(Pembroke, ON) – The 2010 Rural Ramble will be a festival to remember, with four theme weekends set up to showcase the unique aspects of rural living in the Ottawa Valley. The themed weekends are: Adventure & Exploration (Sept. 18-19), Agriculture & Food (Sept. 25-26), Arts & Culture (Oct. 2-3) and Heritage & History (Oct. 9-10).

The Rural Ramble celebrated its 15th anniversary last year in its traditional 2-day format. The new Rural Ramble, which is being organized by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA), is set to showcase not only the significance of Agriculture & Food to the Valley, but also the natural and human-built wonders of the Valley, the vibrant artistic communities and cultural diversity of the Valley, as well as the rich history and heritage of Valley residents.

The format of the new Rural Ramble has been designed to encourage greater participation levels among both Ramble sites and visitors. Business and organizations with limited budgets will be able to participate as sites in this year’s event thanks to a new, tiered event-listing fee. Ramble sites can participate in more than one theme weekend and will have greater flexibility with regards to organizing their individual activities. With no admission fee for visitors, and the date of the celebration extended over four weekends, the new Rural Ramble will also be more accessible to the public.

Financial sponsors and host site applications for this year's Rural Ramble are currently being accepted. “As an event sponsor, the Rural Ramble will offer the perfect opportunity to maximize awareness of your business,” explains Lauren McIllfaterick, Communications Coordinator of the OVTA. “Host sites will be able to take advantage of the event’s extensive marketing campaign and promote their attraction, business or organization to an eager public. The Ramble is also a great way to show your Valley pride!”

The new Rural Ramble is expanding its horizon while keeping a focus on rural living in the Ottawa Valley. The deadline for site applications has been extended until May 10, 2010. Those interested in becoming an event sponsor or site host for the New Rural Ramble are encouraged to contact Lauren at 613.732.4364 or lmcillfaterick@countyofrenfrew.on.ca.

The OVTA is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 230 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodation, dining and retail establishments, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers.