Event Details
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Tuesday, October 27th, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Wednesday, October 28th, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Haunted High Tea
Thursday, October 29th, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
Haunted High Tea
Friday, October 30th, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
Cemetery Tours by Donation
Cemetery Tours by Donation
1pm-5pm on-the-hour
The Thompson Family Cemetery Tours run every hour and are offered by donation. Guests will hear stories of the Thompson family, discover the symbolism carved into historic gravestones, and learn about Victorian burial and mourning practices.
Perfect for the season, these daytimes tours offer history with just a hint of mystery.
Please visit the Welcome Centre to register.
WWI Military Tours
Saturday, November 7th, 2026
11am-3pm, on-the-hour
Admission by Donation.
Ruthven Park will be offering a WWI Main Level Military Tour, featuring family artifacts from the first World War, in recognition of Remembrance Day.
Admission will be by donation, and visitors will also be able to view the special poppy display on the mansion porch, created to honour Canada’s fallen soldiers. Guests are welcome to visit the family cemetery, where the stones commemorating the military men of the Thompson Family can be seen.
WWI Military Tours
Sunday, November 8th, 2026
11am-3pm, on-the-hour
Admission by Donation.
Ruthven Park will be offering a WWI Main Level Military Tour, featuring family artifacts from the first World War, in recognition of Remembrance Day.
Admission will be by donation, and visitors will also be able to view the special poppy display on the mansion porch, created to honour Canada’s fallen soldiers. Guests are welcome to visit the family cemetery, where the stones commemorating the military men of the Thompson Family can be seen.
Christmas Tour & Cream Tea
December 4th, 2026
5pm-7pm
$25 per person
The experience begins with our featured Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit, exploring how Dickens’ timeless stories and the Christmas traditions of his era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. From there, wander through the beautifully decorated halls of Ruthven’s historic mansion and experience Christmas through the eyes of the Thompson family, as cherished traditions unfold across generations. Discover the warmth, charm, and nostalgia of Christmases past while exploring how the family celebrated this special time of year.
Following the tour, you’ll be treated to fresh-baked scones and your choice of tea, coffee, or rich hot chocolate in the festive Coach House.
Please select from the available dates below.
Pre-registration Required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Victorian Christmas Tour & High Tea
Saturday, December 5th 2026
6pm-8pm
Experience Christmas as it was celebrated in the Victorian era during our Victorian Christmas Tour at Ruthven Park! Begin your journey with our featured Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit, exploring how Dickens’ timeless stories and the Christmas traditions of his era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. From there, guests will be guided through the historic mansion to experience the magic and wonder of 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 choice of tea and enjoy the ambient sounds of classical Christmas music, a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones, and sweets will be served, creating an elegant and memorable holiday experience.
Pre-registration required.
Holiday Tours by Donation:
Tours: 11am - 4pm on-the-hour
Admission: A “give what you can” food donation per family, per location.
Drop-ins welcome!
Embrace the magic of the holidays with a heartwarming day of history, culture, and community at two beloved heritage sites—Chiefswood Park and Ruthven Park. This unique seasonal event invites you to explore Victorian-era holiday traditions, family stories, enjoy festive activities for all ages and support local families in need through a “give what you can” food donation.
Experience Highlights:
● Chiefswood Park: Explore the 1850s home of the Johnson family, beautifully adorned in authentic Victorian holiday décor. Enjoy guided tours rich with stories of life along the Grand River and the legacy of celebrated Mohawk poetess E. Pauline Johnson. Children can join festive activities and enjoy sugar cookies and seasonal beverages in this riverside home “Where Cultures Meet.”
● Ruthven Park: Discover the Thompson family's Christmas traditions inside a grand Greek Revival mansion. The main floor glows with generations of holiday décor, while the Charles Dickens exhibit showcases the beloved A Christmas Carol tale. Cozy refreshments and cheerful children’s activities await in the historic Coach House.
What's included:
● Guided tours of both historic homes, on-the-hour 11am to 4pm.
