Discover 2019 - Muskoka Tourism
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Discover
2019
DINE
SHOP
EXPLORE
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Ontario’s Most Popular Playground
There simply is no end of choice when it comes to finding The list of things to do once you arrive in magnificent
fun things to do or wonderful places to stay when visiting Muskoka is equally long. Boaters will want to explore
Muskoka. Boasting more than 80 resorts - everything the mile-after-mile of shorelines along the region’s
from luxury all-inclusive hotels, family-run lodges, quaint magnificent, pristine lakes, big and small. Take your pick
inns, historic B&Bs and rustic cottage resorts - Muskoka’s on how best to do it: area marinas and resorts offer rentals
got something for everyone. of everything from powerboats to canoes and kayaks,
as well as winter equipment such as snowmobiles and
Those looking for a back to nature experience are well snowshoes. Boat ramps and beaches are plentiful if
catered to, with many parks and facilities available. you’re bringing your own vessel.
Eleven provincial parks, and one national park - along
In town, you’ll be rewarded with unique dining, shopping
with some 173,000 hectares of crown land - keep the
and cultural experiences. There are, of course, many
region’s flora and fauna safe, while at the same time
other great reasons to visit Muskoka: fantastic golf,
allowing visitors to enjoy pursuits such as camping, rock
relaxing spas, skiing, festivals and art shows... the list
climbing, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, canoeing,
is endless.
kayaking and bird watching. Add to the mix 76 municipal
parks and 15 conservation areas and you’re spoiled for For more information about Muskoka call 1-800-267-9700
places to have an old-fashioned picnic. or visit www.discovermuskoka.ca
Ontario is the first province and one of the first jurisdictions in the world to enact specific legislation establishing a
goal and time-frame for accessibility. For Accessible accommodation, dining and other services in Muskoka, please
contact the establishment directly.
discovermuskoka.ca 3
WHAT’s INSIDE
08 History
10 Culinary
14 Accommodations
20 Winter Experiences
22 Weddings
24 Arts & Culture
26 Hiking & Trails
4 discovermuskoka.ca
28 Live Entertainment 62 Huntsville
30 Boat Cruises 66 Muskoka Lakes
34 Algonquin Park 70 Village of Rosseau
38 Events 72 Lake of Bays
44 Georgian Bay 77 Airport
48 Gravenhurst 78 Signature Experiences
56 Bracebridge 80 Local Business
discovermuskoka.ca 5
2019 - 2020
Muskoka Guide
Curtis Armstrong
Publisher
Megan Sampson
Art Director
Eleanor Kee Wellman
Explorers’ Edge
Larry Carroll
Ontario Travel
Pure Muskoka
Matt Driscoll
Megan Sampson
Scott Turnbull
Town of Gravenhurst
Wesley Liikane
Contributors
Shannon Donnelly
Media Sales Represenatives
Muskoka Visitor Guide is published by
Copyright© 2019,
Postmedia
Take Their All rights reserved.
Reproduction of any material published within the
Breath Away Muskoka Visitor Guide is strictly prohibited without
the written permission of the publisher. The publisher
assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.
Your time together is precious.
Make the most of it, This is a Partner-Driven Publication among
with incredible views, the following organizations:
luxurious surroundings
and inspiring activities.
Make memories that
last a lifetime
book your getaway now at
jwrosseau.com or
call 1-866-240-8605
6 discovermuskoka.ca
discovermuskoka.ca 7
History
For nearly two centuries, the word “Muskoka” has been synonymous with
breaking free from the workaday world and enjoying the Canadian Shield’s
natural splendour.
However, long before the tourism boom, indigenous groups — primarily Algonquin
and Huron tribes — were well acquainted with the area. The name Muskoka
itself is thought to have come from the Native word Mesqua Ukee — a fabled
Chippewa chief. The word itself translates roughly to “not easily turned back in
the day of battle”.
Muskoka’s rise as a
Muskoka was first visited by early explorers like Samuel De Champlain in the
hub of tourism is often mid-1600s. Missionaries followed but the area was never as heavily settled as
traced back to the
other parts of Ontario, largely due to the rocky terrain which was unsuitable for
agriculture.
efforts of one man― Instead, the lumber industry became predominant across Muskoka, hitting its
Alexander P. Cockburn. peak in the second half of the 19th century.
Muskoka’s rise as a hub of tourism is often traced back to the efforts of one man
— Alexander P. Cockburn. In the autumn of 1865, Cockburn visited Muskoka with
a group of friends and immediately fell in love with the area. It was Cockburn who
brought steamers onto the lakes. He immediately began pushing the government
for better roads and to open the area up to better water navigation by creating
channels and lock systems that are still used by seasonal residents and tourists
to this day.
His steamship company — the Muskoka Navigation Company — was the biggest
8 discovermuskoka.ca
in the country by the time of his death in 1905. The allure of the resorts on the lakes of north Muskoka. The resort has
the steamships, and the previously unreachable lands they expanded dramatically from its original maximum capacity
opened up, brought throngs of guests from all over Canada of two guests. Along the way Deerhurst helped launch the
and beyond. career of a young Shania Twain and played host to the G8
Summit in 2010.
The draw of those steamships is still evident and one of
the area’s most popular attractions remains the elegant During the summer nights of the 1930s and 1940s, Muskoka
steamers and other classic watercraft that still ply the waters was alive with music as acts like Duke Ellington and Louis
every summer. Armstrong became regular guests at area resorts.
Along with the arrival of the railway in 1875, the proliferation The Bigwin Inn on Bigwin Island was a hub for the who’s
of the steamships ushered in the era of the grand resorts. who, from Clark Gable to Ernest Hemingway. Meanwhile,
Some of the earliest resorts in the region included the on Lake Muskoka Dunn’s Pavillion (or the Kee to Bala as
Rosseau House (located near the present day village of it has been known from 1963 onwards) has played host to
Rosseau), Prospect House (located at Port Sandfield) and everyone from Guy Lombardo to Snoop Dogg.
Windermere House (in the village of Windermere). All three Today, the six municipalities that comprise the District of
of the resorts would eventually succumb to fire: Rosseau Muskoka - Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of
House in 1883, Prospect House in 1916 and Windermere Bays, Muskoka Lakes and Georgian Bay - are home to
in 1996, although the resort has since been restored as a 60,000 permanent residents and an additional 100,000
replica of the original.
seasonal property owners.
Located in Minett, Clevelands House is celebrating its 150th
While the towns and people have changed dramatically
anniversary in 2019 and is the longest continuously operating
since the days of the steamships, the same natural beauty
resort in the region.
that captivated guests and residents a century ago continues
Dating back to 1896, Deerhurst Resort is the oldest of to draw generation after generation to Muskoka.
discovermuskoka.ca 9
culinary
Over the course of the past decade, Muskoka has taken its culinary game to
another level. In the process it has become a provincial destination for food
lovers of all culinary preferences.
