Stratford Unveils Enchanting Fairy Trail at Robert Cotton Park

A new fairy trail has transformed Robert Cotton Park in Stratford, Prince Edward Island, introducing an imaginative experience that blends art with nature. The entrance, marked by a distinctive red door, greets visitors with a whimsical message: “Away with the fairies, be back soon.” This initiative aims to create an engaging environment for families while preserving the park’s natural beauty.

Over the next few years, the town of Stratford plans to hire local artists to enhance the trail, turning dead tree stumps into captivating works of public art. This effort not only fosters community creativity but also emphasizes environmental sustainability. “It’s neat… to see kids using their imaginations,” said local resident Krista Doyle, who visited the trail with her two sons and their dog. Her seven-year-old son, Matteo, described the area as “so calm,” highlighting its tranquil atmosphere.

As visitors stroll along the path, they discover various elements of folklore, including painted doors designed for tiny creatures and carvings of faces in the trees. Local artist Kate Sharpley has contributed significantly to the project by weaving willow branches into enchanting sculptures. “You need a bigger fairy to kind of watch over the trail,” Sharpley remarked, encouraging families to explore and enjoy the fresh air.

The creative efforts extend beyond Sharpley, with contributions from sand sculptor Abe Waterman and artist Nicholas Brown, who have helped bring the trail’s magical theme to life. While some visitors may feel inclined to leave gifts for the fairies, such as gems or coins, the town advises against artificial items to maintain the area’s safety and natural integrity. “The idea is this is supposed to fit into the natural environment,” explained Steve Ogden, the Mayor of Stratford. He noted that the project aligns with the town’s slogan: “Imagine That.”

The community response to the fairy trail has been overwhelmingly positive. Mayor Ogden reported an increase in foot traffic, stating, “The trail’s been used more than it has been in the past. Now, it’s a destination, a place where people can come to look at art and experience nature.” Visitors have different interpretations of the artworks; one resident, David Mitchell, humorously remarked on a sculpture, saying, “That’s a fairy, is it? Looked to me to be an angel. I guess we can call it the same thing. Extremely well done by a very talented individual.”

The financial investment in the trail is modest, with Mayor Ogden estimating the total cost at under $10,000. Stratford’s 2024–25 operating budget allocates $45,000 for arts and culture, in addition to separate funding designated for public art initiatives. Resident Blair Gillis expressed support for the project, calling it “money well spent.”

As the fairy trail continues to evolve, the town plans to introduce new artists and artworks over the next three to five years, promising fresh experiences for returning visitors. The enchanting blend of art and nature at Robert Cotton Park marks just the beginning of a creative journey that invites community members and tourists alike to engage with their surroundings in a delightful new way.