spotlight on Orono
Founded in 1832, Orono got its name in 1852 when a post office was opened and a visitor from Maine suggested the name (after a town in his state), because the area reminded him of home. Agriculture was the lifeblood of the town in the past, and is still important.
Today, Orono is part of the Municipality of Clarington, and has a population of approximately 1,100.
Despite its relatively small size, Orono offers a number of attractions to visitors, from its agricultural fair to a local zoo to skiing to antiques.
Orono Fair
Who doesn't love an old fashioned country fair? Hosted by the Orono Agricultural Society, the Orono Fair is held on the weekend after Labour Day. Attracting 30,000 visitors annually, the fair features rides, a beer garden, agricultural displays, chainsaw carving, equestrian events, tractor pulls, demolition derby ... and plenty more. For more information, visit the fair website.
Orono Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park
Orono's Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park is a family oriented zoo that features a number of big cats, including lions, an Amur leopard, Amur tigers, snow leopards and cougars. The park also has a striped hyena and a number of other animals. There are also a number of free roaming domesticated animals on the zoo grounds for children and adults alike to get close to. For more information, visit the park's website.
Antiques
For many visitors, Orono is all about antiques. The town is known as a mecca for antique lovers.
The Orono Antique Market is a multi-vendor venue located in the historic 7000 square foot Orono Armoury Building.
The Main Thru Church Antique Mall is located on Main Street in Orono, and features 30 booths and showcases of antiques and collectibles.
The Orono Antique Street Festival is traditionally held in August, and features a number of local antique dealers.
Brimacombe Ski Hill
Located on Regional Road 9 in Orono, Brimacombe Ski Hill is run by the not-for-profit Oshawa Ski Club. Non-members can purchase day and night passes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as rent equipment . Visit the Brimacombe website for more information.