The City of Barrie and Orillia continues to be one of Canada’s fastest-growing and dynamic cities. Its location in proximity to the great outdoors and recreational activities promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. Culture can be thought of as the beliefs attitudes, customs, and practices of a people and place. For Barrie, culture is a celebration of its people’s experience, heritage, human creativity, imagination, and originality.
The following festivals and events are presented at various locations in Barrie, Orillia, and the surrounding area.
November 1 – 3, 2024
Barrie Christmas Arts & Crafts Show & Sale
Sadlon Arena, 555 Bayview Drive, Barrie
www.barrieartsandcraftsshows.ca/arts-crafts-shows-c1bbg
Ontario’s most talented artisans and crafters come together at the Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Show & Sale. Choose from pottery, stained glass, teddy bears, Christmas crafts, body care products, jewellery, clothing, woodcrafts, ceramics, and more, making Christmas shopping easy.
November 9 – 10, 2024
Annual Sugar Plum Fair
Nottawasaga Inn Resort, Alliston
www.facebook.com/events/nottawasaga-inn-resort/sugar-plum-fair-craft-show-2024/1092727508679994
Discover a spectacular line-up of crafters who feature a unique line-up of handmade items. It’s a great opportunity to get a head start on your Christmas shopping.
November 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 2024 | 10:00am – 4:00pm
Holiday Market
Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, 4346 Highway 90, Springwater
https://shop.bradfordgreenhouses.com/pages/events
Get ready for a festive treat with our 3-week Holiday Market, running every Saturday and Sunday from November 9th through November 24th! Immerse yourself in the magic of the season as local artisans and crafters showcase their creations, bringing holiday cheer to life!
November 10, 2024
Homes For The Holidays/Makers Market
Various Locations
https://www.tourismbarrie.com/festivals-events/details/2024/11/10/default-calendar/homes-for-the-holidays-makers-market
Start the season with this self-drive tour of 4 holiday-decorated homes. Shop the fantastic Makers Market and enjoy tea/coffee/scone at the Tea Room – at the Heights. Homes in Barrie, Horseshoe and Braestone.
All proceeds to charitable donations in the community.
November 15, 22 and 29, 2024 | 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
ORILLIA FARMERS’ MARKETS: HOLIDAY MARKETS
Orillia Public Library, Orillia
http://www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market has been a Sunshine City shopping staple since the early 1840s. There’s no better way to shop for unique gifts and freshly-made sweet treats during the holidays than when you visit the historic market’s holiday vendors. Swing by for live entertainment, seasonal items, and more!
November 16, 2024
75th Annual Barrie Santa Claus Parade
Lakeshore Drive & Downtown Barrie
https://www.barriechamber.com/75th-annual-barrie-santa-claus-parade
This long-running family event is a beloved community holiday tradition celebration that brings together families and friends to enjoy the joyful sights and sounds of the holiday season in Barrie. The parade kicks off at 5 pm.
November 16-17, 23-24, 2024
Quayle’s Brewery Outdoor Christmas Market
4567 12 Line North, Coldwater
https://www.tourismbarrie.com/festivals-events/details/2024/11/23/default-calendar/quayle’s-brewery-outdoor-christmas-market
Travel to Quayle’s Brewery and enjoy Outdoor Christmas Market, which runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It features 40 unique local vendors and is a fabulous way to start the festive season. The Quayle’s Brewery Tap Room will be open with hot meals, beer, wine, cider and non-alcoholic beverages.
November 16 – 17, 2024
NOELLA FESTIVAL
Meridian Place, 30 Simcoe Street, Downtown Barrie
https://www.tourismbarrie.com/festivals-events/details/2024/11/16/default-calendar/tree-lighting-celebration
Christmas in Downtown Barrie is a feeling you just have to experience. The Noella Festival gives you six weeks of family fun to check out! This year’s Noella will take place over two days. Day one will feature holiday programming leading up to the Santa Claus Parade, the Festival of Trees and the annual Tree Lighting Festival. Day two will feature the 2nd Annual Festive Craft market and more holiday fun!
