Woodstock – The Ontario Version
AutoWoodstock, Ontario is a quaint town located along the River Thames in southwestern Ontario. While certainly not the most famous Woodstock in North America, the town still has its own charm. It has a population of just over 35,000 inhabitants and measures about 128 km. from toronto
It is commonly known as the “Dairy Capital of Canada” and promotes itself as “The Friendly City”. Woodstock’s urban center is growing in size, but the city is still slower paced, very rural and comfortable. It may not be an attractive tourist destination, but it definitely has its own unique charm and you may be surprised by some of its entertaining attractions:
1. Cowapalooza!: That’s not a typo. Woodstock is known for its dairy production. It also has a $4,000 statue honoring a prized fat-producing cow known as the Snow Countess. Woodstock definitely has an affinity for dairy cows. Just look at the acronym for the city of Woodstock – COW
Cowapalooza is an annual festival dedicated to family entertainment. It offers a host of kid-related activities: there’s an intermission, classic carnival foods like cotton candy, and competitions like soap box derbies and milking contests. However, it does not leave out adults. The event features quality entertainment, a free rock concert that attracts around 5,000 people, and most importantly, beer gardens.
2. Icon Lighthouse: If you are interested in religious history, Woodstock should definitely be on your short list of places to visit in Ontario. The Studite Fathers are members of one of the oldest monastic orders in the Church. Its formation dates back to times before the schism. In Woodstock they have a religious complex that includes the Icons Lighthouse, which is a 40-meter-high structure with an octagonal shape.
The shape of the lighthouse was used intentionally to instill a feeling of being a lighthouse that helps you find your way in the world. It has a viewing platform with a great panoramic view of Woodstock. It also houses a gallery displaying 88 religious icons in addition to valuable maps and exhibits. It is a popular destination for religious tourists and pilgrimages.
3. Birch Farms and Estate Winery: You don’t have to drink just milk when you visit Woodstock! Located just north of the city is Birch Farms and Winery. It is a truly unique rural experience and would feel like a different world to a city dweller. It’s no wonder this is a popular destination for school trips during the school year.
It offers many field experiences. You can pick your own apples, pick your own pumpkins, and there’s even a playground and corn maze. Parents who bring their kids don’t need to leave empty-handed either. The hotel’s wine cellar offers a selection of fruit wines made from local Ontario produce. Varieties include apple, peach, pear, and many others. For a gift that’s sure to please, pair wine with preserves, cheeses, candles, or glassware to create a gift basket made to impress.
Woodstock is a city that is not afraid of its country roads. It’s refreshing to visit a place that encompasses what makes it special. Events like Cowapalooza and statues like Snow Countess only add to the charm of this city.
It has all the modern conveniences you need to live your life, yet has a warmth and appeal that wouldn’t be mistaken for anything other than rural Ontario. “The Friendly City” isn’t just a clever tagline, it is exactly what it is.
For more information: Ontario.