ALMONTE — Although the highly-anticipated Kintail Country Christmas is on hold this year due to COVID-19, visitors can still experience safe, festive fun while attending the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area.

“Five locations throughout the site are beautifully decorated and visitors are encouraged to snap some pictures or simply enjoy the scenery,” the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) released in a statement. “There is no additional cost to attend – just the $6 site fee or display your annual pass.”

“Our conservation areas have very much become a safe haven as people sought places to exercise, engage at safe distances and recover from the stresses of COVID-19,” Mill of Kintail Conservation Area site supervisor Stephanie Kolsters said. “We know the holidays will be different for everyone this year, so we wanted to offer our visitors a unique experience and help spark the Christmas spirit.”

The Mill of Kintail is open seven days a week from dawn until dusk. Please remember to physically distance, and if the parking lot is full upon arrival, plan to return at a quieter time.

“The mill is a wonderful place to visit and spend time, walking on trails, enjoying nature, and we’re pleased to offer this alternative event and continue to connect people to nature,” Kolsters said.

Visitors are encouraged to take a picture, tag us on social media and use the hashtag #kcc20.

For more information visit www.mvc.on.ca or like the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area on Facebook. The Mill of Kintail Conservation Area is located at 2854 Concession 8, Almonte.

The MVCA is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario. Formed in 1968, MVCA’s mandate is to manage the watershed’s resources in partnership with our eleven member municipalities and the Province of Ontario. For more information, visit www.mvc.on.ca.