November 17 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Afternoon at the Movies
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/g343rvf
View and discuss a thought-provoking documentary film about what impacts the natural world around us and how we can better preserve it. The title of the film will be published at a later date but prior to the registration deadline. This engaging and educational film will be introduced by Dr. Gerardo Reyes, Assistant Professor at Lakehead University in the Departments of Biology and Sustainability Sciences and subject matter expert on Environmental Issues, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Population Ecology, and Sustainable Development.
November 18 – January, 2024
BARRIE ROTARY FESTIVAL OF TREES
Heritage Park, 5 Simcoe Street, Barrie
https://barrierotary.com/festival-of-trees
Come and check out the amazing light displays throughout Heritage Park and Meridian Place. Grab your favourite hot drink and bring the family or friends Downtown for a light-filled walk along the waterfront and into the Downtown.
November 21 – December 8, 2024
First Light
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Midland
saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events/first-light
Sainte-Marie’s First Light is a must-see holiday event with a great lineup of family-friendly activities, historical demonstrations, and musical performances, all illuminated by thousands of candles. Get a head start on your holiday shopping at their extensive artisan market. Get cozy and enjoy tasty food by the fire. Experience the joys of the season, wrapped up in history!
November 22 – 23, 2024
Orillia Christmas Market 2024
Creative Nomad Studios, Orillia
www.orilliachristmasmarket.ca
A festive shopping extravaganza featuring exceptional artisans and makers. Enjoy the Friday night tree lighting ceremony at 7 pm, delightful Santa selfies, and stick around for the Santa Claus parade after the market closes.
November 23, 2024 10am – 2pm
W.C. Little Holiday Expo
W.C. Little Elementary School, 11 Bear Creek Drive, Barrie
https://www.facebook.com/events/wc-little-elementary-school-council/wc-little-holiday-expo/823359105981119/
50 incredible vendors sharing wonderful gift ideas, home decor and yummy treats! Lots to see and do for the entire family! Kool FM will also be on-site accepting donations for the Toy Drive! Admission: $1 or donation to Food Bank.
November 23, 2024
Orillia Santa Claus Parade
Downtown Orillia
www.orillia.com/santa-claus-parade
One of the largest Christmas parades North of Toronto! Over 100 floats, bands & Santa himself “Celebrating Christmas”.
- Non-perishable food collection for The Sharing Place Food Bank
- Bucket Brigade collection by Orillia Kiwanis Club in support of a great parade
- Free parking in downtown lots!
November 23 – 24, 2024
2024 OUR HOMES Christmas Market
Alpine Ski Club, 17-242 Arrowhead Rd., The Blue Mountains
www.sgbchristmasmarket.ca
Discover more than 100 exhibitors at the beautiful Alpine Ski Club offering Christmas crafts, home and décor, fashion, wellness products, jewelry, tasty treats, and more.
November 28 – December 1, 2024
Christmas On The Bay™
12 Nelson St East, Meaford
www.christmasonthebay.ca
Experience the magic and taste the pleasures of Georgian Bay’s largest outdoor Christmas market in the heart of charming historic Meaford.
To January, 2024
BARRIE ROTARY FESTIVAL OF TREES
Heritage Park, 5 Simcoe Street, Barrie
https://barrierotary.com/festival-of-trees
Come and check out the amazing light displays throughout Heritage Park and Meridian Place. Grab your favourite hot drink and bring the family or friends Downtown for a light-filled walk along the waterfront and into the Downtown.
December 31, 2024 | 6:00–11:59 pm
Barrie Downtown Countdown
70 Collier Street, Barrie
https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/community-events/downtown-countdown
This free evening of fun and celebration is one of Central Ontario’s largest celebrations featuring family activities, skating, live music, and fireworks all set under the twinkling lights of the arch of old City Hall. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
January 25, 2025 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children’s Story Walk
Scout Valley, Orillia
lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/64275td
The Orillia Public Library staff have chosen a special nature story for you to read page by page, as you hike through beautiful Scout Valley. January 25th happens to be Family Literacy Day! You will also enjoy time with your family as you look for unique natural features along your walk. Follow our scavenger hunt to look for evidence of animals passing or to identify and learn about natural features of the forest. Finish your walk at Regan House with a warm cider, a craft and place your entry into our scavenger hunt prize draw.
