Festivals in
Barrie and Orillia, Ontario
 

| August | September | October | November | December |
2011: January | February | | March | April | May | June | July

Boats, cottage & outdoor products, artists, fashion show, musical entertainment, water ski shows & fun activities for all ages! Hilarious cardboard boat race Sunday.

The activities will extend throughout downtown Barrie on the second day, when the costume parade will wind its way through downtown streets, along Lakeshore Drive to Centennial Park, the location of the main stage. There will also be smaller events at various downtown locations, leading up to the festival, including a Caribbean Dinner and Dance Cruise on the Serendipity Princess.

Downtown Barrie will come alive with this colorful display of costumes and parades as the masqueraders dance to pulsating Caribbean rhythms along the parade route. The magnificently colorful costumes coupled with the sounds of Caribbean music will present a spectacle that is sure to amaze.

Although the costume parade will be a major part of the attraction for the event, equally impressive is the line up of reggae, calypso, steel pan and soca musicians who will be performing on the main stage.

Website: www.caribfest.ca
Email: info@caribfest.ca
Tel: 705-792-6952 or 705-790-4878

Showtime
5:00 p.m. - Friday, August 27th
12:00 noon - Saturday, August 28th

Performing Artists:

• Jason McCoy
  Born and raised in Minesing Ontario, McCoy took to the haunting sounds of Country Music at an early age, winning a talent contest at the age of 12 singing "If Drinkin Don't Kill Me Her Memory Will" by his hero George Jones. This led to the recording of his own demo's which caught the attention of MCA Canada execs, launching a meteoric rise to the top of the Country Charts, winning Song of the Year in 1998 for the classic "Born Again in Dixieland", 2 - CCMA Male Artist of the Year awards (2001/2004) 3 - CCMA Song of the Year Awards, and a CMA Global Artist Award 2006.
• Amanda Nichole Wilkinson
  Canadian Amanda Nichole Wilkinson became the lead vocalist in the country group, The Wilkinsons, which also included her father, Steve, and her younger brother, Tyler. After appearing often at a Nashville nightclub, they were noticed by many record labels, and had their first album, Nothing But Love, in 1998, alongside their first hit single, 26 Cents. Other albums The Wilkinsons have released include: Here and Now (2000), Shine (2001), and Highway (2004).
• Larry Cordle
  Most widely known as a writer, Kentucky native Larry Cordle has had songs recorded by Ricky Skaggs, Garth Brooks, Alison Krauss, Alan Jackson, George Strait, The Osborne Brothers, and many others. At last count, Cordle's songs had appeared on projects that had sold a combined total of more than 50 million records. In addition to his revered songwriting and role as a bandleader, Cordle is often featured as a lead and harmony vocalist on some of Nashville’s most awarded and popular music.
• The Higgins
  They've already had a rich, enviable career the last couple of years, working festivals, award shows and, memorably, before 60,000 people in Guangzhou, China. It's part mystical, part DNA and always a revelation when two or more from the same family join in sweet, soaring harmonies. And word got around. In no time they were landing A list, main stage gigs at the famed Merritt Mountain Music Festival, the Pacific National Exhibition and a prestigious showcase slot at the Canadian Country Music Association annual confab.
• Jetty Road
