Six awards have been presented to Oxford County tourism businesses and partnerships for their contributions to visitor experiences, sustainability and innovation.
The Oxford Tourism Awards of Excellence have recognized several local businesses and organizations for helping strengthen the region's tourism industry.
The awards celebrate achievements in tourism product development, environmental responsibility and partnerships that encourage visitors to explore Oxford County.
This year's recipients were recognized in three categories, with two awards presented in each.
Best New Tourism Product
Commonplace Books — Ingersoll
Opened in 2025, Commonplace Books has become both a bookstore and a community gathering space. More than 500 people attended its opening weekend, reflecting an interest in literary experiences and locally focused tourism.
Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life
The farm was recognized for its self-guided trail, which combines art, agriculture and education. The accessible experience introduces visitors to pollinators, food production, edible plants and Indigenous planting practices while encouraging respectful observation of animals.
Responsible Tourism Award
Terra Nova Nordic Spa & Café
Terra Nova was recognized for its commitment to sustainable operations, including the use of 100 per cent solar energy and initiatives that offset 17 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
The business also uses electric maintenance equipment, organic Canadian-made products and gardens featuring pollinator plants and native healing species.
Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life
The farm received a second award for its emphasis on animal welfare and environmental education.
Its approach encourages visitors to appreciate animals' natural behaviour without forcing participation. Educational programming includes pollinator initiatives, edible gardens and a Three Sisters Garden highlighting agricultural traditions and biodiversity.
Tourism Partnership Award
The Kiln Room Ceramic & Art Studio and Deep Purple Lavender
The two businesses were recognized for working together to create a visitor experience combining pottery with lavender fields.
Their partnership highlights Oxford County's potential as a destination for creative, agricultural and hands-on tourism experiences.
Commonplace Books — Ingersoll
Commonplace Books received its second award for partnerships with more than 20 local authors.
The bookstore features displays connecting authors and their work to Oxford County, helping visitors discover local stories and the places behind them.
Five of the store's top-selling books are written by local authors.
Recognizing excellence in Oxford tourism
The Oxford Tourism Awards of Excellence celebrate businesses, organizations and individuals demonstrating leadership in tourism development, innovation, accessibility, sustainability and collaboration.
The awards also recognize partnerships that help attract visitors and strengthen the local tourism industry.
Recipients were selected by an independent panel of judges representing provincial tourism organizations outside Oxford County.
More information about tourism experiences throughout the region is available at Tourism Oxford.
