After a two year hiatus, the much loved Harvest and Horses Festival returns to the John R. Park Homestead on Sunday, October 2, 2022.

“This festival introduces visitors to the history behind fall celebrations and the development of various autumn traditions,” says Kris Ives, Homestead Curator/Education Coordinator. “Harvest was an integral part of the year for early settlers as it was a time to reap the benefits of their labours, and horses were central to that important work.”

Many hands make light work. From 11:00am until 5:00pm, visitors can celebrate autumn the old-fashioned way by helping with cider pressing, sausage stuffing, corn husk crafts, and more! Costumed interpreters help guests travel back in time to the 1850s at a variety of pioneer demonstration stations. Ticket sales are in advance this year, and the ever-popular Parade of Horses will be held at both 1pm and 3pm. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to set up ring-side for the parade.  Please no dogs at this event, except for papered service dogs.

For the brave-of-heart, pioneer-era scary stories will be told in the house attic at posted times throughout the day. Bring your smiles, as families can also enjoy the harvest-themed family selfie station. Pony rides for children are available from Sarah Parks Horsemanship for $5, which can also be pre-purchased online. Lunch available for purchase from Scotty’s BBQ food truck.

Admission is $8.00 for Adults, $6.00 for Children (Ages 3-12), $6.00 for Seniors (Ages 65+), and $30.00 for a Family Rate (Max 6 People). Tickets available at https://essexregionconservation.ca/harvest.

The John R. Park Homestead is located at 915 County Road 50, at the corner of Iler Road, on the shore of Lake Erie.