Across the region the area’s culinary wizards pride themselves on their field to
fork mentality, producing exciting new taste experiences.
Established just a few years ago, the Muskoka Maple Trail has quickly become
one of the region’s marquee culinary events. Featuring a collection of the
Muskoka is home very best maple experiences available in Muskoka, the Maple Trail includes
sugar bush tours, pancake breakfasts, maple beer, wine and cuisines, and,
to everything from of course, a plethora of delectable baked goods and sweets. The Maple Trail
typically runs over the course of several weeks in the early spring and is set
gourmet food trucks for March 8 to April 26 in 2019. Check out their website at muskokamaple.ca
to fine dining with for complete details.
lakeside views. In the fall, thousands of Muskokans and guests alike make the annual
pilgrimage to the Bala Cranberry Festival for music, rides, food and acre after
acre of the bright red berries.
In 2018, the rest of Muskoka decided to get in on the fun as well. The 25-
stop Cranberry Route allows visitors to taste the spoils of the harvest — from
cranberry cider and beer to baked goods and cuisine. There’s even a stop
at the cranberry marsh and the chance to get right in there with the bobbing
berries for that perfect photo.
Muskoka Brewery has been at the leading edge of the craft brewery expansion
10 discovermuskoka.cadiscovermuskoka.ca 11
since 1996. Now one of the largest craft brewers in the to one of the farmers’ markets, which run virtually every
province, the brewery on Muskoka Beach Road offers day throughout the spring, summer and fall in Muskoka’s
an ever-changing array of beers (and now spirits) as towns and villages.
well as tours and tastings. Like many of Muskoka’s other
When it comes to restaurants, Muskoka is home to
craft brewers, you can also find Muskoka Brewery on tap
everything from gourmet food trucks to fine dining. There
across the region.
are steakhouses with lakeside views, ice cream shops on
Lake of Bays Brewing Co. recently expanded from their the docks and downtown diners.
home base in Baysville to a trendy downtown Huntsville
With Muskoka’s focus on culinary excellence, there’s a
location. They now offer a full family-friendly menu and an
location and a dish to suit even the most experienced
expanded beer list to go with their longtime favourites.
palate.
Sawdust City Brewing Co. in downtown Gravenhurst is
much more than just a brewery. A hub of live music and
catered by a food truck that many consider one of the best
in the region, Sawdust City has become one of the most
popular gathering points in the community.
Despite being a relative newcomer on the scene, Clear
Lake Brewing Co. in Torrance with their fresh, naturally
crafted beer is already attracting locals and seasonal
visitors alike.
Although not traditionally thought of as a hotbed of
agricultural activity, Muskoka’s farm produce can stand up
against any in the province. You can find the freshest meat
and produce right at some of the area’s farms or head
Home of Muskoka’s best STAY INN
ngs
SMOKED BRISKET and RIBS.
(WHERE FRIENDS MEET FRIENDS)
MUSKOKA eddi ngs •Meet i
D in ing•W
dg ing •
Lo
234 Main St W.,
Huntsville, ON P1H 1Y1
(705) 784-9700 8 Mahaffy Court, Bracebridge, Ontario
www.algonquincafe.ca 1-877-645-9212 • www.innatthefalls.ca
12 discovermuskoka.caExperience Beautiful
Algonquin Park
LOCATED IN ALGONQUIN PARK ON CANOE LAKE
705-633-5622
www.portagestore.com
RESTAURANT CANOE RENTALS
Enjoy homemade burgers, cold beer & ice - 4 hr rentals available.
cream while overlooking Canoe Lake. - 2 & 3 seat canoes, solo & tandem kayaks.
GIFT SHOP & SUPPLIES DAILY GUIDED TOURS
Discover unique gifts & t-shirts or grab some Half - Day........1:00pm - 5:00pm
last minute supplies. We have it all! Full - Day.........9:30am - 4:30pm
Our experienced guides teach you canoeing
CAMPING PACKAGES skills, guide you up beautiful historic Canoe
Lake, answer questions about Algonquin
Includes all Equipment & Food needed, Park and take you to the best moose sighting
Canoe, Route Planning, Park Permit Booking, spots or swimming rocks! Includes all
Equipment & Paddling Demos & Expert equipment & picnic lunch (on full day trips).
Advice. (See website for equipment list, menu options & Pricing) CALL FOR A RESERVATION or ARRIVE 1/2hr PRIOR TO DEPARTUREACCOMMODATIONS
For as long as people have ventured to Muskoka to experience its rugged
beauty, there have been all types of accommodation providers waiting to
make their visit unforgettable.
You can sleep under the stars at one of Muskoka many campgrounds, relax
in luxury at a world class resort or even rent a cottage of your own.
Muskoka has Campfires at night, outdoor adventures by day and maybe even a dip if the
weather’s right - there’s nothing like camping or RVing and there’s no place
everything from like Muskoka to do it.
camping, yurt and Just how much you’d like to “rough it” is entirely up to you. There are
backwoods camping sites in Algonquin Park to test the most seasoned
trailers to bed & outdoor adventurer, or RV accommodations with full hook-ups to bring all of
breakfasts, inns, the amenities of home to the great outdoors.
Spots at the region’s national and provincial parks fill quickly, so make sure
hotels, resorts and to book your reservations as soon as possible and take a close look at
so much more. Muskoka’s private campgrounds for an exceptional alternative.
After more than a century of experience, Muskoka has perfected the art of
resort accommodation. By the end of the 19th century, Muskoka had already
garnered a reputation for offering luxury in the midst of the rugged beauty
of the Canadian Shield. Some of those same resorts that welcomed guests
100 years ago still play host to visitors from around the world.
These days destinations like Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, the J.W.
14 discovermuskoka.caAu
Authentic waterfront resorts
just minutes from world
Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa in Minett famous Algonquin Park
and Taboo Muskoka in Gravenhurst have joined classics northmuskoka.com
like Cleveland’s House, Port Cunnington Lodge and
Windermere House as some of the leading resorts in the
country.
If you’re looking for a little pampering while you’re here,
Muskoka has many world-class spa resorts, and a huge
range of culinary experiences. With housekeeping and
pet-friendly options you’ll find the perfect conditions to
unwind and reconnect to yourself and nature for a day, a
week or even longer.
A growing trend in recent years, there are now a plethora
of accommodation providers who specialize in renting Lakeside Cottages with Two Original Muskoka Cottage Resort
cottages. Everyone wants their own little slice of Muskoka Meals Daily & Children’s Program Families • Groups • Couples
and these rental specialists offer you the chance to 1.800.461.4371 1.888.300.2132
get one for yourself without the full commitment of luminaresort.com bondi-cottage-resort.com
purchasing. It’s also a great way to try out different areas
of Muskoka if you’re thinking of buying later on.
