Upcoming events

Ruthven Park's Bird Festival
May
3

Ruthven Park's Bird Festival

Saturday, May 3rd 2025

10am - 2pm

$20 per car

Calling all bird enthusiasts! You wont want to miss the excitement at this year’s Bird Festival! Join us for an unforgettable day of birdwatching, banding demonstrations, raptor show with Wild Ontario, Little Tracks Petting Zoo, guided hikes, craft activities, concession stand and more!

Rooftop Bird Watching

$15 per person

8am, 9am & 10am

Ages 12 & Up

What better way to get a bird’s eye view than by the top of Ruthven Park Mansion? This exclusive guided experience takes guests to the top of the historic mansion to learn more about the amazing species that call Ruthven Park home. Pre-registration required for the 8am, 9am and 10am slots.

First come first serve for 11am & 1:30pm slots.

*Please note that the animals featured in the advertisement are not an exact representation of what will be in attendance at the event

Thank You To Our Sponsor!

Minor Bros Country Living

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Secret Garden Experience
Jun
21

Secret Garden Experience

Saturday June 21, 2025

Step into a world of beauty, creativity and charm with our
Secret Garden Experience—an enchanting escape that blends floral artistry, delicious indulgence, and history!

Registration is open for the following two workshops:

Bouquet Workshop & Cream Tea | 10:00AM- 1:00PM - $75 Per Person

Experience a hands-on bouquet workshop led by
instructor Tamara from Chippewa Blooms, crafting the perfect bouquet using exquisite seasonal blooms!

Floral Arrangement Workshop & Cream Tea | 2:00PM -5:00PM - $80 Per Person

Indulge in a delightful day of creativity and elegance! Join our exclusive floral arrangement workshop led by instructor Lisa from UpsyDaisy Floral Studio, where you’ll craft the perfect floral arrangement!

Don’t miss this unforgettable experience of floral artistry, delicious treats and historic charm!

Limited spots available. Pre-registration is required.
*Image is not an exact representation of what will be offered

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St. Patrick's Pub Night
Mar
15

St. Patrick's Pub Night

Saturday, March 15th 2025

6pm-9pm

$50 per person

Join us at Ruthven Park for a lively St. Patrick's Pub Night on Saturday, March 15th, 2025, from 6pm to 9pm at the historic Coach House, transformed into a classic Irish pub for the evening. Enjoy delicious pub food from Debb's Cuisine on Queen, and sip on a variety of drinks from our cash bar including green beer, whisky, and a selection of other classic beers. Tap your feet to live music by Feed the Ducks, challenge friends to classic pub games, and soak in the Irish spirit all night long. Wearing green is encouraged to get into the festive spirit! 

St Patrick's Day Pub Night Menu

Guinness braised roast beef sliders with bacon, mushrooms and onions
Bacon and chive tater tots with Sriracha aioli
Cabbage salad with kale and Brussel sprouts

Vegetarian option

Grilled zucchini, red onion, mushrooms and red pepper feta cheese, glazed with balsamic lettuce and tomato, accompanied with tater tots (without bacon).

19+ Event
Cash Bar will be available.

Tickets are non-refundable. 

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March Break- Drew & David
Mar
14

March Break- Drew & David

Friday March 14th

Join us to discover the story of Drew and David, the fifth and final generation of the Thompson family.

Though polar opposites— one drawn to glamour and acting, the other to the reserved and disciplined career in law, both played a role in the evolution of the estate. Reflected in the modernization of the Mansion during their time, each brother and their contrasting taste, shaped Ruthven Park before its transition into the National Historic Site it is today.

1:00pm Mansion Tours available by donation.
Drop-in only.

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March Break- Brothers in War
Mar
13

March Break- Brothers in War

Thursday, March 13th,

Join us as we explore the powerful story of the fourth generation of the Thompson family, brothers Major Andrew and Lt. Walter and thier experiences serving overseas during World War I. This guided tour will delve into the challenges they faced on the battlefield, the injuries they endured and their difficult transition back to civilian life.

