Celebrate Ontario’s apple harvest during Craft Cider Week 2025
There’s no better time to enjoy Ontario Craft Cider than harvest season, and this year, Ontario Craft Cider Week (September 19–26, 2025) is the perfect invitation. Across the province, cideries will be opening their doors for orchard tours, tastings, pairings, and fall celebrations that capture the flavour of the season.
Ontario’s craft cider makers are deeply rooted in the land they farm. Many grow their own apples, and not the ones you’ll find in a grocery store. Heritage varietals like Harry Masters Jersey, Bulmers Norman, Ellis Bitter, and Purple Passion are cultivated by dedicated orchardists who know that Ontario’s climate and geography offer ideal conditions for cider apples. From the cooling breezes of Lake Ontario to the rugged shores of Georgian Bay, each region imparts its own terroir—much like wine.
This connection to land and history runs deep. The art of cidermaking here stretches back to the 17th century, when settlers planted apple seeds and saplings from England and France. Though Prohibition nearly erased the tradition, today a new generation of cider makers is bringing it back—pressing 100% Ontario-grown apples and reviving time-honoured techniques. The Drink ON Apples™ logo ensures every sip is made with local fruit, supporting Ontario orchards and preserving our agricultural heritage.
Ontario Craft Cider is as versatile at the table as it is refreshing on its own. A dry, tannic cider cuts beautifully through roast pork and apples; an off-dry cider enhances the natural sweetness of butternut squash soup. Pair a bold, barrel-aged cider with sharp cheddar or aged gouda, or enjoy a lightly sparkling, semi-dry cider alongside roasted root vegetables. For dessert, explore the variety of sweet and fortified ciders that round out a harvest meal.
During Ontario Craft Cider Week, events will be happening across cider country—from Niagara to Prince Edward County, Norfolk to Georgian Bay—each celebrating the harvest in its own way. Expect cider-and-cheese pairings, harvest dinners, limited-edition releases, and family-friendly activities among the orchards.
This September, make Ontario Craft Cider Week part of your harvest traditions. Ask for local cider at the LCBO, at your favourite restaurant, or—better yet—plan a visit to a cidery and taste Ontario Craft Cider where it all begins.
Follow the Ontario Craft Cider Trail at ontariocidertrail.ca and raise a glass to the season.
