Autumn in the Hills

Explore this season’s arts events, spot rare creatures, discover an unusual Mono garden and more – all in our Autumn issue.

September 15, 2025 | | Autumn 2025

As the fall issue came together, publisher/editor Tralee Pearce noticed that many of them seemed to have something in common – a sense of wonder and awe. 

Resident naturalist Don Scallen describes how spotting rare species can feel like magic in his feature “Brief Encounters,” while Mono gardener Henry van Oudenaren coaxes unexpected plants from the earth, including kiwi, pawpaw and persimmon – sometimes much to his own amazement. 

In “Season of Colour, Season of Art” local artists wow audiences at a long list of must-see fall festivals, studio tours and exhibitions. And Theatre Orangeville’s new artistic director, Jennifer Stewart, describes feeling a sense of kismet as she steps into her new role. 

Oscar and Sport: Erin’s War Dog” is the true tale of a furry, four-legged World War II soldier who found a home in Erin, and a well-deserved posthumous honour. 

And if you’re “wondering” about how to get around, our News Desk delves into the improvements coming to local public transportation, including Orangeville’s popular fare-free bus and other initiatives that aim to connect rural communities.

Happy reading from In The Hills!

Blandings turtle

BRIEF ENCOUNTERS

A fleeting glimpse of one of these five rare Headwaters species can feel like magic – and like a warning we can’t ignore.

Learn more.

orangeville free bus

STILL WAITING ON THE BUS

Rural communities are built for drivers – but what about everyone else? As new transit efforts gain ground, riders are hoping for more than a lift. 

Learn more.

theatre orangeville

TAKING THE STAGE

Jennifer Stewart, Theatre Orangeville’s new artistic director, steps into the spotlight.

Learn more.

orly Breitner

SEASON OF COLOUR, SEASON OF ART

As leaves change so do the galleries and gathering spaces of Headwaters – here’s a curated roundup of fall’s must-see exhibitions and events.

Learn more.

mono gardening

HOW A MONO GARDEN GROWS … AND GROWS … AND GROWS …

Henry van Oudenaren’s remarkable selection of plants pushes the boundaries of what will grow successfully in Headwaters.

Learn more.

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  • DUFFERIN RAIL TRAIL

    Take a stroll through the bucolic countryside by following the tracks that once connected Orangeville to Dundalk.

    Learn more.

    erin fall fair

    FIELD NOTES: 175 YEARS OF THE ERIN FALL FAIR

    The Erin Fall Fair turns 175, Belfountain throws a bash, and Canada’s most famous astronaut Chris Hadfield lands in Orangeville.

    Learn more.

    in the hills magazine

    REST AND REPEAT

    The importance of rest – whether napping or just taking a break – as a form of self-care.

    Learn more.

    terrarium house

    HANDCRAFTED IN HEADWATERS

    Discover mini terrariums containing hidden worlds, the art of blacksmithing and whimsical monochrome cards.

    Learn more.

    Pia's on Broadway orangeville

    FOOD + DRINK: AUTUMN 2025

    Toast local sandwich stars at Pia’s on Broadway, sip a flight of Caledon cider and dig into locally made pies.

    Learn more.

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  • War dogs

    OSCAR AND SPORT: ERIN’S WAR DOG

    The true tale of a World War II four-legged soldier who found a forever home in Erin – and a posthumous honour.

    Learn more.

    nature journalling

    NATURE JOURNALLING FOR KIDS

    Outdoor educator Billie Jo Reid aims to inspire enthusiasm for the environment through sketching in nature.

    Learn more.

    caledon real estate

    CLASSIC DESIGN, CASUAL LUXURY

    A tranquil Caledon home inspires connecting with nature, relaxing with friends and family, gracious entertaining – and a whole lot of sports.

    Learn more.

    country septic systems

    YOUR COUNTRY SEPTIC SYSTEM, DEMYSTIFIED

    How does a septic system work? Learn all about this vital part of rural life and avoid a messy meltdown.

    Learn more.

    ontario honey creations

    BUSY AS A BEEKEEPER

    Sarah Allinson of Ontario Honey Creations minds her own beeswax.

    Learn more.

    About the Author

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