The Quiet Before the Candy Floss: A Springtime Stroll Through the Kinmount Fairgrounds

There is a specific kind of stillness that only exists in a place designed for thousands of people when it’s currently holding zero.

I used a drone to tour through the Kinmount Fairgrounds today, and the contrast was striking. Right now, in late April, the grounds are quiet. The grass is just starting to think about turning green, the wind whistles through the empty grandstands, and the only "traffic" on the track is the occasional bird looking for a nesting spot.

But if you stand still long enough near the Pines Bandstand, you can almost hear the ghost of a fiddle tune or the distant roar of a demolition derby engine.

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A Century of Tradition in Every Acre

For those who don’t know, the Kinmount Fair isn’t just another weekend event; it’s a heartbeat for this part of Ontario. As we look ahead to September 4th–6th, 2026, we are staring down the 154th year of this tradition.

Viewing the empty grounds today, you realize how much history is soaked into the soil here. From the agricultural roots of the livestock barns to the legendary "Pines" where generations have shared a cold drink and a dance, these grounds are a vessel for memories.

Why the "Empty" Phase Matters

It’s easy to drive past the fairgrounds in the off-season and see just a field. But for those of us who mark our calendars by the Labour Day weekend, the empty grounds represent potential.

• The Track: Currently just a muddy loop, but in a few months, it will be the stage for the heavy horse pulls and the mud-slinging chaos of the derby.

• The Midway Space: A vacant lot today, but soon to be a neon-lit wonderland of spinning rides and the irresistible scent of tiny donuts.

• The Exhibit Halls: Quiet and cool right now, waiting for the arrival of prize-winning pumpkins, intricate quilts, and local photography.

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Looking Ahead: Kinmount Fair 2026

While today was about the peace and quiet, the countdown to the chaos is officially on. The 2026 edition promises to be one of the best yet. Whether you’re coming for the world-class agricultural shows, the live music, or just to see old friends you haven't spoken to since last September, the Fairgrounds are getting ready for you.

The Details You Need:

• Dates: Friday, Sept 4 – Sunday, Sept 6, 2026.

• Location: Kinmount, Ontario (The border of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton Highlands).

• The Vibe: Authentic, community-driven, and loud!

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Final Thoughts

If you have a moment this week, take a drive past the grounds. Enjoy the silence while it lasts, because once that gate opens on Friday morning of Labour Day weekend, Kinmount transforms into the center of the universe.

See you at the Fair! 🎡🍎🐴

Did you take any photos at the fair last year? Share your favorite memories in the comments below and let's get the hype started for 2026!

Do you have a specific memory from the demolition derby or the midway that always stands out to you?

Brought to you by: Your Local Realtor®: Brad Sinclair Re/Max Professionals North 705-927-6236 https://brad-sinclair.remax.ca

 

Campbellford, Ontario: The Perfect Blend of Adventure, Flavor, and Small-Town Charm

If you’re looking for a destination that captures the true essence of rural Ontario, look no further than Campbellford. Nestled in the heart of Trent Hills along the banks of the Trent-Severn Waterway, this vibrant town is more than just a pitstop—it’s a destination.

From record-breaking donuts to suspension bridges that will get your heart racing, here is everything you need to know about visiting or living in Campbellford in 2026.

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1. The Great Outdoors: Heights and Hikes

Campbellford is a playground for nature lovers. The crown jewel of its outdoor scene is undoubtedly the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge. Located within Ferris Provincial Park, this 300-foot-long bridge hangs 30 feet above the rushing waters of the Trent River. It’s open year-round, offering a unique perspective of the gorge, whether it’s blanketed in snow or surrounded by lush summer greenery.

• Pro Tip: While the bridge is a must-see, don't miss the trails at Ferris Provincial Park. If you're visiting in early spring, the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers. Camping season officially kicks off on May 8th, 2026, but day-use trails are perfect for a weekend hike right now.

2. Taste the Local Legends

You cannot mention Campbellford without talking about Dooher’s Bakery. Recently voted the Sweetest Bakery in Canada (again!), people travel from hours away for their famous cream-filled donuts.