  Identical twin sisters, Lee and Paula Bowman, along with Julian Sammut and Simon Ross, have created bright and energetic music under the name Jetty Road for over five years. Jetty Road recently won "Group of the Year" at the Country Music Awards of Australia - the highest honour a country band can receive. In addition, the group has twice taken home the TIARA Award for Best Group (2008 / 2009) and the Victorian Album of the Year at the 2008 Victorian and National Country Music Awards.
• The HillBrenders
  After nearly a year in the making the Springfield, Missouri based bluegrass sensations, The HillBenders, released their debut album "Down To My Last Dollar" on April 16th. Rooted in the traditions of bluegrass, the HillBenders push the boundaries of the genre by combining influences from country, rock, blues, jazz and americana into their sound to produce something entirely new. Some say it's newgrass, some say it's bluegrass, some say it's neither, but everyone says whatever it is, it's incredible!
• Shari Lynn
  2009 proved to be an exciting year for Shari as she continued to climb the Canadian country music ladder and was signed to a distribution deal with 306 Records/EMI Music Canada landing her debut album titled 'Can You Cut It?'. Her debut single, "Love Somebody" received radio play nationally, and her follow up singles "You Don't Know Jack" and "Play Now" are currently at radio with another release "I Love Myself More" hitting radio spring 2010.
• Deric Ruttan
  Deric Ruttan takes his cues from musical heroes like Steve Earle, he moved to Nashville from Bracebridge and spent seven years 'in the trenches' in the country music capitol of the world, struggling to make a name for himself. Eventually he signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing, and soon after inked a recording contract with Disney's Lyric Street Records. When the album was released in Canada, the CD yielded 5 Top Ten singles, (including the hits, "When You Come Around", "Shine", and "Take The Wheel"), and earned him a "Best Album" nomination at the 2004 Canadian Country Music Awards. "Male Vocalist" and "Rising Star" nominations followed, as did the Grand Ol' Opry appearances, and a high-profile national tour.
• Northern Sons
  Northern Sons have maintained the core "vocal trio" of Thom Gardiner, Marty Coney, and Rory Gardiner since 1985! Fiddler, Chris Wilson joined in 2002. Bill Henry came to us in 2007 and adds his bass harmonies and mandolin styling to complete that distinctive "Sons" sound. Over the years Northern Sons have been honoured with many awards, enjoyed many festivals, venues and stages; met many wonderful people; and thoroughly enjoyed the music we have played for everyone who has come to one of our shows.
• HoneyGrass
  HoneyGrass is one of the hottest new bluegrass acts to come out of Ontario in recent years. In addition to offering a comedic element to their shows, HoneyGrass at once have a respect for tradition and a willingness to explore new areas of contemporary bluegrass. Their highly energetic and entertaining shows strike a balance between originals, traditional and contemporary bluegrass, and "bluegrassified" old country and bluesy numbers. They resist being pegged into any specific area of the genre, preferring to forge their own identity.
• Canucky Bluegrass Boys
  Canucky Bluegrass Boys are a Canadian hard driving bluegrass band delivering a high energy traditional sound. The Canucky Bluegrass Boys started out as three friends, Daryl, Matt and Lee just having fun jamming at bluegrass festivals. Over a few short years people started to identify them by their unique style, harmonies and enthusiasm.