Hotels, motels and inns to suit every taste and budget
can be found throughout the region. Whether it’s a quick Upscale Housekeeping Resort A Muskoka Tradition Since 1927
stopover or a cottage country vacation, the clean and Cottages, Studios and Suites Lakeside Cottages with Meals
1.855.635.2330 1.800.461.4269
quiet rooms present guests with a huge range of options.
bluespruce.ca cedargrove.on.ca
There are waterfront balconies, charming country inns,
discovermuskoka.ca 15YOUR PERFECT • Leisure Getaways
• Weddings
ADULT-ONLY • Corporate Retreats
ESCAPE • Spa
or modern downtown accommodations.
Throughout the region bed and breakfasts put their own
charming spin on Muskoka. The personal touch, and
meals that are second to none, are just two of the reasons
848 Clearwater Lake Road, Port Sydney, Muskoka people choose to book their stay at local B&Bs. Many area
1.800.263.6600 l www.trilliumresort.com bed and breakfasts are situated in historic buildings, and
Family Vacations | Couples Getaways | Family Reunions
Corporate Meetings | Romantic Weddings
116 Gloucester Trail | PO Box 250 | Port Severn | Ontario | L0K 1S0
TheSevernLodge.com | Toll Free 844-322-3644
16 discovermuskoka.cayou can find providers specializing in accommodations for
couples and larger groups.
Whatever your preference, the accommodation experience
in Muskoka is limited only by your imagination.
SUITE FAMILY TIME
With full kitchens, complimentary breakfast and Wi- Fi in all our suites,
plus complimentary parking and relaxing outdoor spaces,
we’re here to help you spread out and enjoy your time.
• Only 2KMs away from HW Y 11. Exit 169 Gravenhurst • Located on OFSC
trail C101D Gravenhurst • All suites with full kitchen • Complimentary
full breakfast buffet • Indoor pool/whirlpool and 24 hour fitness facility •
Dining options within walking distance on Muskoka Wharf •
Within 2 hours from Toronto
RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOT T®
GR AVENHURST MUSKOK A WHARF
285 Steamship Bay Road,
Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P 1Z
705.687.6600 | Toll-free 1.866.580.6238 | ResidenceInnMuskokaWharf.com
facebook.com/ResidenceInnGravenhurstMuskokaWharf
discovermuskoka.ca 17Algonquin Park • Since 1917
At Bartlett Lodge, we host
only 46 guests and cater
Blue Water Acres Blue Water Acres is one of
Ontario’s favourite
to your individual needs.
Our exceptional dining and traditional and luxury
guest services will make cottage rentals. Our
your remote Algonquin cottages include use of many
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experience. for every season of the
For reservations please call
fractional cottage ownership
705.633.5543 at exceptional prices.
866.614.5355
Exceptional Prices • Waterfront Location • Authentic Detached Cottages
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Where
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Luxury
2508 Windermere Rd., Windermere, ON. | 1.888.946.3376 | www.windermerehouse.com
18 discovermuskoka.caThe Standard of Excellence®
JOHNSTON & DANIEL:
The Standard of Excellence®
THE DEFINITION
JOHNSTON OF LUXURY
& DANIEL:
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GORDWAITES.COMWINTER Experiences
It’s been said many times but the fact remains the same — to enjoy winter you
need to get out there and embrace it. And there is no better place to embrace
winter than in Muskoka.
What’s a perfect winter day to you? Is it getting warm and cozy by the fireside or
do you get your thrills zipping over the ice and snow? Whatever your pleasure,
Muskoka remains Ontario’s playground 12 months a year.
As the winter snows The region accumulates some of the highest snowfalls in all of Ontario
(approximately 283 cms annually) due to the lake effect coming off Georgian
blanket Muskoka in Bay and Lake Huron. That abundance of snow means the outdoor adventures
available in Muskoka are virtually limitless.
a world of white, the Due in part to their wild popularity on social media, Muskoka’s ice trails have
area is transformed become a major attraction in the area over the past several years.The best
known is the ice trail at Arrowhead Park, just north of Huntsville. The trail winds
into a different type of 1.4 km through the park’s evergreen forest and during Fire and Ice nights,
thousands of tiki torches line the trail for a once in a lifetime experience. Other
paradise entirely. trails can also be found at Memorial Park in the middle of Bracebridge and at
Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery.
The Muskoka Maple Trail has rapidly become one of the region’s marquee
culinary events. Featuring a collection of the very best maple experiences
available in Muskoka, the Maple Trail includes sugar bush tours, pancake
breakfasts, maple beer, wine and cuisines, and a plethora of delectable baked
goods and sweets. The Maple Trail typically runs over the course of several
weeks in the early spring.
20 discovermuskoka.caHidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, located just outside Port Carling Winterfest has been a local favourite for more
Huntsville, has been drawing guests for decades. The hill than 50 years. Winterfest packs fireworks, axe throwing
boasts a top elevation of 1,276 feet (390 metres) and has competitions, children’s activities and the bone-rattling
four ski lifts and 13 runs. polar dip at Hanna Park all into one weekend.
Cross-country skiing trails run throughout the region with With so many events, activities and destinations, there’s
the major trail systems located at Arrowhead Park near nobody that does winter quite like Muskoka.
Huntsville, the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre
on Highway 11 north and the Gravenhurst KOA just off the
Gravenhurst Parkway.
Muskoka is known as one of the premier snowmobiling
destinations in the entire country. A jumping-off spot for
the massive northern Ontario trail system, Muskoka has
more than 1,600 kilometers of trails. Increasingly, food and
accommodation providers have recognized the importance
of these winter visitors and are offering competitive rates to
entice sledders into the area.
During the winter there are a range of festivals and
celebrations taking place in virtually every community.
Gravenhurst stretches the festivities out over the course
of five days of fun in February. The Gravenhurst Winter
Carnival features pond hockey tournaments, “puddle
jumping” contests on snowmobiles, and a demolition derby,
to name just a handful of the many events.
discovermuskoka.ca 21Weddings
For decades, Muskokans have been perfecting the art of wedding
accommodation. Some of Canada’s most talented caterers, photographers,
decorators, event planners and florists now call Muskoka home, and the area
now offers a range of wedding services that rival anything in the country.
Of course there’s also the unparalleled backdrop that established Muskoka as
a wedding destination in the first place. The windswept pines, picturesque lakes
and quiet wooded glades can make fairytale weddings a reality.
Although summer is high season for weddings in Muskoka, the popularity of
winter weddings has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. The season
The perfect day presents some of the most stunning backdrops for wedding celebrations, as the
area is blanketed in a canopy of white. There’s something truly romantic about
requires the perfect the snowy setting, and the peace and calm of a Muskoka winter. Once the
setting. nuptials have ended, guests and the happy couple alike can warm themselves
with a hot drink and a roaring fire.