• Note: Get there early. On weekends, the lineup often stretches down the block!

For the savoury side of life, a stop at Empire Cheese & Butter Co-op is mandatory. It is the only cheese co-operative in Ontario, and its fresh curd is legendary. Grab a bag and head over to Old Mill Park to enjoy it by the water.

3. Iconic Landmarks & "Toonie" Fun

Ever wonder where the Toonie came from? The artist who designed the polar bear on the Canadian two-dollar coin, Brent Townsend, lived in Campbellford! To celebrate, the town erected a Giant Toonie monument (standing 27 feet tall) in Old Mill Park. It’s the ultimate "I was here" photo op.

4. Arts, Culture, and the 2026 Season

Campbellford has a surprisingly sophisticated arts scene. Westben is a world-class performing arts venue located just outside of town, where "The Barn" offers a unique open-air acoustic experience.

• Coming up in 2026: The season kicks off with Songs of the Blue Bird on April 25th, followed by a major production of Shrek The Musical in June.

If you’re a fan of local food and community spirit, mark your calendars for Saturday, July 11, 2026, for the Incredible Edibles Festival. This downtown takeover celebrates the best farmers, chefs, and artisans in Trent Hills.

5. Life on the Water

The Trent-Severn Waterway is the lifeblood of the community. As of May 15th, 2026, the navigation season officially begins. Watching the boats pass through the local locks is a peaceful way to spend an afternoon. For those looking to get on the water themselves, kayak and canoe rentals are available near the Ferris boat launch starting in May.

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Why Campbellford?

Whether you’re walking across a gorge, biting into a warm donut, or exploring the quirky shops of the downtown core, Campbellford offers a pace of life that is increasingly rare. It’s a town that respects its history (like the historic Aron Theatre) while embracing a creative, forward-thinking future.

Have you crossed the Ranney Gorge bridge yet, or are you just here for the donuts?

 

Omemee: The Heart of the Kawarthas and the Town that Raised a Legend

Nestled along the banks of the Pigeon River, Omemee is more than just a dot on the map in the City of Kawartha Lakes. It’s a place where time slows down, the air feels a little fresher, and the history is as deep as the waters of the Otonabee. Whether you’re a music history buff, a nature lover, or a traveller looking for that perfect "small-town Ontario" vibe, Omemee has a way of staying with you long after you leave.

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A Little Piece of Rock ‘n’ Roll History

You can’t talk about Omemee without mentioning its most famous son: Neil Young. The legendary singer-songwriter spent his formative years here, and the town left an indelible mark on his music. His classic song "Helpless" famously references a "town in north Ontario" with "dream comfort memory to spare"—that town is Omemee.

While the Youngtown Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum (which once housed a treasure trove of Neil Young memorabilia) has closed its doors, the spirit of the music remains. Fans still make the pilgrimage to see the Omemee Dam, where a young Neil used to fish, and Coronation Hall, where he performed a surprise, internationally broadcast concert in 2017 to celebrate his roots.

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Nature at Your Doorstep

If you’re looking to trade screen time for green time, Omemee is perfectly positioned.

• Emily Provincial Park: Just a few minutes north of town, this park is a haven for campers and paddlers. It features two sandy beaches on the Pigeon River and a marsh boardwalk that’s perfect for birdwatching.

• The Victoria Rail Trail: For the hikers and cyclists, this section of the Trans-Canada Trail offers a stunning, flat path through the Kawartha countryside. The bridge over the Pigeon River in Omemee provides one of the best views in the county.

• Windy Ridge Conservation Area: For a panoramic view of the Oak Ridges Moraine, head to Windy Ridge. It’s a short hike with a massive payoff—especially during the fall when the leaves are changing.

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Architectural Gems & Heritage

Omemee’s downtown reflects its resilience. After a devastating fire in 1891, the community rebuilt with beautiful Second Empire and Arts and Crafts style buildings that still stand today.

Keep an eye out for the John McCrea Memorial Parsonage. Built by Lady Eaton (Flora McCrea) in memory of her father, it’s one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts architecture in the region. The town's connection to the Eaton family (of the famous Canadian department store empire) adds another layer of historical prestige to this "sleepy little place."

