Since the late 1800s, people have enjoyed the peninsula we know today as Presqu’ile Provincial Park for its recreational opportunities.
People came to the peninsula to connect with nature along the shores of Lake Ontario.
Early access was primarily by boat and the opening of the Murray Canal in 1889 increased traffic to Presqu’ile’s shores.
Regular ferry services ran to the Government Dock from many ports including Toronto and Rochester, in New York State.
We spoke with Jason Yakelashek, Acting Park Superintendent, who told us the park was used differently back in the day.
Over the last 100 years, Presqu’ile has had a hotel with a dance pavilion, there was a golf course and it even had an air field.
The park was originally designated federally due to the harbour and lighthouse that remain today.
In 1922 the government passed the Presqu’ile Park Act and the Presqu’ile Park Commission was appointed to manage and operate the park.
By the 1950’s more and more people were looking for a place for picnics and camping and in 1954 the park came under control of the province and became Presqu’ile Provincial Park.
Parks Ontario has been operating it ever since, providing recreational opportunities for visitors while protecting the ecological integrity of the park.
This Saturday, August 13th the park will be celebrating 100 years of Presqu’ile Park with some special events.
Starting at 10 am you’ll have the chance to go back in time and experience some old-fashioned picnic games like potato sack races, three-legged races, egg toss and more!
The Friends of Presqu’ile will be hosting a fundraising barbeque for lunch and during the early afternoon.
From 2 to 4 you can enjoy some Presqu’ile Hotel Games featuring mini-golf, croquet and horseshoes.
On Saturday evening there will be a tribute to the Presqu’ile Pleasure Palace Pavilion called “Dancing Through the Years” with live music from the Little Big Band and visitors are invited to dance the night away just like they did at the pavilion.
All events will take place around the Amphitheatre in the campground and are free to visitors of the park who will need to either a camping reservation or a day pass to enter the park.
For more information visit the Facebook page at Presqu’ile Provincial Park | Facebook
