The Thanksgiving festival at the
Ball's Falls is a unique crafts show where hundreds of artisans gather together to showcase their art and crafts at the scenic Niagara escapement.
The festival is about quarter of a century old and hosted by the Niagara Conservation Authority. The Vineland bursts into colors with the artists displaying their wares in the colorful tents. The heritage buildings, the stunning waterfall as a backdrop and the autumn colored maple trees add zing to this extremely popular event in Ontario.
The whole place resembles a huge market place, with the booths and shops choc-a-block with beautiful art and craft work. There are live demonstrations and small workshops held by artisans who display their skills to the visitors. More than 100 artists gather here making it a virtual heaven for craft connoisseurs.
There are a lot of activities for the children as well. A Kidz tent is erected to give children hands on experience of the various activities organized there. There are also pony rides, machinery displays, puppet shows, magic shows and continuous live music that will keep the kids occupied and entertained all the time.
You can also take a tour of the historical buildings like St George's church, Blacksmith shop, the grist mill and the Ball Homestead and watch the history of the American civil war come alive through the informers and guides. Hikes are also organized for people interested in the natural beauty of the place. The Bruce trail is quite popular as is the view of the spectacular Ball's falls from the grist mill view point. There is a small entrance fee that contributes to the conservation of this beautiful area.
