Along the Avon River in southwest Ontario is a charming and historical town. It’s known for its famous annual festival and lush gardens, with a “Shakespearean” touch. Here’s what to know about Stratford, Ont.
What to do in Stratford
From the outside, Stratford resembles a typical, charming small town in Ontario, of which there are many. But once you step foot inside the town, you will be taken aback by the heritage buildings, artisan boutiques, and historical landmarks that line the streets.
Oh, and it’s also the birthplace of Canadian artist Justin Bieber. But besides that, it’ll feel as if you’ve landed in a different era, where art and history collide.
It’s a place that embraces world-class talent, activities, and attractions centred around performing arts, poetry, and literature.
That being said, the town is most famous for its annual Stratford Festival. It takes place from April to October and is put on by North America’s largest classical repertory theatre company.
The festival presents a dozen or more productions at venues around the city that include classics, contemporary dramas, and musicals, with special emphasis on Shakespeare plays.
Staying with the theme, if you’re a fan of the playwright, poet and actor, you have to visit the Shakespearean Gardens.
They are a beautiful display of lush greenery, filled with over 60 varieties of plants, including the ones mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays.
According to the Gardens of Stratford, Ontario, it was “first conceived as including only plants mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays. That emphasis has changed over the years.”
Though many of the plants in the garden are considered “Shakespearean”, like fennel, rue, tarragon, and rosemary, there are others as well.
After perusing the grounds, make sure to enjoy another Stratford-certified treat. This town is known for its chocolate — and lots of it!
Stratford’s chocolate trail is a must-do during your visit. It’s a self-guided tour of the world-famous confectioners and bakers located throughout the town.
And last but definitely not least, check out the Justin Bieber museum exhibit, which has been extended indefinitely.
Now this is a place full of magic, and lots of it! Will you be going to Stratford this year?
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