmosphere of the event. With surprises at every turn, Enchanta Forest is a perfect blend of art, music, and immersive storytelling for the whole family.
Explore Fergus’ Historic Downtown
Fergus is steeped in history, and its historic downtown offers a glimpse into the past. The picturesque streets are lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. Strolling through the downtown area, you'll discover a range of quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring local boutiques and admiring the town’s historic charm.
Make sure to stop by The Bookery, a charming bookstore full of collectibles and Celtic tradition. Whether you’re a fan of rare books or simply love browsing through shelves of history, The Bookery offers a unique experience for those interested in the literary world and Celtic culture.
Don’t forget to stop by I Love Chocolate, a must-stop place to visit in Fergus. I Love Chocolate is known for its amazing made-on-site chocolate, fudge, candies, treats, and ice cream. This delightful store is a sweet tooth’s paradise, offering delicious handmade treats for all to enjoy!
Explore the Grand River & Trails
The Grand River is a key feature of Fergus, providing scenic beauty and a host of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or hiking, the Grand River offers endless opportunities to explore. Rent a canoe or kayak to paddle through the calm waters, or take a stroll along the riverbanks to enjoy the breathtaking views.
For hiking and birdwatching enthusiasts, the Grand River Conservation Area provides trails that are perfect for exploring the natural beauty of Fergus. The area is ideal for those looking to connect with nature in a peaceful setting.
Don’t forget to visit Templin Gardens, which offers one of the town’s most breathtaking views. The gardens are a peaceful retreat, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll or simply taking in the beauty of Fergus.
Visit Local Shops and Unique Businesses
When visiting Fergus, make sure to stop by some of its must-see shops and local businesses:
The Red Door: This amazing café overlooks the Grand River and offers the best soups and salads in town. The menu features delicious, healthy options, making it a fantastic choice for those with food allergies or anyone looking for nutritious, fresh meals. The Red Door is only open for lunch, but it’s worth the visit for its stunning view and wholesome fare.
The Goofie Newfie: Known as a pub with the best views of the river on the main strip, Goofie Newfie offers a relaxed atmosphere with delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual pint or a hearty meal, this pub is a local favorite for good food, great views, and a welcoming environment.
The Breadalbine: Offering an upscale pub experience, The Breadalbine is a cozy restaurant with amazing food and drink options. They also feature an Italian fusion restaurant called Scozia on-site, serving mouthwatering dishes that perfectly blend Italian flavors with local ingredients. Enjoy a meal on the gorgeous stone patio while taking in the views. The Breadalbine also functions as an Inn, offering a warm and welcoming stay for travelers.
One of a Kind Shop: As the name suggests, One of a Kind Shop offers a range of unique and handmade goods. It’s the perfect spot to find special souvenirs or gifts made by local artisans.
Local Pieces: For those looking to bring home a piece of Fergus, Local Pieces is a shop that showcases locally made art and crafts. This is the ideal place to find something truly unique and a lasting reminder of your trip.