Loved the numerous paper hats suspended in the trees.

I’d marked down the Savour Stratford in my calendar some time ago and had a final push from my fence-sitting position thanks to the girls at The Siren Group. Not as far from Toronto as I’d imagined, this family-friendly affair sees the downtown core closed to cars and opened up to pedestrians, animals, and produce. While the weather report had a rather dismal forecast of rain the entire weekend, upon arrival at Stratford’s cute rail station, the sun was shining and the weather was rather fine. It made me wish I’d left my rain boots at home. It’s okay – I had my eating pants on and my camera ready to go!

Smoked Atlantic salmon wrapped around a tarragon bread stick with Clovermead honey and topped with balsamic caviar. Sided with roasted squash bisque. Enjoyed this a lot and interesting. From Fanshaw College.

Opening ceremonies with Connie DeSousa and John Jackson (Charcut). Cutting the berkshire pork links with some very large scissors.

Opening events on the Friday saw a mini street festival by the river with eats from the culinary students at Fenshaw College. As dusk fell, I ran into The Hungry Cat as the sparklers were being lit. Over the weekend, lots of familiar faces were about. The next day saw the street set up with produce vendors and craftsmen. In the city square, tents were set up where classes and workshops would run throughout the day.

Market produce along the water. Bought some honey. Also wanted to buy a bushel of tomatoes, but didn’t think I’d be successful on getting the home on the train.

Emm Gryner (left) on stage just out of rain’s reach. The creative cake (right) based off the Savour Stratford poster from The County Food Company.

The Riedel “O” Wine Tasting. Learning how glass shape affects the way the wine hits your palate – and thus the taste of wine.

Lots of family about. Thought this was cute and something I’d have done when I was little. Also what I might have done when I wasn’t so little.

Kids’ activity: making ice cream with Monforte Dairy.

The Bacon & Eggs workshop had Mike Booth (Rundles) & Janet Cox (Stone Meadow Farm) pair up to both inform about, and feed us with, this classic pairing. Great and innovative little nibbles. Very tasty.

Taking the stage at the BBQ, Blues, and Brews event on Saturday night.

Too cute: Animals to pet and hold. Kids love ’em. Even big kids… like me.

There was a lot of food that weekend, culminating in Sunday’s tasting event. I’ll post those tomorrow hopefully!