​WHITCHURCH-STOUFFVILLE, ON – October 7, 2025 – The Whitchurch-Stouffville Strawberry Festival is pleased to announce the election of its new Board of Directors, following its Annual General Meeting held on September 15th. This change in leadership marks a pivotal moment as the festival looks ahead to its 42nd anniversary and continues its legacy as a beloved community tradition.

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The newly elected Board of Directors comprises:

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• President: Sue Sherban

• Vice President: Elizabeth Fraser

• Treasurer: Lindsay Bantis

• Director: Fran Shepherd

• Director: Destiny Brown

• Member Secretary: Sandy Baker

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"I would like to sincerely thank the retiring board of directors, Mike Burns, Nela Hunter, Carla Rotondo, and Felise Liuson, and committee member Micole Rubinoff for their invaluable contributions and dedication," said Sue Sherban, the newly elected President. "We express our immense gratitude for their volunteer efforts, particularly in navigating the challenges of creating a virtual festival during Covid and their successful partnership with the town during a time of reduced volunteer availability. Their commitment has been instrumental in keeping this cherished festival running."

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President Sherban extended a warm welcome to the new board members, congratulating them on stepping up to ensure the continuity of this annual tradition. She also announced that the individual activity chairs for the festival committee will be revealed after their first meeting in October.

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"I am eagerly looking forward to what promises to be an exciting new year for the Strawberry Festival," Sherban added. "Our aim is to bring back some of the old much-loved events while also building upon the success of our newly introduced initiatives."

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History of the Whitchurch-Stouffville Strawberry Festival, the festival is a not-for-profit organization and has been a beloved tradition in our town for over 40 years although it has undergone some changes over the recent years. The most significant was its original move in 2017 from Main Street to Memorial Park in anticipation of downtown redevelopment; this shift has now become a reality for 2027 and 2028 year. While Memorial Park has provided a temporary home, we understand it’s not the setting many associate with the nostalgic charm of our Strawberry Festival. “Good news though we will be closing Main St for this 2026 year with the partnership of the Markham Stouffville Cruisers car club so our festival goers will be able to browse the antique and classic cars, shop local and dine in our restaurants and support our local businesses on the Saturday.” Sherban said.

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The Mayor and I have met Sherban advised regarding the future of returning festival to Main Street and below is his commitment to seeing the return. “I look forward to working with the festival committee and town staff to see the festival return to its historical location- our revitalized Main St. in the near future.” said Mayor Lovatt.

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We deeply appreciate the feedback and ideas shared over the past year by the community on what the festival means to them and how they envision its future. That input matters. But real change comes from rolling up your sleeves. Volunteers are the heart of this event—they are the ones who turn vision into reality. Positive action, not just online commentary, is what shapes the future of our festival and community. As we approach the 42nd anniversary in 2026, the Festival Committee is reaching out to residents to help reignite the vision of a true community celebration. The new Strawberry Festival Board is already planning, and we’re excited about a targeted return to a revitalized Main Street in 2029. Until then, we need your help to keep the Strawberry Festival thriving and evolving.

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If you want to see change—be part of it. So, join us! It is your energy, ideas, and time that can help create something truly special.

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Volunteer list available at www.strawberryfestival.ca to sign up!