John R. Park Homestead

08/30/2026

Summer is painting its final chapter at the Homestead. 🍎🦋🐢Here are some sights from the season, so far!
The orchard is heavy with fruit, monarch caterpillars are busy in the garden, hatchling turtles are making their way into the world, and our sheep are ready to greet visitors for a little while longer.
Inside the historic buildings, traditional skills continue to bring the past to life, staff and volunteers are excited to engage visitors in hands-on activities, and the swifts and swallows are preparing to migrate south for the winter.
Don't miss your chance to experience the beauty, history, and everyday wonders of the season before autumn arrives.🍂
The Homestead is open Thursday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Come see what's happening at the Homestead before summer slips away.☀️

08/28/2026

SERVICE DISRUPTION: The John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area grounds and museum buildings will be closed on Saturday, August 29th for a private event. The Homestead reopens the following day, Sunday, August 30th, at 11:00am to all visitors. For information, please contact us at: [email protected]

08/25/2026

Join the Friends of the John R. Park Homestead for this fall-themed needle felting workshop. On Saturday, September 12th, join and craft your own seasonal decor by hand! Each participant will learn the basics of needle felting wool as you work to create a unique pumpkin to take home. 🎃
The class is $55 per person and includes all materials and instruction.
Space is limited and advance registration is required.
To register, email: [email protected]

08/23/2026

Makers Retreat - Only a few spaces remaining!🪡👩‍🎨✂✒️
Spend a creative day in our bright, fully accessible lakeside centre with stunning views of Lake Erie.🌞🌳🦋🌊
✓ Large personal workspace, table & chair
✓ Abundant natural light
✓ Coffee, tea, water & light snacks
✓ Seasonal tour of the historic house
✓ Local vendors - Soft Impressions and Quilting Confections
✓ Door prizes & more
Create, connect, and be inspired in a welcoming space in this retreat designed for makers.
$113.00 including HST. Register to: [email protected]
Payment methods: Cash, debit, or credit in-person at the John R. Park Homestead during business hours, or e-transfer to: [email protected]. Please be sure to put your name and 'retreat' in the memo line.

08/22/2026

SERVICE DISRUPTION: The John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area grounds and museum buildings are closed today for a private event. The Homestead reopens tomorrow, Sunday, August 23, at 11:00am. For information: [email protected]

08/19/2026

Tickets are on sale now for the next Basket Weaving Workshop! Join Louise Warner MacDougall of on Saturday, September 26th for this class - perfect for everyone from basket weaving beginner to advanced skills.
Participants will learn to make this large 'Cat's Head' basket (the name comes from the unique shape of the base). All materials and instruction are included with the course fee.
Space is limited, please register early to avoid disappointment. These classes normally sell out. Tickets are available online at: https://www.essexregionconservation.ca/event-details/basket-weaving-workshop-2

08/14/2026

08/09/2026

The Lost Arts Festival is happening now! Here are just a few scenes from around the farm. Join us before 4pm and experience arts, artisans, and activities of the past!

08/08/2026

Looking for amazing local sweet treats? Stop by Christine's Bake Shop at The Lost Arts Festival tomorrow, Sunday, August 9th from 12am - 4pm. Something yum for everyone!

08/07/2026

We can't wait to welcome Hawksview Honey to the Homestead for The Lost Arts Festival on Sunday - it's going to be sweet!

🍯 Heads Up, Honey Friends! 🐝

Hawksview Honey will be closing early this Sunday, August 9th at 1:00 PM so we can attend the John R. Park Homestead’s Lost Arts Festival!

If you’re planning to stop by for local honey, farm-fresh eggs, or any of our other goodies, please visit us before 1:00 PM.

If you’re looking for something fun to do afterward, come see us at the Lost Arts Festival from 11:00 AM–4:00 PM! It’s a wonderful day celebrating traditional crafts, heritage skills, and local artisans.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support of our family farm. We hope to see you there! 🍯🐝💛