Golden Hour event at Ball's Falls celebrates conservation and local culture

Craft food and music featured at Niagara conservation event on July 24.

Nature, food and music come together at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area on July 24, when the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation presents Golden Hour. “It’s the first signature event we’ve done in quite some time,” said Sharon Pfeifer, development and investor relations officer with the foundation. “Golden Hour is really designed to take advantage of the sunset and that time of day when you can appreciate nature and it’s a celebration of conservation.”

The age 19 and older event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and is pet free, except for service dogs. Attendees will park in the field off Sixth Avenue in Lincoln and then walk or take the free shuttle to the village barn to access the event area, Pfeifer said. Golden Hour features craft beverages, food by Niagara chef Brad Rempel, and a variety of music, including the Niagara indie folk band Great Lake Swimmers.

There will also be a silent auction and raffle prizes, including a draw for a print by renowned Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky. Pfeifer said they want their guests to wander around and mingle while enjoying the festivities. “It’s not a sit-down event,” Pfeifer said.

“It’s a purpose-driven, cultural experience that connects audience to nature’s natural landscape.” Tickets are $160 and include admission, food and beverages. The funds raised will support Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority projects.

“The funds raised here, stay here,” Pfeifer said. “If we can raise $25,000, that would be really meaningful for us.” Pfeifer said Golden Hour goes rain or shine, adding they have arranged to have tents on hand should the weather not co-operate.

“It’s really a celebration of nature here in the Niagara Peninsula,” Pfeifer said.