Stratford: things to do and see in Ontario's mecca for arts and culture
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The main entrance to the Tom Patterson Theatre in Stratford, Ont.By Nicole Osborne for the Toronto Star
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Ontario, amid a vast expanse of green farmland, Stratford, Ont., exudes an unpretentious charm. But this small city of 33,000 inhabitants is also Ontario's mecca for arts and culture.
Each spring and summer, Stratford comes alive with an eclectic lineup of events, anchored by the annual Stratford Festival, the largest repertory theatre company in North America.
Stratford, situated on the banks of the Avon River, is named after England's Stratford-upon-Avon. For decades, it was known as an industrial town, home to a massive railway shop for the Grand Trunk Railway and Canadian National Railway. Later, however, amid the demise of the manufacturing industry, the town ventured into show business, kick-starting its eponymous festival in 1953, the brainchild of journalist Tom Patterson.
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Today, the city draws thousands of visitors each season, filling its quaint streets and four main theatres.
If you're heading to Stratford this summer, here's a list of recommendations to make the most of your trip.
Attractions[*]The Stratford Festival, North America's largest repertory theatre company, boasts a dozen productions in its 2024 season, which runs through October. [*]Stratford Summer Music, an annual multi-event festival, runs from July 18 to Aug. 11, and will feature artists like Measha Brueggergosman-Lee and Angela Hewitt.[*]Here For Now Theatre Company mounts intimate productions of lesser-known works, offering a welcome counterpoint to the larger shows at the main festival.[*]Gallery Stratford, with its free admission, showcases an eclectic mix of local, national and international art.
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The main entrance to the Tom Patterson Theatre in Stratford, Ont.
By Nicole Osborne for the Toronto Star
Restaurants[*]Lovage, a quaint restaurant and wine bar with outdoor seating, features a rotating menu of delectable small plates for family-style dining. [*]Sirkel Foods is an unpretentious café serving up creative sandwiches and other quick bites. [*]Fellini's, a popular restaurant near the downtown area, offers a wide selection of Italian fare, including hearty pastas and pizzas. [*]The Wild Hog Country Market, just east of the city, features fresh produce and meats, along with tasty sandwiches, drinks and baked goods. [*]Mone-Thai, in the downtown area, is a family-run Thai establishment with delicious curries and a friendly atmosphere.
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Shopping[*]Fanfare Books is a charming bookstore with a strong selection of theatre-related reads.[*]MacLeods Scottish Shop features kilts, tartans, and other clothing and gifts from Scotland and across the U.K. [*]Bradshaws is a sprawling store stocked with a variety of gifts, household items and kitchen products. Accommodations[*]The Three Houses Inn near the downtown core is a gorgeous bread and breakfast featuring a private salt-water pool. [*]The Stratford Suburban Motel, tucked away from the main drag, is a hidden oasis, featuring clean, simple and affordable accommodations. [*]Best Western Plus The Arden Park Hotel is just a stone's throw away from the Festival Theatre and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant and a conference centre.
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A swan, among the waterfowl that make their homes along the Avon River in Stratford, Ont.
By Nicole Osborne for the Toronto Star
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