Another great year for Doors Open Aurora!

September 10, 2014 · 0 Comments

By Marco Ramunno
Director, Planning and Development Services

The 9th annual Doors Open Aurora event took place on Saturday, August 16. This year’s event featured 15 sites of natural, architectural and historical significance. Despite rain in the afternoon, more than 2,500 site visits were recorded at the various locations.

At Merlin’s Hollow, visitors marvelled at the garden tour led by Dierdre Tomlinson. Many were surprised to see the garden in full bloom, with vibrant colours despite the time of year. The Blueprint House also intrigued guests with its creative interior décor and artistic, minimalist exterior property features.

Approximately 40 people took part in David Heard’s “A Walk in their Shoes” walking tour. David enthusiastically shared stories of Aurora’s unique 150 year history while guiding participants through the downtown core and beyond. Volunteers at Hillary House kept everyone entertained with a variety of fun activities which included croquet and lawn bowling.

At the Charles Henry Sheppard House, visitors toured the grounds of the estate and learned about the Windfall Ecology Centre while appreciating the picturesque forest landscape. The Aurora Public Library also participated this year, featuring displays that highlighted the different buildings that the facility once occupied. At the Aurora Cultural Centre, guests were invited to explore the various art displays and learn the history of the former Church Street School building.

The Town of Aurora Heritage Advisory Committee would like to extend their gratitude to The Auroran for featuring a series of Doors Open Aurora articles over the course of the summer.

Sincere thanks also to everyone who opened their homes, businesses and institutions to the public, and encouraged the community to experience Aurora’s rich cultural heritage.

Most of all, thank you to the many dedicated volunteers who assisted in making this year’s event such a resounding success!