StratfordON
47 Downie St. N5A 1W7 Stratford, ON, Canada

Get your Stratford shopping on (without parking, people or pants). Support local by shopping from your favourite Stratford businesses through curbside pickup or delivery! In Stratford, we are full of unique gifts, treats and treasures that you can’t find anywhere else. Check out Stratford’s wide variety of clothing boutiques, gift shops with lovable knick-knacks and funny gifts, arts and cultural treasures, homeware and culinary supplies to spruce up your home and SO much mo...re! Order directly from your favourite Stratford stores and continue to #SupportLocal #ShopStratford #StratfordShopping #ShopLocal #InThisTogether Brittlestar

Today we’re throwing it back to a beautifully written article from a few months back in TOQUE Magazine by Chris Tiessen; "Stratford: Where Everything's Within Reach" - Toque Ltd Looking forward to better days ahead when Stratford can be explored by all once it is safe to do so (article was written prior to current COVID restrictions) ... Read a small teaser of the article below or browse the full piece through the link https://toquemagazine.com//stratford-where-everythings-wi/ "I open my eyes just wide enough to peer through the pitch blackness. There’s barely a hint of light emanating through my hotel room window covered by the curtain I’d swept across it before hopping into bed. I strain to scan the room. Slowly. With focused intention. Then I spot it, on what I take to be the bedside table. The vague outline of a tin foil package subtly illumined by a glint of light. I smile in the darkness and fumble around until my hands hold fast to this silver treasure. I pull the package toward me and roll back the edges of foil. Zesty aromas of rich marinara sauce, handmade spaghetti noodles, and almost fist-sized meatballs hit my nostrils and I’m in heaven. For the next quarter hour, using only my fingers as utensils and guide, I devour this take-out magnificence. From AO Pasta in downtown Stratford. Wholly satisfied, I make my way in the dark to the sink. Wash my hands. Throw out the tinfoil container. And curl up to sleep dreaming of the awesome day that Cai, my TOQUE mate, and I have just enjoyed touring around Festival City." - Chris Tiessen; TOQUE Magazine #LoveStratford

Taking a look back at a few (among many) of our favourite posts and memories from last year We are thankful and grateful for our resilient, strong, driven, kind and loving community of Stratford #LoveStratford #InThisTogether #StratfordStrong (images featured were taken prior to current COVID restrictions)

Have you noticed the glowing red neon hearts that have started to pop up in windowsills all around Stratford? These were originally intended for Lights On Stratford to create a giant Heart of Hearts light sculpture at the Festival Theatre. The glowing hearts are in place as a symbol of support towards frontline and live events workers in our community As a way to show your support, consider lighting up your own windows with red lights OR purchase a heart of your own through... the link below. We love to see this collective gesture of community support, positivity and togetherness during these difficult times. Tag us in your posts by using the hashtags: #LightUpLive #StratfordHasHeart #LightsOnStratford #LoveStratford #StratfordStrong #InThisTogether https://www.mossled.com//light-up-live-sept-22-red-neon-he

We know you're missing all things STRATFORD, and trust us, we're desperately missing all of our wonderful visitors Share with us in the comments below what you're looking forward to doing most when you're able to safely visit Stratford again Whether it's dining out with friends, a downtown shopping spree, a trip to the spa or a date night at the theatre; we'd love to hear from you! #LoveStratford #StaySafe #StayHome #InThisTogether

At this time, Lights on Stratford is intended for local residents within the region to enjoy safely while wearing masks and practicing physical distancing. The festival will be up and running right through to Feb. 14th. We look forward to welcoming visitors once it’s safe to do so! #lightsonstratford : Mike Beitz

Travel & food writer, Raymond Cua, from "Travelling Foodie" recently visited Stratford and was on the search for safe ways to explore one of his favourite cities. Head over to the Travelling Foodie's blog post to check out his list of "7 Best Things to Do in Stratford This Fall." https://travellingfoodie.net/fall-in-stratford-ontario/... #SafetyFirst #LoveStratford

THE CHRISTMAS TRAIL IS HERE! Stratford makes shopping for the holidays your favourite part of the season! Grab a seasonal latte and soak up the festive atmosphere of Stratford’s unique, artisanal stores. Hit the Stratford Christmas Trail to get your holiday shopping started. It’s so easy. Just pick six gifts for $30(+HST) from your choice of trendy and distinctive offerings at any of the 23 stops on the trail. Share with family and friends, or keep a treat or two for yours...elf. We won’t tell Purchase your trails in person at Destination Stratford, 47 Downie Street and present one voucher at each of 6 stops to receive your holiday gift. Christmas Trail vouchers are valid until December 20. Check out the map and brochure here https://visitstratford.ca/christmastrail And don’t forget to take a break in one of our many cafes and coffee shops for some freshly roasted coffees, hot cocoa or a hot toddy and wonderful lunches and snacks. #stratfordchristmastrail

