Port Hope Invites Community to ‘Be Walton’ Again in Support of Local Shops and Services

For Immediate Release
Monday, June 23, 2025 – Port Hope, ON

Building on the success of last year, the Municipality of Port Hope - together with local community partners - is pleased to announce the return of the “Be Walton” shop local, love local campaign, running all summer long. This relaunched initiative comes with a vibrant lineup of free arts, music, and cultural events taking place throughout the downtown.

The campaign is a key element of a broader business and community continuity strategy run by a coalition of partners chaired by the Municipality of Port Hope and including the Heritage Business Improvement Area (HBIA), Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce, the Capitol Theatre, and Critical Mass. Its goal is to bolster downtown businesses, restaurants, bars, and service providers as they navigate the final phase of the Walton Street reconstruction project.

“Be Walton” is a call to action, inviting residents to embrace the enduring community spirit that defines Port Hope. By shopping, dining, exploring, and accessing services locally, residents help sustain the unique character and vibrancy of the downtown core.

“As we progress through the third and final phase of the Walton Street reconstruction, I’m proud to see the return of the ‘Be Walton’ campaign,” said Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “This initiative continues to highlight the incredible community spirit that defines Port Hope. By shopping, dining, and exploring locally, we not only support our downtown businesses during this important transition, but we also reaffirm our shared commitment to preserving the vibrant character and culture that make our community so special. I encourage everyone to invite their friends and family back to Port Hope - our downtown is open for business, and there’s never been a better time to rediscover all that makes it unique.”

To help residents embrace the spirit of “Be Walton,” a variety of engaging downtown activations are planned throughout the summer. Below is just a sampling of what’s in store:

• Be Walton posters, buttons, and signs: Our beautiful Be Walton posters, buttons, and signs are back! Pick up yours at 5 Mill Street South and display them proudly all summer long. Snap a photo of your local pride and tag @PortHopeDigsWalton. Social media assets for sharing the love online are also available on the dedicated Walton Street webpage.
• Shop, Dine & Show: This special package is a curated experience perfect for those looking to explore the shops of downtown Port Hope, savour a delicious meal, and enjoy top-notch entertainment. This all-inclusive offer includes one ticket to a mainstage theatre performance at the Capitol Theatre, plus exclusive Shop and Dine vouchers redeemable at participating local restaurants and retail shops in historic Downtown Port Hope.
• Artzie: A publication created by Critical Mass celebrating Port Hope’s season of arts, culture, and events throughout the downtown core.
• Road to Cultivate Concert Series: A concert series as part of the Cultivate Festival. This family-friendly Canadian music program features food vendors and live entertainment every Thursday evening in Memorial Park.
• Summer Staycation Challenge: Critical Mass’s Summer Staycation Challenge encouraging residents to visit five favourite downtown spots. Details available in the Artzie.
• Wednesday’s Mid-Week Pick-Me-Ups: Starting in July and running all summer long, visit the Lent Lane pop-up for a free caffeine or sugar boost, sponsored by local businesses and organizations as a fun way to enjoy local coffee and connect with the community.
• Buskers Downtown: Coordinated by the HBIA, live performances from talented buskers appearing throughout the downtown all summer.
• Resilient Blooms Public Art Walk: An outdoor augmented reality art exhibit featuring 15 local edible flowers and recipes. Scan each bloom using the Artivive app to discover the unique stories behind each variety, on display throughout downtown Port Hope.
• Movies in the Park: Free, family-friendly outdoor films in Memorial Park throughout the summer. For details, visit porthope.ca/movies
• Sidewalk Sale: Find your next gem at the Summer Sidewalk Sale located downtown, July 18, 19, 20.

The Be Walton campaign also aligns with Northumberland County’s Prosper in Northumberland collaborative task force of local businesses, associations, municipalities, and community members. Together, they have launched the Northumberland Buy Local campaign to champion local businesses, strengthen the economy, and promote goods and services made or offered in Northumberland in response to economic challenges.

For more information about Be Walton and the Walton Street Reconstruction, please visit porthope.ca/Walton.

There’s so much more to discover - explore all that Port Hope has to offer by visiting our tourism website at visitporthope.ca.