Holiday Magic by Candlelight at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine
This Year’s First Light to Include Two Landmark Destinations
November 13, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – First Light is an award-winning holiday event featuring live musical performances, an extensive artisan market, and family activities—all illuminated by thousands of candles. This year, the candlelit holiday magic will include two landmark destinations for the price of one: Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine.
The reconstructed 17th-century mission will be transformed into a magical holiday experience, and Canada’s early church will also be fully illuminated, hosting family fun for all. The beloved First Light has been extended to include Sunday evenings and will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m on November 21-24, November 28 to December 1, and December 5-8.
“This year’s First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine is a great way to start the holiday season, and a great reason to visit Midland with friends and family,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “First Light is a one-of-a-kind, magical winter experience for people of all ages. Take your loved ones and learn about the early Church in Canada and enjoy the festive sights, sounds, and tastes of the season – all lit by candlelight in two beautiful, historical settings.”
All 12 evenings will offer a rich tapestry of festive activities and experiences for guests to enjoy and each weeknight also includes a special feature, allowing guests to choose their own candlelit adventure:
- Thursdays: World-class fireworks, visible from both Sainte-Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine, will light up the winter night sky at 7 p.m. Community choirs will perform holiday tunes at 6 and 7:15 p.m.
- Fridays: Neil Monague will share traditional First Nations stories and hand-drumming by the fire in the longhouse, offering a cultural experience guests are sure to enjoy.
- Saturdays: Francophone sensation Ariko, featuring the Lefaive family, will perform a great mix of traditional and original toe-tapping French fiddle tunes in the Sainte-Marie theatre.
- Sundays: Mark the start of Christian Advent by participating in a special Mass inside the gorgeous Martyrs’ Shrine at 7:30 p.m.
Guided by lantern-lit pathways, visitors at Sainte-Marie will enjoy historic buildings adorned for the holiday season with fresh greenery and festive décor—all bathed in the beautiful amber glow of cozy fires and more than 5,000 candles. The Martyrs’ Shrine will offer a festive lights experience, illuminating the church’s beautiful grounds, including a pedestrian-only market-style square and warming stations.
“Every year, First Light offers visitors the opportunity to kick off their festive season,” says Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “Reinvigorating our partnership with Martyrs’ Shrine allows us to offer even more magic and activities to enjoy.”
Returning performers include Ruth Sutherland, playing traditional harp music in the historic Church of Saint-Joseph on select nights; hand drumming by Chris Walser in the longhouse; and the energetic fan favorite, Doug Feaver, performing holiday folk tunes in the chapel. Families will enjoy kid-friendly crafts at both locations, candle-making and blacksmithing demonstrations, storytelling, opportunities to meet Saint Nicholas at the Martyrs’ Shrine and much more.
For those who love holiday shopping, more than 50 exceptional crafters and artisans will be located throughout the Brébeuf Event Centre and indoor museum at Sainte-Marie. Gift shops at Sainte-Marie and Martyrs’ Shrine will also be open, offering charming holiday finds.
“First Light, for us, is an exciting time for families to come and celebrate the light of Advent and Christmas,” said Father John O’Brien, Director of Martyrs’ Shrine. “Canada’s first Christmas carol was composed here, so it’s an incredibly rich, historic, and beautiful place to enter the spirit of the season.”
Restaurant Sainte-Marie will be open, offering multiple mouthwatering options, including an indoor dining experience featuring a traditional holiday meal. The Canadiana Patio, a visitor favorite, will offer quick-serve options. New this year: experience First Light like never before inside new dining domes, providing a meal under the stars, available by reservation only. Call 705-321-2912 to make a reservation. Hot chocolate, cotton candy, freshly popped popcorn and sweet treats will also be available for purchase in Sainte-Marie’s on-site candy shop.
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons asks that visitors bring non-perishable food donations, with the goal of filling a large canoe in support of the local Salvation Army Food Drive. Guests are also invited to support our community by making a donation to United Way.
Parking will be available at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Martyrs’ Shrine, with shuttles traveling between the two destinations throughout each First Light evening. On Friday and Saturday evenings, shuttle buses will run to and from Sainte-Marie from Midland’s Walmart.