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A Modern Wonder: Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden

Just a short drive from the main strip is one of the most ambitious projects in North America: the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden. Spanning over 500 acres, this site features magnificent wooden temples built using traditional Chinese joinery (without a single nail!). Even if you aren't there for a retreat, the sheer scale of the golden statues and the tranquillity of the gardens make it a must-visit.

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Plan Your Visit

• Best Time to Go: Late spring through autumn. The Wutai Shan Garden and Emily Provincial Park are at their best when the weather is warm.

• The Vibe: Relaxed, historic, and welcoming.

• Don't Miss: A photo op at the Omemee bridge on the Rail Trail and a quiet moment by the Mill Pond.

Omemee might be small, but as Neil Young once sang, "all my changes were there." It’s a town built on memories, nature, and a quiet strength that continues to draw people in decades later.

Have you ever visited Omemee? What’s your favourite hidden gem in the Kawartha Lakes? Let us know in the comments!

 

Living in Apsley, Ontario: The Ultimate Guide to North Kawartha Real Estate & Lifestyle

Discovering the Heart of North Kawartha: Why Apsley is More Than Just a Stop on Highway 28

If you’ve ever driven north from Peterborough on Highway 28, you know that moment when the landscape shifts. The rolling fields give way to the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield, and suddenly, you’re in the heart of cottage country. At the center of it all lies Apsley, a village that is much more than a convenient pit stop—it is the vibrant, resilient pulse of the Township of North Kawartha.

The Great Outdoors is Your Front Yard

Living in or visiting Apsley means having some of Ontario's most legendary natural landmarks as your neighbours.

• Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park: As the largest provincial park in Ontario south of Algonquin, this is a paddler’s paradise. It offers a true backcountry experience without the six-hour drive from the GTA.
  
  
• Petroglyphs Provincial Park: Home to the largest concentration of ancient Indigenous rock carvings in Canada, this is a place of deep history and spiritual significance right in our backyard.
  
  
• The Lakes: Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters of Chandos Lake, the quiet beauty of Jack Lake, or the winding currents of Eels Creek, water is the lifeblood of this community.

A Community That Hustles (and Plays) Together

Apsley isn’t just a seasonal destination; it’s a "complete community." You can walk from your front door to the grocery store, the LCBO, or the local pharmacy. But beyond the essentials, it’s the local spirit that defines the area.

Just recently, our arenas were buzzing with the North Kawartha Figure Skating Club’s "80s on Ice" show, and as we move into spring, the focus shifts. We’re currently seeing the annual "half-load" restrictions on the roads—a sure sign that the frost is leaving the ground—and the Lions Home & Cottage Show (coming up May 3rd!) is the talk of the town. It’s where everyone from contractors to local artisans gathers to kick off the spring season.

The "April Pulse" in Apsley

If you're a local, you know April is about transition. We’re keeping an eye on the spring melt, and for those of us on wells, the free water sampling program through Lakelands Public Health is back in action starting April 7th—a small but vital part of rural living.

Whether it's volunteering at the fire hall or grabbing a coffee and chatting about the latest municipal updates, there is a sense of "we’re all in this together" that you just don't find in the big city.

Your Local Guide to North Kawartha Real Estate

Whether you are looking for a rugged waterfront retreat on the Shield or a quiet rural home where you can watch the deer from your porch, navigating the North Kawartha market requires local boots on the ground.

As a Real Estate Specialist with RE/MAX Professionals North, I don’t just sell houses here—I live the lifestyle. From understanding the nuances of shoreline requirements to knowing which backroads get plowed first in a snowstorm, The Brad Sinclair Team is here to solve the problems that come with rural and waterfront moves.

If you’re thinking about making Apsley or the surrounding Kawarthas your permanent home or your seasonal escape, let’s talk. I’m always out and about—usually with a camera in hand or heading to a fire practice—and I’d love to help you find your piece of the north.

Brad Sinclair RE/MAX Professionals North | The Brad Sinclair Team Specializing in Rural and Waterfront Properties

How can I help you find your dream property in Apsley?