A Day of Romance
Celebrating Trisha Romance

About the Event

Join us in celebrating a truly special occasion as the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake presents the inaugural Key to the Town to renowned artist and long-time resident, Trisha Romance. This public ceremony will take place on Sunday, September 15, 2024.

The prestigious "Key to the Town" will be awarded by the Lord Mayor and Council in recognition of Trisha's exceptional talent and unwavering passion, which have greatly enriched the cultural and economic fabric of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This honour also commemorates the 40th anniversary of Trisha's first local gallery at 177 King Street.

Trisha Romance is a cherished member of our community, and her internationally acclaimed artwork has drawn countless visitors to experience the unique charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Her paintings offer a window into life in our town, making her an integral part of its cultural and artistic heritage. Trisha has received numerous accolades, including the Order of Ontario and the Canadian Artist of the Year Award for four consecutive years (1995-1998). Her work is displayed in over 400 galleries across North America.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Trisha is a dedicated philanthropist, having raised thousands of dollars for charitable causes such as Sick Kids, The Epilepsy Research Fund of Canada, and American military families, among many others.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024
Start Time: 2:00 p.m.
Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake Courthouse, 26 Queen Street

The celebration will include speeches from local dignitaries, the inaugural Key to the Town presentation, and a special exhibition of Trisha Romance’s paintings in the Old Court House. All are welcome to attend, and no registration is required.

About Trisha Romance

Trisha Romance is a renowned Canadian artist known for her captivating watercolour paintings that beautifully capture the essence of home, family, and the unique charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Born in Western New York in 1951, Trisha moved to Niagara-on-the-Lake, where she found inspiration for her career-defining work.

Her art, characterized by its warmth and meticulous detail, has been celebrated in over 400 galleries across North America. Trisha has received numerous honours, including the Order of Ontario and the Canadian Artist of the Year Award for four consecutive years (1995-1998).

Beyond her artistic success, Trisha is a committed philanthropist, raising funds for charities like Sick Kids and The Epilepsy Research Fund of Canada. As a long-time resident, her work has played a significant role in promoting Niagara-on-the-Lake as a destination for art lovers, making her an integral part of the town's cultural heritage.

Trisha Romance Walking Tour

Click on the photos below the map for full picture descriptions.

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To download a pdf of the map above, click on this link: Map download.

#1 The Museum

Niagara-on-the-Lake has become a town known for its wealth of significant history. Visually it flourishes with an abundance of character. We, as residents, have the joy of sharing this with our children. What better way is there for the children to develop a feeling for its treasured past than to visit the museum? In all its simplicity and quaintness, it houses a collection of treasures from families of the past, and photos that transport us to another era.

#2 The Prince of Wales

It wasn't long ago that this landmark hotel in the heart of town was in dishonourable condition. However, under great vision and tender loving care, it has returned as the glorious resting spot that it once was when "The Prince of Wales" himself came for a visit.

#3 Evening Skate

As children, we walked by the light of the
moon through the woods and across a
crystal field to reach the pond for and
evening of skating. On other nights, our
father took us to the town park where
lamp lights glowed through snow flakes
and the ice shimmered as town folk
waltzed around the rink. These images
have stayed with me and were destined
to become a painting one day.
Little did I know that once upon a time,
Simcoe Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake also
had a rink where town folk waltzed to
music and children found a space for
sport! Moonlight and lamplight came
together as I sketched all the memories
that enchanted me, to become “Evening
Skaters”.

#4 Yellow Ribbons

It was a war that captured the world...
Children everywhere questioned, worried
and prayed.
At school they wrote letters to soldiers
and bright yellow ribbons appeared on
trees, bannisters and doorways...
Tying people together like a single ray of
hope.

#5 The Rectory

One can take a walk in this small town and always see something different during each outing. The residents seem to take great pride in their homes and gardens, making it an adventure that delights the eye, warms the heart, and renews the spirit. Sitting in all its splendor, on the edge of Simcoe Park is the Italianate Villa-style Rectory of St. Mark's Church. Everyone fortunate to have lived there will indeed remember their first walk beyond the front gate and up the long pathway. As the tower jets skyward, one would almost think, that its builder had intended for it to reach the heavens!