Huronia Historical Parks would like to thank the generosity of lead sponsors Tay Township and NT Power, as well as Garraways Electrical and Factory Recreation. In-kind donations from Morden Sand and Gravel, Midland Walmart and the Georgian Bay Tree Farm also help to ensure that every guest enjoys this festive and memorable event to the fullest.
For more information or to buy tickets online for First Light, please visit SainteMarie-events.ca. Tickets can also be purchased at the door at both destinations. Guests are not required to make a reservation or purchase advance tickets.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- Lanterns with candles line the paths at historic Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
- The Martyrs’ Shrine will be offering a festive lights display
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive
Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
Tyler King, Manager, Marketing and Communications
Martyrs’ Shrine
705-526-3788 x237｜tking@martyrs-shrine.com
Sainte-Marie celebrates harvest season with fall family fun
Historic mission hosts timeless celebration of autumn Thanksgiving weekend
October 10, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – This October 12 to 14, the grounds of Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons will transform into a charming backdrop for a vibrant tapestry of autumnal activities at the annual Hometown Harvest Festival. This year’s event promises to be more exhilarating and immersive than ever, combining cherished traditions with fun new fall experiences for guests of all ages.
“This long weekend, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is showcasing the wonder of fall at its annual Hometown Harvest Festival – a must-see holiday event for people of all ages,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “With a variety of fun fall activities, unique food experiences, and exceptional sights steeped in history, this family-friendly event offers the perfect opportunity to make new memories as you celebrate the joys of Thanksgiving.”
Pull on a cozy sweater and visit the historic mission from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to wander an expansive artisan market brimming with local, handcrafted treasures. Explore over 30 unique booths offering everything from delectable baked goods to exquisite jewellery.
Get ready for an adventure through time with a new family scavenger hunt for artifacts. Take part in captivating historical demonstrations and test your lacrosse skills, or make your own hand-dipped candles. Enjoy toe-tapping live performances by children’s music sensation Russ Clayton. Engage in colossal games of pumpkin checkers, gourd tic tac toe and corn darts.
Also new this year is a brand-new outdoor beer garden, hosted by Restaurant Sainte-Marie. Located right on the historic site, amongst historical buildings, this vibrant space lets parents kick back and savor the moment while keeping an eye on their kids as they enjoy historic games and crafts. But that’s not all—prepare your taste buds for a treat! The restaurant will be debuting an exclusive lager crafted just for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons by the talented brewers at Quayle’s Brewery. Known for their innovative approach to craft beers, Quayle’s is sure to deliver a brew that perfectly complements the historic atmosphere.
The festival wouldn’t be complete without beloved classic attractions, including opportunities to tour Sainte-Marie’s barns and meet heritage animals, savour mouthwatering three sisters’ soup prepared in the historic cookhouse, and roast delicious bannock over an open fire.
Sainte-Marie’s historical buildings will also be beautifully dressed up for the fall with heritage gourds and locally harvest seasonal foliage so that guests are truly immersed in the captivating hues of the fall season.
“This festival is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to gather, embrace the bounties of the harvest, and connect with the rich traditions of our past,” says Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “I can’t wait to see the creativity and spirit of our young gardeners in the vegetable growing contests!”
Restaurant Sainte-Marie will serve up a sumptuous Thanksgiving feast featuring tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and all the trimmings from noon to 8 p.m. Reservations are encouraged, and the full menu is available at SainteMarie-events.ca.
Young festival-goers are invited to showcase their harvest and artistic creations! Submit entries by October 10 in categories like “Most Unusual Vegetable,” “Best Looking Squash” and “Best Paper Plate Pumpkin art.”
Submissions will be judged by Sainte-Marie’s Agricultural Specialist, Madelaine MacDonald. The winner in each category will receive four tickets to First Light at Sainte-Marie, as well as four tickets to Pumpkinferno at Discovery Harbour – a total value of $120 per prize. The overall winner – across all categories – will receive four season passes to Huronia Historical Parks, valid for most events at both historic sites throughout the 2025-26 season!
Admission for the Hometown Harvest Festival is just $15 per person, taxes included. Advanced tickets are not required but may allow guests to skip the line upon arrival. Tickets and details are available at SainteMarie-events.ca.