The first official Lights On Stratford On installation will be LIT UP tonight in Market Square from 6:00 - 9:00! You’ll have to see for yourself to witness the magic this exhibit brings! More lights festival locations launching soon. Visit www.lighstonstratford.ca for schedule and details. IMPORTANT REMINDER: remember to wear your mask and stay 2 meters apart. The exhibit will be up for the public to enjoy until February 14th.... : LittleBigCreative #lightsonstratford #ittakesavillage #lettherebelight

Prepare to be dazzled this upcoming season with Lights On Stratford We’re getting closer to turning the lights on, and it’s going to be brilliant! Here’s the timeline and schedule for the launch of each lights festival locations. Come see Stratford in a different light! For more information, visit https://bit.ly/35N33Uj #LightsOnStratford

It’s THURSDAY...and you know what that means! Join Stratford Festival tonight for a love viewing party of their 1992 production of Romeo and Juliet starring Antoni Cimolino and Megan Follows. We know that MANY have been awaiting this one and it’s finally here! As a prelude to the film, Stratford Festival will be reuniting Antoni and Megan and their most recent star crossed lovers, Sara Farb and Antoine Yared, for a special pre-show chat hosted by Beck Lloyd. Pre-show chat beg...ins at 6:30pm EST followed by the film at 7. See you tonight! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXbgZXIW9Mc Can’t wait? Subscribe to STRATFEST@HOME to watch it right now: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/AtHome

Food blogger Jacky from The Everyday Foodie recently visited in hopes of learning more about Stratford's delectable food scene. Head over to his recent blog post to see how he safely explored Stratford this season. http://www.theeverydayfoodie.ca//fall-for-stratford-everyt #SafetyFirst #LoveStratford #Foodie

With this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony going online, you will be able to tune in to the live stream at 10:30 am running until 11:30 am. The broadcast can be found on Rogers TV, 107.1 FM and 107.7 FM, and YouTube. Those wishing to pay their respects are asked to do so from home. If you wish to make a personal tribute (wreaths/ flowers) please do so later in the afternoon. #LestWeForget #WeRemember #CanadaRemembers #RemembranceDay https://bit.ly/3phhHMb

Lights On Stratford COMING SOON Follow the link for full schedule of target launch dates of each festival site. www.lightsonstratford.ca PLEASE NOTE: To maximize safety and minimize risk for both staff and attendees, Lights On Stratford will be launching each exhibit of its inaugural season on separate dates. If it is safe to do so, opening celebration considerations will be made for the final location launch on January 2nd, 2021.... Lights On Stratford Invest Stratford #lettherebelight #lightsonstratford #lovestratford #winterlights #winterlightsfestival #lightsfestival #hope See more

Catch the second episode of Dan Chameroy ‘s LEER ESTATES premiering TONIGHT during the Ghost Tours preshow on Stratford Festival YouTube (6:30pm ET). If you missed the first episode, catch up now on Stratfest@Home. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Re8n2FOHe8w&feature=youtu.be... coltoncurtis.jpg

The holidays are officially here in Stratford which means it’s time for a......CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY Our annual #ChristmasTrail is back this season for you to safely explore in Stratford! This year it’s all about keeping the experience COVID-friendly with masks, sanitizer and social distancing, all while exploring and shopping locally. With 24 amazing stops along the way, you'll be able to check off all your holiday shopping one by one! From puppy treats at The Barkery,... to bath bombs from La Osa Jewelry, home decor at Bradshaws Kitchen Detail and even boozy treats from Junction 56 Distillery. Pop into our office at 47 Downie St to pick up your #ChristmasTrail package until Dec 20th (6 gift tickets for $30 (+HST), plus a map of all the locations), and then get out to explore the trail. Each ticket will get you a festive gift from each location. The best part is YOU can win a Christmas Trail of your own! Here is how to enter the giveaway: Follow and like our page @StratfordON Like this post Tag a friend you want to shop the Christmas Trail with Share this post for a bonus entry Winner will be selected and notified on Nov 25th, 2020. While you're here, don't forget to grab a hot chocolate, food, treats and other shops along the way to keep you going! (Video credits to Jenn Weatherhead from Travel & Style Magazine for putting together this beautiful video to showcase the Christmas Trail )

