Summer Festival Guide in Orillia & Lake Country
2024 is rounding up to be the year of festivals and events in Orillia & Lake Country! There are so many great ways to explore the region, and throughout the summer festival-goers have a buffet of choices. We’ve rounded up just a few of the amazing festivals not-to-be-missed while planning your vacation!
Explore the arts scene in the township of Severn with the Coldwater & Area Studio Tour, June 22-23, showcasing the work of local and guest artisans & artists. The tour offers a diverse selection of work such as painting, jewelry, glass and metal work, photography, pottery, fibre art, and woodworking in studios, workshops and historic buildings in the lovely agricultural surroundings of Coldwater. Don’t want to drive? A shuttle bus will be available from Coldwater to take you around the tour.
July 5th to 7th welcomes the Mariposa Folk Festival with another stellar line up including Noah Cyrus, Old Crow Medicine Show, William Prince, Bahamas, Bruce Cockburn and many more! Over 60 years in the running, this annual music event is held on the shores of Lake Couchiching, at Tudhope Park. With a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, featuring 11 stages, picturesque views, delicious food, fantastic workshops, unique artisans, camping, and fun activities for kids. Mariposa really is magical, for all ages. With good prices for weekend passes and a two-year streak of sold-out wristbands, better snap yours up today!
On July 13th, Brechin welcomes the Ramara Classic Car Show. Featuring, an impressive collection of over 200 classic cars, showcased within the winding canals of Lagoon City. Classic car fanatic or not, this event is an excellent opportunity to explore the area’s scenic views, great food, and some mid-summer fun.
Couchiching Beach Park comes alive in the summertime during the historic annual Orillia Scottish Festival from July 14th to 16th. Shop from eclectic vendors, grab a delicious bite to eat, and celebrate Scottish culture during traditional dance, marching, and music celebrations.
Heading east and north out of Orillia, enjoy the Rama First Nation Pow Wow, held August 24th and 25th at the John Snake Memorial Community Multi-Purpose Grounds in Rama First Nation. This is the biggest and best powwow in Ontario, bringing two days’ worth of incredible First Nation dancing, drumming, food, and culture.
The Port of Orilla, also hosts many great events each summer, from vendor markets and holiday themed festivals, along the shores of Lake Couchiching. Head down to the Port this summer for the Sunshine Festival, Christmas in June, Mardi Gras, Waterfront Festival and the ever-popular Pirate Party!
These are just some of the amazing festivals to be found in Orillia & Lake Country. Pop-up festivals and events can be found in the heart of Downtown Orillia, the Village of Coldwater, and more through the entire summer! For up-to-date event listings, check out orillialakecountry.ca/events/.
—photos by Deb Halbot
