The Toddler Tourist

— by Hillary Handy

I have always loved music! I was fortunate to be gifted tickets to see Lance Anderson perform at the Orillia Opera House, an ode to Jazz royalty in the spring. I brought my daughter with me, who was nine at the time. She had never been to a jazz concert before. I have to admit, it may not have been her cup of tea, but she enjoyed herself. And I was thankful to have the opportunity to expose her to this form of art. Seeing the skill and dedication it takes to master your craft is something I don’t think youth today are cognizant of. They need exposure to a variety of things in order to find their ‘thing’ and need to see how much time and practice it takes to become skilled at that thing!

Accessing the arts is certainly a privilege. Especially when it comes to continuing long term with a certain focus. Music lessons are an investment. Art classes add up. The world of competitive dance is next level. But living in the Orillia area, we are so fortunate to be able to experience the arts in a real way as we are in a hub of creativity.

So how can we pass along a love for the arts to our children this summer? Can it be done in a fun and frugal way? To continue with the theme of musical arts, we have just for thing for you this summer! You’ll be pleased to know that there’s a whole concert lineup planned for you…you just have to show up on Fridays and Sundays at the Rotary Aqua Theatre.

For parents looking to introduce their kids to live music, this outdoor venue is ideal. The open-air setting means little ones can dance, move, and play while the band plays on—no need to whisper or sit still in a theatre seat. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and even a picnic dinner for a relaxed evening by the water. Best of all, the concerts are completely free, though donations are welcome to help support the event.

The Music & Makers Series is a brand-new pilot project happening in Orillia, a FREE program that boasts of live music and an artisan market.

Here’s the line-up:

August 1 – Youth Showcase with the Orillia Youth Centre, with free BBQ from Harvey’s

August 8 – Monet & Christian, and Daniel Greaves

August 15 – The Upside of Maybe

August 22– Zachary Lucky

August 29– Jet Lips, Aline Aklba, Alexandra Giroux, Valerie Mermaid, Lincoln Baragar

This summer, the City of Orillia invites families to experience one of its most beloved traditions: Music in the Park, the Sunday Evening Band Concert Series.

This began at the end of June, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of shows to catch. Music will come alive every Sunday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The series runs until the end of August and features free concerts showcasing big band, jazz, and concert band favourites performed by talented local and regional musicians.

Here are the remaining 2025 Sunday Evening Band Concert Series line-up:

August 3 – Barrie Concert Band

August 10 – Newmarket Citizens Band

August 17 – Simcoe County Band

August 24 – Skyliners Big Band

August 31 – Markham Concert Band

Just remember, weather can be a spoiler. Concerts are cancelled in the event of rain, so check the City of Orillia’s Facebook page by 4 p.m. on concert days for updates.

From toe-tapping rhythms to lakeside sunsets, Music in the Park and Music & Makers offers the perfect blend of entertainment and family time. Whether it’s your child’s first concert or a long-standing summer ritual, these Sunday evenings promise to create memories that last well beyond the final note.

Learn more at orillia.ca/musicinthepark.