September is always a busy month with the return to school. It’s also a busy time in Coldwater. Despite the chaos, we try to venture out to two events in the little village every year. Here’s the scoop:
Coldwater Steampunk and Oddity Days Festival: Prepare to be transported through time and imagination on Saturday, September 13, 2025 for the return, after a two year hiatus, of the beloved Coldwater Steampunk Festival. For one magical day, Coldwater becomes a portal to a Victorian past reimagined with futuristic flair and everyone is invited to join the adventure. This year marks the 11th year of the event where you can expect to see costuming, an artisan market, live entertainment, and a dedicated kids zone.
Now the littlest of explorers in the group are probably asking what is Steampunk? This is an aesthetic that combines a nod to the Victorian-era style and technology with elements of the future. It’s a world where modern invention takes flight and takes you back to the 1800s. It’s best explained through literary works such as 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, The Time Machine and Frankenstein. It’s a whole subculture you can’t fully explain until you witness it in action. I had no idea until we checked it out a few years ago!
Whether you’re a seasoned steampunk enthusiast or just curious to see what the deal is, there’s something for everyone.
Event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Coldwater. Plan to carpool because parking will be your only issue. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted to help keep the gears turning.
For more information, including costume ideas and getting a sense of the vibe, check out: coldwatersteampunk.ca
Coldwater Fall Fair: We’ve highlighted the Fall Fair circuit in a previous issue, but we love visiting the Coldwater Fall Fair, a classic rural Ontario celebration of agriculture, community, and family fun. Hosted by the Coldwater & District Agricultural Society, this annual event brings together locals and visitors to enjoy a weekend packed with exhibits, entertainment, and country charm.The fair runs September 26-28, 2025 at the Fairgrounds. Activities include live music and livestock, horse and tractor pulls, exhibits, vendors, and a midway.
This event does require tickets which can be purchased online in advance. There are day passes or weekend passes. Additionally, youth can purchase a Midway pass to give them constant access to all the fun the midway offers, rather than individual ride tickets. There will be additional parking at Mount St. Louis with a free shuttle bus to the Fairgrounds.
For all the details on the jam-packed schedule and purchasing weekend passes, visit coldwaterfallfair.com.
Fall is here and we are here for it! This Villager is heading back into the Victorian-era. Will I see you in my time travels?