Typically by late March the snow has begun to melt and Muskoka is set to burst
forth with an abundance of life and colour. The bright greens of new foliage
and the early blossoms take over as the ice draws back from the lakes. Add in
the warmer weather and the stage is set to make some unforgettable wedding
memories.
By summer the scenery is at its iconic peak and the towns and resorts bustle
with vibrancy. Wedding parties and their guests can enjoy drinks on the patio,
hit the water to cool off or break out the golf clubs on one of the area’s many
breathtaking courses.
22 discovermuskoka.caThose same courses and resorts often double as wedding
venues, and wedding vows take place along panoramic
waterfronts, sprawling manicured lawns or in wedding halls
both rustic and opulent.
The transition of summer to fall brings an explosion of
colour to the region. Across Muskoka the foliage reveals
the beauty it’s been saving for the autumn months. The
shoreline is a spectacular wedding venue during this time
of year, as the bright reds and yellows of the leaves match
their own reflection on the calm autumn water.
A wedding aboard one of the area’s classic steamships or
cruise ships takes on an added quality in the fall. Guests
will be taken back by the view from the water, and there’s
nothing quite like saying “I do”, as the wedding venue itself
gently carves its way through Muskoka’s iconic waterways.
Warmer days often continue well into fall, but the hot mid-
summer afternoons are no longer an issue. As an added
bonus biting insects have packed it in for another year and
you can put away the bug repellent.
Muskoka is known as a four season playground but it could
just as easily be called a four season wedding venue. With
unmatched natural beauty and service all year, Muskoka is
the quintessential setting 365 days of the year.
discovermuskoka.ca 23ARTS & CULTURE
Guests to Muskoka are often surprised by the rich assortment of cultural and
artistic experiences available in the area.
Art galleries, festivals and craft shows, farmers’ markets and a myriad of
artisans’ galleries and tours are available throughout the year.
Many of the artists who call Muskoka home have congregated here from
across the country. Others have spent their entire lives drawing on the
natural beauty of the area to create singular paintings, sculptures, pottery
Muskoka is widely and many other forms of artistic expression.
The allure of Muskoka as a hotbed of arts and culture can be traced directly
known for the work back to the influence of the Group of Seven. The legendary collective, who
done by the legendary are also sometimes known as the Algonquin School, became famous the
world over for their paintings of the Muskoka and Algonquin area in the
Group of Seven. 1920s and 1930s. Their shadow continues to loom large over the area and
their lasting influence is quite literally painted on the walls.
From a single mural of Tom Thomson’s The Jack Pine painted on the exterior
wall of a Huntsville business in 1997, the Group of Seven outdoor gallery has
grown to become one of the most noted outdoor art exhibits in Ontario. The
experience now includes incredible replica artwork of the collectives’ most
famous works drawn by some of the most accomplished artists in Canada.
The gallery can be experienced by regular guided tours, or you can head out
on your own using one of the self-guided tour maps.
24 discovermuskoka.caThe same region that inspired the Group of Seven Garden is an art exhibit unlike any other you’re likely
continues to inspire many of the local artists who have to encounter. For several weeks in late July and early
set up studios along the Limberlost Road between August, the spectacular gardens of Jon and Suzann
Huntsville and Algonquin Park. The Limberlost Studio Partridge are transformed into an artistic wonderland
Tour is a favourite on the annual arts calendar, taking thanks to the work of more than 40 artists.
place in the late summer. Guests can typically visit up
In August, the Dockside Festival of the Arts takes over
to 20 artists working out of seven different locations.
the Muskoka Wharf Special Events Field in Gravenhurst
The route winds through forests and wetlands along the
with more than 100 artists, vendors and musicians.
rugged Canadian Shield.
For more than three decades the Baysville Riverfront
For a wider array of local artists, don’t miss the Muskoka
Group has hosted the Baysville Arts and Crafts Festival
Autumn Studio Tour, which combines Muskoka’s
in August. The festival draws dozens of artisans
unparalleled natural beauty with the beauty created by
specializing in everything from fashion and accessories
our most talented artists. The tour typically takes place in
to furniture and pottery.
late September to coincide with the explosion of colour
that marks autumn in Muskoka. Farmers’ markets are also a hub of artistic activity, and
they can be found on a weekly basis in most of the
The Muskoka Arts and Crafts’ Summer Show in
communities in Muskoka.
Bracebridge draws big crowds to Annie Williams Park
along the banks of the Muskoka River. Held in July, the Add to that the many galleries and studios across the
festival boasts more than 200 artists from across the region that are open to the public and it isn’t hard to see
country and typically draws more than 20,000 art lovers why Muskoka has become known for its thriving arts
over the course of a weekend. scene.
Located on the outskirts of Bracebridge, the Artful
discovermuskoka.ca 25hiking & Trails
“Where’s a good place to go for a hike?”
It’s the first question asked by many guests to Muskoka and the answer is as
varied as the Muskoka landscape.
There are lookouts and boardwalks, challenging uphill climbs and leisurely
lakeside strolls. In Muskoka, there’s a trail to suit every taste.
If you want the ultimate experience, the Trans-Canada Trail runs some 131
km in length straight through the middle of Muskoka. Completed in 2000,
Come explore some the trail offers a thorough overview of the geology, flora and fauna of the
of the oldest rock region, as well as sections running through the urban areas of Gravenhurst,
Bracebridge and Huntsville.
formations on the face Multiple sections of the trail run through Huntsville but one of the best used
of the planet. and most scenic portions is known as the Hunter’s Bay Trail. Stretching 52
km in total, the trail runs along the riverside, under a railway trestle and then
along the eastern edge of Hunter’s Bay before crossing Avery Beach Park
and heading on toward Highway 11. A 450 ft (0.14 km) floating section of
dock is used by swimmers, anglers and those looking to tie up their boats.
Bracebridge is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Ontario
and many have trails leading to ideal viewing points. The 3.6 km Wilson
Falls trail system is a local favourite, winding down a hilly upper section
towards the falls themselves and along the banks of the Muskoka River. The
26 discovermuskoka.caBracebridge Bay trail offers a low-intensity 1.3 km walk in The three small communities of Baysville, Dwight and
the heart of discovermuskoka.ca 27 Bracebridge and a Dorset that make up Lake of Bays Township all have their
stunning viewing platform positioned above the roaring own trail system highlighting the historic nature of their
Bracebridge Falls. municipalities. Just off Highway 117 on Paint Lake Road,
Located off Bethune Road in Gravenhurst, the two km the Paint Lake Covered Bridge Trail is a hidden gem. An
Hahne Farm Trail skirts along the precipice of a granite easy 2.5 km walk, the trail takes guests past a pioneer
ridge offering remarkable views over a provincially cemetery and through the community’s unique covered
significant wetland and on to Silver Lake in the distance. bridge.
