The Ontario Cheese Festival
October 17, 2026 | Elora, Ontario
Welcome Back to Elora
There’s a reason we can’t stop talking about Elora. From the legendary Elora’s Longest BBQ to the serene Elora Mill, this town has a way of wrapping you in hospitality, craftsmanship, and creativity. Returning here for our annual Ontario Cheese Festival feels like the easiest decision of the year.
Elora and its surrounding communities are home to an extraordinary group of makers—artisans producing an incredible selection of flavourful cheeses, thoughtful pairings, and local beverages. Bringing these creators together under one barn roof is always an honor, and a true celebration of Ontario’s agricultural and culinary talent.
On Saturday, October 17th, join us at the Grand River Raceway to explore exceptional flavours, savour perfect pairings, and meet the makers shaping Canada’s food landscape. Come celebrate the best of Ontario with us.
Patricia McDermott
CEO, PEC Markets Inc.
A Tradition of Excellence
Highlights from 2025
Last year, the Ontario Cheese Festival became a landmark event for artisanal makers. With electric energy and a sold-out crowd, we showcased the very best of our region’s craft.
Watch our feature segment on CTV News to see why OCF is the premier destination for vendors and food lovers alike.
The Ontario Cheese Festival
October 17, 2026
ELORA, Ontario
On October 17, 2026, the Ontario Cheese Festival arrives at the Grand River Raceway in Elora, Ontario for a day of tasting, exploring, and meeting the makers behind Ontario’s most exceptional cheeses.
Sample small‑batch dairy, discover artisan food and drink from breweries, cideries, wineries, bakers, and craft producers, and enjoy unlimited access to a curated lineup of flavours.
Join us for a delicious journey that brings together the artistry, passion, and people shaping Canada’s culinary landscape.
Festival Hours
October 17
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A Tradition of Excellence: Highlights from 2025
Last year, the Ontario Cheese Festival became a landmark event for artisanal makers. With electric energy and a sold-out crowd, we showcased the very best of our region’s craft. Watch the CTV News spotlight to see why OCF is the premier destination for vendors and food lovers alike.
When
Where
Who
75+ Curated Artisans & Makers
Exhibit at the Festival
Showcase your craft to thousands of passionate, high-intent food and cheese lovers. Benefit from on-site cold storage, booth runners to support your team, and robust digital promotion. Keep 100% of your sales!
Don’t Miss a Single Pairing
Join our inner circle of food lovers. Subscribe today to receive early access to ticket sales, exclusive vendor announcements, and delicious festival updates.
Meet the Makers
Discover the passion and talent behind Ontario’s premier artisanal cheeses, thoughtful pairings, and exceptional local beverages.
LOCATION
Grand River Raceway | Elora, Ontario
The Ontario Cheese Festival finds its home in the vibrant, picturesque community of Elora. This October, the fully serviced Grand River Raceway will be transformed into a premier culinary destination—a cozy, indoor, weather-proof space where artisan cheesemakers, craft producers, and food lovers unite to celebrate fine craftsmanship and flavor.
Located in the Elora, Ontario, just on the edge of the village, The Grand River Raceway provides the perfect setting for a journey of discovery. Explore the vendor markets, attend a Masterclass, and enjoy the generous hospitality of a community eager to welcome the very best of Ontario artisan excellence.
Festival Hours: Saturday, October 17, 2026: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Visitor Tips:
- Cozy & Indoor: The entire festival is hosted indoors within a modern, fully climate-controlled facility. Rain or shine, the crowds stay comfortable and the cheese stays perfect.
- Parking: Ample free parking is available directly on-site at the raceway grounds.
- Facilities: Fully accessible indoor washrooms are located directly within the main facility for your comfort and convenience.
7445 Wellington County Rd 21, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
We respectfully acknowledge that we are situated on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk, Mississauga, and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Today, this area is home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and we acknowledge the 46 treaties and other agreements that cover the territory now called Ontario.