There were people enjoying the South Dundas Home, Trade, and Craft Show as soon as the doors opened, and the flow of people continued all weekend. Tinkess Photo

MORRISBURG – As close to 100 local vendors, service providers, artisans, and organizations moved into the Morrisburg arena on Friday morning, you could tell that it hadn’t been that long since the ice had been removed, as it was a bit chilly. But as the show opened its doors to the public at 4:00 p.m. you could tell it wouldn’t take very long for things to warm up.

The South Dundas Home, Trade, and Craft show is as much a harbinger of the end of a long, cold winter and the return of spring as is the return of ships to the St. Lawrence, and this year more than some, it was a very welcome return. With all the talk of tariffs and economic downturns, people on the north shore of the St. Lawrence are all eager to see just how they can help themselves while also supporting the local economy. Walking  around the arena and glancing at all the local options available, it is difficult not to realize how many local choices there really are. Mayor Jason Broad, in officially opening the show, spoke of just how welcome spring seems to be this year and how ready people are to get out and do something.

“It’s always good to be at the Spring Home and Trade show. It means spring is here,” said Mayor Broad. “I was just talking to Arden Schneckenburger who told me the soil smells like spring, and he is ready to start working on the soil.

“When a farmer says you’re good to go, that’s a good sign. So, welcome everybody and appreciate all the effort and time that all our vendors and our groups have put into setting all this up and for meeting and greeting all the residents of South Dundas and neighbouring communities. I’d like to thank the Chamber of Commerce, Randy and Heidi for all their hard work on putting this together. So, with that, I’ll officially open the 2025 South Dundas home and trade show. Welcome everybody!”

In addition to the many vendors and service providers, the show also offered a fine selection of entertainers. On Friday evening Andy Cook provided the musical entertainment, while Chris Pilsworth entertained with a bit of magic!

Saturday, the music was provided by IssaBel and there was also a fashion show provided by Giant Tiger. Throughout the day there were demonstrations by many of the vendors, and there was, of course plenty of food options.

The best part, however, was seeing how many people from South Dundas and the surrounding area took the time to attend and show their support for the local business community. As they say, a rising tide floats all the boats, so in supporting local business, you are helping them to in turn support the community, a win-win situation for everyone.

All too soon Saturday afternoon rolled around and it was time to pack things up, but it was done with the feeling that we’ve got this, and by working together, we always will.