The Quebec Anglophone Heritage Network (QAHN) invites the public to explore and learn more about little-known aspects of English-speaking heritage from the Eastern Townships and across the province on Saturday, October 3, when the village of Way’s Mills is transformed into a veritable pop-up museum and heritage hub, bursting with activities for everyone. Whether you stay for the whole day or just an hour or two, you will be inspired by stories drawn from our shared heritage.
An idyllic location
Matthew Farfan, the executive director of QAHN, emphasizes the beauty of the event’s setting. “Way’s Mills is a such a beautiful little village. The iconic churches, the community hall, the tree-lined streets, the river. And what better time of year than the fall to explore this tucked-away corner of the Townships! – I can’t think of a prettier setting for our 2026 heritage fair.”
An opportunity to learn about heritage and local history
There will be lots to do and see, including a guided walking tour with stories from Way’s Mills’ past, and screenings of 5 seasons of QAHN films documenting stories from towns, villages and hamlets across the province. A pop-up exhibit about the history of the St. Francis River watershed will be on display, and visitors will have opportunities to meet and exchange with some of QAHN’s members. A traditional tea will be served in the afternoon and feature baked goods from heirloom recipes. During the tea, a few QAHN members will present stories from their regions, including the Townships, the Lower North Shore, and the Laurentians.
In-depth, interactive discussion panels
QAHN is hosting two interactive panel discussions. In the morning, a writer’s panel will look at different styles and strategies for writing about history, from scripts to kids’ books to poetry. In the afternoon, an interactive discussion will focus on historic cemeteries and the best ways to preserve them. For a full list of panelists, see the attached event schedule.
A special, one-time heritage dance workshop
Country and western line dancing is popular in the Eastern Townships, but who has heard of the Shim Sham, a line dance from the world of swing and blues? Two teachers from Communauté Cat’s Corner, a QAHN member and Montreal dance school specializing in Swing, Blues, and Tap, will teach the Shim Sham’s basic steps and share stories of the history of Swing Dance in the province.
A word from the Heritage Fair coordinator
“This year we want to showcase the amazing work being done by QAHN’s members. Our SHARE program is in its third year and has already funded over 40 initiatives across the province. All of the projects tell fascinating stories from the past or highlight living traditions. It’s great to have an opportunity to come together at the fair to share these stories – so many new ideas emerge through the exchange. It’s inspiring. We also want to offer some fun additional activities for everyone to enjoy – that is where the dance workshop, the walking tour and the tea come in!” - Julie Miller, Heritage Day and SHARE Program Coordinator
All of this, for free! Click here for the full schedule and names of participants, and below for event details:
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Location: Way’s Mills, Quebec (a welcome centre installed at Way’s Mills Union Church, 2063 Chemin Ball Brook)|
Parking: Municipal parking, 2080 chemin de Way’s Mills (Barnston-Ouest)
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. – 4:30 pm (see attached schedule for details)
For info, contact Julie Miller – [email protected]
Registration: https://forms.gle/iHC5XBUbstqDxHMJ9