Discover how their service shaped the legacy of Ruthven Park.

Tours of the grounds begin at 1:00pm
Drop-in only.

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March Break- Lt Colonel Andrew
Mar
12

March Break- Lt Colonel Andrew

Wednesday, March 12th

Visitors will step into the world of Lt Colonel Andrew, the third generation of the Thompson family and explore what life was at Ruthven Park during his time.

Raised on a working farm, Andrew experienced first hand the demands of daily agriculture life and the hard work required to maintain the land and livestock. This tour will offer a glimpse into the farm life of the late 19th, early 20th century and how it shaped Andrew’s upbringing before his military service.

Guided tour of the grounds will being at 1:00pm
Drop-in only.

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March Break- David Thompson II
Mar
11

March Break- David Thompson II

Tuesday, March 11th

Visitors will learn about David Thompson II and the rise and fall on the town of Indiana.

During this guided tour of the grounds, visitors will discover how Indiana once thrived as an industrial hub along the Grand River, leaving a significant economic impact in its time, and explore what remains of its once flourishing past.

Guided tour of the grounds begins at 1:00pm
Drop-in only.

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March Break- David Thompson I
Mar
10

March Break- David Thompson I

Monday, March 10th

Step back in time to the mid-19th century and uncover the story of David Thompson I, and the visionary behind Ruthven Park.

During this guided tour of the grounds, visitors will learn how David Thompson established his estate, and oversaw the construction of the historic Greek Revival Mansion that still stands today.

Discover the challenges and triumphs of building such a grand home in the 1840s and how his legacy laid the foundation for generations to come.

Guided tour of the grounds begins at 1:00pm
Drop-in only.

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Windy Acres Workshop
Mar
8

Windy Acres Workshop

Join local author of Windy Acres Workshop, Sarah Uren for a creative and fun Activity on Saturday March 8th from 11am to 12:00pm

This hands-on session will guide participants through a unique plasti-scene activity inspired by Sarah’s book! Whether you’re an experienced artist or a first-timer, you’ll enjoy crafting in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Bring your imagination! This event is open to all ages and skill levels, making it a perfect way to get creative with your community.

A free draw will also be available for a handmade gift from Sarah’s book.
All supplies provided.

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Historic Mansion Tours
Feb
17

Historic Mansion Tours

CANCELLED - DUE TO POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS

Monday, February 17th, 2025
Park hours: 10am-3pm

Explore the rich history of Ruthven Park during our guided Mansion tours of the main level. Discover the fascinating stories behind the estate’s architecture, heritage, and learn about the family who once called it home.

Tours will be offered every half-hour between 11am and 2pm
Admission is by a “give what you can” monetary donation per person.

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Historic Mansion Tours
Feb
16

Historic Mansion Tours

CANCELLED - DUE TO POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS

Sunday, February 16th, 2025
Park hours: 10am-4pm

Explore the rich history of Ruthven Park during our guided Mansion tours of the main level. Discover the fascinating stories behind the estate’s architecture, heritage, and learn about the family who once called it home.

Tours will be offered every half-hour between 11am and 3pm
Admission is by a “give what you can” monetary donation per person.

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Ruthven Park's Family Fun Day
Feb
15

Ruthven Park's Family Fun Day

  • Ruthven Park National Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

CANCELLED - DUE TO POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS

Join us for a fun-filled Family Day at Ruthven Park

Saturday, February 15th, 2025

Enjoy the fascinating world of bird banding, where you can get an up-close look at local wildlife. Main Level Mansion Tours by a “give what you can” donation will be available from 11am to 3pm, offering a glimpse into the history of the beautiful Ruthven estate.

Don’t miss the Windy Acres Art Workshop by local Haldimand Author Sarah Uren, and drop in activities for all ages!

We are open from 8am to 4pm. Come explore, learn, and make lasting memories with the whole family!