*Free On-Site Parking *Bring Your Own Lawn Chairs

The annual Barrie Fair and Horse Show is a family focused event targeting families of all ages. The event presents agriculture in an entertaining, educational fashion with farm animals, horse shows, arts & crafts, flowers, fruits & vegetables, grandstand attractions, musical entertainment and a spectacular midway with rides & games.

For more information call (705)737-3670 or visit www.barriefair.ca

Enjoy dragon boat racing, cultural and commercial exhibits, participate in children's activities and much more.

Cars & parts as far as the eye can see! Collectibles, classics, hard to find parts, Sunday car auction, live entertainment, Burl's Creek Family Park, Oro-Medonte 8th Line, 487-3663

Events for all ages, including large midway, kid's corner, demolition derby, tractor pulls, horse pulls, livestock shows & more! ODAS Park, Fairgrounds Road, 325-0353

The 3rd annual Barrie New Music Fest is a four day live music festival scheduled for September 16 - 19, 2010, in support of development of independent musicians in our region. The NMF 2010 will feature over 110 independent live touring artists/bands performing a series of concerts/showcases with 12-15 live music venues.

The 2010 New Music Awards ceremony will include over twenty different award categories for independent musicians Nationally.

A jam-packed festival celebrating the world's greatest band! Beatle tribute artists & bands Downtown & in venues throughout Orillia, celebrity interviews, Beatles museum, Beatles marketplace, Downtown Orillia, 1-866-329-5959

The Simcoe County Quilt, Rug and Craft Fair is a wonderful showcase of heritage crafts from many different craft guilds of our region. Beautiful quilting, embroidery, spinning, handweaving, and rug hooking will be on display and for sale by the guild members who handcrafted them.

The Simcoe County Arts and Crafts Association Members Boutique is a must see as well with folk art painting, knitting, beadwork, and more for sale. Discover new skills at one of our hands on demonstrations, talk to the experts and get advice, or simply shop for some unique gifts for yourself or others. Centuries ago, these crafts were passed on from generation to generation as everyday life skills. These skills are now used to create beautiful works of art out of enjoyment and not just necessity.

Stop by the Merchant Mall to purchase your own supplies to take home, and visit the museum grounds to view some of our permanent displays and heritage buildings. Enjoy one of the many homemade sandwiches and goodies for sale by the members of the Grenfel United Church.

Show hours are 9:30a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Simcoe County Museum is located at 1151 Highway 26, Minesing, minutes north of Barrie.

For more information about the Simcoe County Quilt, Rug and Craft Fair, please visit the museum web site or call the Simcoe County Museum at (705) 728-3721.

Midway, demo derby, truck & tractor pulls, horse & pony shows, antique power show & tool display, school fair, amateur talent show & more! Oro-Medonte Fairgrounds, 7th Line & 15/16 Sideroad, Hawkestone, 487-1753

The City of Barrie and The Township of Springwater have partnered to present the NINE MILE PORTAGE HERITAGE FESTIVAL. The Nine Mile Portage, once an ancient native trail and a transportation route for soldiers during the War of 1812, grew into the community known as Barrie. Fort Willow has been developed at its terminus in Springwater - a spot where natives and soldiers once set-up camp to rest along the long journey from Kempenfelt Bay to the Nottawasaga River and Georgian Bay. This event celebrates the significance of the historic route in the development of our two communities and to the history of Canada. Festivities include a hike along the trail, as well as the opportunity to see period re-enactors at Heritage Park and Fort Willow. An amazing spectacle that will take you back in time!

Parade on Friday, midway, demo derby, pony pull, stock tractor/ATV pulls, working antique machinery, continuous entertainment, & more! Coldwater Fairgrounds & Arena, 835-3740 or 686-3322

This annual festival is a celebration of being Canadian with an emphasis on the iconic beaver. Come out and take part in this family event which will consist of a Beaver Race & Beaver Lane on September 25th, along with entertainment all weekend long.

Beaver Lane will take place from 10am - 4pm. You will witness a display of exhibitors, artisans and vendors that are all representative of the beaver, being Canadian and both. This event will also feature Canadian Mounties, road hockey with NHLers, a Beaver Tail vendor and more.

Bring the whole family to this Canadian celebration and watch the Beaver Race too! It's Free for the whole family.

A parade of colourful dragon boats & friendly, competitive atmosphere create a fun & exciting racing event! Cultural exhibits & children's activities, proceeds to The Community Foundation of Orillia & Area, Couchiching Beach Park, 325-4903 or 259-1163 (Registration: 7:30 am / Opening Ceremonies: 9:00 am)

A Thanksgiving celebration in the Native tradition, featuring the finest in Native arts, crafts, foods & contemporary Pow Wow style dancing & singing, MASK Arena, Rama, 325-3611, Ext. 1298

Celebrate the Fall Season with the Thanksgiving Harvest Festival and the return of the popular Arts & Crafts Show and Sale. Harvest activities and displays, the history of corn, Native foods, and more! The quality Arts & Crafts Show features outstanding artisans offering a diverse range of craft and food items. Admission to the show is included in the price of regular admission to the historic site. For more informaton please call (705) 526-7838 or visit www.saintmarieamongthehurons.on.ca.