● Engaging children’s activities at each location
● Seasonal treats: sugar cookies and beverages at Chiefswood, hot chocolate at Ruthven
● Leisurely exploration of both sites throughout the day
Christmas Tour & Cream Tea
December 11th, 2026
5pm-7pm
$25 per person
The experience begins with our featured Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit, exploring how Dickens’ timeless stories and the Christmas traditions of his era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. From there, wander through the beautifully decorated halls of Ruthven’s historic mansion and experience Christmas through the eyes of the Thompson family, as cherished traditions unfold across generations. Discover the warmth, charm, and nostalgia of Christmases past while exploring how the family celebrated this special time of year.
Following the tour, you’ll be treated to fresh-baked scones and your choice of tea, coffee, or rich hot chocolate in the festive Coach House.
Please select from the available dates below.
Pre-registration Required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Hogmanay High Tea
Thursday, December 17th
5:30pm - 7:30pm
$65 per person
Join us in celebrating the Scottish tradition of Hogmanay, a time of gathering, reflection, and welcoming the New Year. Your experience begins with a main-level tour of Ruthven’s historic mansion, featuring a special look at our Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit and exploring how the Christmas traditions of Dickens’ era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. Continue through the mansion to discover how the Thompson family celebrated Christmas and the traditions that carried them into the New Year. The experience concludes with a traditional high tea in the Coach House, accompanied by a special bagpipe performance to help welcome the year ahead. High tea includes a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones and sweets with a variety of tea options!
Please pick from the available dates below.
Pre-registration required.
Christmas Tour & Cream Tea
December 18th, 2026
5pm-7pm
$25 per person
The experience begins with our featured Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit, exploring how Dickens’ timeless stories and the Christmas traditions of his era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. From there, wander through the beautifully decorated halls of Ruthven’s historic mansion and experience Christmas through the eyes of the Thompson family, as cherished traditions unfold across generations. Discover the warmth, charm, and nostalgia of Christmases past while exploring how the family celebrated this special time of year.
Following the tour, you’ll be treated to fresh-baked scones and your choice of tea, coffee, or rich hot chocolate in the festive Coach House.
Please select from the available dates below.
Pre-registration Required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Hogmanay High Tea
Saturday, December 19th
5:30pm - 7:30pm
$65 per person
Join us in celebrating the Scottish tradition of Hogmanay, a time of gathering, reflection, and welcoming the New Year. Your experience begins with a main-level tour of Ruthven’s historic mansion, featuring a special look at our Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol exhibit and exploring how the Christmas traditions of Dickens’ era helped shape the way we celebrate the season today. Continue through the mansion to discover how the Thompson family celebrated Christmas and the traditions that carried them into the New Year. The experience concludes with a traditional high tea in the Coach House, accompanied by a special bagpipe performance to help welcome the year ahead. High tea includes a set menu of delicious sandwiches, savoury bites, scones and sweets with a variety of tea options!
Please pick from the available dates below.
Pre-registration required.
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Monday, October 26th, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Trick or Treat Night
Trick or Treat Night
Sunday, October 25th, 2026
4 PM–7 PM
Join us for a fun-filled Halloween evening at Ruthven Park, with activities and seasonal fun for the whole family!
Throughout the evening, families can enjoy:
Halloween crafts and activities in the historic Coach House
A Halloween themed scavenger hunt throughout the main grounds
A special peek inside the Mansion, decorated for Halloween with displays from our Mansion in Mourning and Victorian séances and superstitions exhibit.
Sweet treats for little visitors
Costumes are encouraged!
Admission is FREE!
For those looking for a little extra adventure, Cemetery Tours will be offered on-the-hour by a “give what you can” donation from 1 PM–4 PM.
Cemetery Tours by Donation
Cemetery Tours by Donation
1pm-5pm on-the-hour
The Thompson Family Cemetery Tours run every hour and are offered by donation. Guests will hear stories of the Thompson family, discover the symbolism carved into historic gravestones, and learn about Victorian burial and mourning practices.
