It’s September, the leaves are already blazing with colour thanks to a summer drought, and the days are growing shorter. The back-to-school crowds have cleared out, leaving Prince Edward County at its absolute best. 

Fall is a beautiful time of year to visit P.E.C.'s wineries, but outside of the region's main draw, there are so many other things to see, taste and do in The County. There's always programming going on at the beloved Royal Hotel and just down the road, Merrill House is a quirky respite always worthy of a stay or a visit for dinner. 

Here’s a list of the must-dos this fall if you want to live your best County life.

1. Warm up with French onion soup at Merrill House

Autumn practically begs for this cozy indulgence. Alexandria’s, the French country restaurant tucked inside the lovely Merrill House boutique hotel, makes a decadent version that hits the spot.

2. Celebrate Oktoberfest at Parsons Brewery

On September 27, expect live music, hearty eats and, of course, plenty of beer.

3. Visit Pumpkinfest in Wellington

The first Saturday after Thanksgiving, this family-friendly classic offers a charming parade, giant pumpkin weigh-offs, a farmers’ market, petting zoo and live entertainment.

4. Swim at The Royal Hotel

The heated garden pool (kept at a very civilized 31 C) stays open into November. Guests can float worry-free, but if you’re quick, you might snag one of the few daily passes.

Barb Simkova

5. Laugh at Gillingham Brewery

On the third Friday of every month, Jeff Elliott hosts an outdoor comedy night with two stand-ups guaranteed to get you laughing. Bundle up and maybe pack a blanket — it’s Hillier in the fall, after all.

6. Harvest grapes at a winery

Closson Chase and other wineries invite volunteers to join the harvest. Think: fresh air, a crash course in viticulture, great company, and usually a well-earned feast with plenty of wine at the end of the day.

7. Dance at The Waring House

The Reasons — local legends — keep the 1950s and 60s alive in this cozy, old-school pub. Bring your dancing shoes.

8. Indulge at Slickers

Ginger rhubarb ice cream in Picton or Bloomfield — without the half-hour lineup? Yes, please.

9. Hit Outlet Dog Beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park

Beach 12, way down at the end, is pure bliss. The shallow inlets are perfect for pups who can’t handle the big waves — and watching them splash around is its own kind of joy.

10. Catch a piano set at Karlo Winery

If you’re lucky, crooner Dave Johanns might be playing his soulful version of Autumn Leaves in the winery’s intimate speakeasy.

11. Walk the Millennium Trail

There's nearly 50 kilometres of beautiful, peaceful trail, minus the summer bugs. Enough said.

12. Stock up at Vicki’s Veggies

“Veggies” is a bit of an undersell. Vicki Emlaw’s little food shack offers local beef and lamb, baked treats from PECish Bakery, Craic shortbread that might ruin you for all other cookies, flowers, and exclusives from Lemonade Dave. Vicki is the behind-the-scenes supplier for many of The County’s top restaurants, and her spot is a foodie treasure trove.

13. Go jam shopping

Start your holiday prep early. Pick up Christmas Jam at The Jam Shack on highway #34 or Jumbleberry preserves at Renaissance Farm’s sweet new shop in Hillier.