February `1- 2, 2025
WINTERFEST 2025
Barrie Waterfront, Heritage Park & Memorial Square
www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/community-events/barrie-winterfest
Named one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario, the City of Barrie’s Winterfest is a great way to celebrate the winter season with adventures that the whole family will enjoy. Check out the polar bear swim, horse-drawn wagon rides, dog sled rides, lumberjack show, giant snow slide, ice maze, and much more. The Festival of Ice features 300-pound blocks of ice carved into spectacular, themed sculptures. Join in the festivities at one of the many indoor venues too, including the February Blues Festival, Reel Stories mini film festival, tours and family fun at the MacLarenArtCentre, skating at Barrie’s arenas during select times, and storytime and crafts at the Barrie Public Library. The community comes alive with winter fun and celebration. Don’t miss these fun activities and so much more throughout the Winterfest weekend!
February 14, 2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Full Moon Night Snowshoe
East Coulson Swamp, Orillia
https://www.orillialakecountry.ca/event/full-moon-night-snowshoe
Bundle up and embark on a magical winter adventure at East Coulson Swamp (NCC). Under the glow of the full moon, explore the snow-covered landscape on a snowshoe trek while our knowledgeable guides share insights into the ecology of the area. Please bring your own snowshoes. Event guides: Chase Moser, (M.Sc. Biology), is a member of the Biology & Sustainability Sciences staff at Lakehead University & Jamie Ross, (B.Sc. Biology, B.Ed.), Past President of the Couchiching Conservancy, has held multiple volunteer roles at the Conservancy.
March 8-9, 2025
Barrie Spring Garden & Home Show
Bradford Greenhouses, 4346 Highway 90, Springwater
barriespringshow.com
Bradford Greenhouses is pleased to present the annual Barrie Spring Garden & Home Show. A show that is dedicated to re-imagining your living space! From home renovation to landscaping, and interior design; whether you are an exhibitor looking to showcase your product, or a consumer looking for inspiration and ideas to improve your home and garden; this is the show for you!
March 22-23, 2025
Annual Sweetwater Harvest Festival
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, 16160 Highway 12 East, Midland, ON
www.wyemarsh.com/sweetwater
Escape to a time when maple syrup was made over an open fire, experience our history, and explore nature at its best. The festival celebrates the history of maple syrup and the role it plays in our cultural and natural heritage. Sweetwater is not your average maple syrup festival. Beyond the sugar shack tours, pancakes, and taffy tasting, there is so much more to the weekend-long festival including birds of prey demonstrations, live music from local artists, kids games & activities, woodcarving demos; and of course chickadee feeding!
March 2025
Maple Festival
Drysdale’s Tree Farm, 6635 Simcoe County Road 56, Egbert
www.drysdales.ca/seasonal-event.php?id=20
Visitors will be able to see traditional sugaring demonstrations, tour a sugar bush, ride in a horse-drawn wagon, and experience maple taffy making. There will even be a pancake breakfast to taste Camphill’s delicious maple syrup. Shop in the Evergreen Store and browse our unique selection of seasonal gifts and décor.
March 2025
Chappel Farms Spring Festival
Chappell Farms, 617 Penetanguishene Road, Barrie
chappellfarms.ca
Spring Festival at Chappell Farms is an amazing place for kids and adults alike! We have all kinds of activities, and there is also plenty of room to just run and play in the fresh air!
April 2025
Spring Tonic Maple Syrup Festival
Tiffin Conservation Area, 8195 8th Line, Utopia
www.nvca.on.ca/spring-tonic-festival
See historic re-enactments of Canada’s early history, tap maple trees and watch the sap transformed into syrup. Sample this natural sweetness on pancakes with sausage, as well as shop for maple candy, syrup and souvenirs. Kids can have their faces painted, make some crafts, build a birdhouse, enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride and so much more.