With the City itself as a dramatic stage, Lights On Stratford winter festival of lights will transform the downtown core with luminous art and interactive light installations. Through the use of light and projections, City Hall and the new Tom Patterson Theatre will be dramatically brought to life. An interactive light exhibition will partner downtown storefronts in a coordinated streetside experience. These exhibits along with the creation of the Shakespearean Garden of a Th...ousand Lights and the illumination of Tom Patterson Island will bring light and joy to the winter streets of Stratford, Ontario. Stratford is home to some of the world’s best artists, lighting designers, props builders and creative minds. Lights On Stratford harnesses this precious resource of local talent to craft a truly unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Prepare to be dazzled. Free to the public and designed to be safely enjoyed with physical distancing, Lights On Stratford will light up this Winter, starting mid-November 2020 and running through mid-February 2021. Come see Stratford in a different light! https://bit.ly/2GbY0UF

Soaking up the sun on this beautiful Saturday in Stratford : LittleBigCreative

Travel writer and Mom of 2, Yashy Murphy from Parenting to Go was on the lookout for safe ways to explore and travel with her family. Head over to her recent blog post to see how they safely explored Stratford this season. Read the full blog post herehttps://www.parentingtogo.ca/stratford-ontario-with-kids/ #SafetyFirst #lovestratford

Calling all chocolate lovers and autumn dreamers, there’s a chocolatey adventure waiting for you in the beautiful city of Stratford, Ontario. It’s called the Chocolate Trail. The Chocolate Trail is a self-guided tour, introducing you to delicious chocolate-inspired treats while visiting a variety of unique Stratford locations. The tour includes 20 stops to choose from that you can visit, map provided, and six passes. Simply redeem your passes at your participating stops. How will you decide? You may need to review the list in advance. Find the full list of stops on our latest Chocolate Trail blog here: https://bit.ly/3jtB8gY #StratfordChocolateTrail #LoveStratford

(CHOCOLATEY) CONTEST ALERT We are giving away TWO Golden Ticket Chocolate Trail experiences to two lucky winners who will gain access to all 20 Chocolate Trail stops for free! Contest rules:... Like this post Share this post Tag someone in comments who you would like to take with you along the Golden Ticket Chocolate Trail experience Only one voucher per stop to be redeemed The winners will be selected on Friday, October 9! Your Golden Ticket awaits Best of luck, chocolate lovers!!! See more

We're dropping our Top 8 Fall Activities To Get Cozy With In Stratford This Season The leaves are changing, the summer heat is cooling off and we’re pulling out our coziest sweaters. That’s right--it’s officially autumn. Autumn is a lot of people’s fav’ season, and we understand why. Not only is there pumpkin spice everything, but it’s also the season where wearing comfortable and soft clothes is acceptable every day.... Even though the hot weather may be gone, that doesn’t mean the outdoor fun has to stop. For those interested in having just as much fun during the Fall as you can in the summer, we’ve got a list of activities for you and your bubble. Visit the blog here https://blog.visitstratford.ca/fall-activities-in-stratford for the full list! See more

Travel, Food & Lifestyle writer, Marissa from Darling Escapes recently shared her Ultimate Guide to Stratford, Ontario, as she was on the lookout for safe ways to travel locally with her bestie The Curious Creature. In the words of Marissa, Time starts to lose meaning as you let Stratford work its charm on you. And isn’t that really the best kind of holiday? Head over to her recent blog post to see how you can safely explore Stratford. https://darlingescapes.com/the-ulti...mate-guide-to-stratford/ #SafetyFirst #LoveStratford See more

Get Lost with Luis in Stratford, Ontario as he shares the details of his most recent trip! "Throughout my younger years, I often went on day trips to Stratford with my family. I fondly remember afternoon strolls along the Avon river with an ice cream cone in hand as we admired the swans and the large weeping willows that cascaded into the river. I quickly fell in love with the small town charm that the town undeniably exudes. In my late teens, I had the pleasure of calling... Stratford home for a short period of time during my involvement in the performing arts. Until this day it holds a very special place in my heart. From its beautiful Victorian architecture, to its unique local shops and incredible cuisine, Stratford is truly deserving of the European town it was named after. I recently visited Stratford and fell in love with it all over again." Read the full post with all of Luis' trip highlights here https://bit.ly/2EyX4ZC

Have you FALL-en for Stratford yet? #FallForStratford Beautiful shot of upper queens park by : Al Hamberg

The hilarious Mother-Daughter duo, Jennifer Valentyne & Georgia from Mother Daughter Date fell in love with the Chocolate Trail when they recently visited and safely explored Stratford! Check out the Golden Ticket Giveaway on their page (Mother Daughter Date) for a chance to win your own GOLDEN TICKET, which will gain you access to explore ALL 20 stops on the Chocolate Trail. These passes will NOT expire so you can visit Stratford when you feel safe to do so. https://www.face...book.com/1370562846359568/videos/400059407821578 Black Swan Brewing Co. Black Angus Bakery & Catering Blowes Cards & Gifts Boar's Head Pub Bradshaws Kitchen Detail The British Touch Chocolate Barr's Candies Distinctly Tea Stratford Junction 56 Distillery The Livery Yard MacLeods Scottish Shop Olive Your Favourites Rhéo Thompson Candies Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Stratford Small-Mart General Mercantile To Bean or Not To Bean Totally Spoke'd Village Craft and Candle Treasures Stratford #SafetyFirst #StratfordChocolateTrail #LoveStratford #StratfordON

