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The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from July 18 to 24

Ron Sexsmith

1. Major Canadian talent makes the trip to Muskoka this week, as acclaimed singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith takes the stage for two shows at Peter’s Place Live on July 23 and 24.

2. Check out the latest pleasure crafts and cottage accessories from July 22 to 24, as Gravenhurst’s Muskoka Wharf hosts the annual In-Water Boat and Cottage Show. If all that salivating (at boats) makes you actually hungry, you’re in luck, the Muskoka Cottage Brewery lounge, also on-site, offers a filling Ribfest, too.

3. If you prefer watercrafts with a more classic look, why not considering helming a wooden boat for a few days? Muskoka Launch Livery, based in Port Carling, offers short-term rentals of these vintage-style cruisers.

4. The ever popular Festival of the Sound continues this week, with a variety of fine performances and lectures on classical music taking place at the Charles W. Stockey Centre.

5. Stroll the streets of Bracebridge and get a view of some local visuals—Art in the Heart places artists and artisans in the public spaces of Bracebridge’s historic town all weekend long.

6. Celebrate a Canadian literary icon at Bala’s Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery. On July 23, its annual Everything Anne event commemorates Anne of Green Gables with quaint activities, cake and more.

7. The Huntsville Festival of the Arts closes the book on yet another successful year with much-anticipated performances by jazz pianist Oliver Jones on July 22 and Crash Test Dummies on July 23.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from July 11 to 17

Steven Page plays the Huntsville Festival of the Arts this week

1. The Huntsville Festival of the Arts has a big week. Former Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page is sure to bring the house down when he plays the Algonquin Theatre on July 15. On July 17, the ever-popular Rod Beattie brings his curmudgeonly character Walt Wingfield to town in Wingfield’s Folly.

2. Parry Sound’s biggest annual event kicks off on July 15 as the Festival of the Sound hosts a “piano gala” featuring music by Debussy, Gershwin, Beethoven and more. Four additional concerts and two lectures round out the weekend’s programming.

3. No more excuses—summer’s sun ought to have warmed up the Muskoka lakes by now! Get out and enjoy some on-water fun. If you’re in need of new gear for waterskiing or wakeboarding, Bush’s Sports Centre in Bala has you covered.

4. Has all that activity made you a bit sore? Why not book a relaxing massage at one of the region’s lauded resort spas, like Indulgence, the Spa at Taboo or Touch Spa at Touchstone on Lake Muskoka.

5. No one need be afraid of the dark on July 15, as downtown Huntsville closes its main strip to traffic and lights up the evening with its annual Firefly Festival, which features live music, food and more beneath the stars.

6. The region’s oldest and largest outdoor art exhibition opens this week in Bracebridge, as the 49th edition of the Muskoka Arts & Crafts Summer Show brings together more than 200 artists and craftspeople—not to mention many more art lovers—from July 15 to 17.

7. Gravenhurst’s ongoing Music on the Barge concert series offers what’s sure to be a popular act on July 17—tribute band Hotel California lovingly recreates the laid-back pop-rock sound of The Eagles.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from June 13 to 19

The candy cane fountains at Santa's Village

1. There’s only six months until Christmas! See how Saint Nick’s preparing for his 2011 toy delivery—or perhaps he’s still relaxing in the Muskoka sun—by visiting Santa’s Village, where kids can ride the Christmas ball ferris wheel, cool off under candy cane showers, get crafty in the elves’ workshop and more.

2. Witness the Kee to Bala be transformed into the “dogg pound” as legendary rapper Snoop Dogg enlivens cottage country with his distinctly brand of West Coast hip hop on June 17.

3. If you can handle the black flies and mosquitoes—and really, if you’re in Muskoka, that should be a given—then consider planning a camping trip to really experience the Canadian Shield. Well-known retailers like Algonquin Outfitters and Muskoka Outfitters can equip you with all the latest outdoorsy gear.