April 2025
Annual Orillia Perch Festival
Lakes Simcoe and Couchiching, Orillia
www.csfl.ca/orilliaperchfestival
One of the largest fishing derbies in North America, the Orillia Perch Festival Presented by Leadbetters, kicks off the beginning of the open water fishing season in Canada. The concept is that fishing is a sport that anyone can do at any age with anybody. Fishing creates memories that can last a lifetime, and the sport bridges generations like few other activities. Great event for the whole family, with adult and kids prize categories. Thousands of dollars in cash and product prizes. Any angler can win!
April 2025 | 6:00 pm
Roots North Music Festival
Downtown Orillia
www.rootsnorthmusic.ca
Roots North Music Festival brings together amazing performers for a weekend of great live music in Downtown Orillia. Roots music can refer to several styles or genres in music, but to us it’s music that is firmly rooted in a place of honest expression and emotion. It’s music that travels, shares and connects, while honouring the past and bravely moving forward. It’s our mission to bring together a wide range of artists and people who share this vision for a weekend of great live music.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Café.
May 23 – 25, 2025
ANNUAL BARRIE WATERFRONT FESTIVAL
Dunlop St., Memorial Square & Heritage Park, Barrie
barriewaterfront.ca
The Annual Barrie Waterfront Festival spring line-up will present live bands from a variety of genres. For your added enjoyment, free outdoor entertainment will be brought to the table: street buskers, a midway with rides, face painting, street vendors, fresh food, treats, and contests. Don’t miss this weekend with your family; eat, drink, and have fun while sharing in Barrie’s terrific community spirit.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Café.
June 2025
Barrie Automotive Flea Market
Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, Oro-Medonte
www.thebafm.com
Canada’s Finest Automotive Flea Market offers over 2500 vending spaces and 1000 camping sites. There is everything from collectibles & classic cars to those hard-to-find car parts. If you can’t find it here, you can’t find it anywhere. It’s a Car Lover’s Dream – Car Sales Corral, Sunday Auto Auction, Show & Shine, and thousands of vendors. You won’t believe your eyes. Bring your friends & family and stay at our convenient Campground.
June 2025
Sunshine Festival
Port of Orillia
www.orillia.com/sunshine-festival
Celebrate the arrival of summer in the Sunshine City! A revival of the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce’s long-running Spring Boat Show, this event showcases Orillia’s unique character as boater’s paradise where a vibrant arts and cultural scene meets boundless opportunities to experience nature!
June 2025
Christmas in June
Port of Orillia, 50 Centennial Drive, Orillia
Christmas in June is an annual event where boaters gather at the Port of Orillia and celebrate Christmas 6 months early (or late depending on how you look at it). Boats will be decked out in Christmas lights and the holiday spirit will engulf the Port.
June 2025
BARRIE JAZZ BLUES FESTIVAL
Various Venues throughout Barrie & Simcoe County
www.barriejazzbluesfest.com
Shake off cabin fever at the annual February Blues Festival featuring Blues and Jazz music performed by some of Canada’s most brilliant artists.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Café.
July 4 – 6, 2025
Mariposa Folk Festival Downtown Stage
J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park, Orillia
www.mariposafolk.com
Orillia’s largest festival is once again featuring Mariposa Folk Festival’s showcase winners on the FREE Downtown Stage! Come check out the Showcase Winning Acts, bring the kids, and enjoy Mariposa-inspired crafts and activities to get into the Mariposa Folk spirit in Downtown Orillia.
July 18 – 20, 2025
ANNUAL ORILLIA SCOTTISH FESTIVAL
Couchiching Beach Park
www.scottishfestival.ca
A celebration of Scottish culture & heritage! Ceilidh at Legion Friday & Sunday; parade through downtown to waterfront, pipe & drum competitions, entertainment & vendors at Couchiching Beach Park Saturday.
July 2025
Mardi Gras
Port of Orillia
www.orillia.com/mardi-gras
Join us for a spectacular celebration the Port of Orillia transforms into a vibrant and colourful Mardi Gras extravaganza! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, where the spirit of New Orleans comes alive on the shores of Lake Couchiching. This event features fun, shenanigans and celebrations.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Café.
