👋 Hey there, fellow Notler!

👉 In today’s newsletter:

• Highlight from Queenston Heights Restaurant

• The Virgil Stampede is Back!

• Lawn Bowling in NOTL

• Mother’s Day Festivities

📸 Queenston Heights Restaurant: A Rich History

This week, I came across a great photo in The Lake Report taken in the early 1900s showing what the restaurant used to look like.

This old postcard, dating back to around 1910, captures the original appearance of Queenston Heights Restaurant. Off to the left in the photo, there's a sign pointing to the dining room. The scene likely depicts a café where guests could grab a quick snack.

Embracing Queenston Heights' deeply British roots, the space is adorned with British flags. Patrons could relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Niagara River while sipping on refreshments. The postcard was produced by F.H. Leslie, a well-known local printer of postcards during that era.

Tucked away in the picturesque Queenston Heights Park, just a short drive from downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, Queenston Heights Restaurant provides a distinctive dining experience for both travelers and locals.

Relish the delicious creations of Chef Bill Greenan in an elegant setting, with unparalleled views of the Niagara River. Whether you opt for the chic dining room, the expansive banquet room, or the airy covered terrace, the exceptional food and views are guaranteed to delight.

🤠 The Virgil Stampede is just around the corner!

The Virgil Stampede is gearing up for another thrilling return next weekend!

Over half a century ago, some neighbours in Virgil started organizing Victoria Day fireworks, much like many other communities across Canada. They added their own twist by including pony rides for the kids. This modest gathering at Virgil Public School has blossomed into the eagerly awaited annual Virgil Stampede, growing more spectacular each year.

The first horse show in 1965 drew competitors from all over Ontario to Virgil Sports Park. By the following year, a modest admission fee of 75 cents (now $5 per adult) was introduced, helping to fund the newly built Centennial Arena, which officially opened during the 1967 Stampede.

Amusement rides made their debut in 1968, initially provided by Robertson Outdoor Amusements until John Homeniuk took the reins, ensuring they remained a staple attraction. In 1969, the event expanded to two days, featuring horse shows and introducing new attractions as competitors started their season at other events.

While horse shows are no longer part of the lineup, the amusement and pony rides continue to be big hits, complemented by delicious food options. The mud bog run, featuring ATVs, dirt bikes, and small trucks, has become a highlight, drawing large crowds each year.

Learn more about parking, schedules, and admissions for this year's stampede on their website.

☀️ Lawn Bowling in NOTL

Established in 1877, the NOTL Lawn Bowling Club is one of Canada’s oldest!

For its first 133 years, the club played on natural grass. Initially, matches were held on a green at the Queen’s Royal Niagara Hotel by Lake Ontario, which was built in 1869 and featured tennis courts and a dance pavilion.

After the hotel shut down in the early 1920s, the site became Queen’s Royal Park. The club relocated in 1922 to a spot at the corner of Regent and Johnson Streets, where it remained for 88 years.

In 2011, it moved to its current location near the new Community Centre on the edge of Old Town. The club now features a regulation-size green with artificial turf and excellent drainage—typically ready for play about two hours after the rain stops.

For the months of May and June, the club offers free walk-ins on Saturdays for those interested in visiting the club and trying out the sport.

This is a fantastic opportunity for locals looking to stay active, make new friends, and challenge themselves.

You can find the Community Centre and Lawn Bowling Club next to the Public Library on Anderson Lane. Just look for the sign as you enter Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake.

🌸 A Mother’s Day event you won’t want to miss!

🎉 It's all about mom this weekend! Or isn’t it every weekend? 😉

Treat the special mom in your life to an awesome two-day event at Reif Estate Winery, happening tomorrow and Sunday. Enjoy shopping, wine, and good local food!

Tickets are available here, and here's what you can expect:

• Over 40 artisan vendors

• A glass of sparkling bubbly for mom upon arrival

• Live music both days

• Outdoor patio and grill operated by Norcini & Co

• Rain or shine event! The party will move indoors if it rains, otherwise, folks will be out in the events tent.

• Free wine tasting for the first 20 people who arrive!

Come out and support local artisans while enjoying a beautiful day with your loved ones!

For more details, click here.

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👉 Let us know by replying to this email or by sending their information to [email protected].

That’s all for today, folks! Have a great weekend! 👋