4. All aboard! Locomotive enthusiasts are sure to get a kick out of the Huntsville Train Station Society’s first annual model train exposition, June 18 and 19. Numerous demonstrations and working layouts allow guests to explore the history and artistry of creating model trains and tracks.

5. The golf course is sure to be calling dads—and perhaps moms, too—as Fathers Day approaches on June 19. Why not give him the gift of a round at the Muskoka Bay Club?

6. Enjoy some quality time June 19 at Butson’s Boat Shop, which hosts a build-a-boat challenge and race (plus barbecue lunch) for dads and their children. While you’re at it, check out the shop’s own finely honed wooden boats on a tour of the facilities.

7. The time-honoured concert tradition, Music on the Barge, starts up for another season. The Gravenhurst music series features bands that perform on a floating platform on Gull Lake. The Muskoka Concert Band and Muskoka Big Band kick things off on the evening of June 19.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from June 6 to 12

Laugh along with Robin Duke and the rest of the "Women Fully Clothed"

1. The delightful dames of Women Fully Clothed—Robin Duke, Jayne Eastwood, Kathryn Greenwood and Teresa Pavlinek—bring their humorous yet affecting stories to cottage country. See their latest show, Older and Hotter, on June 10 at the Gravenhurst Opera House.

2. View and purchase the works of 20 fine artists and craftspeople while partaking in the annual Muskoka Lakes Spring Art Tour on June 11 and 12. This self-directed jaunt takes art lovers to the studios and galleries of creators in Bracebridge, Bala, Port Carling and more. Click here for a map.

3. Don’t miss a chance to check out hundreds of vintage vehicles at the annual Antique and Classic Car Show, taking place June 11 at Gravenhurst’s Gull Lake Park.

4. The lake gets more exciting when you’re zipping around on water skis or a wakeboard. Stock up on all the top-brand equipment at such retailers as the Rosseau Board Shops at Muskoka Lakes Marine, then jump in and make some waves!

5. After all that merrymaking, you’ll want to refuel. Why not grab some gourmet casual fare from Crossroads Pub and Grill, where chefs Richard and Julie Lalonde serve up fine Muskoka lunches, dinners and mid-afternoon bites.

6. For once in your life, when someone tells you to “take a hike,” you can do just that: the Muskoka region offers no fewer than four provincial parks, one national park, and thousands of acres of pristine nature to explore. If you’re near Parry Sound in particular, why not spend the day at Killbear Provincial Park.

7. Though the sun stays out for a long time during the Muskoka summer, when it does go down you have an excellent opportunity to kick back, relax and contemplate the night sky. The regions best spot for stargazing? Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, a huge swath of land that’s officially protected from light pollution.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from May 23 to 29

Visit the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre at Muskoka Wharf

1. Spend a sunny day exploring the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst. The waterfront village boasts a handful of shops and restaurants, a lovely lakeside boardwalk, and the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre.

2. If on-water activities aren’t your cup of tea, consider buying a road or mountain bike and get pedalling around the Muskoka region. Ecclestone Cycle in Bracebridge and The Bike Shop in Gravenhurst are among the area’s respected purveyors.

3. Investigate the recently renewed dining options at Windermere House. Its restaurants are now operated by leading fine-dining and event management company Oliver and Bonacini, ensuring culinary excellence at the property’s Windermere Pub, Rosseau Grill and PJ’s Lounge.

4. The concert season is getting underway at Parry Sound’s Charles W. Stockey Centre. On May 27, catch a performance by award-winning female folk/pop duo Dala.

5. Help support the Huntsville Festival of the Arts at its annual May Marché. The event, at Deerhurst Resort on May 27, offers an evening of food sampling from acclaimed area restaurants, as well as wines and spirits, and a silent auction.

6. Make a splash with the kids by taking them to Port Severn’s Just Add Water Festival, from May 27 to 29. It features musical performances, a creative artists market, educational activities and much more.

