🍁 Your Canada Day plans in London

I recently had the opportunity to participate as an Ask the Expert panelist with the London Chamber of Commerce alongside a group of local business leaders. It was a great conversation covering topics ranging from finance and growth to governance, leadership, and building resilient organizations. As someone who is deeply passionate about economic development in London, I always appreciate opportunities to connect with local entrepreneurs and business owners who are helping shape the future of our city.

Seeing their ambition, creativity, and resilience firsthand is a great reminder of the strength of London's business community. Thank you to the Chamber and the fellow panelists: Depo from Outsourced Finance CPA, Michelle from Caring Moment Personal Services and Albert from Doyle Prendergast Law Office for an engaging and insightful discussion. 

The Gist: Talk Therapy Services announced a major expansion to help more individuals, couples, and families across our region. Owner Phaedra Panazzola has brought on several new registered psychotherapists and social workers to their clinic at 4562 Colonel Talbot Rd in Unit 8. The extra staff means shorter wait times plus plenty of flexible options for both in-person and secure virtual appointments.

Why It Matters: Finding proper mental health support can be tough, so having more accessible care right in our backyard is a big win for the community. The clinic is even offering free initial consultations, making it much easier and less intimidating for neighbours to take that first step and reach out for support.

The Gist: London councillors gave initial approval to a 10-year plan to revitalize the downtown core, built on a consultant's report shaped by input from more than 5,500 residents. Ideas include a dedicated downtown office to carry projects through and stronger links between the core and the Forks of the Thames. The plan is pegged at about $48 million.

Why It Matters: Downtown's future has been one of London's longest-running conversations, and this gives council a concrete roadmap rather than another study on a shelf.

What's Next: Staff are expected to report later this year on how to begin the short-term steps, with the larger spending decisions left to the next council.

There are flashier ways to celebrate, but few cozier than a patio table at The Springs Restaurant. Set inside a beautifully restored historic church, the high ceilings and piano music make any summer dinner feel like a true occasion.

The kitchen proudly highlights local produce, making it perfect for a festive toast. Friends swear by the duck pierogies, while the local lamb and blackened trout are pure comfort. It is a book-ahead kind of space, so reach out early to secure a delicious dinner for the whole family.

If the upcoming holiday has you feeling extra patriotic, Curiosities is full of finds that celebrate Canadian talent. This independent shop focuses on goods made by artisans across the country, from easy summer dresses to fresh batches of cult-favorite Moody Bee lip balm. Stop in to browse handcrafted Hailey Gerrits jewellery, discover a few made-in-Canada pieces, and maybe even catch one of their casual summer events!

Need a great realtor in London or Port Stanley?
Email Silver Phoenix at [email protected]. He’ll focus on your lifestyle goals and neighbourhood needs to find the right home in a community you’ll love being a part of.

DID YOU KNOW?

Wortley Village, located in Old South, was annexed into London in 1890 and is home to hundreds of heritage properties dating back more than 100 years. Its unique character helped earn it recognition as one of Canada’s most celebrated neighbourhoods, making it a perennial favourite among home buyers seeking charm and walkability.

🍔 International Food & Drink Festival | Victoria Park | 06/26-06/28 | More
Global eats, craft drinks, and lively music under the canopy of the park.

🥟 Empanada Fest | Covent Garden Market | 06/27 | More
Savoury traditional Latin pastries and street food paired with an outdoor market!

🎶 Springbank Garden Concert Series | Guy Lombardo Pavilion | 06/28 | More
The Stetson Brothers deliver country and rock rhythms under the park's big trees.

🌳 Summerside Celebrates Canada 2026 | Meadowgate Park | 06/28 | More
Community vendor markets and festive outdoor activities for the weekend.

🎆 Canada Day in Harris Park | Ridout St. N | 07/01 | More
Free giant games, food trucks and a riverside fireworks finale.

🍁 Canada Day London | Dundas Place | 07/01 | More
Live music, interactive kids' zones and Touch-A-Truck downtown.

🏛️ Canada Day at the Village | Fanshawe Pioneer Village | 07/01 | More
Old-fashioned carnival games, musical performances, and heritage skill demos.

🏡 Celebrating the Communities of Canada | Eldon House | 07/01 | More
Art, dance and music at London's oldest home, by donation.

🎸 Aeolian Summer Festival | Aeolian Hall | 06/25 | More
Multi-genre musical celebration transforming a landmark into an acoustic haven.

🎤 Chris Webby, Spose & Quake Matthews | London Music Hall | 06/25 | More
Underground hip-hop for a loud Thursday. Ticketed, 19+.

🎭 Dylan Mahaney Stand-Up Comedy | Comedy & Co. | 06/27 | More
Witty observational humour and clever storytelling in an intimate club setting.

💦 Adult Waterpark Party: The First Splash | East Park | 06/27 | More
Poolside dancing, evening wave pool access, and summer cocktail options.

🍺 Blues & Brews Music Festival | Polish Combatants Hall | 06/27 | More
Raw electric blues grooves paired perfectly with a selection of cold craft beers.

🚲 What a Ride! Test Ride Utility E-bikes & More | Gibbons Park | 06/28 | More
Safety demonstrations and eco-friendly trials alongside beautiful riverside paths.

Last week’s Father’s Day memes were way too much fun, so we’re back for part 2!

Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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