Cross Over to an Evening Where Local is on the Menu If you’ve never attended Bridges, this may be the year to discover one of the region’s most unique celebrations of local business. On September 26, at St. Anne’s Centre, the annual Bridges to Better Business event will once again bring together entrepreneurs, community members and food lovers for an evening that combines awards, entertainment and an impressive showcase of local culinary talent. Now in its 17th year, Bridges has evolved well beyond a traditional awards ceremony. “It’s celebrating small business, but it’s building community and so it is an event that’s for everyone,” says Sarah Noble, Manager of Marketing & Communications for St. Thomas Economic Development. “You don’t have to be part of the small business community in order to enjoy the event.” For the first time, organizers have been able to fully embrace a theme, transforming the venue into an elegant setting inspired by the popular Netflix series Bridgerton . Sarah says the new location has provided a blank slate to create something fresh while building on everything guests have enjoyed about Bridges over the years. The evening begins with the ever-popular Food Showcase, where more than 20 local food businesses will serve up sample-sized creations highlighting the incredible variety found throughout Elgin County and St. Thomas. Unlike many tasting events, every sample is included with admission.”Nobody ever leaves hungry,” says Sarah with a laugh. “Try everything. We encourage that.” While discovering new restaurants, bakeries, market vendors and home-based culinary businesses, guests may not have
encountered before, guests can expect everything from savoury favourites to sweet treats. “We’ve got some really cool things happening in our culinary community,” Sarah adds. “There’s no other event in the community that I’m aware of that highlights as many businesses in the way that we can with Bridges.” Providing the soundtrack during the food showcase will be the Vintera String Quartet, whose repertoire ranges from Mozart to modern pop hits, including music featured in Bridgerton. Following the food showcase, approximately a dozen local busi- nesses will be recognized during the Small Business Awards before the evening shifts into high gear with the lively Great Canadian Dueling Pianos. Known for their mix of music, comedy and audience participation, the duo has performed across Canada, including appearances on Canada’s Got Talen t, ensuring the evening finishes on a high note. “There’s always something to smile about at this event,” Sarah says. “It’s being in a room full of people who are genuinely happy to be there and to be supporting one another and having a good time.” At $75 plus HST and Eventbrite fees, tickets include the full Food Showcase and entertainment throughout the evening. A cash bar featuring local beverages will also be available.
SEPTEMBER 19 2PM - 9:30PM
ROSS & TALBOT
in Downtown St. Thomas
DowntownOktoberfest.ca
Page 36 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2026
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