As a child in Detroit, Patty Czajka was captivated by a Canadian TV series set in Prince Edward Island. Every Sunday, she would watch “Road to Avonlea” with her grandmother, particularly admiring actress Mag Ruffman, who portrayed Aunt Olivia in the 1990s show.
Upon learning that Ruffman would be attending a fan convention in P.E.I. dedicated to the series, Czajka eagerly purchased a ticket. Fans from around the globe gathered on the Island for the sold-out event, celebrating the beloved Canadian show that aired in over 100 countries from 1990 to 1996.
“Road to Avonlea” followed the story of young Sarah Stanley, played by future Oscar winner Sarah Polley, who goes to live with her late mother’s relatives at the turn of the 20th century. Loosely based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novels, the series resonated with audiences seeking values of kindness, friendship, and community.
During the three-day convention, attendees enjoyed oyster and wine tastings, panel discussions with the cast and crew, and visits to filming locations and Montgomery’s significant sites. Edward Lemon, assistant director of Fine Book Fairs, expressed hope that the show would continue to attract new audiences for years to come.
For Ruffman, connecting with fans at the convention was a touching experience. She emphasized the enduring impact of the show on viewers, admitting that she still wonders about her character, Olivia. Czajka, now sharing the series with her own children, finds joy in the rarity of a show that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
The convention in Charlottetown, P.E.I., brought together fans, cast members, and crew, highlighting the lasting influence and nostalgia surrounding “Road to Avonlea.”