The trail offers a mix of hardwood and softwood, winding Experience the history and beauty of Georgian Bay
past ferns, groves of birch, wild mushrooms and sumac. Township by traversing the 4 km School House Trail,
The Township of Muskoka Lakes is crisscrossed with located on Violet Drive near Port Severn. The trail gives
various trails — each one offering their unique take guests the full Georgian Bay landscape experience,
on Muskoka. One of the best used trail systems in all traversing a local watercourse via a boardwalk and
of Muskoka, the Hardy Lake trails on Highway 169 running past many of the area’s native species. The trail
between Gravenhurst and Bala offer a range of options also runs past the former Point aux Pins School House
for hikers of every experience level. Stretching distances location and signage describes the history of the school.
of three, seven and eight km, the Hardy Lake Trails loop
Regardless of the season, your taste in landscapes or
around their namesake, and offer a chance to access
your level of expertise, there’s a Muskoka trail with your
Lake Muskoka as well. The trails are one of the best
name on it.
ways to get a close look at the rugged Precambrian rock
shorelines that Muskoka is famous for.
discovermuskoka.ca 27Live Entertainment
On almost any given night in Muskoka, you can experience the best in live
entertainment.
Stage productions, fashion shows, big-name acts and local favourites all
entertain crowds from near and far 12 months of the year.
When its doors first opened in 1901, the Gravenhurst Opera House was
one of the biggest and most beautiful attractions in Muskoka and it remains
so to this day. The 350 seat theatre offers a full summer theatre lineup
There are an endless from June until the end of September. Comedians, notable musicians and
amount of free indoor tribute acts regularly grace the stage throughout the year.
Just down the street, Peter’s Players offers a more intimate experience.
and outdoor events Matthew Good, Kiefer Sutherland, the Cowboy Junkies and Colin James
during the summer are just a few of the names that have played in the cozy confines of Peter’s
Players.
months. Sawdust City Brewing Co. has only been operating out of their 20,000
square foot facility for a few years, but the brewpub on Muskoka Road has
quickly become a hub of activity in Gravenhurst. There’s live music every
week, pub trivia and even a bingo night.
A pair of pubs offer regular live local music on tap in Bracebridge. Kelly’s
Kitchen and Pub on Manitoba Street has musical guests playing by the
front window, while just up Chancery Lane the Griffin Gastropub has
musical talent playing several times a week.
28 discovermuskoka.caAttached to the Bracebridge Sportsplex, the Rene as of 2005, Huntsville’s new Algonquin Theatre became
Caisse Theatre is Muskoka’s newest entertainment the principal venue. In addition, several Huntsville
hotspot. A hub of community theatre, the venue also locations are used including Trinity United Church,
offers regular performances by marquee Canadian and Muskoka Heritage Place, Deerhurst Resort Pavilion
international acts, as well as live broadcasts of some of and the Town Centre’s outdoor gazebos and waterfront.
the best theatre and opera performances on the planet.
Located on Main Street in Huntsville, the Algonquin
Since the days of Dizzy Gillespie and Duke Ellington, the Theatre hosts musical acts, stage performances and
Kee To Bala (known as Dunn’s Pavillion prior to 1963) even film festivals. There’s also a free art gallery in the
has been a staple of summer cottage entertainment. Partner’s Hall with featured exhibits changing monthly.
These days, one is more likely to find artists like Snoop
There are also plenty of free outdoor concerts during
Dogg, Cypress Hill or the Sheepdogs packing crowds
the summer months, like the annual Music on the Barge
into the Bala landmark, but the drawing power of
concert series at Gull Lake Park in Gravenhurst and
“The Kee” remains the same for both audiences and
the weekly Bandshell Concert Series at Bracebridge’s
musicians.
Memorial Park. New is Port Carling Midday Madness in
Founded in 1993, the Huntsville Festival of the Arts mid-August which features musicians from one end of
has become one of Canada’s most significant and the village to the other.
highlyacclaimed arts festivals. The Festival was initially
With so many ways to enjoy the live entertainment in
rooted in classical music but today the Festival covers
Muskoka, the only problem will be finding the time to
a broad spectrum of classical and contemporary music
take it all in.
events, as well as dance, theatre, literature, children’s
cultural activities and public celebrations. See pages 38-43 for upcoming events
The Festival takes place across a number of venues but happening in Muskoka this year.
discovermuskoka.ca 29BOAT CRUISES
Anyone who has visited Muskoka knows there’s no better way to appreciate
the region’s natural beauty than from the water.
These days there are myriad of ways to enjoy the water, from renting your
own vessel to climbing aboard one of the many watercraft that offer scenic
cruises.
For much of its lifespan, the Bigwin Island Resort on Lake of Bays was a
hub of tourism activity in Muskoka. Only accessible by boat, the Island was
Muskoka has many serviced for 45 years by the SS Bigwin.
beautiful lakes to Built in 1910 by Pittsburgh industrialist James Kuhn, this breathtaking
vessel has ferried the likes of Clark Gable, Louis Armstrong and Winston
discover, with cruises Churchill during its storied career.
running during the day As the popularity of the island resort waned, the boat fell into disuse and
eventually sat half sunk in her slip at the Bigwin Inn. However, thanks to
and evening. the tireless efforts of area volunteers, who undertook a nearly two-decade
long restoration process, the SS Bigwin is now plying the waters of Lake of
Bays again and is ready for customers to climb aboard.
The SS Bigwin offers regularly scheduled public cruises from June to
October departing from the dock in Dorset. Arrive early to check out the
Marine Museum.
Perhaps the most iconic of the classic Muskoka watercraft, the RMS
Segwun offers regular cruises to the public from its home port at the
30 discovermuskoka.cadiscovermuskoka.ca 31
Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst.
The Segwun was constructed in 1887 in Glasgow,
Scotland, before being shipped across the Atlantic and
re-assembled in Gravenhurst. The oldest operating
mail steamship in North America, the Segwun holds
just under 100 people.
She was primarily used to transport people, freight
and mail from her home port at the Muskoka Wharf to
locations throughout the Muskoka lakes. These days,
the Segwun offers everything from sightseeing cruises
of Millionaire’s Row to dinner cruises and floating
concerts.
Typically, one can find her sister ship - the Wenonah
II - sitting next to her at the Wharf. Built in the style
of a 1907 Muskoka steamship, the Wenonah was
actually constructed in 2002 and is much larger than
the Segwun - holding up to 216 passengers plus crew.
Take your Georgian Bay experience to a whole new level! The Wenonah sails all three of the big Muskoka lakes
Exciting tours to Henry’s Fish Restaurant for lunch and has a large dining room and three decks with
and to Huckleberry Island for guided walks with a panoramic lake views.
naturalist from the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.