7. Catch a highly anticipated show at Peter’s Place Live—Dave Matthews Band collaborator Tim Reynolds brings his unique guitar stylings to Muskoka on May 29.

Weekend Roundup, August 27 to 29

Summer activities are still burning bright this far into August. Take in the sights, do some shopping, and be sure to get in a round of golf!

Take a swing at the Ridge at Manitou golf club

Friday, August 27
Rifle through antiques for treasure at the annual Bracebridge Antique Show & Sale, on today through Sunday. Great finds amongst the jewellery, furniture and quilts!

Kick back, relax and enjoy pizzas, pasta, steak and fish on the dockside patio at the Cottage Waterfront Grill in Huntsville.

Saturday, August 28
They say Marty Curtis is the Michelangelo of butter tarts. Find out for yourself by ordering the Canadian staple at Marty’s World Famous Café. Other filling options abound, from grilled cheese sandwiches to tempting Muskoka apple pies.

Discover some of the country’s best ales, lagers and stouts at the Muskoka Beer Festival. The 19+ event presents an opportunity to sample more than 75 different craft brews, see a wakeboarding show, and participate in a number of other activities.

Sunday, August 29
Whether you’re a seasoned duffer or a relative newcomer to the game, the Ridge at Manitou offers an excellent Muskoka golf experience. Following your round, enjoy the hospitality in the clubhouse lounge and its breathtaking view of Manitouwabing Lake.

Stay young at heart with a trip to Applause! Toy Store. (Or just treat your children.) This toy heaven in Bracebridge is filled with games, toys, puzzles, art supplies, and an interactive kids play area.

Weekend Roundup, August 20 to 22

Be sure to check out the Algonquin Theatre’s entertaining shows—there’s an artistic pick for each night this weekend!

Sarah Harmer serenades the Algonquin Theatre on Sunday night

Friday, August 20
Shop, play games and win prizes at Muskoka Wharf’s Dockside & Steamship Festivals. There’s much to do on the water, with more than 80 artisans participating in an arts and crafts show, 90-plus shopping options, live shows and a kids’ zone.

Enjoy a night of storytelling, song and dance at Algonquin Theatre’s Echoes of Ireland production, part of the Huntsville Festival of the Arts.

Saturday, August 21
Spend your day Scottish-style at the Bracebridge Highland Games. Dancing, piping, caber tossing, hammer throwing—there’s so much traditional fun to choose from!

After that, get your bearings and head over to the Algonquin Theatre for the Muskoka Music Men’s 21st annual Night of Harmony, featuring the Barrie Huronia Soundwaves.

Sunday, August 22
Trek through the pristinely beautiful Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve in time to catch the final day of its Forest Festival. Breathe the clean air (thanks to 70,000 acres of trees) while absorbing the glorious waterside view, or check out one of seven scheduled concerts.

Make a return trip to the Algonquin Theatre to witness celebrated singer/songwriter Sarah Harmer perform her passionate brand of folk-rock.

Weekend Roundup, August 6 to 8

Weekends in Muskoka are always packed with music, art and outdoors activities. This one’s no different. Get out there and enjoy it!

Climb aboard the M.V. Chippewa

Friday, August 6
What better way to start the weekend than with a Baroque on the Boat morning cruise? Allow the Festival Winds to serenade you aboard the M.V. Chippewa, departing from Parry Sound.

Spend a rockin’ night in Gravenhurst with the Holmes Brothers. The acclaimed roots-R&B-gospel-blues band stages a barn-burning show at Peter’s Place.

Saturday, August 7
Enjoy a true Woodland Art Experience in the scenic gardens, courtyards and rooms of Wood’s End Studios, where 25 artists display and discuss their excellent work. A garden luncheon is catered by North Restaurant.

Explore the world of locomotives at the Muskoka Model Train Show. At the Bracebridge Fairgrounds, peruse the collections of train enthusiasts, vendors and manufacturers, earn souvenirs and door prizes, and nibble on barbecue fare.

