Purple Haven Lavender Farm Earns Prestigious Ontario Tourism Recognition

Haldimand County has another reason to celebrate.

Purple Haven Lavender Farm in Canfield has been named a 2026 Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experience, placing it among a select group of immersive tourism destinations recognized across Southwestern Ontario. The designation not only recognizes one of the region’s most unique attractions, it also strengthens Haldimand County’s growing reputation as a destination for authentic rural tourism experiences.

Purple Haven becomes just one of two attractions in Haldimand County to earn the prestigious designation, joining Cottonwood Mansion Museum in Selkirk. For residents, it’s another reminder that some of Ontario’s most memorable travel experiences can be found right here at home.

A Local Partnership That Created Something Special

What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is that it celebrates a partnership between two Haldimand County businesses.

The award-winning experience, Light, Lavender & Cyanotype Magic Tea Party, was created through a collaboration between Purple Haven Lavender Farm and LVW Creative Barracks, a community arts centre owned by local artist Lacie Williamson.

The two businesses have worked together on several creative tourism experiences over the years, but this is the first to receive Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experience designation. It highlights not only the quality of the experience itself, but also the value of local businesses working together to create something visitors cannot find anywhere else.

What Is an Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experience?

Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experiences are carefully selected tourism attractions that offer authentic, hands-on, story-driven experiences showcasing the unique character of Southwestern Ontario.

The program recognizes experiences that encourage visitors to spend more time exploring a destination, create stronger connections with local communities, and inspire return visits. These experiences also help strengthen local economies by attracting visitors seeking something unique rather than traditional tourist attractions.

For Haldimand County, having two Signature Experiences is a significant achievement that places the region alongside some of Southwestern Ontario’s most respected tourism destinations.

More Than a Lavender Farm

While Ontario has many lavender farms, few offer experiences like the one created at Purple Haven.

The Light, Lavender & Cyanotype Magic Tea Party combines a lavender-inspired tea party with hands-on cyanotype, or sun-print, art led by Lacie Williamson. Guests also create botanical prints using natural materials and sunlight while spending time among the blooming lavender fields and gardens.

The experience blends agriculture, creativity, and storytelling into an afternoon that encourages visitors to slow down and connect with both nature and art.

It is exactly the kind of immersive experience that today’s travellers are increasingly looking for.

A Win for Haldimand County Tourism

This recognition is about more than one successful business.

It shines a spotlight on Haldimand County as a destination where visitors can discover authentic rural experiences built around local people, local landscapes, and local creativity.

Agritourism continues to grow across Ontario as more travellers seek experiences that connect them with farms, artisans, and small communities. Purple Haven’s recognition helps showcase Haldimand County as a place where those experiences are thriving.

As more visitors discover destinations like Purple Haven, they also explore local restaurants, shops, accommodations, museums, and other attractions throughout the county, creating benefits that extend well beyond a single business.

Celebrating Local Creativity

Purple Haven owner Kim Drew says the recognition reflects the values that have guided the farm from the beginning.

“This recognition means so much to us. Not only is it an honour for our farm, but it also celebrates the power of local collaboration. Working with a talented local artist to create something truly meaningful is at the heart of what we do.”

Lacie Williamson says the experience reflects her own passion for helping people reconnect with creativity and place.

“At LVW Creative Barracks, my work has always focused on creating space for people to slow down, explore creativity, and connect with place. Bringing that philosophy to life among blooming lavender fields, and having it recognized at this level, is incredibly special.”

Their partnership demonstrates what can happen when local businesses combine their strengths to create experiences that leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Experience It During Lavender Season

The Light, Lavender & Cyanotype Magic Tea Party will be offered during the 2026 lavender bloom season.

For local residents, it’s an opportunity to experience an award-winning attraction right here in Haldimand County. For visitors, it’s another compelling reason to explore the region and discover why Haldimand is becoming known for its authentic rural tourism experiences.

Congratulations to Kim Drew, Lacie Williamson, and everyone involved in creating an experience that showcases the best of Haldimand County. Their achievement is one the entire community can be proud of.