Take part in a historical autumn adventure at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons – where history comes alive.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- A historical interpreter roasts a duck over a fire at Sainte-Marie’s Hometown Harvest Festival
- Guests of all ages are invited to make candles using the traditional dipping method
- The event features an extensive artisan market featuring only local and hand-made items
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: A time for reflection and learning at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Historic site to offer free programming in-person and online
September 29, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, a historic site dedicated to education, will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by hosting free in-person and online learning programs.
This day, held annually on September 30, is an opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on the profound impact of the residential school system; honour the resilience, dignity and strength of survivors and intergenerational survivors; and remember the children who never came home.
“September 30 is an important day of reflection and remembrance – as well as a chance to seek a deeper understanding of Indigenous history through education and listening to the experiences of survivors and their descendants,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “The programming at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons empowers us to learn about the impacts of Indian Residential Schools in Ontario, as well as the unique cultures of Indigenous Peoples, as we further our efforts to advance reconciliation.”
The in-person commemorative event on September 30 at Sainte-Marie invites all guests to go on a journey of self-reflection. It begins with a sunrise ceremony at 6 a.m., led by Troy Monague of Beausoleil First Nation. A sacred fire will be lit the morning and maintained throughout the day by two firekeepers.
The sunrise ceremony will be followed by a guided tour, a raising of the survivor flag, as well as conversations with Indian day school survivor Marilyn Hopkins. Residential school survivor voices and stories will be aired inside the theatre, as well as in historic buildings. Guests will also have opportunities to learn about the 94 calls to action developed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
“As Ontarians, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are important opportunities to deepen our collective understanding and hear firsthand from Survivors and the families of the thousands of children who never made it home,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “Through its thoughtful programming, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is supporting visitors with their reflection on the importance of reconciliation with Indigenous people.”
Free in-person programming
- Location: Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, 16164 Hwy 12 West, Midland, Ontario
- Date: September 30, 2024
- Time: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“On this solemn day of commemoration, our goal is to foster understanding, empathy and respect by amplifying Indigenous voices and perspectives,” explains Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “Our hope is that by offering free admission more people can learn about the path toward truth and reconciliation.”
The free online program features several Indigenous speakers – including lawyer and author Michelle Good, storyteller Sherry Lawson, as well as local leader Dr. Cynthia Wesley Esquimaux – sharing their thoughts on topics such as honouring survivors, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, and allyship.
Select videos are available at HHP-events.ca until September 29 as part of Indigenous Art and Culture Awareness Week, led by the Cultural Alliance in the Heart of Georgian Bay. A live event will take place on September 30, starting with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. All presentations will be available for learners to view on-demand from October 1 to 4 at HHP-events.ca.
Free online programming
- Dates: Select videos until September 29, live event September 30 starting at 10 a.m., and on-demand videos October 1 to 4
- Link: Register, watch and participate at HHP-events.ca
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons has been marking Orange Shirt Day – now the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – for several years.
“We too are on a journey toward truth and reconciliation,” explains Chad Moreau, Manager of Operators for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons. “We believe all Canadians have a role to play in learning about residential schools and in healing relationships with Indigenous peoples.”
For more information about Sainte-Marie’s free National Day for Truth and Reconciliation learning programs, visit SainteMarie-events.ca.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- The survivor flag will be raised at Sainte-Marie on September 30
- Guests are invited to reflect on the legacy of residential schools by writing their thoughts on paper orange T-shirts
- The indoor museum features an exhibit on the 94 calls to action, including 94 small pairs of moccasins hanging from the ceiling
- Restaurant Sainte-Marie will offer a brunch option starting at 8 a.m. for those wishing to purchase something to eat
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
Sainte-Marie welcomes more than 1,500 people for National Indigenous Peoples Day
July 9, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – On June 21, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons once again transformed its historic site, museum and grounds into a platform for First Nations and Métis cultural teaching and learning. National Indigenous Peoples Day at this landmark attraction celebrated and showcased the talents of Indigenous drummers, storytellers, singers, artists and experts.
The celebration welcomed more than 1,500 people, including approximately 1,000 students from Ontario schools, providing a unique opportunity for these young learners to engage with Indigenous knowledge keepers and Sainte-Marie’s historical interpreters, enriching their understanding of history and culture.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to come together to celebrate the diversity and richness of Indigenous history, heritage and traditions,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Congratulations to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons for hosting such a successful event, with unique and insightful in-person and online programming that inspired visitors to learn all about Métis and First Nations cultures.”