Further north on Lake Muskoka, the 73-year-old
Peerless II offers intimate cruises from her home
WWW.ISLANDQUEENCRUISE.COM port in Port Carling. Formerly a working boat, the
PH 1(800)506.2628 | TOWN DOCK | PARRY SOUND, ONTARIO
Peerless II was used to transport oil and gasoline to
32 discovermuskoka.cacustomers throughout the Muskoka Lakes between
1946 and 1994.
In 2003, it was purchased by Sunset Cruises and, after
significant restoration, she now offers cruises to the
public.
Sailing from the Quality Inn docks in Bracebridge, for
more than half a century the Lady Muskoka has allowed
guests to experience the splendor and tranquility of life
along the Muskoka River and Lake Muskoka.
The three-level, 104-foot Lady Muskoka grants up to
300 passengers at a time, offering an intimate look at
the wildlife, the nearby cottages and Millionaire’s Row.
They also offer optional lunch and dinner cruises as
you take in the lakeside scenery right outside your
window.
The same operator is now offering peaceful and
relaxing cruises departing from the Huntsville Town
Dock aboard Muskoka’s newest touring vessel - the
Tom Thompson. Cruises tour the gateway to Algonquin
Park along Fairy Lake and allow guests to experience
the true beauty that captured the attention of one of
Canada’s foremost figures in art.
discovermuskoka.ca 33ALGONQUIN PARK
With more than 2,456 lakes and 1,200 km of streams and rivers situated
within a staggering 7,630 square km (roughly one and a half times the size
of Prince Edward Island), the experiences available in Algonquin Park are
endless.
You could spend an afternoon having family fun on the beach or travel by
canoe for days into the rugged and untamed wilderness of the park’s interior.
The park celebrated its 125th anniversary last year and much has changed
in the past century and a quarter.
The park was named For decades after Algonquin was established as a provincial park, it was
Algonquin to honour used almost exclusively by outdoorsmen and campers who arrived by train.
When the highway arrived in 1935 and travel by automobile became possible,
the indigenous people the campground began to see the development of lodges, campgrounds and
stores.
from the area.
Today there are over 1,300 car-camping sites and 2,000 backcountry sites.
There are close to 2,000 km of canoe routes, and hundreds of kilometres of
backpacking and hiking trails. These days, Algonquin receives approximately
one million visitors each year.
It’s not difficult to see what draws these guests from around the globe.
Situated on the Precambrian Shield, the park is famous for the multitude of
wildlife that call it home. There have been over 280 bird species spotted in
the park, 50 species of mammals, 14 species of reptiles and 17 species of
amphibians. There are more than 50 species of fish alone within the park
34 discovermuskoka.cadiscovermuskoka.ca 35
boundaries, including lake trout and brook trout, as well
as iconic mammal species such as moose, white-tailed
deer, black bear, wolf and beaver.
Its proximity to larger centres like Toronto (it’s roughly a
three hour drive) draws guests seeking to experience
its wilderness-like qualities, camping and hiking
opportunities, bird and wildlife viewing, fantastic fall
colour displays and excellent fishing.
The Algonquin name dates back to the seventeenth
century when French voyageurs encountered the
Algonquin people in the area. The interpretation of the
36 discovermuskoka.caword usually given is “the place of spearing fish from the
bow of a canoe” but the park was named Algonquin to
honour the indigenous people from the area.
The Algonquin Visitor Centre is the perfect spot to begin
any trip into the park. It features displays on the history of
the park, as well as a large and detailed relief map of all of
southern Ontario, to give visitors an idea of just how large
the park is. There are taxidermied displays of the animals
that live in the park, artifacts, videos and a panoramic
outdoor viewing deck.
The Algonquin Logging Museum is another “must visit”
stop within the park. In addition to the museum building
itself, which details the park’s logging history, the museum
also features a 1.3 km trail through a recreated logging
camp, past logging equipment and interpretive panels. A
high point on the annual calendar is Logger’s Day, typically
held in late July or early August each year. The event
includes musicians, a logger’s old style lunch, activities
for children and interpretive actors.
With its endless adventures, it’s not difficult to imagine
Algonquin will continue to draw guests from around the
world for another 125 years and more.
discovermuskoka.ca 37EVENTS
March May
March 22 – 24 May 4
Muskoka Arts & Crafts Baysville Community Yard Sale
Spring Members Show baysvillecommunitygroup.ca/baysville-
Bracebridge community-yard-sale
muskokaartsandcrafts.com
May 4
April May Marché
Grandview Golf Club
Planning a visit April 21 huntsvillefestival.on.ca
Muskoka Heritage Place & The Nutty
this year? Chocolatier Annual Community May 5
Easter Egg Hunt 12pm Dwight Outdoor 3D-Target Archery
We have you muskokaheritageplace.org/en/ Tournament
covered!
