Ottawa Valley Tourist Association photo
The County of Renfrew’s Economic Development Division is proud to present the Taste of the Valley event series – an annual celebration of all things grown, made, and created right here in Renfrew County.
The fourth and largest event of the 2025 Taste of the Valley season is in Cobden on Saturday, October 18, being held at the Cobden Fairgrounds (43 Astrolabe Rd. Cobden) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Originally launched more than a decade ago to spotlight local food producers in the Ottawa Valley, Taste of the Valley has grown into a vibrant showcase of the region’s diverse offerings. Today, the event embraces a broader interpretation of “taste,” celebrating not only local food, but also handcrafted products, visual arts, and cultural experiences that reflect the unique spirit of our communities.
The Cobden event, featuring more than 130 vendors set up in the parking lot and inside the Agricultural Hall, will include fresh local produce alongside unique handcrafted products from talented artists and artisans, as well as baked goods, prepared hot food, jams and preserves from bakers and food producers across Renfrew County.
“Whitewater is so excited to host The Taste of the Valley! It is a true celebration of local entrepreneurship, where every exhibitor tells a story of our greater community and its people,” said Whitewater Region Mayor Neil Nicholson. “The passion for quality really shines, making this an event that attracts so many people who want to get a taste of what rural Ontario offers.”
Upcoming Taste of the Valley events in 2025 are being held in partnership with the host municipalities:
· Whitewater Region (October 18 – Cobden Fairgrounds and Ag Hall)
· Pembroke (December 13 Holiday Edition – Knights of Columbus Hall)
“As one of the original and largest Taste of the Valley events of the season, this celebration in Cobden truly captures the spirit of Renfrew County,” says Scott Hamilton, Economic Development Coordinator with the County of Renfrew. “It’s a vibrant showcase of our local culture and community, offering an unmatched opportunity to meet the farmers, artisans, and creators who define our region and to savour the flavours and craftsmanship that make Renfrew County exceptional.” For more information about Taste of the Valley, visit www.TOTV.ca or follow on social media at @TasteoftheValleyRC.
(Richard Evans)
