Kitchener 
Downtown Elora is set to host a large-scale outdoor barbecue event featuring over 20 local restaurants, regional beverages, live performances, and activities for all ages.
Organizers expect more than 10,000 attendees, exceeding the 7,500 who participated last year.
Elora’s Longest BBQ will take place along West Mill Street and the Pedestrian Bridge. The event marks the official start of Food Day Canada 2025, a national tribute to Canadian cuisine and the communities that support it.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a rain date of July 30.
Participating vendors include Elora Mill, Breadalbane, Elora Bread Company, The Friendly Society, The Wild Tart, and several others. Local wine, beer, and cider will also be available.
Jeff Stewart, Executive Director of Food Day Canada, said the event reflects the core values of the celebration, focusing on Canadian-grown ingredients and communal gathering. Jocelyn Maurice, Managing Partner of Elora Mill, emphasized the event’s significance to the local hospitality and culinary scene.
Founded by the late Anita Stewart, Food Day Canada began in Elora and continues to highlight the contributions of Canadian farmers, fishers, and chefs. This year’s event pays tribute to Stewart’s vision of national culinary pride and community connection.
Support for the event comes from the Grand River Agricultural Society and Egg Farmers of Ontario, with a shared focus on agriculture, sustainability, and education.
Admission is free, while food and beverage tickets can be purchased online or at the event. Proceeds will support Food Day Canada’s mandate.
Package options range from $18 to $85, with the “Foodie” and “Shareable” bundles also including entries into a contest. Prizes include a spa and dining experience in Elora or two weekend passes to Riverfest Elora 2025. Contest entries must be submitted by July 27 and are open to Ontario residents aged 18 and older.
The event will be held on July 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. along West Mill Street and the Pedestrian Bridge, with a rain date of July 30. A free shuttle and ticket booths will be available at Grand River Raceway.
Proceeds will benefit Food Day Canada’s initiatives.
Elora’s Longest BBQ
What: Elora transforms into a celebration of Canadian cuisine for the return of Elora’s Longest BBQ, the official launch of Food Day Canada 2025.
Special thanks to our food & beverage partners, including:
(* Restaurants listed below are subject to change.*)
• Belly and The Beast
• Endless Inspiration
• Breadalbane
• The Badley
• The Friendly Society
• Conestoga College
• Elora Mill
• Elora Distilling Company
• Elora Bread Company
• Handsome Devil Bistro
• The Cellar
• The Evelyn
• Lost & Found Cafe
• The Wild Tart
• Sweet Distractions
• Scoop
• Taj Mahal
• …and more to be announced!
Where: West Mill Street & the Pedestrian Bridge, Downtown Elora
When: Tuesday, July 29, 2025 (rain date July 30) | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
How Much: Free admission | | Food & beverages available for purchase
- NIBBLES – $18: 2 Savoury Tastings, 1 Sweet Treat, 1 Non-Alcoholic Drink
- CURIOUS – $35 (contest entry): 3 Savoury Tastings, 1 Sweet Treat, 1 Non-Alcoholic Drink
- FOODIE – $45 Recommended (contest entry): 4 Savoury Tastings, 1 Sweet Treat, 1 Non-Alcoholic Drink
- SHAREABLE – $85 Great for two or more! (contest entry x2): 10 Savoury Tastings, 4 Sweet Treats, 4 Non-Alcoholic Drinks