Perfect for the season, these daytimes tours offer history with just a hint of mystery.
Please visit the Welcome Centre to register.
Haunted High Tea
Saturday, October 24th, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
Cemetery Tours by Donation
Cemetery Tours by Donation
1pm-5pm on-the-hour
The Thompson Family Cemetery Tours run every hour and are offered by donation. Guests will hear stories of the Thompson family, discover the symbolism carved into historic gravestones, and learn about Victorian burial and mourning practices.
Perfect for the season, these daytimes tours offer history with just a hint of mystery.
Please visit the Welcome Centre to register.
Haunted High Tea
Friday, October 23rd, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
Haunted High Tea
Thursday, October 22nd, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Wednesday, October 21st, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Haunted High Tea
Tuesday, October 20th, 2026
6pm - 8pm
$65 Per Person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Guests will then be led by lantern light to the Thompson family cemetery, where a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded death in Victorian society.
Following the tour, guests will return to the Coach House for a Haunted High Tea featuring a delectable selection of savoury quiche, sandwiches, freshly baked scones, tempting sweets, and a variety of fine teas, all served in a setting steeped in history and mystery.
Dress in your finest Halloween attire or simply come as you are - but keep your senses sharp, you never know what might be lurking around the corner…
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Monday, October 19th, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
The Mansion in Mourning: Séances, Superstitions & Haunted Cemetery Tour
Sunday, October 18th, 2026
6pm-7:30pm
$25 per person
SOLD OUT
Step into a historic mansion in mourning and uncover the Victorian era’s most fascinating — and eerie — traditions. Learn about elaborate funeral practices and mourning expectations, and the rise of spiritualism, from séance rooms to the Victorian fascination of speaking with the dead.
Leaving the mansion, guests will follow a lantern-lit path to the cemetery. There, a grave digger shares grim tales of burials, mourning rites, graveyard folklore, and the customs that surrounded loss in Victorian society.
This experience lasts approximately one hour and concludes in the Coach House with refreshments.
Pre-registration required.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Cemetery Tours by Donation
Cemetery Tours by Donation
1pm-5pm on-the-hour
The Thompson Family Cemetery Tours run every hour and are offered by donation. Guests will hear stories of the Thompson family, discover the symbolism carved into historic gravestones, and learn about Victorian burial and mourning practices.
Perfect for the season, these daytimes tours offer history with just a hint of mystery.
Please visit the Welcome Centre to register.
Cemetery Tours by Donation
Cemetery Tours by Donation
1pm-5pm on-the-hour
The Thompson Family Cemetery Tours run every hour and are offered by donation. Guests will hear stories of the Thompson family, discover the symbolism carved into historic gravestones, and learn about Victorian burial and mourning practices.
Perfect for the season, these daytimes tours offer history with just a hint of mystery.
Please visit the Welcome Centre to register.
Cars in The Park
Ruthven Park’s 28th Annual Cars in the Park
Monday, October 12th 2026
10am-4pm
Admission $10 per car.
Rev your engines and cruise over to Ruthven Park for one of the most anticipated car shows of the season!
Whether you're a passionate car enthusiast, a classic car collector, or simply appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of exceptional automobiles, this is an event you won't want to miss. Spend the day exploring an impressive lineup of vintage, classic, custom, and specialty vehicles while connecting with fellow automotive fans in the beautiful setting of Ruthven Park National Historic Site.
Make time to experience everything Ruthven Park has to offer, including:
Dash Plaques for the First 100 Registered Vehicles
Historic Mansion Tours
Guided Cemetery Tours
Children's Activities
Concession Stand
Door Prizes
Bring your family and friends, spend the day surrounded by incredible vehicles, and enjoy a unique blend of automotive heritage and local history.
Rain or shine, we'll see you there!
Celtic Festival
Saturday, September 5th 2026
11am - 4:30pm
Admission prices vary. Please visit our ‘Tickets” page to register.
