Jacob Robinson

The 171st Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Fair brought families together at Memorial Park, featuring rides, games, entertainment, a baby show and a pet show. Newcomer Krystal Smith praised Tillsonburg’s welcoming community, while her daughter Ellie was crowned mini-queen for the second time in three years. Longtime volunteer Ilene Chesterman highlighted the fair’s family appeal and suggested organizers may need to consider future changes.

Port Dover’s 55th annual Summer Festival Art in the Park and Main St. Market brought dozens of vendors, musicians, volunteers and visitors to Powell Park and the Main Street Market. Karen Stronach showcased Dog Gone Gear, a business she created after making bandanas for her dog, while festival chair Jan Overend said organizers carefully select vendors to maintain a high standard of craft. The weekend event was described as highly successful, with strong participation and favorable weather.

Port Dover’s Lighthouse Festival has appointed David Leyshon as artistic director after a national search and unanimous board endorsement. Leyshon, who had served as interim artistic producer since fall 2025, was credited with helping lead the festival’s production of Curtains, directing Secret Service and shaping the 2027 playbill. Festival leaders praised his artistic vision, collaborative approach and commitment to Canadian theatre. Separately, Simcoe Little Theatre announced its 2027 season, featuring Shrek The Musical, Forever Plaid and Norm Foster’s Office Hours as it celebrates its 80th anniversary serving Norfolk County.

Norfolk County may allow condominium residents to join its new automated waste collection program after residents objected to being excluded and facing costly private collection. Councillor Adam Veri proposed allowing condo managers to apply for municipal service, subject to properties meeting safety and space requirements for mechanical truck collection. County staff estimated that only four or five developments currently appear suitable, including four on Richardson Drive in Port Dover. The municipality will assess applications individually as it prepares to launch the provincially mandated system this fall.