whileyouarehere/annualevents.asp lakeofbaysalgonquin.com
April 26 – 28 May 8
Muskoka Builders’ Association Home Fresh Spring Fashion Show
& Cottage Show Gravenhurst BIA
Gravenhurst Centennial Centre downtowngravenhurst.com/events
muskokabuilders.com/homeshow
May 18
April 27 Victoria Day Weekend Open House
Muskoka Maple Festival Muskoka Lakes Museum
muskokamaple.ca Port Carling
mlmuseum.com/special-events
38 discovermuskoka.caMay 18 June 15 June 22
Muskoka 24 Craft Beer Festival SS Bigwin Community BBQ Baysville Surf n’ Turf
Huntsville Dwight Baysville
11am – 6pm ssbigwin.com www.baysvilleriverfront.ca/surfandturf.html
downtownhuntsvilleadventures.ca
June 16 June 22
May 25 Father’s Day Beer Tasting Cruise Spring into Summer Art Crawl
Spin the Lakes Tour Rain date: June 17 Key locations around Gravenhurst
bikemuskoka.ca/events/ (SS Bigwin & Lake of Bays Brewery) downtowngravenhurst.com/events/
spin-the-lakes ssbigwin.com/beercruise
June 22
June June 15
Doors Open Muskoka Lakes
Muskoka Adventure Challenge
Bracebridge
June 8 doorsopenontario.on.ca/en/muskoka muskokaadventurechallenge.com
Band on the Run
Huntsville June 16 June 22
bandontherun.ca Father’s Day Car Show Venture Fest
Bracebridge 9am – 3pm Bracebridge
June 8 downtownbracebridge.com muskokabrewery.com
SS Bigwin Community BBQ
Dorset June 16 June 22 – 23
ssbigwin.com Father’s Day Cruise aboard The Muskoka Powerboat Races
Sunset Cruises Rotary Gull Lake Park
June 15 At the locks in Port Carling Gravenhurst
26th Annual Gravenhurst sunsetcruises.ca torc.ca
Car Show
gravenhurstchamber.com
discovermuskoka.ca 39June 23 July 1 July 6
Canoe Day Canada Day Huntsville Limberlost Challenge
Muskoka Discovery Centre Gravenhurst calendar.huntsville.ca/events Huntsville
realmuskoka.ca thelimberlostchallenge.com
July 1
June 29 Canada Day in Bracebridge July 6
Baysville Canada Day Fireworks 11:00am to 10:45pm 39th Annual Summer Vintage
Rain date June 30 bracebridgefireworks.com Boat Show
Gravenhurst
June 29 July 1 acbs.ca
Fireworks at Walker’s Point Marina Canada Day Family Celebrations
Gravenhurst Minett July 6 – 7
walkerspointmarina.com muskokachautauqua.ca Archers in Muskoka
Ontario 3D Championships, Dwight
June 28 – 30 July 1 oaa-archery.on.ca
Bala Antique and Nostalgia Show Sale Canada Day Celebration
Gull Lake Rotary Park, Gravenhurst July 7 & 14
June 29 gravenhurst.ca Pirate Cruises
FUNKFEST Muskoka Steamships, Gravenhurst
Sawdust City Brewing Co. July 1 realmuskoka.com
Gravenhurst Canada Day
sawdustcitybrewing.com/funkfest-2019 Muskoka Lakes Museum July 7
Port Carling IRONMAN 70.3 Muskoka
June 30 mlmuseum.com Huntsville/ Lake of Bays
Heritage Day at the Dorset Heritage ironmanmuskoka.com
Museum July 1
algonquinhighlands.ca/news/ Canada Day Fireworks Cruise July 12 – 14
dorset-heritage-day.php Sunset Cruises Rib Festival
Port Carling River Mill Park, Huntsville
June 30 sunsetcruises.ca
Muskoka Comic-Con July 13
Bracebridge July 1 Butter Tart Festival
muskokacomiccon.com Canada Day Cruise Muskoka Lakes Museum
Lady Muskoka Port Carling
June 30 – August 18 Bracebridge mlmuseum.com
Music on the Barge ladymuskoka.ca
Gravenhurst July 13
Sundays only at 7:30pm July 1 Windermere Fun Day
Rain or lightning concerts will be cancelled Canada Day Concert & Dance muskokachautauqua.ca
gravenhurst.ca/en/discoverus/ Toronto All-Star Big Band
musiconthebarge.asp# 7:30pm - 9:30pm July 13 – 4
Port Carling Memorial Arena Gravenhurst Triathlon
July muskokachautauqua.ca multisportcanada.com/gravenhurst
July & August July 3 – August 18 July 13 – 14
Artists in Residence Huntsville Festival of the Muskoka Pioneer Power Show
Clevelands House, Minett & Baldwins Arts Season Bracebridge
Resort, Windermere huntsvillefestival.on.ca muskokapioneerpower.ca
muskokachautauqua.com
July 4 July 19 – 21
July 20 – August 11 Flavours of Muskoka Chautauqua Muskoka Yoga Festival
The Artful Garden Gourmet Graze Bracebridge
Open Daily 10am to 5pm JW Marriott, Minett muskokayogafestival.com
theartfulgarden.ca muskokachautauqua.ca
July 19 – 21
July 1 July 6 57th Muskoka Arts & Crafts
Dominion Day Rotary Dockfest Summer Show
Strawberry Social & Steam-up Day Noon – 5pm Annie Williams Memorial Park
Huntsville Huntsville Bracebridge
muskokaheritageplace.org huntsvilleadventures.com muskokaartsandcrafts.com
40 discovermuskoka.caJuly 20 – 21 July 27 – 28 August 13 – 17
Archers in Muskoka Muskoka Antique & Vintage Show PRISM in the Park
Ontario Target Championships Port Carling Bracebridge
oaa-archery.on.ca antiqueshowscanada.com muskokastageworks.com
July 20 – 21
Dog Fest Muskoka
August August 10 – 11
Baysville Arts and Crafts Festival
Morrison Meadows August 4, 11, 18 & 25 baysvilleriverfront.ca/artscraft.html
Bracebridge Pirate Cruises
dogfestmuskoka.ca Muskoka Steamships August 15
Gravenhurst Artifact or Fiction
July 19 realmuskoka.com Port Carling
Midnight Madness mlmuseum.com/special-events
Huntsville August 2
downtownhuntsvilleadventures.ca Midnight Madness August 16 – 18
Bracebridge Dockside Festival of the Arts
July 24 6pm to Midnight Gravenhurst
Everything Anne of Green downtownbracebridge.com gravenhurstchamber.com
Gables Day
Bala’s Museum August 3 August 17
705-762-5876 Civic Holiday Fireworks Cruise Summer Sidewalk Sale
1:30pm Gravenhurst Huntsville
balasmuseum.com realmuskoka.com downtownhuntsvilleadventures.ca
July 26 – 28 August 3 August 17
Muskoka Ribfest Fireworks Gravenhurst Port Carling Midday Madness
Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst gravenhurst.ca muskokalakeschamber.ca
muskokashows.com
August 3 August 17 – 18
July 26 – 28 Session Muskoka Artists of the Limberlost
Muskoka In-Water Boat Annie Williams Memorial Park Studio Weekend
& Cottage Show Bracebridge Lake of Bays
Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst sessionmuskoka.ca artistsofthelimberlost.ca
muskokashows.com
August 3 August 17 – 18
July 27 Make a Splash Festival Muskoka Muscle
Baysville Walkabout Fest Gravenhurst Hidden Valley Resort
Over 120 Arts & Crafts vendors. gravenhurst.ca Huntsville
baysvillewalkabout.com improvefitnessguelph.com/
August 2 – 4 muskoka-muscle
July 27 Sawdust City Music Festival
Loggers Day Gravenhurst August 18
Algonquin Park sawdustcitymusicfestival.com Lake of Bays Antique Classic
algonquinpark.on.ca Boat & Car Show
August 4 – 8 Noon to 4pm
July 27 PRISM in the Park baysvilleontario.com/baysville-events
Nuit Blanche North Bracebridge
