Welcome to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. In 1639, the Jesuits, along with French lay workers, began construction of a palisaded community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. By 1648, Sainte-Marie was home to 66 French men — one-fifth of the entire population of New France. Sainte-Marie’s history ended in 1649, when members of the mission community were forced to abandon and burn their home of ten years.
Hours of operation
This impressive reconstructed 17th-century mission – staffed by knowledgeable and friendly costumed interpreters – is open daily, rain or shine, until Oct. 8, from 10 am to 5 pm. This includes statutory holidays. Allocate approximately 1.5 hours for your visit. We recommend you download the Huronia Historical Parks app for a full audio tour. Dogs welcome!
Day for Truth and reconciliation
Sainte-Marie invites you on a journey of self-reflection: observing, learning from, and connecting with Indigenous speakers and cultural specialists, in the spirit of education and awareness. Visit the historic site in person or connect with us online for free virtual learning. These commemorative programs are free to all.
Hometown Harvest Festival
Celebrate the abundance of the fall season at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons! Experience the beauty of the harvest with take-home crafts and family-friendly activities. Explore the historic site, decorated for autumn. Meet our friendly heritage animals. Support more than 30 talented local artisans at our vendor market, featuring only hand-made items.
Season passes
For just $35 tax included, season pass holders gain unlimited admission to both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour, whenever the historic attractions are open, from April 1 to March 31! This includes admission to special events (except specialized activities) like First Light and Pumpkinferno.
Sign up for our newsletter
Sign up for our newsletter and be in the know! Get early notice about your favourite events at Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour. Pick up interesting historical facts. Hear about discounts. Find out about career opportunities. Learn about new activities at both historic sites.
Education & Camp programs
We’re now booking 2023 fall and winter programs! This nationally-significant historic attraction has been offering students curriculum-rich, engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for more than 50 years. Help bring history to life for your students in-person or online!
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