Summer in Ontario… what could be better than that? Summer by the lake of course! We are blessed to have an amazing lake in our backyard and during the summer months there are a multitude of festivals that take place in communities by the shores of Lake Simcoe. Whether you live on or by the lake, here are some events that you should definitely get out to this summer!
The City of Barrie on Kempenfelt Bay, hosts the most festivals of all these communities by far, with something happening every weekend during the summer. One of the largest by far, “The Kempenfest Arts and Crafts Festival” (Held on the long weekend in August) features over 350 arts and crafts exhibitors, antique markets, 2 beer gardens, live music and entertainment, and a midway. This year’s 49th “Kempenfest” will take place on August 2nd to 5th. Some of the other festivals over the summer include “Celebrate Barrie”, the “Dragonboat Festival” and “Ribfest”. Barrie also boasts a new Performance space with views of the waterfront. Catch an outdoor performance at Meridian Place after dining in one of the amazing local restaurants! Or you can check out the local shops while listening to the amazing musical talent provided by the Street Performer Program, put on by the Ontario Musicians Co-operative Inc., in partnership with the City of Barrie.
Visiting Orillia? The Mariposa Folk Festival held in Tudhope Park on the shores of beautiful Lake Couchiching, is a must attend! Held on the weekend of July 5, 6 and 7th, it features emerging and established folk artists as well as an artisan marketplace. Some of the artists featured this year are Tom Cochrane and Red Rider and Stars! And no trip to Orillia would be complete without a trip to the Mariposa Bake Shop and Apple Annie’s.
For a complete listing of summer festivals and events, click here!
