The Bonnechere Valley Inspired Tour returns for its fourth year on August 1 and 2, from 10am to 4pm daily. There are 12 great stops throughout Bonnechere Valley Township with over 40 participating local artists, artisans, food producers and heritage sites. The tour begins on Saturday with a drum and smudge opening ceremony at the Bonnechere Museum in Eganville and continues on a looped route to the rest of the stops. Of course, you can start your loop at any point, travelling either sunwise/clockwise or widdershins/counterclockwise (fun fact — before people had clocks and watches they actually used these words) around the route. At the stops themselves you will find talented jewellers, painters, potters, cider makers, upcyclers, soap makers, glass makers, textile artists and so much more. Organizers have even included a specialty poutine truck to help fuel you on your trip.
On Saturday evening, the inspiring farm to fork dinner (a ticketed event) at Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork returns by popular demand.
What makes this tour unique is the grassroots movement by Bonnechere Valley Inspired to create public art to enhance their community. They have painted over 20 doors and numerous art panels in Eganville, as well as facilitating and painting over 40 barn quilts of various sizes in the rural portion of Bonnechere Valley, many of which can be seen as you travel the tour. Their belief that creativity can be a transforming and powerful force continues to drive their volunteer efforts. This is your chance to meet many of these inspiring and passionate people!
Maps and information on the stops and participating local artists, artisans, food producers, heritage and events can be found at bonnecherevalleyinspired.ca. Follow Bonnechere Valley Inspired on Facebook for up-to-the-minute information!