Sunday, August 8
Assemble at Annie Williams Park to cheer on the competitors in the Bracebridge Triathalon. You’ll be amazed by these athletes as they swim, cycle and run for glory.

Finish the day right with Endless Summer Live, a California-inspired show, part of Gravenhurst’s Music on the Barge festival.

Weekend Roundup, July 30 to August 2

July is not going down without a party first. Take particular note of numerous jazz concerts as you celebrate this Civic Holiday long weekend!

North Restaurant chef Alain Irvine serves up the flavours of the Muskoka region

Friday, July 30
Don’t miss the Huntsville Jazz Festival, running this weekend only! Juno award–winner Alex Cuba opens tonight at the Algonquin Theatre.

Prepare for an evening packed with family fun, shopping and entertainment at the Bracebridge BIA Midnight Madness event.

Saturday, July 31
Indulge in one of Muskoka’s best meals at Gravenhurst’s North Restaurant. Chef Alain Irvine’s fresh, seasonal cuisine is sure to please.

Continue the jazz extravaganza tonight at the Festival of the Sound. The 16-piece Dave Young Big Band performs the renowned bassist’s original compositions and breathes new life into old standards.

Sunday, August 1
Find swing of a different kind by booking a tee time at the exceptional Ridge at Manitou golf course.

Dash into the 1950s tonight as the Lincolnaires offer a nostalgic set of early rock ‘n’ roll classics for Music on the Barge.

Monday, August 2
If the greens are still calling, tee off at the Muskoka Bay Club‘s naturally beautiful 18-hole course. On site, the newly renovated Clifftop Clubhouse boasts a pro shop plus indoor-outdoor bistro with tantalizing dining options.

Step aboard the Island Queen for its Sunset on the Bay Musical Cruise. Watch as the sun dips under the water while vocals and instruments provide a musical lullaby.

Weekend Roundup, July 23 to 25

Music and art continue to make their marks this weekend in Muskoka.

Vintage goods abound at the Muskoka Antique Show

Friday, July 23
Look out for antique goodies as 40 dealers from across the country gather at the 29th annual Muskoka Antique Show in Port Carling.

Take in a memorable celebration to one of country music’s modern legends, as Leisa Way stars in Rhinestone Cowgirl: A Tribute to Dolly Parton. The performance, part of the Huntsville Festival of the Arts, makes its way to the Algonquin Theatre tonight.

Saturday, July 24
Enjoy a pancake breakfast with live music or set up the kids with some face painting and a petting-zoo experience at the Baysville Walkabout Festival. After that, treasure seekers can peruse the offerings of more than 120 artisans and craftspeople who line the town’s main street.

Combine art and nature at Bracebridge’s Artful Garden. Here, more than 40 artists showcase their original garden-inspired visuals in the open air at the studio and home of area residents Jon and Suzann Partridge.

Sunday, July 25
Pay homage to true divas at Classic Primadonna, a Festival of the Sound production starring soprano Mary Lou Fallis. Dessert and coffee are served while you enjoy a classy evening with music by Mozart and Schubert.

Rock on with jukebox hits performed live on the water by Freddy Vette and the Flames as part of the Music on the Barge Festival concert series in Gravenhurst.

Weekend Roundup, July 16 to 18

Muskoka’s arts and music scene is abuzz this weekend.

The Festival of the Sound kicks off Friday night at the Charles W. Stockey Centre

Friday, July 16
Browse creative and colourful pieces at the Muskoka Arts and Crafts Show. More than 200 local artists and craftspeople offer their original works at this weekend-long event in Bracebridge.

Be dazzled by classical music. The much-anticipated Festival of the Sound kicks off this weekend at Parry Sound’s Charles W. Stockey Centre with a gala opening concert featuring Oxford Six Pianos.

Saturday, July 17
Stay in Parry Sound and take the opportunity to check out the premiere of Impressions of the Massasauga Provincial Park, and meet the artists as they share their interpretations of this breathtaking Canadian landscape.