“Congratulations to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons for hosting another inspiring National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration. This event not only highlights the vibrant cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples but also fosters invaluable opportunities for Ontarians, particularly youth, to engage directly with Indigenous knowledge and traditions,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “Initiatives like these play a crucial role in promoting cultural awareness and understanding across our province.”
In addition to watching performances, participants were invited to enjoy hands-on activities: playing lacrosse, building corn husk figures and crafting clay pinch pots. Indigenous ingenuity was on full display, as experts demonstrated birchbark canoe building, survival in the bush skills, as well as basketry techniques. New this year were local Métis storyteller Basile Dorion and Smoke Trail Cultural Group, a large drum group from Alderville First Nation.
“To me, National Indigenous Peoples Day at Sainte-Marie is an occasion to gather and celebrate First Nations and Métis cultures in the spirit of knowledge sharing,” says Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “It’s an opportunity for all of us to learn about and to recognize the many diverse achievements of Indigenous peoples.”
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons also offered a free online event with virtual sessions ranging from hand drum construction to Indigenous fusion cooking with traditional ingredients. More than 20,000 people tuned in to access the educational platform and learn more about Indigenous cultural teachings.
“Each and every day, it’s important we recognize the many contributions and accomplishments of Indigenous people, which is why learning related to First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures, histories, perspectives and contributions is now embedded across recently issued curricula for elementary and high school students,” said Todd Smith, Minister of Education. “Working with diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit educators, Elders, Knowledge Holders and Indigenous partners, we look forward to building on these new learning opportunities and celebrations like this one as we continue to advance meaningful reconciliation.”
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a heritage facility primarily dedicated to education. The attraction was founded in 1967 to share the important story of cultural contact between French Jesuits and the Wendat Nation in the 1600s. Today, Sainte-Marie also recognizes its role in building cultural understanding and providing educational opportunities.
“We believe in using our public platform to educate and engage,” says Chad Moreau, Manager of Operations at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons. “Through the building of partnerships with Indigenous and Métis presenters, as well as with local Indigenous organizations, we were able to present a program that celebrated Indigenous cultures on this special day.”
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- Chris Walser of Beausoleil First Nation offers hand drum performances in the longhouse at Sainte-Marie on National Indigenous Peoples Day in 2024.
- Smoke Trail Drum Group of Alderville First Nation offers dance and singing performances attended by hundreds of Ontario students.
- A student enjoys a lacrosse workshop as part of an educational program at Sainte-Marie in 2022.
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons launches summer evening experience
July 4, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – What does a 17th century Jesuit mission look like at night? Sainte-Marie among the Hurons invites you to find out! Shadows & Stone: Evening Experience will take small groups of people through the national historic site at sunset on Thursdays until August 29, 2024.
Shadows & Stone: Evening Experience invites guests to explore darkened historical buildings, roast bannock over a fire, watch sparks fly in the blacksmith shop and imagine what the settlement of Wendake would have been like at night in the 1600s. The two-hour tour ends with an opportunity to sip historic teas and listen to traditional Indigenous stories in the cozy longhouse.
“This is a rare opportunity to experience Sainte-Marie at night, without the crowds,” explains Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “Our goal is to offer small groups of guests an immersive, intimate and unforgettable historical experience.”
Tickets for Shadows & Stone: Evening Experience are $20 per person, tax included. Tours begin at 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in English, and at 9 p.m. in French. Advanced ticket purchases are highly recommended as spaces for these evening tours are limited.
“First Light illuminates the reconstructed mission with thousands of candles, but this tour is truer to the lived experience of Wendake in the 1630s,” said Chad Moreau, Operations Manager of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons. “Candles were expensive in that era, so the residents of Sainte-Marie would have gone through their evening routines in relative darkness.”
Guests can buy tickets and learn more about Shadows & Stone: Evening Experience at SainteMarie-events.ca.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- Guests will have the opportunity to sit around a fire and listen to First Nations legends in the longhouse
- Historical interpreters guide visitors through candlelit buildings during the Shadows & Stone experience
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
Discovery Harbour and Sainte-Marie open for the season
Historic sites planning several new adventures for guests this summer
Penetanguishene and Midland, ON, May 16, 2024 – Discovery Harbour and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons are open for the summer season. These living history museums offer visitors a captivating journey through time, welcoming guests daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
With immersive experiences, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to explore authentic historical settings, both sites promise an enriching time travel adventure for all who step through their doors. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families and history enthusiasts to delve into Canada’s past and create lasting memories.
