Step back in time this summer at Heritage Days. Visit Ball’s Falls Conservation Area on July 19th or August 9th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to explore the historic village of Glen Elgin, rich with stories of Canada's past.
The village of Glen Elgin was a thriving industrial mill town in the mid-1800s. Originally, settled by brothers George and John Ball in 1807, the community grew with the establishment of grist, woollen, and sawmills. The village began to decline by 1858, but seven of the original buildings remain.
Visitors can wander through the beautifully preserved industrial hamlet, exploring the historic Ball family home, one of Ontario’s oldest wooden gristmills, a quaint chapel, and a traditional blacksmith shop. Watch skilled artisans bring history to life with life demonstrations, including blacksmithing, milling, broom-making and other traditional crafts.
For history buffs looking to dive deeper into the history of Ball’s Falls and the surrounding area, join our experts on a guided heritage tour of the Glen Elgin village. If visitors are looking to immerse themselves in the rich natural heritage of Niagara, join NPCA staff and volunteers on a guided hike along the trails of the treasured Carolinian Forest.
Heritage Days are perfect for the whole family, history buffs, and anyone looking to experience a slice of Ontario’s natural and historical heritage.
Details:
- Date: July 19 & August 9, 2026
- Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
- Admission: Conservation area entrance fee
- Admission Info & More Details: npca.ca/events
Can’t make it to Heritage Days? Don’t worry! Check in at the front desk any day from Victoria Day weekend to Labour Day to request a guided hike. Email ballsfalls@npca.ca for more information.