Celebrate Culture in Ontario's Highlands

It’s hard not to get inspired in fall – inspired to create, inspired to change, and inspired to grow. As Mother Nature shows off her creative side, there are a number of others who will be showing theirs as well, with studio tours and cultural events taking place across Ontario’s Highlands.

Check out one of the tours below for the chance to uncover hidden treasures, cruise winding roads surrounded by rich autumn beauty, and discover the passion and skill behind each local creation.

Bancroft & Area Autumn Studio Tour

When: Sept. 21-22 and 28-29 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Bancroft & Area

See the fall colours in North Hastings while touring these artist’s studios and be inspired by the artists, their creations, and the scenery in Hastings County. This year is the 32nd year for the Bancroft Autumn Studio Tour!

Heartbeat of the Valley - Ontario Culture Days Event

When: Sept. 21, 2024, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Westmeath Recreation Centre

Celebreate diversity while spotlighting the visual and performative power of the arts at this community event hosted by Don Kwan in Westmeath. Don Kwan is a queer, third-generation, Chines-Canadian multidisciplinary artist whose work explores place, identity, representation and intergenerational memory-making across time. Visit the small community of Westmeath for this arts-focused, free community event. 

Alpaca Farm Tour

When: Sept. 21-22, 2024, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Forest Cove Farm, Chalk River

Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to see alpacas and their babies, called crias? This event at Forest Cove Farm is part of National Alpaca Farm Days, and will feature food, face painting, fibre demonstrations and more.

North Frontenac Backroads Studio Tour

When: Sept. 28-29, 2024, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: North Frontenac

Wander the backroads of North Frontenac to be inspired by the beautiful fall scenery. The studio tour takes you from woodlands to farmers fields to 13 studio locations featuring the works of 25 local artisans. Bring your wallet for this road trip, because you’ll need it to bring home some local goodies.

The Tweed & Area Studio Tour

When: Sept. 28-29, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Tweed

Marvel at how the gently rolling countryside is transformed by autumn’s glory outside, before stepping inside artist and artisan studios to discover the warmth and incredible talent that lives in Tweed and the surrounding area. While you're in Tweed, check out 'North America's Smallest Jailhouse'.

Tweed & Co.’s  Craig Cardiff

When: Sept. 29, 2024, 2 p.m.
Where: Marble Arts Centre, Tweed

If you're looking forward to seeing live performances again, this one is a must see! Head to the Marble Arts Centre in Tweed to watch as singer-songwriter Craig Cardiff build landscapes of sound using live digital loops. Purchase Tweed & Co.'s tickets to this musical event here.

Madawaska Valley Studio Tour 

When: Oct. 5-6, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Madawaska Valley

The fall edition of the Madawaska Valley Studio Tour is an opportunity to dive deep into the valley landscape and meet the artists and artisans that provide creative context to the region. Artists include glass makers, wood carvers, textile workers, potters, and more.

The Studio Tour - Haliburton Highlands

When: Oct. 5-6 and 12-13, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Haliburton Highlands 

Embrace the peaceful beauty of the Haliburton Highlands as you discover where and how over 30 artists and artisans live and work. Explore the region and watch for the The Studio Tour logo to uncover unique treasures and handmade works of art.

Crown & Pumpkin Studio Tour 

When: Oct. 12-13, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Lanark County

This year’s event is a compilation of the Art in the Attic Studio Tour, and the Maple Run Studio Tour, all rolled into one artistic and creative immersion in Lanark County. Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you travel the winding roads of the Almonte and Clayton areas and marvel at the artistic diversity that abounds. Wander the region by car or bicycle to discover the craftsmanship and skill of local artists, set against a backdrop of vibrant fall colours and flavours.