ELORA – The Elora Festival’s 34th Annual Giant Book Sale was a record-breaking success, raising over $97,000 to support the Festival’s summer programming. Held from May 2 to 4 at the Elora Curling Club, the sale drew thousands of visitors from across the region, eager to browse more than 60,000 gently used books, games, CDs, DVDs, and records.
“We do it because we enjoy reading and we love finding special treasures among the books that people donate,” said the team of book sale volunteers.
Now one of the largest and most beloved sales of its kind in Ontario, this year’s event marked a new fundraising milestone. The incredible turnout and community support demonstrated once again how deeply reading – and the Elora Festival – is valued in Centre Wellington and beyond.
“We’re thrilled with the results,” said Alan Macdonald, Elora Festival’s Manager of Development & Operations. “Raising over $97,000 is a tremendous accomplishment – it speaks volumes about our community’s passion for the arts and is a testament to the amazing, tireless work of the book sale volunteers.”
While this achievement marks a major step toward the Festival’s fundraising goals, organizers emphasize that there is still work to be done. An additional $70,000 is needed to fully support the Elora Festival’s 2025 season, which runs from July 11 to 27.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support so far, but we’re not across the finish line yet,” said Elora Festival Artistic Director, Mark Vuorinen. “Every donation, big or small, helps bring world-class music to our community and ensures the Festival continues to thrive.”
The Festival invites supporters to continue their contributions by making a donation online, becoming a sponsor, or attending one of the many events planned this summer.
Book Sale Highlights
● Over 60,000 items available
● Most books priced between $2 and $5
● Over 100 volunteers involved in organizing
● Donations accepted year-round at 380 St. Andrew St. W., Fergus
For more information or to donate, visit elorafestival.ca
