Local tourist potential should be source of pride

June 9, 2010
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The summer months are fast approaching.
Warm, sunny weather is already upon us and folks everywhere are looking for ways to spend these beautiful days.
One good way would be to visit the Municipality of North Perth.
This time of year, plans for upcoming events and tourist attractions are in full swing.
But it seems there are rumblings about the community that some don’t feel North Perth qualifies as a tourist spot.
Take a closer look.
North Perth offers a long list of things to do and see this summer.
A few of these events include:
• The Comanchero Car show — auto enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this annual display of automobiles
• Farmers Market — get some fresh produce and other local products
• Garden tours — green thumbs don’t want to miss this display of North Perth gardens
• Golf courses — take in a round of golf on one of the area’s courses
• Listowel Days sidewalk sales — find some bargains and take a browse through local shops
• Agricultural fairs — rides, tasty treats, competitions and livestock... area fairs have all the key ingredients for fun and success.
Then there are annual events such as Paddyfest, which draw thousands. That’s no small feat. People travel for miles to attend Paddyfest because it’s known far and wide as a quality event and always proves to be a great time. It’s put on by the Kinsmen and includes activities for everyone.
We should keep in mind visitors don’t necessarily have to come from other provinces or countries to qualify as tourists. They can be anyone from neighbouring towns or cities, stopping in to enjoy one of North Perth’s restaurants, shop in our stores or take in a show.
Which brings us to another good point: entertainment.
Theatre Three-Eleven is growing in popularity and offers a series of top-notch shows. Proof, for example, is a Pulitzer-prize winner and is now playing at the theatre.
This is in addition to the concerts and shows on stage regularly throughout the area.
These are local entertainment venues, which offer live productions at reasonable rates.
The North Perth and Beyond 2010 Visitor’s Guide is brought to you by the Listowel Banner. It outlines these and more events this community offers tourists and locals alike.
Pick up a copy when it comes out in July and take a look through the pages. It’s quite possible there are exciting events happening that even some of the locals didn’t know about.
Groups like the North Perth Chamber of Commerce, area service clubs, North Perth Arts and Culture Council, various organizations and volunteers work hard to put on these events. Instead of dismissing this area as a non-tourist stop, let’s get behind it instead.
Spread the word. Attend the events. Enjoy everything your community has to offer. It’s a safe bet we could be surprised at what a big deal our small community is.