NEWS RELEASE
LINCOLN HERITAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
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The Town of Lincoln Heritage Advisory Committee and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) are proud to announce the official designation of Ball’s Falls Conservation Area as a heritage property. A special ceremony was held earlier today, marking the historical significance of the site, municipally known as 3292 Sixth Avenue in Vineland, under By-law No. 2024-54, which was passed by Lincoln Council on July 2, 2024. The designation recognizes the architectural, historical, and contextual importance of Ball’s Falls, which has been a key landmark in Lincoln and the broader Niagara region for generations.
The designation ceremony was a highlight of the grand opening of the 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival, running from Oct. 11 to Oct. 14. This beloved community event celebrates 50 years of culture, heritage, and family traditions.
Several dignitaries spoke of the importane of heritage designation for the conservation area.
“Ball’s Falls is an iconic representation of our community’s rich history," said Sandra Easton, mayor of the town of Lincoln. "This designation ensures that its legacy will be preserved for future generations while celebrating the historical significance of the site. We look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy and learn from this heritage property for many years to come.”
Michael Kirkopoulos, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Lincoln said he was " pleased to see Ball’s Falls designated as a heritage property, a decision that not only preserves our town’s historical assets but also strengthens our commitment to responsible stewardship of cultural landmarks. This designation reflects our dedication to thoughtful urban planning and heritage conservation, ensuring that Ball’s Falls continues to be a point of pride and a place of learning for residents and visitors alike.”
“Ball’s Falls Conservation Area was and continues to be an important site for the Town of Lincoln," said Scott Foster, chair of the Heritage Advisory Committee. "From its earliest days of supplying flour to the British troops during the War of 1812, to an Industrial settlement, to its present-day use of a tourism hub for the community, Ball’s Falls is an important and fundamental part of how Lincoln was shaped. I’d like to thank the Heritage Committee, the Town of Lincoln, and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority for recognizing its heritage importance to our town and designating the property.”
John Metcalfe, chair of the NPCA Board of Directors, called the heritage designation "a tremendous honour and a recognition of the rich history and cultural value this site holds for our community. For fifty years, the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival has been a celebration of Niagara’s heritage, bringing people together to experience the natural beauty and traditions of the region. We’re thrilled to see the festival’s legacy and the conservation area itself formally recognized, ensuring that this beloved site will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come.”
“The Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival is a cornerstone event that not only brings the community together but also directly supports our conservation and education efforts," said Leilani Lee-Yates, CAO and secretary-treasurer of the NPCA. "This heritage designation underscores the importance of preserving both the natural and cultural landscapes we are entrusted to protect. Today’s ceremony is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the Town of Lincoln and the NPCA to safeguard the legacy of Ball’s Falls, so it remains a place where people can connect with nature, history, and each other.”
About the 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Festival
The Thanksgiving Festival is a Niagara tradition that began in 1974 as a one-day craft show, with proceeds supporting conservation and environmental programs. Now a four-day event, it celebrates 50 years of community, culture, and artistic craftmanship. The festival features over 150 unique craft and artisan vendors, gourmet food and craft beverages, a farmers’ market, live music, children’s entertainment, historical demonstrations, and guided nature hikes.
A special free concert will take place on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., featuring award-winning singer/songwriter Tebey, along with a platinum-selling artist and producer (to be announced).
Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the beautiful fall landscapes of the Niagara Escarpment, with colourful forested trails and scenic views.
Admission fees for the festival are $10.50 for adults and $7.50 for seniors and children aged 3 to 11. A portion of every admission ticket will support the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation, helping fund vital conservation efforts, including wetland restoration and wildlife habitat protection.
Shuttle services will be available for convenient access, with parking at the Centre for Conservation located at 3292 Sixth Avenue, Jordan. On-site parking is limited, and carpooling is encouraged.
For more information about the Thanksgiving Festival, visit thanksgivingfestival.ca. For more information on the heritage designation, visit lincoln.ca/Heritage.
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