A weekend of fabulous live jazz at Orillia & area restaurants & hotels, free shuttle bus service Friday & Saturday evenings, 329-0001 or 325-2366

2009 will be the 10th Anniversary of “First Light”, and the event will once again feature lots of “hands-on” activities and 17th-century crafts for little folks and adults alike. Enjoy a taste of history as Sainte-Marie's Cookhouse features goodies from Christmas past. See a fascinating demonstration of 17th-century blacksmithing, and Discovery Harbour will feature an interactive exhibit in the Sainte-Marie foyer. Historic re-enactors La Compagnie Franche de la Marine will return, wearing uniforms of the 18th-century and demonstrating military drills on the historic site. Visitors can also pop by the hearth in the En Pilier building to enjoy a warm drink and chat with the Compagnie.

Music has always been a wonderful component of “First Light” and this year the tradition continues. Over three evenings, “First Light” will showcase area talent sharing their seasonal repertoire. For any last-minute additions to your Christmas list, the Sainte-Marie gift shop will be open over the three evenings, and Christmas shoppers will be happy to see the return of artisans from Sainte-Marie’s popular Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts show.

“First Light” will be presented at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons evenings November 26, 27 and 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Event admission is just $5.00 per person with an accompanying non-perishable food item that will be donated to the local Salvation Army food bank. Children ages 5 and under are free.

Visit: www.banffmountainfestivals.ca/tour

Cool family fun for all ages! Shivers ice castle, snow sculptures, helicopter rides, horse & sleigh rides, petting zoo, Leacock kids tent, youth & adult dances, polar bear dip Sunday & much more!

An evening of fun, draws & prizes kicks off the 29th Annual Orillia Perch Festival!

One of Canada's largest registered fishing derbies! Great cash & product prizes, adult & children's categories, Special OPP Kids Day May 1st! Just fish to win!! 

Savour the sights, live entertainment & great savings on our historic main street! Fun for the whole family! Downtown Orillia, 325-3261 (Free parking in Downtown lots)

It's a Victoria Day Weekend Festivity and it is the Downtown Barrie and waterfront community event not to be missed! Our 5th year's line-up is guaranteed to include Live Bands from a variety of genres, including Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Latin, Flamenco, Big Band, Rockabilly and some good old fashioned Rock n' Roll. For the youngsters and the young at heart, Enbridge will sponsor our Family Stage. For your added entertainment, we also offer FREE Outdoor Entertainment, Street Buskers, a Midway with Rides, Face-Painting, a Host of Street Vendors, Fresh Food, Treats, Contests and a Fireworks Display at Dusk (on Sunday). The Barrie Waterfront Festival - it's a super way to enjoy a Canadian holiday, a terrific Barrie tradition, and a great way to have fun with the whole family!

A colourful display of banners, designed & painted by community members, transforms our streets into a vibrant outdoor art gallery!

Celebrate Barrie is an annual celebration of our community held in beautiful Centennial Park, along the shore of Kempenfelt Bay. The festival features fun for the whole family including rides and inflatables, petting zoo, animal shows, local entertainment on two stages, rock climbing wall, historical reenactments, and over 50 community groups providing hands-on activities for kids - all for FREE.

'A' Television Presents The KOOL FM Barrie Jazz And Blues Festival for Twelve Days in June. An eclectic mix of Jazz and Blues music is performed by some of the best Canadian Artists in over 30 nightclubs, bistros, cafes, bars, libraries and public facilities throughout the City of Barrie and Region. Almost all concerts and shows are free and open to the public. There is plenty of parking for many of the activities, and Barrie can be reached via GO Buses and Trains, and Highways 400 and 11. For more information visit www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

A weekend of exciting live blues.

The event will host a main stage outdoor event in downtown Orillia all weekend.  Friday night’s theme is “Women in Blues”. The Orillia Opera House kicks off Friday night at 7 pm with Juno award winner Rita Chiarelli.

