Ontario’s sweetest celebration returns to downtown Midland on June 13
More than 300,000 butter tarts, 230 vendors and tens of thousands of visitors will fill downtown Midland for Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival, presented by Chapman’s, on June 13.
The festival kicks off at 9 a.m. with the Piping of the Tart Ceremony, where last year’s Best-in-Show butter tart will be carried along King Street, accompanied by the Midland Pipes and Drums. The procession begins at the waterfront and ends at the Midland Cultural Centre, where the butter tart will be presented to Mayor Bill Gordon, who will declare this year’s festival open.
“Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival presented by Chapman’s showcases the spirit of our community, welcoming visitors from near and far to experience Midland’s charm, creativity, and, of course, some of the best butter tarts in the province,” said Mayor Bill Gordon.
The award-winning festival, which began in 2013, is the original and largest butter tart festival in Canada, drawing around 60,000 visitors for the one-day event.
Chapman’s, the festival’s presenting sponsor for the second year in a row, will provide samples of its newly launched Premium Pecan Butter Tart Ice Cream. Festivalgoers will find Chapman’s on Elizabeth Street near the Midland Cultural Centre.
“It’s always exciting to see the community come together for the festival,” said Karen Mealing, manager of culture and tourism. “There’s an incredible energy all day, and it’s very rewarding to help create an experience that both residents and visitors look forward to every year.”
Contest
The Egg Farmers of Ontario Butter Tart Contest crowns Ontario’s Best Butter Tart. Judging takes place inside the Midland Cultural Centre, and the public is invited to watch judges undertake this important task. Anyone eager to sample tarts from the contest can purchase mixed six-packs from Scotiabank (291 King St.) for $15.
Vendors
In addition to butter tarts, the festival hosts more than 230 vendors selling art, crafts, clothing, jewellery and many other unique goods. A variety of food trucks will be located throughout the festival grounds for those looking for other sweet and savoury options. Many of Midland’s downtown businesses also participate by setting up their wares on the sidewalks.
Entertainment for all ages
The free festival also features live entertainment, including buskers, street performers and a full lineup of bands on the main stage in Harbourside Park. Performers include Jamileh, The High Road, ASD Band, Rebekah Stevens, Andy Colonico and Joshua Sheppard.
The Faris Team Kids Zone in Harbourside Park will feature a large inflatable area with obstacle courses, slides, games and more. Play-all-day passes will be available for $20 at the entrance.
Transit
Visitors can take a free Desjardins Shuttle to downtown Midland from two parking locations: Mountainview Shopping Centre (9226 County Rd. 93) and Wye Valley Storage (1000 Wye Valley Rd.). Regular Mid-Pen Transit service will also be free on festival day, and Cycle Simcoe will offer a free bicycle valet for those arriving by bike.
For full festival details, visit ButterTartFestival.ca and follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram.
