Strawberries, strolls and family fun: Mississauga festival returns

A fruit that helped put a Mississauga community on the map will once again take centre stage this June as it is celebrated with a month-long lineup of events inspired by the humble strawberry.

Organized by the Clarkson Village BIA, the Clarkson Village Strawberry Festival will feature walking tours, family activities, brunches, a craft market, a scavenger hunt and community gatherings, all designed to highlight the area’s unique history as Ontario’s former strawberry capital.

The connection between Clarkson and strawberries dates back more than 170 years. In 1855, local farmer Edward Sutherland discovered the area’s soil and climate were ideal for growing strawberries. As other farmers followed suit, strawberry production flourished, becoming a major source of income for local landowners and workers during the harvest season each June.

The industry became so prominent that Clarkson earned a reputation as the strawberry capital of Ontario, a distinction the community continues to celebrate today through festivals and heritage events.

This year’s festivities begin with the Strawberry Seekers Scavenger Hunt, a month-long activity running throughout June that encourages residents and visitors to explore Clarkson Village while searching for clues and strawberry-themed displays.

History enthusiasts will have the opportunity to learn more about the community’s past through three Strawberry Stroll walking tours. The guided walks will explore different sections of the village, offering participants a closer look at the neighbourhood’s historic landmarks and the role agriculture played in shaping Clarkson’s development.

Food also plays a prominent role in the celebration. Strawberry Sunday Brunch events will be held throughout the month, giving visitors a chance to enjoy strawberry-inspired menu items while supporting local businesses.

One of the festival’s signature events is the Blooms & Berries Craft Market, taking place June 13 and 14 at Benares Historic House. The market will feature local artisans, crafts, food samples and family-friendly activities that connect visitors with Clarkson’s agricultural roots.

Business owners will also have an opportunity to participate through the BIA Morning Mix & Mingle networking event on June 17.

The festival reaches its peak on June 20 with Berry Bash, a free family celebration at Clarkson Community Church. Running from 1 to 4 p.m., the event will feature live music, strawberry-themed face painting and crafts, cotton candy, popcorn and a giant inflatable slide for children. Donations will also be accepted in support of The Compass Food Bank.

The month concludes with the Sweet Rides Classic Car Show on June 28, bringing together vintage vehicles, live entertainment and family activities as part of the broader festival celebrations.

While Clarkson has changed dramatically since the days when strawberry fields dominated the landscape, organizers hope the festival will remind residents of the agricultural industry that helped shape the community and contributed to its early growth.

More than a century and a half after Edward Sutherland’s first successful crop, the strawberry remains an enduring symbol of Clarkson’s history — and the inspiration for a community celebration that continues to bring residents together each summer.

Information about times and locations for all of the activities can be found here.