“Huronia Historical Parks’ two premier living-history attractions offer unique, family-friendly experiences for visitors of all ages,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “With new, exciting events and activities at both sites, I encourage everyone to visit Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind, made-in-Ontario cultural experience.”
Discovery Harbour invites visitors to uncover fascinating tales of 19th century naval and military history. It beckons adventurers of all ages to explore the lives of sailors and soldiers who lived at what was once a remote outpost. Time travellers are sure to enjoy viewing the tall ship H.M.S. Bee, exploring the original Officer’s Quarters, and taking in the hull of the H.M.S. Tecumseth, pulled from the depths of Georgian Bay. In July and August, Discovery Harbour will also offer a treasure trove of engaging activities including black powder musket firing demonstrations, sea shanties, and rope work.
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons offers an opportunity to step into the 17th century and discover a story of cultural contact, determination and survival. Ontario’s first European community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit mission to the Huron-Wendat Nation. Today, guests can explore the reconstructed mission, connect with costumed historical interpreters, and enjoy fascinating historical demonstrations. The experience also includes an introductory video, indoor museum and gift shop.
“With beautiful locations on Georgian Bay and the Wye River, these historical attractions are perfect destinations for families looking for a fun day trip, history buffs hoping to immerse themselves in the past, or anyone seeking a memorable summer adventure,” says Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks, the organization managing both attractions.
New this summer are the addition of daily guided tours in July and August. Led by historical interpreters in both English and French, these experiences offer further insights into the events and innovations that shaped the daily lives of the people stationed at these two historical locations.
Those seeking an extra dose excitement should check out evening experiences available at both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour in July and August. Ghost Tours, happening Saturday nights at Discovery Harbour, offer spine-tingling stories of the reportedly haunted Penetanguishene Naval and Military Establishments. Shadows and Stone, a new Thursday night experience at Sainte-Marie, invites guests to explore the historic mission by lamplight.
“It’s one thing to walk through a historic site in broad daylight, and quite another to experience the sights and sounds of the past at night,” says Baird. “These historical locations take on a new dimension in the dark.”
For guests looking to experience a little intrigue, the Bo’sun’s Brig: Escape Room at Discovery Harbour awaits. Starting May 18, this immersive experience invites guests to test their wits and unravel clues and puzzles in a race against the clock. With English sessions available seven days a week and French sessions offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, adventurers of all backgrounds can partake in this exhilarating challenge.
In addition to all of this historical fun, both sites are hosting events this summer including National Indigenous Peoples Day at Sainte-Marie on June 21, and Pirates of the Bay on August 3 at Discovery Harbour.
Don’t miss your chance to experience living history this summer season. For more information and to plan your visit, please visit hhp.on.ca.
Huronia Historical Parks receives four Festival and Events Ontario Awards
Pumpkinferno, First Light, and Pirates of the Bay named top 100 events; National Day for Truth and Reconciliation program receives new FEO Impact Award
March 27, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – Huronia Historical Parks has once again been honoured with awards by Festival and Events Ontario (FEO), earning top 100 events designations for Pumpkinferno and Pirates of the Bay at Discovery Harbour, as well as First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons. Sainte-Marie’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation programming received the first ever FEO Impact Award.
Submissions were received by Festival and Events Ontario in fall 2023 and were assessed by an independent panel of judges. They showcased festivals and events of various types, hailing from every part of Ontario – from community festivals to internationally-recognized events. Awards were handed out during FEO’s Annual Conference and Gala in Niagara Falls, on February 28, 2024.
The new FEO Impact Award recognizes achievement from a festival or event that embodies the best ideas to: advance cultural diversity and inclusion; empower or engage marginalized communities; increase social impact; or offer leadership in truth and reconciliation.
On September 30, the team at Sainte-Marie worked to highlight the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as described by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Call to Action #80: honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.
The National Historic Site offered opportunities for reflection, commemoration, and learning, both in-person and online, at no cost to participants. The in-person program included raising the survivor flag, a smudging ceremony, film screenings, and an exhibit on the 94 calls to action. The online program featured sessions led by Indigenous leaders and speakers on the topic of residential schools, their tragic legacies, and the pathway forward.