August 1 – 4, 2025
ANNUAL KEMPENFEST
Barrie’s Waterfront Parks
www.kempenfest.com
One of the largest outdoor arts and crafts festivals featuring over 300 artisans, antique shows, food, children’s activities, and amazing live entertainment on three stages.
August 7 – 10, 2025
BOOTS & HEARTS COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Burl’s Creek Event Grounds
bootsandhearts.com
Canada’s largest country music & camping festival! Over 30 performers, from global superstars to emerging artists, including Florida Georgia Line, Alan Jackson, Thomas Rhett & Dallas Smith! Great food, merchants & craft vendors!
August 2025
ORILLIA WATERFRONT FESTIVAL
Port of Orillia & waterfront parks, Centennial Drive, Lake Couchiching
www.orillia.com/waterfront-festival
A weekend of fun activities and entertainment at the beautiful Port of Orillia and waterfront parks, Lake Couchiching, Orillia, Ontario, Canada! The Orillia Waterfront Festival in-water boat show features new, dealer trade, select brokerage, and private owner boats, and includes everything from kayaks to cruisers! Over 100 land vendors and exhibitors offer boating accessories, water sports equipment, cottage, and outdoor products, great summer fashions, good food & more! Art exhibits, dog agility trials, Dock Dogs Diving Contest, exciting water ski shows throughout the weekend, and a hilarious Cardboard Boat Race on Sunday at Noon! An average of 20,000 people attend the festival each year!
AUGUST 21 – 24, 2025
Barrie Fair & Essa National Draft Horse Show 2025
Essa Agriplex, 7505 10th Line, Thornton
https://essaagriplex.ca
The Barrie Fair highlights Ontario’s rich agricultural heritage with cattle shows, horse pulls, and sheep shearing demonstrations, giving visitors a glimpse into rural life. Don’t miss the popular horse shows, where the majestic draft horses compete in driving and pulling events. The fair also features food vendors offering local treats, live entertainment, and a bustling marketplace where you can shop for handcrafted goods.
August 2025
Annual BARRIE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Barrie’s Heritage Park, Downtown Barrie
https://www.barrielibrary.ca/programs-events/barrie-dragon-boat-festival
Enjoy dragon boat racing, cultural and commercial exhibits, children’s activities, and more.
August 2025
Port of Orillia Pirate Party
Port of Orillia
www.orillia.com
On Labour Day Weekend, the Pirates of Lake Couchiching storm the Port of Orillia. This amazing family fun-filled weekend features in-water Pirate displays, a Pirate Village with live re-enactors and demonstrations and a “plank walk” where the pirates send local politicians and business leaders into the water.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Cafe.
September 2025
Barrie Automotive Flea Market
Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, Oro-Medonte
www.thebafm.com
Canada’s Finest Automotive Flea Market offers over 2500 vending spaces and 1000 camping sites. There is everything from collectibles & classic cars to those hard-to-find car parts. If you can’t find it here, you can’t find it anywhere. It’s a Car Lover’s Dream – Car Sales Corral, Sunday Auto Auction, Show & Shine, and thousands of vendors. You won’t believe your eyes. Bring your friends & family and stay in our convenient Campground.
September 2025
ORO WORLD’S FAIR
84 15th/16th Sideroad
oroworldsfair.com
Presented by: The Oro Agricultural Society (celebrating 172 years).
September 2025 | 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
TERRY FOX RUN – ORILLIA
Tudhope Park, Orillia
www.facebook.com/TerryFoxRunOrillia
The Terry Fox Run is non-competitive, volunteer-led, with no entry fee, and no minimum pledge required, all welcome! Walk, run, cycle or wheel. We have a 1km course and a 2.5 km loop available. Make your way to Tudhope Park’s Celebration Plaza to check in before the start time. Check-in opens at 11:30 am Opening Ceremonies: 12:40 pm Run/Walk start: 1:00 pm NEW LOCATION: Tudhope Park Contact us at 705-326-1404, terryfoxrunorillia@gmail.com or on social media.
September 2025 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Music in the Marsh
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, Midland
In Support of Wye Marsh
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/music-in-the-marsh-2024-an-open-air-fundraising-concert-tickets-916517216667
Music in the Marsh Let the sweet sounds of acoustic guitars, soft rock ballads, and country melodies escort you along the trails for a magical night at Wye Marsh.
