October is a busy time in Niagara. The wineries are in the middle of harvest season, checking the grapes for readiness and crushing the Pinot Noir (my fav). Farms are planning for winter, picking apples, and preparing hay. Farm markets are still in full swing, offering the bounty of Niagara fruit and veggies. And the Falls area is as busy as ever with lots to see and do. Though we’re pulling out the flannel blankets and closed footwear, we’re not going to be hibernating. There’s plenty to do around the Niagara region this October, which is also Thanksgiving month here in Canada. Here are my picks for Thanksgiving, harvest and halloween month.
Peller Estates Winery Fire Pit Fridays
290 John St. E. Niagara-on-the-lake.
Cozy up to the fire and grab a burger and poutine at Peller Estates Winery on Friday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30pm. A Great way to kick start your weekend.
Fort George Halloween Ghost Walks
51 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake
It’s boo time in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the most haunted town in Canada. Fort George offers ghost walks by lantern and candlelight on several evenings throughout October. Not for the faint of heart and tickets sell out so get yours while you can. You can also book private tours. Boo!
Ball’s Falls Annual Thanksgiving Festival
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, Sixth Avenue, Lincoln Ontario
A Niagara tradition in its 45th year, this family friendly event offers plenty to do and see in a beautiful area surrounded by the changing leaves of Autumn. Sample VQA wines, purchase farm fresh fruits and veggies, take a nature walk to view the waterfalls at Ball’s Falls, and visit the booths of over 170 artisans, demonstrators and entertainers from October 11th to 14th from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Tickets at the door are only $7.
Lakeview Wine Co. Palmistry and Potions
1067 Niagara Stone Rd. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Tap into your psychic abilities with this fun group event at Lakeview Wine Co. where the Psychic Soul Sisters will guide you through a saging ritual, meditation, palm reading and more. Oct 22 6:30 to 8:00pm. Tickets are $30.
Nelles Manor Ghost Tours
126 Main Street West, Grimsby, Ontario
For four days this October you can travel back to the turbulent times of the war of 1812 and experience real paranormal accounts about the ghosts that haunt this 230 year old manor, which was owned by various members of the Nelles’ until just recently. Oct 17th, 18th, 25th and 26th at various times. Tickets are only $13 and can be purchased online.
Rockway Vineyards Fish Friday
3290 Ninth Street. St. Catharines, Ontario
Every Friday at Rockway Vineyards enjoy battered fish with Rockway’s 2014 Wild Ferment chardonnay. Casual, fun, and a good way to step into your weekend.
Trius Winery Murder Mystery Dinner
1249 Niagara Stone Rd. Niagara-on-the-Lake
A thrilling and chilling evening is promised on October 26th at Trius Winery. It includes a 3 course dinner in the vineyard pavilion, cocktail reception, and some detective work. The only question you’ll be asking is, “who done it?” Tickets are $159, available online.
Redstone Winery Thanksgiving Lunch
4245 King Street East. Beamsville, Ontario
Want to do something different for Thanksgiving this year that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Redstone Winery in Beamsville is offering a Thanksgiving lunch menu that sounds scrumptious. Saturday Oct 13th from 11:30 am to 2:30pm for just $45 on a prix fixe menu. Give thanks to Redstone for making Thanksgiving easy peasy!
These fun ideas are a great way to celebrate harvest season and enjoy the many beautiful areas of Niagara, Ontario. If you know of any others you’d like to share, add them here. Or connect with me on Instagram.
Life with Alegria 