August 8 – 10, 2025
Port of Orillia
The Orillia Waterfront Festival is set to make a grand return from August 8 to 10, 2025, at the picturesque Port of Orillia. This annual celebration has become a cornerstone of the community, offering a diverse array of activities and attractions that cater to all ages.
Event Highlights
- In-Water Boat Show: Boating enthusiasts can look forward to an impressive display of new and pre-owned vessels. Local dealers such as Pride Marine, Crate’s Lake Country Boats, and McGregor on the Water will showcase top brands, including Frauscher, Sea Ray, Nautique, Nimbus, Chaparral, Alukin, Robalo, Chris Craft, Regal, Pursuit, and Avalon Pontoon Boats.
- Vendor Market: The festival’s vendor market is a treasure trove of unique finds. Attendees can explore stalls featuring everything from hot tubs to one-of-a-kind clothing and decor items, as well as a variety of food options to satisfy diverse palates.
- Cardboard Boat Race: A fan favourite, the Cardboard Boat Race invites participants of all ages to construct and race their own cardboard vessels. This event is scheduled for Sunday at noon and promises both excitement and laughter.
- Dock Diving Dog Contest: Dog lovers will delight in the Dock Diving Dog competitions, set to take place on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Owners are encouraged to bring their water-loving canines to showcase their diving prowess.
- Live Entertainment and Craft Beer Garden: The festival atmosphere will be enhanced with live musical performances throughout the weekend. Additionally, the Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. will host a craft beer garden, offering a selection of local brews for attendees to enjoy.
The Orillia Waterfront Festival is more than just entertainment; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Experience Nissan Orillia will be on-site throughout the weekend, collecting non-perishable food items for The Sharing Place Food Centre. Attendees are encouraged to contribute and help ‘fill the Frontier’ to support local residents facing food insecurity.
Visitor Information
With recent construction around the downtown boat launch now complete, ample parking is available for festival-goers. For those interested in participating in events like the Cardboard Boat Race or Dock Diving Dog contest, registration details and schedules are available on the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce website.
The Orillia Waterfront Festival 2025 promises a weekend filled with fun, community engagement, and memorable experiences by the water’s edge. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, this event is not to be missed.