Step into a full day of Celtic celebration at Ruthven Park! Enjoy live music, delicious food, highland cows, historic demonstrations, and a bustling vendor market.
Bring the whole family to experience the raptor show by Wild Ontario, the “Wee Bairns Play Area,” and hands‑on activities like street curling, historic mansion tours, and guided walks through the Indiana cemetery.
Must be 19+ to access Beer Gardens
Pets are not permitted on the site (except service animals).
SITE CLOSED
SITE CLOSED
August 31 – September 4, 2026
The site, including the grounds and trails, will be closed to the public as we prepare for the Celtic Festival on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
If you have any questions regarding this closure, please contact the Welcome Centre at 905-772-0560.
Thank you for your understanding.
Road Runners Car Club - Car Show
Sunday August 30th, 2026
9:00am-2:00pm
Entrance by Donation
Dash Plaques
Trophies
50/50 Draw
Anniversary T-shirts
Museum Tours
Food Vendor
All proceeds go to Ontario Parents Advocating for Children with Cancer (OPACC)
Summer Afternoon Tea
Sunday, August 23rd, 2026
11am-1pm
Sold Out
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea surrounded by the natural beauty of Ruthven’s riverside landscape. Set before the Historic Mansion and overlooking the Grand River, savour delicate sandwiches, sweets, and fine tea among vibrant seasonal blooms.
Your visit begins with a guided walk through the mansion’s main level, featuring our exhibit The Dirty Truth of 19th‑Century Hygiene. Along the way, you’ll discover stories of the Thompson family and everyday life at Ruthven.
After the tour, settle in for afternoon tea and wander the gardens at your own pace on a self‑guided stroll.
For questions and inquiries please contact info@ruthvenpark.ca
Wellness Retreat
Sunday August 2nd, 2026
10am - 4pm
$140 per person
Nestled in the serene Carolinian forest with sweeping views of the Grand River, this exclusive retreat invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself. Join us for a soul-nourishing day at Ruthven Park, where nature, creativity, and mindfulness come together in a restorative wellness experience.
Your day of rejuvenation includes:
Opening circle & Yoga with Zen Country Wellness
Riverside Walk or Self-Meditation
“Cultivating Self-Compassion” talk by Cabin Wellness Clinic
Catered lunch by Debb’s Cuisine on Queen
Terracotta Pot Painting + Herb Planting with You & I Paint
Sound Bathing with Evolution of You Inc.
Closing Circle with Zen Country Wellness
Spaces are limited for this retreat— reserve yourself a day of peace, creativity and connection!
This event is proudly sponsored by The Cabin Wellness Clinic
Golden Hour High Tea
Friday, July 31st, 2026
7pm-9pm
$65 Per Person
Settle in for an enchanting summer evening where exquisite high tea and golden hour come together in a picture-perfect escape. Delight in a beautifully curated selection of savoury bites, warm scones, delicate pastries, and handcrafted sweets before stepping out to explore the picturesque estate as the evening sun casts its signature golden glow.
Wander the gardens, stroll along the Grand River, and create breathtaking moments with the Historic Mansion as your backdrop. It’s the perfect evening to gather with friends, sip, savour, stroll and make memories worth capturing.
Pre-registration required.
SITE CLOSED
SITE CLOSED
Tuesday, July 7th 2026
The site, including the grounds and trails, will be closed on Tuesday July 7th, 2026.
If you have any questions regarding this closure, please contact the Welcome Centre at 905-772-0560.
Thank you for your understanding.
Garden Afternoon Tea
Saturday, July 4, 2026
11am-1pm
$55 Per Person
Two tickets remaining
Enjoy an afternoon tea in the beauty of Ruthven’s picturesque landscape. Overlooking the Grand River, savour sandwiches, sweets, and fine tea among vibrant blooms set before the Historic Mansion.
Your experience begins with a guided walk through the main level of the mansion, including our featured exhibit The Dirty Truth of 19th‑Century Hygiene, where you’ll learn more about the Thompson family and daily life at Ruthven.
Following the tour, relax with afternoon tea and explore the gardens on a self‑guided stroll at your leisure.
SITE CLOSED
SITE CLOSED
Tuesday, June 16th 2026
The site, including the grounds and trails, will be closed on Tuesday June 16th, 2026.
If you have any questions regarding this closure, please contact the Welcome Centre at 905-772-0560.
Thank you for your understanding.
Secret Garden Experience
Secret Garden Experience
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Registration Closed May 29th
Our Secret Garden Experience is nearly sold out, and ticket sales will officially close on May 29.
Spend a beautiful summer day surrounded by blooms, creativity, and history with Tamara of Chippewa Blooms. Choose from two floral workshops featuring seasonal flowers, romantic garden-inspired designs, cream tea with fresh local scones, time to explore the gardens, and a guided tour of the Mansion exhibit The Dirty Truth About 19th-Century Hygiene.
Hand-Tied Bouquet Workshop (10am–1pm)
Floral Arrangement Workshop (2pm–5pm)
Spaces are limited and remaining tickets are expected to go quickly.
Migratory Bird Day Discovery Weekend
May 9th & 10th | 10:00am–3:00pm
Free Admission
Celebrate Migratory Bird Day with a full weekend of nature‑inspired activities. Drop in anytime between 10am and 3pm to enjoy hands‑on crafts, scavenger hunts across the grounds, and guided hikes offered every hour.
The bird banding lab will also be open for live demonstrations, giving visitors a rare look at the science behind migration.
A perfect spring outing for families, bird lovers, and curious explorers.
Migratory Bird Day- Discovery Weekend
May 9th & 10th | 10:00am–3:00pm
Free Admission
Celebrate Migratory Bird Day with a full weekend of nature‑inspired activities. Drop in anytime between 10am and 3pm to enjoy hands‑on crafts, scavenger hunts across the grounds, and guided hikes offered every hour.
The bird banding lab will also be open for live demonstrations, giving visitors a rare look at the science behind migration.
A perfect spring outing for families, bird lovers, and curious explorers.
Spring Clean-up
Saturday, May 2nd | 11:00am–3:00pm
Drop‑In
Join us for a community clean‑up as we freshen up the grounds and trails for the season. We’ll be picking up sticks, clearing litter, and giving the landscape a little extra care.
Free pizza lunch and a guided mansion tour are included as a thank‑you to all volunteers.
Please bring: proper footwear, weather‑appropriate outerwear, and a water bottle.
Students are welcome. Volunteer hour verification is available.
Everyone is welcome! Come for a bit or stay the whole afternoon. Your help makes a real difference in keeping Ruthven Park beautiful and inviting.
March Break at Ruthven Park
March 16th–20th | 11:00am - 3:00pm
FREE Drop-in Fun
Make Ruthven Park part of your March Break adventure. The Coach House will be open all week with free interactive activities—crafts, games, and creative stations for families, friends, and young explorers.
Drop in between 11am and 3pm and enjoy a week of simple, engaging fun!
March Break at Ruthven Park
March 16th–20th | 11:00am - 1:00pm
FREE Drop-in Fun
Make Ruthven Park part of your March Break adventure. The Coach House will be open all week with free interactive activities—crafts, games, and creative stations for families, friends, and young explorers.
Drop in between 11am and 3pm and enjoy a week of simple, engaging fun!
Family Day at Ruthven Park
Celebrate Family Day weekend with us! Join us for two days of history, activities, and cozy winter fun.
Hours of Operation
Monday, February 16: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Mansion Tours Explore the first and second floors of the historic Thompson Mansion. Tours run on the hour from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM each day and are offered by monetary donation in support of Ruthven Park.
Family Activities & Warm Treats Drop in for family‑themed activities throughout the day, perfect for all ages. Hot chocolate will be available in the Welcome Centre as you warm up between adventures.