Come for the Rodeo...

The Norfolk Pro Rodeo runs July 17–19 at Timmermans Ranch in Simcoe — and if you’re visiting from Hamilton, London, Brantford, or the GTA, here’s a thought: don’t rush home.

Norfolk County is a hidden gem, but those who know it come back every chance they get. It’s Lake Erie shoreline, working farmland, craft breweries, and some of the best fresh produce you’ll find anywhere in Ontario (maybe all of Canada!) — all at a pace that feels like summer is supposed to feel.

Here’s how to make a full weekend of it.

...Stay for the County!

Where to Stay

Hotels: You’ll find accommodation options in Simcoe, Tillsonburg, and Brantford. We recommend booking early — rodeo weekend fills up the area fast.

Camping: Norfolk County is surrounded by some excellent provincial park options, all within easy reach of Timmermans Ranch:

  • Long Point Provincial Park — One of Ontario’s most celebrated natural areas, right on Lake Erie. Excellent beach and birding.
  • Turkey Point Provincial Park — A quieter option with beach access and a relaxed, family feel.
  • Port Burwell Provincial Park — A bit further east but worth it for the sandy beach and lighthouse.

There are also private campgrounds in the area that welcome weekend campers. A quick search will turn up several options close to Simcoe. Book ahead — July fills up.

Note: Onsite camping at the Rodeo is fully booked for 2026.

Long Point Ontario
Rodeo Camping

Get Outside

Norfolk County is genuinely made for outdoor adventure, and July is about as good as it gets.

Beaches
Lake Erie’s north shore has some of the warmest freshwater beaches in Ontario, and you have several great options within a short drive:

  • Turkey Point — Sandy beach, calm water, great for families
  • Port Dover — A classic Erie beach town with a lively strip and a real summer atmosphere
  • Long Point — A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve with a stunning natural beach
  • Port Stanley — A charming lakeside village with a popular beach and a great main street

Lynn Valley Trail
If you’re looking to get moving on two wheels or on foot, the Lynn Valley Trail is a scenic multi-use trail running through the heart of Norfolk County. It’s a great way to see the landscape at a slower pace and a solid option for families with older kids.

Turkey Point Mountain Bike Trails
In addition to the amazing beach, Turkey Point is home to a Carolinian forest and some of the most incredible mountain bike trails around. 

Norfolk County Farm Stands

Farm Stands & Local Flavour

July is peak season in Norfolk County, and the region’s agricultural roots run deep. This is some of the most productive farmland in Canada — tobacco country turned market garden country — and the farm gate stands along the county roads are worth stopping for.

Keep an eye out for fresh corn, peaches, tomatoes, and strawberries. Much of it is picked that morning. There’s no better way to cap off a rodeo Saturday than picking up a basket of fesh produce on the way home.

Eat & Drink

Norfolk County has a quietly impressive food and drink scene, and a few names are worth seeking out:

Concession Road Brewing — A local craft brewery worth a stop for a post-rodeo pint.
Sassy Britches Brewing — Another solid craft option in the area with a loyal following.
Bonnieheath Estate Winery — If wine is more your speed, Bonnieheath is a Norfolk County gem.

Beyond those, Simcoe and the surrounding area have a solid range of sit-down restaurants and casual options to suit every appetite and budget.

Norfolk County Breweries

The Main Event

Everything above is great — but let’s be honest, the rodeo is the reason you’re here. Three days of professional rodeo action, live concerts from George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett, kids’ events, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time.

Tickets and full schedule at norfolkrodeo.com.

Mark Your Calendar!

The 2026 Norfolk Pro Rodeo runs July 17, 18, and 19 at Timmermans Ranch in Simcoe.
Whether you come for one day or the whole weekend, you’re in for a summer highlight.

Grab your tickets at norfolkrodeo.com/tickets and start getting excited because July can’t come soon enough.

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