#6 Shoreline Picnic

At times it has become increasingly difficult to separate that which is maternal and that which is artistically exciting for me to paint. Often these feelings come together naturally, and result in pieces such as these. This gazebo overlooks the Niagara River as it opens into Lake Ontario and has become a fabourite spot for us to frequent. I knew from the first moment I saw it, that it would be a painting to reflect for a very important part of motherhood. A part that is as simple as having a spontaneous picnic. Those are the moments in the lives of our little ones that last a lifetime. It is something they will take with them, and hopefully value as parents themselves one day.

#7 School Days

Like all little boys, Nathan loves to splash through puddles with his bare feet. Even while painting this piece I knew that I would title it "School Days". What I did not know was that it illustrated the lyrics of the old song "School Days"... "You were my bashful barefoot beau; I was your queen in calico..." I found this rare coincidence to be very amusing,

#8 The Greeting

Since our move to Niagara-on-the-Lake, I’ve become fascinated by picket fences and the abundance of shrubbery gardens that flow over and around them. The peninsula is rich with foliage often unfamiliar to other parts of Ontario, giving many of the backyards and laneways the charming qualities of an old English painting. "The Greeting" was painted in early September, school has just started, the leaves are still green, and the family pet has not adjusted to his best friend being away all day! On the farm we never had the opportunity to see children walk to and from school. It’s a delightful sight that brings back memories of how, as a child, even though the rain had stopped, the umbrella stayed open to become a “parasol”!

#9 Summer Home

There are jewels that dot the landscape and in all their stately manner seem to charm, astonish and allure a certain wonder in all of us. I for one, am always attracted to the mature gardens and trees that represent a wealth of time and love. Long ago such manors in our town were built as summer homes for many a wealthy landowner. They arrived here by boat and train

#10 The Pathway

I somehow believed when I peered over the gateway for the first time that this must be the home of "Mother Nature"! The long path to its grand front door captivated me and drew me closer. The archway of trees and garden framed the vision as I approached the steps to the front door. In a way, I was quite thankful when no one answered my knock. For it Mother Nature herself did not answer. I'm sure the momentary disappointment would have affected the painting already completed in my heart!

#11 The Home Bakery

Entering the beloved Niagara Home Bakery is like shaking a snow globe and being drawn into the magic within. For over 60 years, our local bakery has enchanted its visitors. The authentic old surroundings immediately bring one back to another age. Although a horse and buggy no longer delivers bread to Niagara residents, the 85-year-old brick oven is still in operation today. The bakery, with the aroma of fresh baked goodies, cinnamon buns, long johns, and empire cookies, brings new meaning to the word temptation. Every season, the bakery is painstakingly transformed with decorations of the holiday. While Easter abounds with handmade chocolate bunnies and festive eggs, Christmas is alive with Scandinavian decorations from Baker Paul’s Danish heritage. Throughout every season, the walls are lined with vintage portraits of royalty casting their glance upon patrons from near and far. It was the very first shop that we ventured into before moving here 17 years ago, and ever since then, the Niagara Home Bakery has become an important part of our life here in town. The Candlelight Stroll wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the bakery to fill up on gingerbread men, fruit cake, and shortbread. Everything is bundled up in the familiar white box and wrapped up with string, but when we leave, I realize that I’ve acquired much more than I paid for… a childlike joy that warms the insides and a feeling that in all the hustle and bustle, it’s the simple pleasures that satisfy and fill the soul.

#12 Perfect Gentleman

We were all there when Whitney met this clown, and my first sketch reflected the actual scene. But in the final painting I decided the centre of attention should be that precious moment when the perfect gentleman took off his hat, bowed down, and kissed her hand ever so graciously.

#13 Star of Wonder

It was late afternoon, that time in winter when darkness comes early. Snow was falling in giant flakes as Whitney and I headed home after a wonderful time of Christmas shopping. I quickened my pace and explained that we must hurry home to get dinner started. But when I glanced down, I realized that Whitney has not even heard me. She had stopped and was silently transfixed by a glorious nativity scene in the shop window. We had stopped there earlier in the day, but now the streets were quiet and I could see that she was alone in thought. There was a peaceful, holiness about the moment. Whitney's face was full of light, and for a few moments, I too, became a child through her eyes as we both stood in awe under the "Star of Wonder".