Looking for an art filled outdoor experience? We have the perfect solution Introducing the Stratford Public Art Walk! Stratford is a cultural magnet attracting talented artists in music, theatre, literature and visual arts. Public art has sprung up throughout the city as early as 1897 with the most prominent being the Cenotaph, by Walter Seymour Allward, who also designed the memorial at Vimy Ridge, France.... Starting at Gallery Stratford, the artistic heart of the city, we invite you to explore the city using these twenty points of interest as your window into our cultural soul. Visit the map and PDF here https://visitstratford.ca/art See more

We are happy to share Dayna Manning’s NEW music video You You You There is no doubt this community radiates joy, strength, creativity and is in constant collaboration with one another. Stratford, we love you! #YouYouYou #DaynaManning #LoveStratford

Stratford accommodators, shops and restaurants safely welcome you. Visit https://visitstratford.ca/al-fresco for a complete list of available dine-in and/or take-out options. Be sure to bring your appetite and a mask.

Your Stratford weekend awaits https://visitstratford.ca/ #FallForStratford

Last week, Stratford Festival shared how they are busy working out the exciting details of their return to the stage in 2021 but you didn’t think they'd just leave us until then, did you? With this intermission extending farther than we'd all hoped, they're here to try something different. Introducing STRATFEST@HOME: a rich mine of theatrical content housed in their brand new streaming service! Think of it as a virtual Stratford season, featuring a catalogue of filmed pr...oductions AND all-new original creations, everything from game show to ghost story and soap opera to song! Here’s what you need to know: -Special introductory price: $10/month -Exclusive new content by Stratford Festival artists -Immediate access to Stratford Festival on Film catalogue -Watch icons of the stage in special recordings of historical performances -Ever-expanding library of content as new titles are continually added And if that’s not enough, their free Thursday night watch parties are back! Stay tuned! They will be ready to introduce everything soon, but it’s all ready for you to explore on their website. Welcome to your new Stratford experience! Subscribe now! https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/AtHome

Attention art lovers!!! Only a few more days to take in the beautiful Boardwalk Art Pieces around downtown Stratford. Boardwalk Art installations will be up until October 21, 2020. Browse our Boardwalk Art Map linked here to visit all the pieces https://bit.ly/3kaFavB

Friday night has arrived and we've got tons of date night options for youWhether you're looking to patio hop, dine in safely or pickup takeout and enjoy and any of our Al Fresco locations, the options are endless! Need help deciding? We've got you covered! Visit our Al Fresco dining map with all the available culinary options https://bit.ly/2FqHJuH

Today seems like the perfect day to get your shop on, followed by some patio food & drinks! For all the shopaholics out there, whether you're searching for that perfect fall decor piece, some new items from your wardrobe, or that something special, we have endless options for you. Check out some shopping suggestions here: https://bit.ly/3hHcgRY

We have recently been awarded a #SafeTravels Stamp, which is recognized globally for adopting proper, standardized health and hygiene protocols. #DestinationStratford World Travel & Tourism Council Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)

Travel writer Carolyn from wander.ramble.roam shares her latest blog post showcasing her weekend in Stratford. "This weekend itinerary in Stratford is perfect for luxury, great food, more beer than you thought a town of this size could even produce, and a beautiful river walk." Check out the full post here: https://bit.ly/2FNyNiw

Bringing some JOY to your Tuesday afternoon!

The Pink Millennial does it again with PART 2 of her Travel Guide to Stratford Ontario! "... just a short 45 minutes North of London, or a short 2-hour drive from Toronto, you’ll quickly be transported into a quaint and charming town filled with entertainment, fine dining and shopping. It’s the perfect road-trip when you’re looking to escape the city life for a little r&r." Check out the full article here: ... https://bit.ly/2Zxynnp See more

If you haven't heard the news....for a limited time only, the City of Stratford has amended the liquor bylaw allowing open alcohol for Al Fresco dining in Market Square and on Tom Patterson Island. Stratford welcomes the opportunity to create the "European Piazza" experience in our city! Alcohol is now permitted until the end of October Al Fresco locations IF it is accompanied by food and has been purchased as takeaway from a local Stratford restaurant. (BYOB is not permi...tted. No glass bottles allowed.) Alcohol is permitted only during the following hours: Sunday to Thursday: 4PM - 8PM Friday to Saturday: 11AM - 9PM Please enjoy responsibly. Cheers! #StratfordAlFresco #LoveStratford #StratfordStrong #StratfordON Brittlestar