St. Jacobs and Elmira
St. Jacobs and Elmira are two neighbouring rural communities in the Township of Woolwich that are home to the largest population of Mennonites in Canada. Often seen driving horse-drawn buggies, the Mennonites of St. Jacobs and Elmira trace their origins back to German and Dutch-speaking Pennsylvania Mennonites who immigrated to the area in 1806.
St. Jacobs and Elmira are famous for artisan goods and organic fare, seasonal festivals, historical buildings that remain unchanged even today and the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market.
St. Jacobs
Where are St. Jacobs and Elmira?
St. Jacobs and Elmira are located within the Regional Municipality of Waterloo in the Township of Woolwich, just north of the larger cities of Waterloo and Kitchener. They are approximately one hour’s drive north of Hamilton and one and a half hours from either London or Toronto, along the 401 West or East. Local transit to the St. Jacobs Market District is provided by Grand River Transit.
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Things to do in St. Jacobs and Elmira
Enjoy an outdoor patio
Settle in for a relaxing evening with great food and drink at The Village Biergarten in downtown St. Jacobs. This popular patio spot is open every day but Monday.
Visit Canada’s largest farmers’ market
Find fresh produce, locally grown foods and crafts, an antique market and an outlet mall at St. Jacobs Market District, the country’s largest farmers’ market.
Cross a historic bridge
Built in 1881, the West Montrose Covered Bridge is a wooden bridge spanning the Grand River in the village of West Montrose. It is the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario.
Learn Mennonite history
Visit The Mennonite Story for the history of the Mennonites, along with a visit to a replica “Old Order” meeting house. One-hour tours can be booked in advance.
Attend live theatre
Located near the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, the St. Jacobs Playhouse offers a rotating calendar of live events performed inside a unique Mennonite-style masonry and timber building.
Play a round of golf
Tee up for a round of golf at the Elmira Golf Club, nestled in the Eldale Valley.
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Last updated: April 15, 2025