After Rita the outdoor main stage in Historic Downtown Orillia will host Maple Blues female singer of the year Suzie Vinnick, young sensation Teresa Levasseur, and guitar whiz Donna Grantis.   'Mojomama', Tracey K. will end off the night with some 'whiskey soaked' harmonica blues.

Saturday night the main stage will feature all Juno award winners! Jack De Keyser, Anderson & Sloski with Jon Finley and Terry Blersh and 2008 Juno award winners Fathead will complete this incredible line up.

Sunday there will be a jam session on the main stage from 6-8 pm with the Steven Henry Band and Memphis International Blues competition finalists, Monkey Junk, who are swinging in from Ottawa, will wrap this three day Blues party!

Participating venues for Friday and Saturday night include Sixteen Front, Apple Annie’s café,  Brewery Bay, The Grape and Olive, Filou Bistro, Royal Canadian Legion branch # 34, Maria’s Restaurant, McCabes Eatery & Lounge, Tux II and Zats.

"The message of a cleaner, healthier and longer lasting Earth is best carried through the diversity of music, art, and cultural expression. Clean air, clean water, conservation, healthy lifestyle. Learn, share, celebrate".

The Lawn Chair Luminata - Waterfront Series 2010 brings together arts and entertainment, the waterfront and the Downtown core to create the perfect venue for all families and friends to enjoy. This collaboration of theatre, music and film and art all set in Heritage park in Downtown Barrie, is an outdoor series scheduled throughout the summer that is accessible to all. Come down and enjoy the Lawn Chair Luminata and of course bring your lawn chair.

Schedule to come...

Fun, excitement and entertainment are what Promenade Days are all about! This is Barrie’s largest street festival.

Enjoy Downtown Barrie's longest standing Canada Day family weekend. This year the event is schedule for 4 days starting Wednesday July 1st 2009 - Saturday July 5th 2009.

• Dunlop Street is closed to traffic from Mulcaster St to Toronto Street
• New this year - Midnight Madness Sale - Canada Day - Wednesday only the Street Market will be open late after the fireworks. The Downtown merchants will showcase all their fantastic products during the Street Market each day from 10am - 7pm.
•  Family & Kids Zone with activities for all ages in Memorial Square:
  
  • Petting Zoo
  • Reptile Show
  • Face Painting
  • Inflatable Set Up
  • Kids Sports Zone
     
• Great main stage entertainment in Memorial Square.
• Restaurants Street Patios will be throughout the event area  
• Canada Day Cake Cutting Ceremony - 7pm Wednesday July 1st 2009 
• Canada Day Fireworks - 10pm Wednesday evening - weather permitting 

Make this year's extra long weekend fun and enjoy in Downtown Barrie! For more information visit www.downtownbarrie.ca.

North America's longest running folk festival features an incredible weekend of music! Emporium, artisan's village, folkplay area for kids, food, beer tent & more. Tudhope Park, on the shores of Lake Couchiching, 705-329-2333.

The Annual Ribfest and Craft Beer Show is set for another tasty weekend. A great line up of Rib Teams and Craft Brewers will surely temp your taste buds.

Join the celebrations with Ceilidh at Legion Friday & Sunday; 20 band parade Downtown, pipe & drum competitions, entertainment & vendors at Couchiching Beach Park Saturday; Steak Fry both nights, 705-325-8442

Ontario's largest summer literary event! Over 25 award-winning authors & emerging fiction, non-fiction & poetry writers, readings, dinners & special events, Leacock Museum,705-329-1908.

Organization: Barrie Council 1626 Knights of Columbus and Barrie Hill Farms
Contact: Ken Osborne
Phone: 705-734-1136
Email: ken.osborne@rogers.com
Website: www.barriehillfarms.com

Midway, vendors, games of chance, great fun for the whole family!

One of North America's largest outdoor arts and crafts festivals including an antique show, food, and entertainment. For more information visit www.kempenfest.com or call (705)739-4216.