Arts and Culture

Art Lover's Delight - The Westport and Rideau District is blessed with creativity in all forms. Lakes, streams, forests and artists enliven the culture of the Rideau area. Many of our local artists welcome you to their studios where you can discover an exciting and eclectic range of high quality original work.

Dandelion Gardens Studio Tour: "The annual Westport Area Dandelion Gardens Studio Tour is being held again on the May long weekend 22 - 24 2010 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Our
unique fine art includes magical photographic art, elegant flowing
sculptures, traditional rughooking, gorgeous comfortable clothing and
throws, rustic birdhouses and mirrors, stained glass and copper and glass
garden sculptures, recycled farm equipment; unique pottery and painted
items, architectural sculptures, wire art, heritage paintings and much
more.
http://artatwork.ca/westport_studiotours/index.html

Fall Colours Studio Tour: The beautiful Rideau Region, resplendent in its patchwork quilt of autumn reds and golds,provides a fitting backdrop for the Thanksgiving Weekend's annual Fall Colours Studio Tour. As you meander through the glorious countryside, watch for the colourful Studio tour signs marking your way.  This year we have added many new artists and 3 new studios to our tour.  Visit our 15 picturesque studios in and around the village of Westport. Join us as we open our doors to the public for this free, self-guided tour, now in it's 21st year. Many of the artists will be demonstrating while working on new pieces at their studios. This is a wonderful opportunity to add to your own collection or to get a jump on your Christmas shopping with exquisite one of a kind works of art.
Tour maps are available at a variety of area businesses and tourist information centers.
Studios are open Saturday through Monday from 10 until five October 9, 10 and 11th. For more information contact Loretta Moore @ 613-273-8347 or  visit our website at:
http://artatwork.ca/westport_studiotours/index.html.


Popular Art Show Every Summer

The Rideau Valley Art Festival is held annually in Westport, the heart of the historic Rideau Valley. Last year the festival was home to 63 artists. Festival organizers search out original works of art by well-known and new artists whose work is juried before acceptance, the Board of Directors ensures high-quality work and a showcase of exceptional talent.

SHOW DATES

Friday Aug 27, 20106:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday Aug 28, 201010:00am - 6:00 pm
Sunday Aug 29, 201010:00am - 4:00 pm

REST YOUR WEARY HEAD
There’s great hospitality in Westport and Rideau Lakes. Our accommodation partners take personal pride in assuring your comfort. After all, a good night’s rest in cottage country leaves you refreshed for hiking, swimming, boating, maybe a horseback ride, you name it!

YUMMY FOR THE TUMMY
This region is blessed with good, natural food – and great cooks, too. If you plan a visit to the Westport and Rideau Lakes District relax and let someone else take care in the kitchen. Whether looking for a 220 seats for the ultimate party, or a country styled inn – maybe just a simple coffee bar or a full service grocery store, these Chamber members are ready to serve.

DID WE MENTION SHOPPING?
There’s a ton of reasons to visit this area. Fresh air, nature and hiking trails. It’s a great place for a bike or boat ride. But clearly, people love the unique shopping and retail stores found here. Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber members know the value of a dollar; they excel at service and offer a wide selection of goods and services. We really do boast great shopping. Browse our member’s directory.

WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE:
From May until mid-October boaters use the municipal dock located on Upper Rideau Lake in Westport. Village amenities are easily accessible via a footbridge. Within easy driving of Westport are dozens of lakes; canoeing, boating and fishing are favourite pastimes in the area. Boat and canoe rentals are available in town.
~ WESTPORT & RIDEAU LAKES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ~
BOX 157, WESTPORT ONTARIO, K0G 1X0 PHONE/FAX (613) 273-2929

WEB SITE CREDITS: Photos by Martha Kudrinko, Julia Vamos, Rideau Heritage Route, The Cove, Township of Rideau Lakes, Village of Westport, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, Paul Legacey, Gord Herington, Forfar Cheese Factory, Parks Canada; Photo of Lt. Col. John By provided by Royal Engineers Royal Engineers Museum of Military Engineering Gillingham, U.K. Parks Canada; Content by B. Judge, Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber of Commerce; Web Team, Jaeson Tanner and Associates