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The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from August 1 to 7

Take a trip on the Island Queen

1. Pick a pleasant-looking day (blue-skied and sunny, perhaps with a calm little breeze) to enjoy touring the Georgian Bay biosphere on an Island Queen Cruise. Don’t forget your camera—the rugged landscape is definitely worth framing.

2. Take a trip to the English countryside from within the Gravenhurst Opera House, which presents its annual dinner theatre production from August 2 to 13. This year’s show is a hilarious British farce entitled Beyond a Joke.

3. The creativity of local Muskokans is on display August 6 and 7 at the Baysville Riverfront Arts and Crafts Festival, which features the works and wares of more than 80 artists and artisans.

4. Clap your hands and kick up your heels at the Algonquin Theatre—Irish ensemble Caladh Nua entertains Huntsville with traditional Celtic songs on August 4.

5. Bracebridge Triathlon Weekend is August 6 and 7. Cheer on all the racers in six events, including the Olympic-distance triathlon on Sunday.

6. Country music fans can enjoy a tribute to two of the all-time greats in Gravenhurst. This week’s edition of Music on the Barge features a tribute to Johnny Cash and Tammy Wynette

7. Wind down from all the week’s activities by booking a massage or beauty appointment at one of the region’s many spas. Wherever you find yourself in Muskoka, it’s likely that one of four Amba Health and Beauty Spas will be nearby.

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.

Hot Date: Artistic Excellence in Parry Sound

The Charles W. Stockey Centre is one of the region's top performing arts venues

JULY 15 TO AUGUST 7 Sensational sonics are heralded each summer at the Festival of the Sound. In a concert hall that overlooks the lapping waters and pine-dotted islands of Georgian Bay, this year’s concerts are sure to delight both visitors and locals alike. Get set to be serenaded by the complete cycle of Beethoven’s string quartets, or hear the compositions of Liszt and Paganini. Big band jazz and grand choral masterworks are also part of this season’s impressive lineup. Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, tickets up to $42, some shows free; call 705-746-2410 or click here for showtimes and to buy.

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 27 to July 3 (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.

3. Or if you find yourself in Gravenhurst over the weekend, be sure to stop by the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre to witness the construction of an eight-foot-long replica of the RMS Segwun steamship, made entirely out of Lego!

4. Even after Canada’s 144th birthday bash, you can keep your weekend rocking with Canadian music legend Kim Mitchell, who plays The Kee to Bala on July 2.

5. Art lovers are not forgotten either—from July 1 to 4, Sean George Pressed Glass presents its 10th annual Muskoka Antique Glass Show and Sale at Port Carling Memorial Community Centre. Here you’ll find many unique examples of early functional and decorative glassware.

6. In Parry Sound, concertgoers get two energetic acts for the price of one on July 2, as the Stockey Centre presents a “Jazz 2 Funk” show featuring the Skyliners Big Band and award-winning fusion group Coldjack.

7. The ever-popular Huntsville Festival of the Arts officially kicks off July 2 with a performance by renowned Native American musician Arvel Bird, whose tunes combine the influence of Appalachian, bluegrass, Celtic, blues and even classical styles.

The Muskoka Seven: Things to Do from June 20 to 26

Learn about a Boston Bruins legend at the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame

1. With due respect to our fellow Canadians out west, it’s no secret that many Ontarians were cheering on the Boston Bruins during the recently completed Stanley Cup finals. Now that the Original Six squad has emerged victorious, why not visit the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame in Parry Sound to pay homage to one of the legends of that storied NHL franchise.

2. Get ready to get laughing at the Cottage Country Comedy Festival, which brings a number of top stand-up comedians to venues throughout Muskoka from June 23 to 25.

3. Has your bicycle accompanied you up north? If you’re eager to get out for a scenic ride, the Muskoka Cycling Club has kindly charted a number of road routes, between 40 and 90 kilometres in length. They even detail a couple of excellent, rugged trails for mountain bike enthusiasts.

4. The weekend of June 25 and 26 calls for a tour of the Muskoka Lakes region, which welcomes guests to many of its most interesting buildings as part of this year’s Doors Open. On Saturday, head to Bala, Port Carling and Windermere to partake in tours of venues such as Bala’s Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery and the boathouse of Muskoka Launch Livery. Gravenhurst opens the doors to such attractions as the Gravenhurst Opera House on Sunday.

