MUSIC & THEATRE

Ron Leary & Ray Whimsey - February 3
Enjoy this great duo playing independent music in the warm atmosphere of Picton's popular music bar - excellent pub food, too. Friday February 3, 7 p.m. Acoustic Grill, 172 Main Street, Picton. 613-476-2887, www.theacousticgrill.com

Educating Rita February 4 to 12
In this classic, funny and moving Willy Russell comedy, young working class Rita enrolls in a university program and shakes up the life of a world-weary professor. Stars Hilary Fennell-Hunter and John McCarthy, directed by Lynn Fennell. Tickets $14 from Rose Haven Farm Store, Picton and SideStreet Gallery, Wellington or $15 at the door. Mt. Tabor Playouse, Milford. Saturday February 4, 11 8p.m. and Sunday February 5, 12 2p.m. 613-476-5925 See www.experiencethecounty.ca for more about the play. See www.pecommtheatre.com to read about this lively theatre group.

For the Love of Theatre - February 11
A glamorous Valentine-themed evening of food, wine and entertainment, hosted by acclaimed Canadian actress (and local winery owner) Sonia Smitts. Dress up for this, and enjoy performances by the Festival Players and a silent auction for theatre packages from the County to Stratford! Saturday, February 11, 6 p.m. Waring Hall. Tickets $100 (tax receipts given) from www.countytix.ca or call 613-471-1991 or rheaumdi@yahoo.ca

Blue Suede Shoes - February 16
Memories of the King is a thrilling concert tribute where nostalgia, modernity and raw emotion provide the backdrop to Elvis's music. Packed with hits and told through the eyes of Colonel Tom Parker from Elvis's humble beginnings at Sun Records to Vegas triumphs. Thursday, February 16, 8 p.m. Tickets $36.50 from the box office. See details at www.theregenttheatre.org

Live Via Satellite at the Regent
Beamed "live" from around the world it's the next best thing to being there. February performances are Leonardo Live, Traveling Light, Gotterdammerung, Ernani and Gustave Dudamel. See details at www.theregenttheatre.org

Free Movie for the Kids - Feb 26
A much-loved tradition in Picton is the Sunday afternoon FREE family movie at The Regent, sponsored by the venerable Whattams Funeral Home. It's a feel-good thing. Check out www.theregenttheatre.org for details of what's on the big screen in February. 2 to 4 p.m. Regent Theatre, Picton.

ANYONE UP FOR A PARTY?

Heart of Winter Gala - February 11
Champagne reception, a three-course dinner by East & Main, live music with Jamie Stever followed by dancing to a DJ! This fundraiser for CML Snider School and the Storehouse Food Bank is a winter warmer in every way. Highline Hall at the new Wellington & District Community Centre. February 11, 6 p.m. For ticket information call 613-399-2430 or mortlaur@alcdsb.on.ca or checkout FaceBook.

Rotary Oyster Fest - February 24
Get out your gowns and black tie! The annual Oyster Fest is an evening of fun with blackjack, horse racing, life music, buffet, oysters and glitz, plus a complimentary ride home. Tickets $120 per couple available online at www.pictonrotary.ca or call 613-476-2266

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN ART

Oeno Gallery - Group Show
Celebrating its third anniversary adjacent to Huff Estates, Oeno's group show is a chance to see over 25 of the gallery's artists. The exhibition also introduces local Wellington artist Tom Mathews and provides an opportunity to see historical works by Doris McCarthy and other important artists. Open 7 days a week. 10AM to 6PM. www.oenogallery.com 613-393-2216

SUMMER IS COMING!

Start Planning...
Hot sun and sand and evening campfires may sound a long way off, but you can start planning now for your Summer County Getaways. Sandbanks Provincial Park starts taking bookings for campsites this month, and the best ones go fast (of course.) Good thing they have lots to choose from! In fact the County is rich in campgrounds, cottages and vacation homes, from old-fashioned no-frills to state-of-the-art medal-winners like the 5-star Quinte's Isle Campark. Check visitpec.ca for a complete listing.