Prepare for a thunderous roar as vintage planes soar overhead at the Muskoka 2010 Air Show, which this year honours the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Norway and the Battle of Britain. This year’s event is held slightly southwest of Muskoka in the town of Midland, site of the Norwegian Air Force’s WWII training base.

Sunday, July 18
Partake in an artful afternoon at Huntsville’s River Mill Park. From noon to 3 p.m., kids can paint a masterpiece (or have their faces painted) for free as part of Art Splash. Those with an interest in more “established” talents can enjoy an arts walk with live demonstrations by local artists.

Dance to some hot new-country music as an uncanny look-alike performs the Ultimate Tribute to Shania Twain at a Music on the Barge concert in Gravenhurst.

Weekend Roundup, July 9 to 11

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Muskoka’s still hot with things to do!

See the Cavenerners interpret Beatles classics this weekend

Friday, July 9
Justin Hines exudes an optimistic attitude through his music. A genetic joint condition confines him to a wheelchair, but this singer-songwriter’s tunes display a soaring spirit. Be inspired tonight at the Algonquin Theatre.

Wade into the cool water with your fishing rod in tow for Ontario Family Fishing weekend. This weekend only, Canadians can fish without a license!

Saturday, July 10
Discover Gravenhurst’s water-bound heritage at the annual Antique & Classic Boat Show. Saturday features a showcase of finely crafted wooden boats, while Sunday brings classic fiberglass boats and classic cars.

Devour a pancake and sausage/peameal breakfast or participate in an evening barn dance at the Muskoka Pioneer Power Show. After checking out the grand parade, meander through the heritage exhibits, blacksmith shop and classic and antique vehicle displays on the Bracebridge Fairgrounds.

Sunday, July 11
Kick back in a comfortable lawn chair on the grounds of Spencer’s Tall Trees restaurant while the soothing melodies of Jazz in the Garden caress your ear.

If you want to avoid “A Hard Day’s Night,” get your groove on at Canada’s premiere Beatles tribute show, performed by The Caverners for Gravenhurst’s Music on the Barge.

Weekend Roundup, July 1 to 4

Celebrate Canada Day weekend with an explosion of events—we’re not just talking about the fireworks!

Enjoy a Canada Day cruise aboard Parry Sound's Island Queen

Thursday, July 1
Commemorate Canada Day aboard the Island Queen‘s Sunset Musical Cruise, part of Parry Sound’s annual Festival of the Sound. Enjoy ebullient tunes by the Shores of Newfoundland band, then open your eyes wide for a fireworks display in the harbour.

Sway to country, folk, gospel, blues, rock ‘n’ roll and children’s music with Bracebridge’s Memorial Park Bandshell Concert Series. Or, try your luck by entering the annual duck derby at Bracebridge Falls.

Friday, July 2
Mark your calendars! The Huntsville Festival of the Arts returns to Muskoka today, and runs through to August 11. Tonight, catch Canadian rock band Lighthouse at the Algonquin Theatre.

Head over to the Kee to Bala to see Matthew Good live in concert. The popular singer-songwriter‘s eponymous band also features Dave Genn on keyboards and guitar, Ian Browne rocking the drum kit, and Rich Priske on bass.

Saturday, July 3
If you’re one of the lucky ticket holders for the popular Baysville Beef and Lobster Fest, you’ll be sure to spend the day feasting on succulent lobster and juicy meat. Participate in the silent auction and win prizes.

Witness rising star Mark Masri performing live with Canadian songbird Amy Sky at the Algonquin Theatre.

Sunday, July 4
View the works of emerging artists, displayed throughout historic downtown Bracebridge for Art in the Heart.

Walk the line to Gravenhurst’s Music on the Barge show. Tonight offers a “Legend in Black” tribute to Johnny Cash and June Carter.

