This Ontario town is back on screen in the new ‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ trailer

Port Hope, Ont., has been a very popular filming destination in recent years, especially when it comes to horror flicks. Well, our favourite movie backdrop has reappeared in the latest trailer for the new IT prequel.

IT: Welcome to Derry’is the upcoming supernatural horror series in the Stephen King universe, slated to release on Crave this October 2025. The trailer dropped on Tuesday, bringing fans back to the spooky town where it all started.

The new series rewinds to 1962, just before the events of the first film in the IT series.

Derry a.k.a. Port Hope, Ont.

Though it’s known as Derry on screen, horror fans will recognize the real backdrop – Port Hope. Ont. The trailer features shots of the picturesque town completely transformed. Post Paul Bunyon statue, of course.

According to the Municipality of Port Hope, filming took place back in 2023 and 2024 with the cover name of Greetings from Fairview. But the secret didn’t last long as townfolk took to social media to share production pictures of the town’s new look.

But beyond all the movie magic, Port Hope is a lovely, small town that’s home to so many great perks. It’s a great spot to unwind, escape the busy city, and enjoy that small-town vibe.

It’s just an hour east of Toronto, and in my opinion, a perfect fall day trip. Though that’s something for you to discover.

So, dare to visit the very place where Pennywise lurked? This fall, Port Hope might just be your ultimate horror destination.

IT: Welcome to Derry premieres Oct. 26, 2025.

Recent Posts:
Halloween Haunt officially opens at Canada’s Wonderland this week
Some Ontario parks are reaching their fall colour peak and here’s where