Taste of the Valley 2026 season kicks off in Barry’s Bay August 8

Taste of the Valley 2026 season kicks off in Barry’s Bay August 8

The County of Renfrew’s Economic Development Services is pleased to announce the return of Taste of the Valley, an annual event series celebrating the people, products, and experiences that make Renfrew County unique.

Originally launched more than a decade ago to showcase local food producers throughout the Ottawa Valley, Taste of the Valley has evolved into a vibrant celebration of the region’s agricultural, culinary, artistic, and entrepreneurial talent. Today, the series highlights not only local food and beverages, but also handcrafted products, visual arts, and cultural experiences created right here in Renfrew County.

The 2026 season will begin in Barry’s Bay on Saturday, August 8, at the Railway Station Museum (19503 Opeongo Line) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The outdoor event will feature approximately 60 vendors offering fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, artwork, baked goods, prepared foods, with hot ready-to-eat food on site and specialty products from farmers, food producers, artists, and artisans from across Renfrew County. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and enjoy a day of shopping, exploring, and connecting with local producers and creators.

“The Township of Madawaska Valley is thrilled to kick off the 2026 season of Taste of the Valley,” said Mayor David Shulist. “For decades, our community has proudly hosted this event celebrating the farmers, producers, artists, and entrepreneurs who contribute to the vitality of Renfrew County. We are excited to once again partner with the County of Renfrew to welcome residents and visitors to the historic Railway Station Museum for what promises to be another memorable event.”

Taste of the Valley 2026 events are being held in partnership with host municipalities across the County:

• Township of Madawaska Valley – August 8, Railway Station Museum, Barry’s Bay
• Township of Admaston/Bromley – August 22, Douglas Recreation Centre
• Town of Petawawa – September 19, Petawawa Civic Centre
• Township of Whitewater Region – October 17, Cobden Fairgrounds
• Town of Renfrew – December 12, Holiday Edition, Renfrew Armouries

“As the first Taste of the Valley event of the 2026 season, the Barry’s Bay market offers a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to connect directly with local farmers, food producers, artisans, and creators,” said Scott Hamilton, Economic Development Coordinator with Invest Renfrew County, a sub-division of the County’s Economic Development Services. “It is a chance to support local businesses, discover unique products made right here in Renfrew County, and celebrate the strong agricultural and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to define our region.”

For more information about Taste of the Valley, visit www.TOTV.ca or follow on social media at @TasteoftheValleyRC.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Scott Hamilton                    Economic Development Coordinator               613-735-7288

Tina Peplinskie                    Media Relations Coordinator                               613-735-7288