“We too are on a path toward Truth and Reconciliation, as an organization” said Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “This program is one way we are working to contribute to this nation-wide effort to heal relationships with Indigenous peoples while creating opportunities for learning and dialogue.”
The FEO Top 100 Festivals & Events Award is recognized by festival goers, peers, and government officials alike as Ontario’s leading source of quality festivals and events happening across the province.
Sainte-Marie was recognized for the 23rd in-person edition of First Light. Discovery Harbour received the designation for the 8th annual Pumpkinferno. Both events have received this award in the past. They are fan favourites, together drawing more than 26,000 guests in 2023.
Pirates of the Bay was a new addition to the top 100 list. Discovery Harbour’s swashbuckling adventure included staged skirmishes, canon fire, (temporary) tattoos, pirate-themed crafts, and of course opportunities to explore two “pirate” ships.
First Light offers magical experience for visitors by lighting thousands of candles throughout the historic site while creating opportunities for fun: live musical performances, dynamic historical demonstrations, and crafts for kids.
Pumpkinferno consists of more than 5,000 hand-crafted synthetic, realistic-looking pumpkins, with displays of up to 40’ in size. Historical buildings and displays are transformed to offer spooky experiences such as the Macabre Manor, Grim Reaper’s Grove, and more.
Baird expresses pride in these events, highlighting their distinctive offerings that provide guests with the opportunity to savor seasonal enchantment within a historical context.
When asked why Huronia Historical Parks’ events continue to garner accolades and awards, Candice Moreau, Manager of Marketing and Visitor Services explains: “For many, these events have become cherished family traditions. We take great care to preserve the elements that people love the most, while also ensuring freshness by introducing a new twist each year.”
Dates for these three award-winning Huronia Historical Parks experiences have just been set for 2024:
- Pirates of the Bay: Saturday, August 3
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Monday, September 30
- Pumpkinferno: October 2 to November 2, Wednesdays through Sundays
- First Light: November 21 to December 8, Thursdays through Sundays
To learn more about these and other events, visit DiscoveryHarbour-events.ca or SainteMarie-events.ca.
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- A pirate family showcases their swagger at Discovery Harbour’s Pirates of the Bay
- The survivor flag flying at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons on September 30
- A family walks through artificial pumpkin displays at Discovery Harbour’s Pumpkinferno
- Jennifer Brunelle tells stories in the longhouse during First Light at Sainte-Marie
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564 OR Melissa Elsdon, Coordinator, Marketing and Media Relations, Discovery Harbour, melissa.elsdon@ontario.ca and 705-427-4832
Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie on tap to co-host Sweetwater Harvest Festival for a second year
March 11, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre’s Sweetwater Harvest Festival – the non-profit’s biggest event of the year – will once again include a dynamic collaboration with neighbouring attraction Sainte-Marie among the Hurons.
Maple syrup tasting is an iconic Ontario activity, and a springtime must,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “I encourage visitors and locals to plan a visit to the Sweetwater Harvest Festival, a family-friendly event that celebrates maple syrup season and offers crafts, good food and outdoor fun at two of Simcoe County’s finest attractions.”
The annual maple syrup-themed festival will take place March 23 to 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last admission at 2:30 p.m. Family-friendly activities will be on tap at both sites, including sugar shack demonstrations, maple taffy, an artisan market, and take-home crafts for kids.
“The Sweetwater Harvest Festival offers the opportunity to welcome the return of spring, and celebrate maple syrup – one of the season’s sweetest offerings,” says Kim Hacker, Executive Director, Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. “There is nothing like smelling Bannock cooking over a wood fire, tasting maple taffy rolled on snow, and seeing the generations of families enjoying time together outdoors.”
This is the second year that the Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie have worked together to co-host the Sweetwater Harvest Festival, but collaboration is nothing new for these two organizations that share an entrance off Highway 12, in Midland. They also work together to offer educational experiences throughout the year.
“We’re delighted to partner with the Wye Marsh in celebrating the region’s natural and cultural heritage,” says Will Baird, General Manager, Huronia Historical Parks. “With an expanded list of activities at both locations, this event will offer opportunities for enjoyment for people of all ages.”