Event Schedule:

Bird Banding: 8am - 12pm
Main Level Mansion Tours: Every half-hour from 11am - 3pm
(admission by “give what you can” donation per person)
Workshop with Sarah Uren (author of Windy Acres Workshop): 11am -12pm
Drop-in Activities: 8am - 4pm

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Robbie Burns Supper
Jan
25

Robbie Burns Supper

$75 per person

6pm-9pm

Event 19+

Be transported back to the Scottish highlands during Ruthven Park’s Robbie Burns Supper event! Enjoy listening to a traditional bagpipe performance and a recitation of the Address to a Haggis poem. A wholesome roast beef dinner (vegetarian option available) by Debb’s Cuisine on Queen will be offered in the historic Coach House. Appreciate the talented music from fiddle and acoustic duo Alana & Leigh Cline. Guests are welcome to visit the historic mansion to learn more about the Thompsons and their Scottish heritage. The Robbie Burns Supper at Ruthven Park will be a warm and welcoming event for January and leave an impression that is sure to last!

Cash Bar will be available.

*Pre-registration required.

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Hogmanay High Tea - Saturday, December 21, 2024
Dec
21

Hogmanay High Tea - Saturday, December 21, 2024

  • Ruthven Park National Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

5:30pm - 7:30pm

SOLD OUT

Join us in celebrating the Scottish tradition of Hogmanay during our Hogmanay High Tea event! Purchase includes a main level tour of the historic mansion exploring the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family. The experience will conclude with high tea in the beautifully decorated Coach House and a special bagpipe performance. High tea includes a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones and sweets with a variety of tea options! Pre-registration required.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

*Image is not an exact representation of what will be offered

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Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 20, 2024
Dec
20

Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 20, 2024

5pm-7pm

$25 per person

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for scones and choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Hogmanay High Tea - Thursday, December 19, 2024
Dec
19

Hogmanay High Tea - Thursday, December 19, 2024

  • Ruthven Park National Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

5:30pm - 7:30pm

SOLD OUT

Join us in celebrating the Scottish tradition of Hogmanay during our Hogmanay High Tea event! Purchase includes a main level tour of the historic mansion exploring the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family. The experience will conclude with high tea in the beautifully decorated Coach House and a special bagpipe performance. High tea includes a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones and sweets with a variety of tea options! Pre-registration required.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

*Image is not an exact representation of what will be offered

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Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Dec
17

Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 17, 2024

5pm-7pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for tea or hot chocolate and assorted sweets.

Admission requires a “give what you can” donation per person of non-perishable goods that will be donated to the Cayuga Foodbank.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation- Sunday, December 15, 2024
Dec
15

Christmas Tour by Donation- Sunday, December 15, 2024

11am-3pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park ! Tours run on-the-hour for approximately 45 minutes.

Please register for tours at the Welcome Centre. Admission is a “give what you can” monetary donation per person in support of Ruthven Park.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tours by Donation- Saturday, December 14, 2024
Dec
14

Christmas Tours by Donation- Saturday, December 14, 2024

  • Ruthven Park National Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

11am-3pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park ! Tours run on-the-hour for approximately 45 minutes.

Please register for tours at the Welcome Centre. Admission is a “give what you can” monetary donation per person in support of Ruthven Park.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 13, 2024
Dec
13

Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 13, 2024

5pm-7pm

$25 per person

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for scones and choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Dec
10

Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 10, 2024

5pm-7pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for tea or hot chocolate and assorted sweets.

Admission requires a “give what you can” donation per person of non-perishable goods that will be donated to the Cayuga Foodbank.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Victorian Christmas Tour & High Tea - Saturday, December 7th, 2024
Dec
7

Victorian Christmas Tour & High Tea - Saturday, December 7th, 2024

Saturday, December 7th 2024

6pm-8pm

SOLD OUT

Step back in time at Ruthven Park during our Victorian Christmas Tour experience! Experience the magic and wonderment of the the holidays through a special themed tour of the historic mansion where guests will be guided through a Victorian Christmas including an exclusive visit to the master bedroom decorated for the season! The experience will conclude with high tea in the historic Coach House. As guests sip their tea from a variety of tea options and enjoy the ambient sound of classical Christmas music, a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones and sweets will be served making this evening an exquisite and unforgettable experience.


Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

*Image is not an exact representation of what will be offered

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Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 6, 2024
Dec
6

Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, December 6, 2024

5pm-7pm

$25 per person

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for scones and choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Dec
3

Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, December 3, 2024

5pm-7pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for tea or hot chocolate and assorted sweets.

Admission requires a “give what you can” donation per person of non-perishable goods that will be donated to the Cayuga Foodbank.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas with Tia McGraff Sunday, December 1st 2024
Dec
1

Christmas with Tia McGraff Sunday, December 1st 2024

Sunday, December 1st 2024

1pm - 3pm

$35 per person (tax included)

Join us for a festive afternoon event filled with holiday cheer! Beginning with a self-guided tour of the historic mansion, where the main-level rooms are beautifully decorated for Christmas. Following the tour, guests will gather in the Coach House for an intimate Christmas concert by award winning musical artist Tia McGraff. Her heartwarming performance of Christmas songs will fill the air with festive spirit. This event includes complimentary baked goods, coffee and apple cider.

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Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, November 29, 2024
Nov
29

Christmas Tour & Cream Tea - Friday, November 29, 2024

5pm-7pm

$25 per person

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for scones and choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Tickets are Non-Refundable.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Nov
26

Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, November 26, 2024

5pm-7pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for tea or hot chocolate and assorted sweets.

Admission requires a “give what you can” donation per person of non-perishable goods that will be donated to the Cayuga Foodbank.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tours by Donation- Sunday, November 24, 2024
Nov
24

Christmas Tours by Donation- Sunday, November 24, 2024

11am-3pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park ! Tours run on-the-hour for approximately 45 minutes.

Please register for tours at the Welcome Centre. Admission is a “give what you can” monetary donation per person in support of Ruthven Park.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation- Saturday, November 23, 2024
Nov
23

Christmas Tour by Donation- Saturday, November 23, 2024

  • Ruthven Park National Historic Site (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

11am-3pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park ! Tours run on-the-hour for approximately 45 minutes.

Please register for tours at the Welcome Centre. Admission is a “give what you can” monetary donation per person in support of Ruthven Park.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Nov
12

Christmas Tour by Donation - Tuesday, November 12, 2024

5pm-7pm

Experience the traditions of Christmases past through the various generations of the Thompson family and our featured 'Christmas During World War I' Exhibit during our Christmas Tours at Ruthven Park! Tours run for approximately 45 minutes and concludes in the Coach House for tea or hot chocolate and assorted sweets.

Admission requires a “give what you can” donation per person of non-perishable goods that will be donated to the Cayuga Foodbank.

For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca

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Remembrance Day- Monday, November 11, 2024
Nov
11

Remembrance Day- Monday, November 11, 2024

12pm - 4pm

Join us for a special Remembrance Day exhibit on Monday, November 11th 2024. A beautiful poppy display will be set against the back drop of our historic Mansion where we pay tribute to those who served in the armed forces. The historic Coach House will feature exhibits highlighting the lives of the Thompson family in service, showcasing artifacts of their military connection. Admission to the exhibit is by a ‘give what you can’ donation.

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WWI Speaker Event with Historian Andy Robertshaw - Friday, November 8th 2024
Nov
8

WWI Speaker Event with Historian Andy Robertshaw - Friday, November 8th 2024

6pm - 8pm

$25 per person

Join us for an extraordinary evening with renowned military historian Andy Robertshaw! The event will begin with a guided tour of the main level of the historic mansion, featuring select pieces from our WWI collection. Following the tour, guests will gather in the historic Coach House for an insightful one-hour talk with Andy Robertshaw, accompanied by refreshments.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see our special military exhibit and hear from a leading expert on military history!

Tickets are limited, reserve yours today!

*Tickets are non-refundable.

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