Top Chefs: David Friesen, Riverwalk

There are many reasons to visit Muskoka: the small town ambience; the pristine lakes; its world-renowned golf courses. These days, the region offers another excellent incentive thanks to the tremendous growth of its dining scene. We asked some of Muskoka’s most prominent kitchen captains about their restaurants, their cuisine and the area’s emergence as a foodie-friendly destination. Watch this space for a new chef every week of the summer!

CHEF DAVID FRIESEN
Riverwalk, Bracebridge

Why do you think Muskoka has gained such popularity as a dining destination?
More great chefs are making the move outside of the city and opening more great restaurants. Over the last few years the Savour Muskoka program has helped brand the region as a place to enjoy local food products.

Your thoughts on the local food movement?
I love it. Using seasonal product has always been forefront throughout my 20+ year career. It’s great to be able to go straight to farms and speak directly with farmers. They’re responding with open arms and asking chefs what we want them to produce. This is a win-win situation.

Can you tell us about one of your signature dishes?
Crackling skinned organic chicken with handmade corn noodles—local chicken, farm-fresh eggs for the noodles and seasonal Brooklands Farm corn. Mmm!

What inspires you to cook?
Tastes, textures, smells. bringing those elements together in harmony and creating memories through the senses.

Weekend Roundup, June 25 to 27

You’re in for a good laugh this weekend with hours of comedic skits ahead of you. Another exciting note: Muskoka hosts this year’s G8 Summit, a gathering of the world’s economic leaders.

Music on the Barge offers a Sunday evening showcase in Gravenhurst

Friday, June 25
Be on the lookout for famous politicians as economic leaders from as far as Russia fly in to attend the 2010 G8 Summit today and tomorrow at Huntsville’s Deerhurst Resort.

Discover the makings of Muskoka’s heritage by exploring historic buildings in Bala and Port Carling as part of the weekend-long Doors Open Muskoka event. Tomorrow, Bracebridge welcomes you into its most intriguing sites, while Gravenhurst opens its doors on Sunday.

Start your weekend off right with some belly laughs courtesy of Yuk Yuk’s and comedians Rob Ross and Ian Sirota. See their stand-up stylings tonight with with a reservation at the Muskoka Bay Club, 9 p.m. Tickets $30; call 705-687-7900, ext. 301.

Saturday, June 26
The Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre in Bracebridge also offers its share of chuckles this weekend. In the afternoon, CBC Radio’s The Debaters records Canadian comedians as they tackle hot topics and compete for the biggest guffaws. Later in the evening, the Cottage Country Comedy Festival‘s performers will have you in stitches.

Shake your hips to the many hits of beloved Canadian blues-rocker David Wilcox, as he performs live in concert at the Kee to Bala.

Sunday, June 27
Enjoy such madcap performances as “Moose Bloop” and “Summer Fun by Jam Sandwich” as part of the family-friendly Kaleidoscope Children’s Festival.

Stay tuned this evening for the Bi-focals concert band as Gravenhurst’s Music on the Barge continues its summer-long concert series.

Top Chefs: Michael Rickard, One Fifty Five

There are many reasons to visit Muskoka: the small town ambience; the pristine lakes; its world-renowned golf courses. These days, there’s another excellent incentive thanks to the tremendous growth of its dining scene. We asked some of Muskoka’s most prominent kitchen captains about their restaurants, their cuisine and the area’s emergence as a foodie-friendly destination. Watch this space for a new chef every week of the summer!

CHEF MICHAEL RICKARD
One Fifty Five, Bracebridge

Tell us about your restaurant and its philosophy.
All of our dishes are house-made from the finest available ingredients using traditional French techniques. We have endeavoured to create an affordable fine dining experience in a comfortable environment—light and fresh at lunch, romantic at night.

The Muskoka region is gaining popularity as a dining destination. Why do you think this is?
As an up-market destination for cottagers and tourists and with the influx of retirees from the Toronto area, there is an ever-growing demand for a better dining experience.

