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The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from July 18 to 24, 2011

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. (more…)

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from July 11 to 17, 2011

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. (more…)

Hot Date: Huntsville’s Star-Studded Summer

George Canyon appears at the Huntsville Festival of the Arts on July 14

JULY 2 TO 23, 2011 Popular music gets its due once again as the Huntsville Festival of the Arts returns for its 18th edition. One of Muskoka’s most star-studded events, this year’s festival boasts exciting shows including a kick-off concert by Native American violin and flute master Arvel Bird on July 2, followed by country star George Canyon on July 14, former Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page on July 15, and jazz piano legend Oliver Jones on July 22. Algonquin Theatre, $20 to $48; call 705-789-4975 or click here for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to do from June 27 to July 3, 2011 (Canada Day Edition)

photo by Meddygarnet

The Canada Day long weekend brings much excitement to the Muskoka region!

1. Friday, July 1 offers sure cause for celebration in Huntsville, which hosts a bevy of Canada Day activities from morning to night. Among the attractions, Muskoka Heritage Place hosts a strawberry social beginning at 10 a.m. And don’t miss the fireworks display over Hunters Bay, starting at dusk.

2. Also on July 1 (and running to July 3) is the annual Bala Antique and Nostalgia Show, which takes place at Bala Arena. More than 40 vendors set up shop at this event, with everything from vintage country furniture to estate jewellery and collectibles. (more…)

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, 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 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.

Hot Date: Big Names in Town

Sarah Harmer is just one of the major musicians slated to perform at the Huntsville Festival of the Arts

JULY 2 TO AUGUST 22 Muskoka’s concert calendar is once again packed to the brim thanks to the ever-popular Huntsville Festival of the Arts. Canadian rock band Lighthouse kicks off this summer’s schedule on July 2. The excitement continues with returning artists Hawksley Workman on July 17 and John McDermott on August 17, plus fiddle and step-dance masters Leahy on July 10 and rootsy singer Sarah Harmer on August 22. Fans of improvised music won’t want to miss the weekend-long Huntsville Jazz Festival—from July 29 to August 1—which features performances from jazz-pop specialist Alex Cuba, rising jazz singer and pianist Laila Biali, and many others. Most performances at Algonquin Theatre, $25 to $45; call 705-789-4975 or click here for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets.

Weekend Roundup: May 28 to 30

The Muskoka region melds the glory of nature with modern convenience and amenities. Experience it all this weekend!

Saturday: Spend time at Muskoka Wharf

Friday, May 28
On your way north, stop in at Bayfield Mall to stock up on necessities. More than 70 stores—including Winners, Canadian Tire, Price Chopper and Pharma Plus—help ensure you’re prepared for any situation.

Take in stunning greens, tall trees and expansive Muskokan vistas while challenging yourself to a round of golf at North Granite Ridge.

Saturday, May 29
Head to Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst to stroll along the boardwalk, investigate the the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre or indulge in dining and shopping. Kids can frolic in the playground and water-play area.

Enjoy modern artists’ interpretations of works by the Group of Seven and Tom Thompson—more than 40 pieces are displayed at Huntsville’s Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery.

Sunday, May 30
View Ontario wildlife at indoor facilities and while venturing across 50 acres of walking trails. The Muskoka Wildlife Centre is an interactive learning park for all ages where furry woodland creatures make for a memorable trip.

Browse the shelves of The Bookcase, an independent bookstore housed in a Huntsville historic building, and pick up a new tome or an old favourite to read on a quiet cottage-country evening.