Activities at the Wye Marsh will include trekking through the sugar bush, sugar shack demonstrations, maple taffy on ice, roasting bannock on a stick, a new syrup-tasting challenge, a kids zone full of activities, presentations by Indigenous knowledge keepers, a chance to learn about birds of prey and trumpeter swans, and of course, opportunities to purchase locally-made maple syrup.
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will host more than 20 artisans at the Sweetwater Arts and Crafts Market in addition to offering indoor and outdoor scavenger hunts, cornbread in the cookhouse, opportunities to try on historical clothing, playing Indigenous games, stories in the longhouse, tasting historic teas, as well as take-home crafts like corn husk dolls and clay pots.
Tickets for the Sweetwater Harvest Festival must be purchased online at WyeMarsh.com/Sweetwater but no advance purchase is necessary. Guests can save $5 per ticket by purchasing admission before 4 p.m. on March 18.
The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons would like to thank their sponsors, who helped to make this event possible: Windlee Farms, Telequip, Team Jordan and Charles Morden Construction Inc.
Friends of Wye Marsh is a not-for-profit charitable organization taking care of 3,000 acres of provincially significant wetlands and federal forests in the Heart of Georgian Bay. This National Wildlife Area and recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) provides habitat for a number of significant species including provincially Threatened Least Bitterns, Species of Special Concern Black Terns, and the famous Trumpeter Swans. Wye Marsh is the perfect place to Escape – Explore – Experience the area’s natural history as the site includes 25 km of all-season trails, a Birds of Prey field, and Visitors Centre!
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- Two young guests enjoying maple taffy at the Sweetwater Harvest Festival
- Wye Marsh guests standing around a fire and roasting Bannock on a stick
- Dave Robertson stokes the evaporator, while making maple syrup at Wye Marsh
- A historical interpreter at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons serving tea
- A guest works with clay inside the museum at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
MEDIA CONTACTS: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, 16164 Highway 12 East, PO Box 100, Midland ON, L4R 4K6 Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
Kim Hacker, Executive Director, Friends of Wye Marsh, 16160 Highway 12 East, PO Box 100, Midland ON, L4R 4K6, khacker@wyemarsh.com and 705-526-7809 ext 201
New March Break event at Sainte-Marie offers opportunity for time travel
March 5, 2024
MIDLAND, ON – From March 11 to 15, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons invites families to check out Adventures in Time Travel, an opportunity to experience life in Wendake in 1639. Guests will try historical craftwork, taste cornbread and bannock, put on 17th century clothing, find and learn about artefacts, and much more. The best part? No time machine required!
Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will offer the opportunity to explore the reconstructed historic settlement – featuring the blacksmith shop, longhouse and Church of Saint-Joseph as part of this March Break experience.
The Adventures in Time program includes a dynamic blend of both indoor and outdoor activities. Indoor pursuits include the crafting of corn husk figures and clay pots. Outside, guests will try their hands at Indigenous games, including lacrosse. Additionally, scheduled presentations will offer opportunities to savor historic teas, absorb Indigenous stories in the longhouse, and witness captivating 17th-century firestarting demonstrations.
“Sainte-Marie is a captivating destination year-round, but there’s a truly enthralling aspect to delving into 17th-century winter living conditions in this secluded community. I believe our guests are in for a remarkable experience.”
– Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks
Given that many activities will occur outdoors, guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather. The Flint & Timber Gift Shop will offer snacks and hot chocolate, and visitors are welcome to bring a picnic lunch, with seating available in the restaurant.
Tickets for Adventures in Time Travel are $12 per person, tax included. Sainte-Marie offers free admission to children five and under, as well as a support person accompanying a paying guest with a disability. First Nations, Métis and Inuit visitors, as well as members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Ontario Teachers, can also access this event for free with valid ID.
Visitors can learn more about Adventures in Time Travel, and buy tickets, at saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events.
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Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 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 fenced community that included workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. It was abandoned and burned down in 1649. Thanks to extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, events, education programs and more.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
- Three young visitors playing a First Nations game in the longhouse
- Guests will enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the reconstructed mission in the winter
MEDIA CONTACT: Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing and Media Relations Coordinator, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons 16164 Highway 12 East, PO Box 100, Midland ON, L4R 4K6 Mikaela.lefaive@ontario.ca and 705-427-2564
