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 8^th 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.

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.

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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Hometown Harvest Festival at Sainte-Marie offers fall family fun

November 8, 2023

MIDLAND, ON – First Light is returning to historic Sainte-Marie among the Hurons in Midland, Ontario. Huronia Historical Parks will transform the reconstructed 17^th century mission into a magical holiday experience, illuminating the historic site with thousands of candles. The event will take place over three weekends this year: November 16 to 18, November 23 to 25 and November 30 to December 2 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Guests will make festive memories as First Light transports them back in time to a world of holiday charm with live musical performers, unique activities, and lively historic demonstrations. Guided by lantern-lit pathways, visitors will enjoy the historic buildings, dressed up 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.

“First Light at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a magical, one-of-a-kind experience for people of all ages in a beautiful, historical setting. The variety of sights, family friendly events and activities will create life-long memories for all visitors. It should be a part of everyone’s winter season plans.”

– Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

For those who enjoy holiday shopping, more than 40 exceptional crafters and artisans will be located throughout the Brébeuf Event Centre, indoor museum and grounds. Sainte-Marie’s Flint and Timber Gift Shop will also be open and offering charming holiday finds, including souvenir First Light travel mugs.

Returning performers include Ruth Sutherland playing traditional harp music in the historic Church of Saint-Joseph, hand drumming by Chris Walser in the longhouse, and the energetic fan favourite, Doug Feaver, performing holiday folk tunes in the restaurant. Activities for families include quill pen writing, candle-making demonstrations, storytelling and much more.

Guests will be invited to cozy up to their loved ones outside as fireworks light up the night on Friday evenings at 7 p.m.

The Martyrs Shrine’s Big Canoe Food Truck and local favourite Grounded Coffee Co, will offer a unique foodie experience on the Sainte-Marie patio. Hot chocolate and freshly popped popcorn will also be available for purchase on the historic site and in the restaurant.

“I’ve experienced First Light many times, and it always manages to bring that touch of holiday magic to the festive season. There’s a reason so many families choose to make it an annual tradition.”

-Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks

First Light has strong ties to community groups, and many will be involved in this year’s celebration. Community choirs will lift holiday spirits with performances on November 16, 23 and 30. Community organizations like the Wye Marsh will be offering presentations and demonstrations throughout the event. Sainte-Marie among the Hurons also 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.

Huronia Historical Parks would also like to thank the generosity of sponsors: Tay Township, Newmarket Tay Hydro, Bourgeois Midland Nissan, Factory Recreation, Garraway’s Electrical Services, Charles Morden Construction Inc, H.S. St. Amant & Sons Inc., Fred Hook Ltd., Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc., Georgian Bay Tree Farms as well as KoolFM and Rock95.

Parking will be available at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, as well as Walmart in Midland, where shuttle buses will be running throughout each of the nine evenings.

For more information, or to buy tickets for First Light, please visit SainteMarie-events.ca. Walk-ins are also welcome. Guests aren’t required to make a reservation or purchase advance tickets.

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Hometown Harvest Festival at Sainte-Marie offers fall family fun

September 28, 2023

MIDLAND, ON – Celebrate the wonder of the fall season at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons with the annual Hometown Harvest Festival on Thanksgiving weekend: October 7 and 8.

This family-friendly festival celebrates the harvest. It includes an artisan fair with artisans and crafters, as well as fun historical demonstrations, take-home crafts, and opportunities to participate in historical activities. New this year, guests will also enjoy live music from local musician Doug Feaver.

“Every year, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons pulls out all the stops to deliver the Hometown Harvest Festival – and this year is no different. This family-friendly event will be the perfect opportunity to celebrate the fall season in Ontario, while enjoying a variety of fun activities, delicious home-grown food and shopping.”

– Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Come visit the historic site, decorated for autumn. Don’t forget to stop and say hello to the historic mission’s heritage cows, chickens and pigs – a must see for all ages!

“This festival a favourite for fall lovers. If you’re looking for an activity to do with your loved ones on Thanksgiving weekend, Sainte-Marie is the place to be.”

-Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks

The harvest season is one celebrated by many cultures around the world, including First Nations, and Indigenous Peoples here in Ontario.

“This time of year would have been significant for both the Jesuits and the Huron-Wendat people who lived here in the 17^th century. That’s why we continue to celebrate it at Sainte-Marie today.”

– Chad Moreau, Operations Manager, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

October 8 is also the last day of Sainte-Marie’s summer season. With the exception of educational programs, the Hometown Harvest Festival is the last opportunity to visit Sainte-Marie among the Hurons until their holiday event: First Light.

Tickets for the Hometown Harvest Festival are $12 per person, tax included, and children five and under are free. First Nations, Métis and Inuit visitors can also enter the site for free, as can members of the Canadian Armed Forces, both with valid ID.

Visitors can learn more about the Hometown Harvest Festival, and buy tickets, at saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons honours National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Historic site offers commemorative educational programming

September 19, 2023

MIDLAND, ON: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation recognizes the legacy of the Canadian Indian residential school system, and it respectfully honours the survivors and those who never came home, as well as their families and communities. It is the responsibility of present and future generations to acknowledge this history and legacy through education, care and open dialogue. In support of the recognition of this dark period in Canadian history and its lasting, cumulative, multigenerational effects on Indigenous peoples, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is committed to acknowledging and advocating for the empowerment of these stories through empathy, respect and understanding. On September 30, the historic site will be hosting a day of commemoration and reflection and will be offering the opportunity for all to focus on their own journey toward Truth and Reconciliation. Sainte-Marie will also be providing a free virtual learning platform from September 25 to October 5 online at hhp-events.ca to support and continue this important work.

