Ontario Cheese Festival

Following last year’s sold-out success – and its feature on CTV News – PEC Markets Inc. is thrilled to announce that The Ontario Cheese Festival (OCF) will officially return to picturesque Elora, Ontario on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Set inside the modern, fully climate-controlled Grand River Raceway – Main Barn – this premier autumn culinary celebration brings together Canada’s finest cheesemakers, gourmet food artisans, craft beverage producers, and passionate food lovers for a full day of sampling, discovery, and community.

For 2026, the festival is scaling up the experience while retaining its cozy, craft-focused heart:

• 75+ Curated Artisans and Makers: Explore an extraordinary marketplace featuring small-batch cheeses, specialty cured meats, local maple syrups, preserves, and handcrafted pairings.
• Craft Beverages: Discover local ciders, spirits, craft beers, and wines paired to perfection with Ontario dairy.
• Masterclasses and Tutored Tastings: Learn directly from master cheesemakers and industry experts in intimate pairing sessions throughout the day.
• 100% Weather-Proof Comfort: Hosted entirely indoors at the Grand River Raceway, attendees can comfortably sample, shop, and socialize regardless of fall weather.
• Early Arrival Bonus: The first 500 attendees through the gates on event day will receive a complimentary insulated festival swag bag!