5. Take the kids to The Rosseau, a JW Marriott Resort and Spa on June 25 and 26 for the annual Kaleidoscope Children’s Festival, featuring art workshops, musical and theatre performances, buskers, clowns and more.

6. Gravenhurst’s Music on the Barge music series continues this Sunday evening with a performance by the Bifocals Concert Band.

7. Did your Fathers Day gift fall flat last weekend? Make amends by treating dad to dinner at Bracebridge’s highly rated One Fifty Five restaurant, where chef Michael Rickard serves up fresh, seasonal fine-dining fare.

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 30 to June 5

Cruise the lakes of Muskoka on the RMS Segwun

1. Embrace the warm weather and life on the water with a cruise aboard the historic RMS Segwun. The late-19th century steamship takes passengers on one- to four-hour sightseeing cruises around Lake Muskoka. The lunch and dinner cruise options are especially popular.

2. Should you find yourself closer to Parry Sound, scope out a seat on the patio at recently opened restaurant Kudos Kuisine. Its contemporary digs overlook the Parry Sound harbour.

3. Head to the Algonquin Theatre in Huntsville on June 1. The Reel Paddling Film Festival—featuring films that showcase canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more—offers ample inspiration to get out on the water.

4. Lovers of literature can partake in a weekend of the written word at the Muskoka Chatauqua Reading Circle‘s “Secrets and Guilt” event at The Rosseau, a J.W. Marriott Resort and Spa. Among the many notable participants are Giller Prize-winner Linden MacIntyre, Globe and Mail columnist John Ibbitson, and CBC Radio host Carol Off.

5. Pull out your best rod, reel and lures and attempt to land the big one—June is prime time to fish for pike and walleye. In need of an expert to help you find the fish? Consider booking some time with Captain Action Charters.

6. Strap that camera around your neck and climb to the top of the Dorset Lookout Tower. This 30-metre-high structure offers a panoramic view of the Lake of Bays—a memorable vista that’s sure to make for a lovely photographic souvenir.

7. There’s never a wrong time to go golfing in Muskoka. This week, why not test your skills on what is arguably the region’s most feared hole: the par-four 16th at South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club, which demands pinpoint accuracy.

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 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 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.

Hot Date: Summertime Tunes

The Stockey Centre hosts numerous musicians during the Festival of the Sound

JULY 16 TO AUGUST 8 During the past three decades, the Festival of the Sound has introduced Parry Sound audiences to hundreds of Canadian and international musicians. This year promises more melodious marvels at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts. A highlight for 2010 is the Jazz Canada Weekend from July 31 to August 2, which delves into everything from swing standards to movie themes performed by such respected ensembles as the Graham Campbell Quartet and the Dave Young Big Band. Tickets up to $42, some shows free; call 1-866-364-0061 or click here for showtimes.

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.

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, 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.

Weekend Roundup, June 19 to 21

Greet the beginning of summer in Muskoka with open-air activities and indoor indulgences.

Friday, June 19
Discover the glacier-sculpted islands and remote ruggedness of Georgian Bay on a two-hour Island Queen Cruise.

Upon a sturdy Icelandic horse, gallop through the Almaguin Highlands and along the pristine shores of Newell Lake at Clear Lake Farm.

Saturday, June 20
Stimulate your senses with cottage air, country fare and cold cream ale on a tour of Lakes of Muskoka Cottage Brewery.

Delight in the decadence of the Summerside Surf and Turf Kitchen Party, where you’ll find fresh lobster, succulent steak, an oyster bar, salads and a side of East Coast entertainment at Parry Sound’s Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

Sunday, June 21
Take in the tranquil terrain of pink-granite rock walls and verdant valleys while you tee off into the sunset at the Lake Joseph Club.

Soak up some sun and celebrate Father’s Day at Gravenhurst’s Gull Lake Park while enjoying toe-tapping Music on the Barge.

Hot Date—Festival of the Sound

Canadian Brass

July 17 to August 9 The Festival of the Sound extols 30 years of bringing classical music to the delighted ears of Parry Sound residents. Held primarily at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, the lineup encompasses more than 200 artists from all over the world—including the Netherlands and Spain—specializing in jazz, choral, opera and orchestral music. Highlights include shows by the ever-popular quintet Canadian Brass on July 18 and the Festival Chamber Orchestra on July 25 and August 9. Tickets $19 to $40; call 1-866-364-0061 for a list of events