September 2025
COLDWATER FALL FAIR
Coldwater Coldwater, Ontario L0K 1E0
coldwaterfallfair.com
The Coldwater Fair is a local agricultural celebration held the last full weekend each September. Bring the family to enjoy the Magical Midway, agricultural exhibitions, vendors, entertainment and more! The Demolition Derby will be held Friday, September 27 at 7pm. The Coldwater Fall Fair is an Alcohol Free Event No Dogs will be allowed on the property except for service animals, those exhibiting in the fair.
September 30, 2025 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION AT SAINTE-MARIE
Sainte Marie Among the Hurons, Midland
saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events/national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation
Every child matters. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Sainte-Marie will begin with a ceremony honouring survivors of residential schools. On this day of reflection and commemoration, the site’s historical interpreters will not be in costume. This is an opportunity to listen and learn as we all continue the journey of truth and reconciliation. Indigenous speakers and knowledge keepers will help educate guests and build cultural understanding.
Each Saturday from 8 am – 12:30 pm, year-round!
Orillia Farmers’ Market
Downtown Orillia
www.orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca
The Orillia Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province, with its roots going back to 1842 when it first operated at the waterfront. The Farmers’ Market proudly boasts its range of locally produced foods, handmade crafts from around the county, and special events for the family. Our growers look forward to Saturdays on the Market, where they offer fresh-picked produce in season, naturally raised meats, as well as a variety of yummy baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Bring your family, meet your friends, get to know the vendors, and enjoy the local musicians in the Market Cafe.
October 2025 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | Free
2025 IMAGES THANKSGIVING STUDIO TOUR
Simcoe County, Orillia, Oro-Medonte area
www.images-studio-tour.com
This artist-run, juried event is one of Ontario’s finest and longest-running studio tours celebrating 41 years. Over thirty outstanding artists and craftspeople will exhibit their work over 4 days at 18 different studios. Discover exceptional art and enjoy the beautiful fall colours of Simcoe County. This self-guided tour roams from Moonstone through the scenic Horseshoe Valley and along the Lake Simcoe shores to Orillia. Come for the day, come for the weekend.
October 2025 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
HOMETOWN HARVEST FESTIVAL
Sainte Marie Among the Hurons, Midland
saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events/hometown-harvest-festival
October 2025 | 1 pm
The Orillia Jazz Festival
Orillia Opera House, 1 West Street N.
https://www.artsorillia.ca/orillia-jazz-festival-2024
The Hometown Harvest Festival is back at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons Thanksgiving Weekend. Come celebrate the abundance of the fall season! Put on a cozy sweater and shop our artisan market with more than 40 local vendors. Grab a coffee in our gift shop, then explore the site to take part in take-home crafts, try hands-on activities, meet our heritage breed animals, learn about the three sisters’ harvest, and enjoy historical presentations.
The Orillia Jazz Festival 2024 will take place on October 19, 2024, at the Orillia Opera House. The evening show at 7:30 pm features Caity Gyorgy & the Thompson Egbo-Egbo Trio with dance choreography by Vicki St. Denys. Earlier that day at 1:00 pm, the event will also showcase Brassworks and Autorickshaw, with participation from Orillia’s youth.
For more information, visit Orillia Jazz Festival 2024.
October 2025 | 3–9 pm
City of Barrie’s Family Fright Fest
Lane Park & Community Centre (Indoor/outdoor)
https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/community-events/family-fright-fest
The Family Fright Fest is set to bring spooky thrills and family-friendly fun to Barrie this Halloween season! Organized by the City of Barrie, Family Fright Fest offers a variety of activities that make Halloween enjoyable for the entire family.
October 2025
Lightfoot Days Festival
Downtown Orillia
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556141049238
Celebrate the music and legacy of Canada’s most gifted and prolific songwriter, in his hometown of Orillia. This year’s Lightfoot Days Festival expands to four days, from Thursday, October 31 through Sunday, November 3, with live music, storytelling, tours, and special tributes occurring each day.
