Pavilion Project

The MacDonald Pavilion in the Yard at the Elora Centre for the Arts

Located at the north end of the property at the Elora Centre for the Arts, the performance pavilion will provide the creative community with the infrastructure to offer opportunities for cultural experiences to our region. The pavilion is fully accessible, with ramp and railings, to be used as a multi-use programming space that will accommodate a wide variety of artistic presentations. The project began construction in the Fall of 2022, continued throughout the winter and will be ready for use in June 2023!

This project is part of a greenspace activation plan at the Centre, that includes an outdoor accessible pathway project with art installations, bike parking and maps, benches and picnic tables. The 2 acre yard at the Elora Centre for the Arts is a not-so-hidden gem in the historic downtown area of our community. The pavilion will create vibrant gathering space that encourages connection and artistic expression.

For information on pavilion use or yard rentals please click here.

This project has been made possible thanks to the following funders:

The Government of Canada’s Tourism Relief Fund, administered through the Federal Economic Development Agency of Southern Ontario.

The MacDonald Trust Legacy Fund administered by the Township of Centre Wellington, an application that was submitted in partnership with the Elora Centre for the Arts and Riverfest Elora.

Behind the scenes construction photos – please scroll down to view!

Special thanks to our contractors on this project!! The pavilion was custom designed and built by Shadeview Structures. The stone work was skillfully built by the mason team at Ben Stoneworks.

Sound considerations

The Pavilion incorporates elements of design to assist with sound absorption and sound flow. We conducted a sound study to gain expert advice on materials and design features that should be included. You will notice the solid back wall and slanted side walls for muffling and directing sound. The slanted roof assists with the direction of sound. The location and orientation of the pavilion was selected so that the sound flow is directed toward Bissell Park and the River. A sound fence will be installed at the north end of the property to further assist with containment.

The Elora Centre for the Arts values our neighbours and is committed to ensuring a continued positive relationship. We have developed sound guidelines for use of the pavilion, as well as contractual requirements for all users regarding sound levels and strict shutdown times at night.

If you have an inquiry or concern regarding the pavilion, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page to submit on line, or click here to print.