edgeofthewoodstheatre.com muskokastageworks.com August 20 – 23
OperaMuskoka Festival
July 28 August 9 – 10 muskokachautauqua.com
Muskoka Pride Parade & Picnic Celebrate Gravenhurst
Bracebridge Sidewalk Sale August 23 – 25
muskokapride.com downtowngravenhurst.com/events 35th Annual Bracebridge
Antique Sale
July 28 August 10 Bracebridge Fairgrounds
The Wakami Wailers Concert Muskoka VegFest
7 pm Bracebridge August 24
Outdoor Theatre at 35.4 km muskokavegfest.com Muskoka Craft Beerfest
Algonquin Park muskokacraftbeerfest.com
algonquinpark.on.ca
discovermuskoka.ca 41September
September 28 – 29 November 8 – 10
Culture Days Huntsville Girlfriends’ Getaway
Muskoka Lakes Museum, Port Carling Weekend
September 1 mlmuseum.com/special-events huntsvillegirlfriendsgetaway.ca
Pirate Cruise
Muskoka Steamships November 15 – 17
Gravenhurst
realmuskoka.com October Annual Christmas Show and Sale
Bracebridge Sportsplex
October 5 – 6 muskokaartsandcrafts.com
September 7 Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour
Severn Bridge Fall Fair muskokastudiotour.com November 16
severnfair.org Bala Santa Claus Parade
October 12 1pm
September 13 – 15 Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise muskokalakeschamber.ca
Bracebridge Fall Fair and Gravenhurst
Horse Show realmuskoka.com November 16
JD Lang Park Port Carling Santa Claus Parade
bracebridgefair.com October 12 6:30pm
Great Muskoka Paddling Experience
September 13 – 15 muskokapaddlingexperience.com November 23
Muskoka River X Gravenhurst Santa Claus Parade
Huntsville October 13 gravenhurstchamber.com
muskokariverx.com Thanksgiving Open House
Muskoka Lakes Museum November 29
September 14 Port Carling Black Friday Sales & Annual
Muskoka Fall Classic Rowing mlmuseum.com Tree Lighting
Rotary Gull Lake Park Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst October 18 – 20 downtowngravenhurst.com/events
severnriverrowingclub.com Bala Cranberry Festival
balacranberryfestival.on.ca November 29
September 14 Christmas Tree Lighting
Macaroni Festival October 19 and Carol Sing
downtownhuntsvilleadventures.ca Octoberfest Cruise Bala Community Centre
Gravenhurst muskokalakeschamber.ca
September 20 – 22 realmuskoka.com
Fall Harvest Festival November 29
Bracebridge October 19 Huntsville Santa Claus Parade
morrisonmeadows.com Bala’s Museum CRAN-ANNE Contest huntsvilleadventures.com
Registration 1:30pm
September 20 – 22 Judging 2pm November 29
Huntsville Fall Fair balasmuseum.com Black Friday Downtown
huntsvillefallfair.com Huntsville
October 26 huntsvilleadventures.com
September 21 Let the Spirits Rise
Sip and Sample Dinner Cruise Downtown Gravenhurst November 29
Gravenhurst downtowngravenhurst.com/events Santa’s Festival of Lights
realmuskoka.com and Shopping Party
October 31 Bracebridge
September 27 – 29 The Great Pumpkin Trail downtownbracebridge.com
Culture Days in Muskoka Muskoka Heritage Place
culturedays.ca Huntsville November 30
muskokaheritageplace.org Light Up Dwight Night
September 28 lakeofbayslibrary.ca
Local Colours art exhibition
November
Bethune House, Gravenhurst
muskokachautauqua.ca November 2
December
Muskoka Lakes Christmas Market December 1
September 28 – 29 Port Carling Rotary Bracebridge Santa
Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour muskokalakeschamber.ca Claus Parade
muskokastudiotour.com bracebridgesantaparade.com
42 discovermuskoka.caDecember 7 Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival May 16 – October 3
Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market dorsetsnowball.com Huntsville Farmers’ Market
Christmas Craft Show Canadian Tire Parking Lot
gravenhurstfarmersmarket.com Port Carling Winterfest Thursdays 9am – 2pm
portcarlingwinterfest.ca
December 7 June 28 – August 30
XMUS Festival Port Sydney Winter Carnival Rosseau Farmers’ Market
eventsinmuskoka.com Port Sydney Community Centre at the waterfront
Fridays 9am – 2pm
December 7 Dwight Winter Carnival rosseaumarket.com
Bala’s Trek to Bethlehem dwightwintercarnival.com
facebook.com/BalasTrekToBethlehem June 24 – September 2
North American Cup Original Bala Farmer’s Market
December 8 Pond Hockey Classic Jaspen Park
Baysville Santa Claus Parade Gravenhurst Mondays 9am-2pm
Only parade that goes around twice onthepondcanada.com balafarmersmarket.com
December 21 Baysville Family Day Winterfest June 25 – August 27
Portage Flyer Christmas baysvilleontario.com Dwight Farmers’ Market
Huntsville 1009 Dwight Beach Road
muskokaheritageplace.org Gravenhurst Winter Carnival Tuesdays 10am – 2 pm
gravenhurstwintercarnival.ca dwightfarmersmarket.ca
December 24
Christmas Eve Torch Light Parade
Huntsville
March 2020 June 28 – August 30
Baysville Farmers’ Market
skihiddenvalley.on.ca Muskoka Arts & Crafts Baysville Season2Season
Spring Members Show Garden Market
December 31 Bracebridge 2849 Muskoka Rd 117
New Year’s Eve Fireworks muskokaartsandcrafts.com Friday 1pm -5pm
Huntsville baysvillecommunitygroup.ca
skihiddenvalley.on.ca April 2020 June 27 – August 29
January 2020 Muskoka Heritage Place & The Nutty
Chocolatier Annual Community
Port Carling Farmers’ Market
Hanna Park on Bailey Street,
Muskoka Wedding Show Easter Egg Hunt Thursdays 9am-2pm
Muskoka Discovery Centre Huntsville portcarlingfarmersmarket.com
Gravenhurst muskokaheritageplace.org
facebook.com/MuskokaWeddingShow Summer Waterski Shows
Muskoka Builders’ Home Show time: 7:30 pm to 8:30pm
Muskoka Arrowhead Nordic Loppet & Cottage Show Mondays:
Arrowhad Provincial Park, Huntsville muskokabuilders.com Clevelands House Resort, Minett
arrowheadnordic.ca Tuesdays:
Muskoka Maple Festival Windsor Park, Bala
Taylor Cup Pond Hockey muskokamaple.ca Wednesdays:
Championship Boston Pizza, Gravenhurst
Bayview Wildwood Resort
Port Stanton
Farmer's Markets Thursdays:
Bayview Wildwood Resort,
taylorcup.ca May 15 – October 30 Sparrow Lake
Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market, www.summerwatersports.com/
Fire & Ice Festival Muskoka Wharf shows/#MuskokaShows
Downtown Bracebridge Across from Boston Pizza
fireandicebracebridge.com/ Wednesdays 9am – 2pm
gravenhurstfarmersmarket.com
February 2020 May 18 – October 12
Kelly Shires Breast Cancer Snow Run Bracebridge Farmers’ Market,
Hidden Valley Resort Memorial Park For event details:
Huntsville Beside Norwood Theatre
breastcancersnowrun.org Saturdays 8:30am – 1pm dicovermuskoka.ca
thebracebridgefarmersmarket.com
discovermuskoka.ca 43You can also read
