Celebrating a thriving tourism industry in Oxford County
The Oxford Tourism Awards of Excellence recognize Oxford’s exceptional tourism businesses, organizations and individuals who are helping us to “Embrace Our Rural Routes”
Oxford’s tourism innovators and collaborators were on hand on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Innerkip Highlands Golf Club for the fourth annual Oxford Tourism Awards of Excellence.
The winners of the 2024 Oxford Tourism Awards of Excellence are:
Tourism Partnership Award: Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life
Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life collaborated with several businesses, organizations and individuals to tell a love story that captured hearts around the world. The cow wedding between Muriel and Rhett, Miniature Highland cows, made international headlines, featured on major broadcast channels like CNN, and gained attention from influencers with over 1 million followers. Their creative partnership with influencers, Destination Ontario, local media, vendors, and regional tourism produced a one-of-a-kind event, elevating Oxford County’s tourism profile with ingenuity, storytelling and collaboration.
Special Event of the Year first recipient: Ingersoll Cheese and Agricultural Museum – Mystic Market
The Ingersoll Cheese and Agricultural Museum hosted Mystic Market, a paranormal-themed event featuring psychic and magical experiences unique to Oxford County. The event offered a welcoming environment to explore spirituality, connect with others, and seek personal insight. Local vendors, artists, and food purveyors contributed to the experience, with many selling out due to strong attendee interest.
Special Event of the Year, second recipient: Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life – Cow wedding
The cow wedding stood out for its blend of whimsical charm and sustainability. The event featured eco-friendly decorations, locally sourced food, and waste-free dining. Limited attendance protected animal and land health, while unique elements such as goats as flower girls and alpacas at the reception showcased how playful creativity and careful planning can enhance the visitor experience.
Best New Tourism Product Award: Transitions Equine Assisted Learning – Cowgirl Kickback experience
Transitions Equine Assisted Learning created a tourism product that speaks to consumer demand for unique experiences, connection and wellness opportunities. The “Cowgirl Kickback” experience provides guests with an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing evening by the fire, followed by guided interactions with horses. This non-riding experience fosters mindfulness, empowerment, and personal growth, offering visitors a peaceful retreat that enhances mental well-being and showcases rural tourism in a new, authentic way.
The 2024 Oxford Tourism Award program recognizes the region’s tourism businesses, organizations, and individuals who have displayed excellence in product development, partnerships and collaborations, innovation, inclusiveness, leadership, sustainability, and attraction to the region. The program also recognizes partners who work collaboratively with Oxford Tourism to grow regional tourism and offer exceptional visitor experiences.
Winners were chosen by a panel of external judges with representatives from provincial tourism organizations outside of Oxford County.
For more information about categories and award winners, visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/Business-in-Oxford/Tourism/Tourism-Awards.
Comment
Meredith Maywood, Tourism Specialist, Oxford County
“Oxford’s tourism industry is thriving, with amazing experiences available throughout the County. The judges faced a tough decision with so many outstanding nominations from a growing number of tourism businesses that help us to Embrace Our Rural Routes and keep guests returning to Oxford County.”
Photo
(L-R) Mike Bowman, Ingersoll Councillor; Mark Peterson, Mayor of Blandford-Blenheim and Oxford County Councillor; Phil Schaefer Mayor of East Zorra-Tavistock and Oxford County Councillor; Alisha Wilson, Transitions Equine Assisted Learning; Alexandra Swanson and Cheryl Haskett, Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life; Stephanie Conron and Olivia Sidwell, Ingersoll Cheese & Agricultural Museum; Meredith Maywood, Oxford Tourism