#14 Window Shoppers

Appealing to the child in all of us, the shop windows of cities and towns everywhere draw us nearer for a glimpse of the Christmas magic within. Elves, bears, and toys that dreams are made of become animated, entertaining the hearts and glistening in the eyes of even the smallest audience. The hustle and bustle of the season comes to a halt when passing our local toy store. For me, "window shopping" becomes a moment to spend some favorite memories!

#15 Candlelight Stroll

There is a night, a most romantic night in our town, truly unlike any other. It is an evening that warms the hearts of many and gives new life to even the most serious Scrooge. Early in the evening, many folks dressed in traditional apparel mix Christmas shopping and socializing as the town prepares for "The Victorian Candlelight Stroll." Christmas music fills the air and just the sound of sleigh bells is enough to transport one into a past century. Candles are sold by the hundreds so that not a soul is missed. Faces glow, not just from the candles they hold to celebrate this seasonal event but, with the Spirit of Christmas. By the time the clocktower strikes seven, the townsfolk and all their visitors join the choir from the courthouse stairs. One by one, candles are lit from stranger to stranger, from loved one to loved one. And the chorus of “Alleluia” sends a tingle up your spine and brings a tear to the eye. I dedicate this painting to all who have created this magic in many towns across our country, from the candleman to the smallest caroller.

#16 The Apothecary

Standing prominently on the main corner of our town is the well known Apothecary. The golden mortar still hangs above the door, a traditional symbol for pharmacies. It was meticulously restored in 1970 and we can not only boast that our town has the oldest pharmacy in Upper Canada, but it is indeed the finest in all of North America. Without being influenced by any of this, I was immediately attracted to it when we first visited Niagara-on-the-Lake, and upon moving here I knew exactly what I would paint first.

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Things to do

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Things to do

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Experience the Effect

Niagara-on-the-Lake

We look forward to welcoming you back to Niagara-on-the-lake and ask that you follow all the guidelines and protocols to make your visit a safe one. Thank you and stay safe.

The Chamber of Commerce and Tourism NOTL's office is currently closed due to the

Covid-19 situation. We are available to assist you by telephone Mon-Fri 10 am - 5 pm

905-468-1950 or by email anytime at tourism@niagaraonthelake.com

Niagara-on-the-Lake

We look forward to welcoming you back to Niagara-on-the-lake and ask that you follow all the guidelines and protocols to make your visit a safe one. Thank you and stay safe.

The Chamber of Commerce and Tourism NOTL's office is currently closed due to the

Covid-19 situation. We are available to assist you by telephone Mon-Fri 10 am - 5 pm

905-468-1950 or by email anytime at tourism@niagaraonthelake.com

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE

A Day of Romance
Celebrating Trisha Romance

About the Event

About Trisha Romance

Trisha Romance Walking Tour

The Artistry of Trisha Romance

About Us

Contact Us

Niagara-on-the-Lake

We look forward to welcoming you back to Niagara-on-the-lake and ask that you follow all the guidelines and protocols to make your visit a safe one. Thank you and stay safe.

The Chamber of Commerce and Tourism NOTL's office is currently closed due to the

Covid-19 situation. We are available to assist you by telephone Mon-Fri 10 am - 5 pm

905-468-1950 or by email anytime at tourism@niagaraonthelake.com

Niagara-on-the-Lake

We look forward to welcoming you back to Niagara-on-the-lake and ask that you follow all the guidelines and protocols to make your visit a safe one. Thank you and stay safe.

The Chamber of Commerce and Tourism NOTL's office is currently closed due to the

Covid-19 situation. We are available to assist you by telephone Mon-Fri 10 am - 5 pm

905-468-1950 or by email anytime at tourism@niagaraonthelake.com

A Day of Romance Celebrating Trisha Romance

About the Event

About Trisha Romance

Trisha Romance Walking Tour

The Artistry of Trisha Romance

A Day of Romance
Celebrating Trisha Romance