Rows upon rows of fresh blooms blanket the fields and fill the air with the sweet and floral aroma of lavender. Whether it’s taking a stroll through the fields or having a picnic amongst the blooms, Purple Hill Lavender Farm has something for everyone. Purple Hill Lavender Farm, nestled on 50 acres of the Niagara Escarpment located just outside the village of Creemore, is a family-owned operation that’s celebrating 10 years in business. Jessica Ridding, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of the farm says she and her family wanted to do something on the family property that was meaningful and special to them. Over the 10 years, Rodding says they have learned “so much,” like the kind of lavender that grows well in Ontario soil. The 12 part-time seasonal workers the farm employs, Ridding says have become like family. When the business first started, Ridding and her family planted 3,000 lavender plants. Since then, they’ve grown to more than three acres of lavender and 10,000 lavender plants. “We love lavender for its versatility,” says Ridding. “There’s so much you can do with it. Not only does it look beautiful, but it can be used for aromatherapy, culinary purposes and it’s just very aromatic and helps people with their anxiety.” The farm offers a variety of activities throughout the summer, and guests can choose what they’d like to do when they visit. They can stroll in the fields, check out the farm boutique filled with lavender-based products, participate in special workshops with local artisans or attend events. This weekend is the kick-off to bloom season and the farm is celebrating with food trucks, artisan market, and a wellness corner featuring massages, tarot card readings, yoga and Pilates. One the most popular events that’s grown over the years, Ridding says, is its Evening Picnic Series. During golden hour—just before sunset—every Wednesday and Saturday, guests can come and have a picnic amongst the blooms with charcuterie and a glass of wine or Creemore Springs while taking in live music. There’s also oil distillation in August where visitors to the farm can watch how essential oils are made with lavender. Ridding says the best time to come for peak bloom is mid-June to early August, but the most optimal bloom is early July. To commemorate 10 years of operation, Ridding and her family have released a coffee table book that’s a blended memoir, farm guide and art book. Purple Hill Lavender Farm will be open every day from now through until Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
