Feeling Festive in ontario’s lake country Autumn is a fantastic time to explore Ontario’s Lake Country. The trees are transformed into a painter’s palette of vibrant colours, there’s an intoxicating crispness to the air, and the summer crowds have thinned. In addition, the region comes alive with a broad range of events to experience—here’s the best of what the fall season in Ontario’s Lake Country has to offer.
THANKSGIVING HARVEST FESTIVAL: Arts & Crafts Show The smell of wood smoke wafting from open fires, the sight of costumed natives and Jesuit missionaries going about a typical day in the 1640s, the taste of fresh corn-on-the cob and traditional ‘three sisters soup’…perhaps nothing says autumn like stepping back in time to the 17th century at Sainte-Marie among the Huron’s Thanksgiving Harvest Festival and Arts and Crafts Show and Sale. There’s no better time to visit this faithfully restored settlement. It begins with lots of heritage activities for families to enjoy, including pumpkin decorating, traditional planting of “The Three Sisters” (corn, beans, and squash), sampling of historic foods and tea, and torch-making demonstrations. At the same time, 35 artisans and crafters will gather to sell their wares, including everything from wildlife wood carvings, wreaths and centrepiece arrangements with natural materials, acrylic artwork, and more. Farmer’s Market vendors offer everything from pumpkin and apple pies, to jellies, chutneys and mustards. DATE AND TIME: October 8-9 I 10am-5pm LOCATION: 16164 Highway 12 East, Midland COST: $10 adults I $8.75 youth I Kids under 5 free CONTACT: 705-526-7838 and saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/sm
COLDWATER WITCHES WALK Strolling through autumn streets in frightening costumes isn’t just for little ghouls. Adult women enthusiastically take part as well. At least, they do in Coldwater during the community’s annual Witches Walk. Dress in your best hag’s costume, practice your cackle, and meet on the main street to stroll through the town visiting shops dressed up for the season. Within these stores you’ll finds special savings, seasonal treats, and other attractions. Collect stamps on your Witches Walk passport, when filled you are eligible for a draw prize. It’s an evening of spooky fun for women. >> WHEN: October 19 I 6pm-9pm LOCATION: Main Street, Coldwater COST: Free, but a donation of money or dry or canned goods can be made to the Coldwater Foodbank at signup CONTACT: coldwatervillage.com >>
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