St. Catharines, often referred to as the "Garden City" due to its lush parks and gardens, faced an unprecedented silence in June 2020. With the world gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic, travel was largely on pause. However, the resilience of this vibrant Canadian city in Ontario's Niagara Region meant that visitors could still find pockets of solace and beauty, albeit with new norms of social distancing and an acute awareness of health measures.
In a typical year, Montebello Park would be bustling with events and people enjoying the Victorian-inspired garden. But in June 2020, the verdant lawns and fragrant roses provided a peaceful, if somewhat eerie, refuge. With large gatherings cancelled, like the renowned Niagara Grape & Wine Festival, visitors could meander through rose gardens and trellises in isolation, reflecting on the times and appreciating the beauty that persisted amidst global upheaval.
Port Dalhousie, a favorite among locals and tourists for its historic carousel and charming lakeside attractions, faced its own set of pandemic-imposed challenges. The carousel, a beloved feature since 1921, stood still, waiting for the laughter of children to bring it back to life. Yet, the stillness offered a unique opportunity to appreciate the architecture and history without the usual distractions, encouraging visitors to take a contemplative stroll along the waterfront, adhering to social distancing rules.
June is a crucial month for St. Catharines’ surrounding wineries, as it marks the start of the summer wine season. With tourism at a standstill, many vineyards transitioned to virtual tastings and curbside pickups. The terroir of the region, responsible for some of Canada’s finest wines, didn't lose its charm, and visitors could still indulge in the region's offerings with innovative, contactless options provided by local winemakers committed to keeping the spirit of wine country alive.
Perhaps nothing signified the local resilience more than the St. Catharines Farmers Market. Despite challenges, the market continued to operate with new protocols to ensure the safety of vendors and visitors. Patrons could still purchase fresh produce, artesian breads, and other local goods; however, the experience now required masks, hand sanitation, and mindful circulation patterns to ensure minimal contact.
Visiting St. Catharines in June 2020 was an experience marked by the pandemic's imprint on travel and social interaction. The city, known for its hospitality and vibrant community events, revealed a quieter but no less captivating side. This period highlighted the importance of local businesses, the beauty of nature, and the significance of taking a moment to breathe and reflect. St. Catharines, along with the world, was learning to adapt and showed that even during times of crisis, there are treasures to be found, and hope for a return to bustling life remained ever-present on the horizon.
