Written by Carrie Oreskovich
I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’ve really been needing a little holiday sparkle, or spirit, or even a piped-in Christmas carol on a bad sound system these days. Anything to break the monotony of this Groundhog-Day life. And I’d also love to buy some gifts for the holiday season that don’t involve having to sit at my computer for another second, scrolling through reviews, and clicking my pay away. I want a real, live experience.
The upcoming winter months have sent a lot of us into planning mode for how to keep our spirits up during the darkest days while being restricted in what we can safely consider. In my attempts at escaping my small apartment (AKA my office, my restaurant, my movie theater, my everything) I’ve been trying to explore various parts of Ontario to change up the environment and my mindset. This past weekend, while staying at an Airbnb near Goderich, Ontario, I stumbled on the Village of Bayfield. And while it’s clearly adorable in all seasons, it’s even more so right now, with all of the decorations and holiday cheer.
The village itself is charming. Cute storefronts, heritage buildings, and a large range of shops with giftware, clothing, and food options. Really, you could cover off everyone on your list with some stellar brands and unique gifts. A trendy Brunette the Label sweater for your niece, a handmade necklace for your Mom, some local Shopbike brand coffee for your Dad, or some cool socks for your boyfriend for when he finally returns to the office.
We arrived on a Saturday and the main street was closed to cars, promoting an unhurried, enjoyable, and socially distanced shopping experience. They even had warming stations set up along the street. Many of the shops had specials, and Christmas carols were piping throughout.
In between shopping, there are lots of options to make a day of it. Grab a beer at the local Bayfield Brewing Co. (I recommend the Hazy Sunset), enjoy a nice meal at one of the cute restaurants, browse the Village Bookshop, stroll through the Clan Gregor Square, or take a photo at the Holiday Photo Station with a chance to win a $200 shopping spree through posting on social media. I left with a wide smile and feeling cheerful. While all of the COVID practices were followed, it still felt quite normal and hopeful.
To make a full day (or weekend) out of it, you could also explore the waterfront in the area. Many of the smaller beaches on Lake Huron have all but vanished with rising water levels, but you can still find a few spots to watch the waves, or drive to one of the bigger area beaches (Grand Bend or Goderich, cute towns in their own right). There are lots of lodging options available right in town, and all around the area. Next time I want to check out the famous Albion Hotel, operating in Bayfield for 145 years.
And definitely take the long way home. With a plethora of small towns in the area, it’s a beautiful drive, especially set to the right playlist. We stopped on the way up at Descendants Beer and Beverage Co. in Kitchener, and on the way home at Cowbell Brewing. Both delicious and festive. But if beer isn’t your thing there are wineries, conservation areas, and lots of small-town distractions to keep you occupied.
The Bayfield main street will be pedestrian only every Saturday for “Christmas in Bayfield” up to and including December 19th. Check out their website for any covid related updates and directions.
