The sweet taste of summer is almost here as the Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre prepares to host its annual Strawberry Festival on June 29th starting at 11:00 a.m.. This much-loved community tradition brings together fresh local strawberries, live music, and hands-on heritage fun for a full day of family-friendly activities.
Guests will have the chance to explore the museum and its historic outbuildings, while enjoying heritage demonstrations like blacksmithing with Mike Whitmore of Whitewater Forge and traditional weaving. The festival offers a perfect mix of culture and entertainment, with live performances by Gillan Rutz from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Amanda Dupuis & Friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Children will be kept busy with crafts, games, and photo ops, including a strawberry and pioneer-themed photo station, a scavenger hunt with prizes, and the chance to paint their own strawberry rocks. Activities like corn husk doll making and quilt colouring will also be available.
One of the highlights of the festival is the beautifully restored historic pump cart, now on display near the Kids’ Days station. This restoration was completed last summer by volunteer Andre Pilon, with the support of local businesses like Smitty’s Home Hardware, Rosso’s Home Hardware, Harrington Mechanical, and Canadian Tire.
Attendees can also indulge in cake and ice cream topped with fresh, locally grown strawberries from McGregor’s Produce—a festival favourite that keeps people coming back year after year.
Admission is $15 per adult, $7 per child aged 6 to 12, and free for kids 5 and under. Ottawa Valley Historical Society members can attend for $12. Tickets are available in advance from the museum office or at the gate, with payment accepted by cash, debit, credit, or e-transfer to curator@uovheritagecentre.ca.
Parking is available at the museum, with additional space offered at the Pembroke Mall across the street. Guests who do not require accessible parking are encouraged to use the mall lot.
For more details or to stay up to date, call 613-735-0517 or visit the museum’s Facebook page. Invite your friends and family, and come celebrate summer the old-fashioned way—with music, memories, and strawberries.
(Written by: Emma Butler)