What are your thoughts on the local food movement?
I think the local food movement, as promoted by Savour Muskoka, is a great thing. Supporting our local purveyors is good for the diner, restaurateur and farmer. I find local food and produce to be fresher and tastier. It gives me a great feeling to “buy local”—a feeling of being connected to the life of the land around me. It’s a bit more work as a chef to buy local as you have to be more attuned to the local market, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

What inspires you to cook?
I am passionate about food and I like to be creative. I was raised in the hotel industry and so was lucky enough to live in places like Malaysia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda and the United States, where I was constantly exposed to a variety of local foods as well as the fine cuisine served in the five-star hotels my father managed. I’ve also travelled and cooked in such places as England, New Zealand, Thailand, Mexico and British Columbia, widening my culinary horizons. My parents are both very good cooks, so I guess you could say that cooking is in my blood.

Weekend Roundup, June 11 to 13

Muskoka offers a rich cultural experience involving theatres, parks and galleries. Don’t miss these artistic experiences!

Enjoy the natural landscape of Killbear Provincial Park (photo by John Vetterli)

Friday, June 11
Learn a thing or two about early cottage life, boat-building heritage and pioneer settlers at the quaint, local Muskoka Lakes Museum.

Enjoy an evening of family entertainment as the Algonquin Theatre comes alive with the Wonderful Sounds of Music, a rousing performance by the Muskoka Dance Academy.

Saturday, June 12
Don’t miss a chance to check out vintage vehicles and win prizes at the 17th annual Antique & Classic Car Show at Gravenhurst’s Gull Lake Park.

Take in a revue of emerging local dancers at the Rene M. Caisse Memorial Theatre. As the venue promises, the name may be difficult to pronounce but the shows are easy to love!

Sunday, June 13
Swim, sail or scuba dive your way around Killbear Provincial Park—in the midst of Georgian Bay’s 30,000 islands—or marvel at the splendour of the Canadian Shield while wandering one of the park’s many hiking and biking trails.

Discover new art and purchase cards or gifts at Bracebridge’s Alexandra Luke Gallery, which features the original oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings of Wendy Moses.

Door to Dock

Do it all from the water this boating season—dine, shop, sightsee and more. Landlubbers need not apply. By Meaghan Lamb

The Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts

PARRY SOUND
The summer population quadruples in this town on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay. Culture-seeking boaters can cruise into the world’s deepest natural freshwater port and hop ashore to the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, while the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame celebrates the region’s favourite hockey legend.

HUNTSVILLE
See outdoor murals inspired by Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven in the town that plays host to the 2010 G8 Summit. Scout out The Finds, Wooden Penny and Nutty Chocolatier. Style the whole family at Big Bear Outfitters (64 Main St. E., 705-788-1351), The Village Shop or Muskoka Jewellery Design.

BOATING FOR BEGINNERS
Take a few paddling lessons and you’ll be skimming the lakes in no time.
>> White Squall is the place for kayak touring. Take both beginner- and advanced-level classes starting at $60 for two and a half hours, or request a private session.
>> Algonquin Outfitters boasts daily canoe and kayak programs at its Huntsville location situated on the water’s edge.

Try a White Squall paddling adventure

BRACEBRIDGE
Water has been an integral part of the area’s history with the North Falls acting as a source of hydraulic power. Tie up at Bracebridge Bay Park in the heart of downtown and get fashionable at Tiggs Clothiers, have Christmas in July at The Gingerbread House and be spoiled for choice selecting cupcakes at Sweet Aroma. For leisurely pursuits, visit Applause! Toy Store, Readers World and the Norwood Theatre (106 Manitoba St., 705-645-2333).

ROSSEAU
Sing your heart out while coming into the Rosseau wharf as holidaymakers did when arriving on the steamships a century ago. Peruse The Craft Room Rosseau or the Farmers’ Market (at Short Street) on Fridays.

