Brockville’s Island Breakfast Nominated for Ontario Culinary Tourism Award

The ever-popular Island Breakfast on Refugee Island has become award worthy, being named among three finalists in the Ontario Culinary Tourism Event of the Year. The winner will be announced at Ontario’s Annual Tourism Summit in Ottawa to be held November 21-22 in Ottawa.
The awards, organized by the Tourism Association of Ontario, the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation and the Culinary Tourism Alliance recognize groups who have made a significant contribution to Ontario’s tourism industry.
Island Breakfast takes place in June over four days and features local breakfast fare including local eggs (cooked in a variety of ways from a local supplier), maple syrup and strawberries, all from local farms. Over 60 volunteers contribute their time to transport, cook and serve some 1,500 visitors on Refugee Island.
“This event becomes more popular every year and is an ideal opportunity for people to experience the 1000 Islands,” explained David Beatty, Chair of the Volunteer Committee. “Many people would not have the chance otherwise to experience Island Life, and when you couple a ride on the river with excellent food and local entertainment, it is a perfect event!”
Island Breakfast has attracted visitors from as far away as Germany, England, China, United States and New Zealand along with many local residents. Since inception, the event has grown from attracting 700 visitors during a 3-day event to over 1500 patrons in four days.
Net proceeds from funds raised will go toward building a pavilion on the island.
Island Breakfast’s fellow nominees for this award are Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company’s Beau’s Oktober-fest and Spirit Tree Estates Cidery’s Family Day Wassailing Festival. Update: The winner of this category is Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company’s “Beau’s Oktogerfest” – congrats Beau’s!
More information on Island Breakfast can be found by visiting www.refugeeislandbreakfast.com