FULL SERVICE
>> Port Sandfield Marina offers watercraft rentals, fuel, repairs, servicing and detailing on-site, as well as storage. Shop the Boathouse for clothing, footwear and boating accessories or grab a coffee or ice cream.
>> Pride Marine Group has four marinas under their umbrella here—Pride of Muskoka, Pride of Muskoka West, Pride of Lake of Bays and Pride of Rosseau—each of which provide service seven days a week, gas, as well as new and used boat sales.
>> Skeleton Lake Marina sells new and used boats as well as servicing and repairing many styles of boats. No boat? Rent one and have it delivered to your lake.

Steamships glide through Port Carling

PORT CARLING
Cruise through the locks from lakes Muskoka to Rosseau where you’ll find pleasant respite at the “Hub of the Lakes.” Dock at Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill (123 Medora St., 705-765-1753) for a lunch of burgers, salads, beer-battered fish and chips and more. Grab the necessities from Tommy Bahama before rejoining the water world.

MUSKOKA WHARF
The $170 million rebirth of this wharf in Gravenhurst meanders the length of the waterfront. Find docks, marinas, dining, boutiques, lodging, heritage facilities and the homeport of the Muskoka steamships. Berth your own vessel and promenade along the boardwalk.

Weekend Roundup, September 4 to 7

Things to do in Muskoka don’t dwindle down even as summer does. Our special four-day itinerary offers much to do over the Labour Day long weekend.

Explore the vast expanse of Algonquin Park this weekend (photo by Craig Moy).

Friday, September 4
Discover what happens when art and agriculture come together at Muskoka Place Gallery‘s Harvest Muskoka exhibition, featuring artwork capturing the region’s crops and food production.

Choose the perfect outfitting package at Portage Store for your long-weekend hiking trip through Algonquin Provincial Park.

Saturday, September 5
Learn about the role of women in boating in Boat Builders of Muskoka: Past and Present, a display on the elements of design, building and production of wooden boats, at Gravenhurst’s Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre.

Bite into a succulent lobster tail–topped rib-eye medallion while dining on the waterside patio at Blackburn’s Steakhouse in Huntsville.

Sunday, September 6
In Haliburton, admire the breathtaking view of the Algonquin Highlands from the vantage point of the 100-foot high Dorset Tower.

Pick up jars of creamy maple butter from Bracebridge’s Maple Orchard Farms—a perfect gft for your friends back home.

Monday, September 7
Get an early start on Christmas at Santa’s Village and Sportsland in Bracebridge, where you’ll shriek with delight while riding Rudolph’s Sleigh Ride roller coaster.

End the weekend by lounging in your Muskoka chair dockside, nose buried in a novel by Muskoka author Christina Kilbourne, available at The Gravenhurst Book Store.

Weekend Roundup, August 28 to 30

Lakeside dining, the beer festival or Sunday golf? Decisions, decisions.

Keep an eye out for Woodrow the beaver at the Muskoka Wildlife Centre.

Visit Woodrow the beaver at the Muskoka Wildlife Centre.

Friday, August 28
Watch birds of prey in flight, meet a beaver and howl with the wolves at the Muskoka Wildlife Centre in Severn Bridge.

Savour Georgian Bay pickerel—pan-fried with a Japanese panko-crumb and almond crust—in the lakeside dining room at Parry Sound’s Ridge at Manitou golf club.

Saturday, August 29
Learn about the region’s Aboriginal heritage through the Muskoka’s First Peoples exhibit at Muskoka Heritage Place in Huntsville.

Find out how to cook with lagers and ales at Bracebridge’s first annual Muskoka Beer Festival, which features 25 beer vendors from across Ontario, including Mill Street Brewery, Trafalgar Brewing Company and Highlander Brew Company.

Sunday, August 30
Squeeze some more golf into the summer Scottish-style at Muskoka Highlands Golf Course, a links-style course spread across more than 150 acres in Bracebridge.

But first, pick up Quagmire Golf‘s blue bubble-patterned Nicky dress at the Windermere Golf Club pro shop so you can tee off in style.