“September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and is a day dedicated to reflecting on the impacts of the Canadian Indian Residential School system. The programming provided by Sainte-Marie among the Hurons gives us an opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture. I encourage everyone to visit Midland to participate and educate themselves to help further the dialogue on truth and reconciliation.”

– Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism Culture and Sport

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons offers free commemorative programming both in person and online to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The program will consist of conversations with leaders on reconciliation, discussions about Indigenous foodways and crafts and places for thoughtful reflection. This day of commemoration will honour Truth and Reconciliation through a provocative journey and the empowerment of Indigenous voices and cultural revitalization activities.

A sampling of these activities will include an inclusive opening ceremony in which the sacred fire will be lit to provide participants the opportunity to present cedar offerings. The historic site will also offer participants the opportunity to build knowledge and respect for Indigenous cultural traditions, including the importance of medicinal plants and the creation of a medicine pouch.

“Today, and every day, we recognize Canada’s dark chapter in history and work towards reconciliation by moving forward with respect, empathy and understanding with Indigenous partners. We take every opportunity to recognize and amplify Indigenous stories to provide opportunities for learning, and I am thankful that the Sainte-Marie historical site will be providing this in-person and virtual learning platform for visitors to reflect on.”

– Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs.

As part of the participants’ journey, the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada will be exhibited with the hope of providing thoughtful steps forward for individuals. The interactive Indigenous Floor Map, provided by Canadian Geographic, will include tools for learning about the impacts of residential schools, as well as the resilience of Indigenous Peoples and their unique cultures throughout North America.

To honour survivors of the residential school system, and those who never came home, Sainte-Marie’s historical interpreters and staff will wear orange. Admission will be free to all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.

The online portion of this initiative will be streamed live on September 25 with opening ceremonies followed by learning sessions led by First Nations leaders and cultural experts. Topics will range from language revitalization to allyship. This content will be available on-demand until October 5 free of charge to allow teachers, students and all who would like to join the journey a chance to access it. Participants need only register to receive a link.

“We too are on a path toward Truth and Reconciliation, as an organization. This initiative is one way we can contribute to this nation-wide effort to heal relationships with Indigenous peoples while creating opportunities for learning and dialogue.”

– Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks

Sainte-Marie is inviting local schools to get involved in National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by creating orange shirt artwork to be displayed in the historic site’s visitors centre in late September and early October. If you are a Simcoe County teacher looking for ways to engage your class in reflection on this topic, reach out to hhp@ontario.ca for details and supplies.

To learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, in-person or online, visit SainteMarieAmongtheHurons.ca/events. The historic site is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration for online learning is also open now.

Sainte-Marie celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day

Historic site offers platforms for cultural teaching and learning

June 19, 2023

MIDLAND, ON: On Wednesday, June 21, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will once again transform 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 will celebrate and showcase the talents of Indigenous drummers, storytellers, dancers, singers, artists and experts.

“Sainte-Marie among the Hurons has created a unique opportunity for Ontarians across the province to explore Indigenous culture on National Indigenous Peoples Day. I encourage everyone to come to Midland or join online to experience genuine First Nations and Métis teachings and knowledge first-hand.”

– Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism Culture and Sport

More than 80 per cent of people attending this event are Ontario students, who benefit from learning directly from Indigenous knowledge keepers as well as Sainte-Marie’s historical interpreters. Last year, more than 1,700 students visited the historic site in Midland on June 21. This year, Sainte-Marie expects to welcome more than 2,000 young people from across the province.

“As we commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we are reminded of the importance that Ontario students gain greater knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures and perspectives. Starting this September, all elementary students will benefit from new mandatory learning from Grades 1 through 3 on First Nations, Métis and Inuit histories, perspectives and contributions. These revisions will complement the mandatory learning already present in Social Studies for Grades 4 to 6 and History for Grades 7, 8 and 10, which were co-developed with Indigenous partners.”

– Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education

In addition to watching performances, event participants are invited to take part in hands-on activities: playing lacrosse, building corn husk figures and crafting clay finger pots. Indigenous ingenuity is on full display, as experts demonstrate birchbark canoe building, traditional agriculture as well as Indigenous games. New this year are a gym-sized interactive treaties floor map as well as workshops by Survival in the Bush, an organization dedicated to teaching wilderness skills.

“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity for all Ontarians to celebrate and recognize the rich cultures, traditions, and heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is providing valuable experiences that enhance cultural understanding and honour Indigenous peoples who helped shape this province.” 

– Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will also present a free online event at hhp-events.ca with virtual sessions ranging from hand drum construction to Indigenous fusion cooking with traditional ingredients. Registration is required. Last year, more than 80,000 people tuned in to access the educational platform and learn more about Indigenous cultural teachings virtually.

“To me, National Indigenous Peoples Day at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is an occasion to gather and celebrate First Nations and Métis cultures in the spirit of knowledge sharing. It’s an opportunity for all of us to learn about and to recognize the many diverse achievements of Indigenous peoples.”

– Will Baird, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks

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 utilizing our public platform to enhance, educate and engage. Through the building of partnerships with Indigenous and Métis presenters as well as with local Indigenous organizations we are able to present a program which celebrates Indigenous and Métis culture on this special day. Part of what makes this event so extraordinary is that we have partnered with many local Indigenous organizations and their voices are represented in the program of presenters.”

– Chad Moreau, Manager of Operations at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

To experience National Indigenous Peoples Day at Sainte-Marie, in-person or online, visit SainteMarieAmongtheHurons.ca/events. The historic site will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and all are welcome. Registration for the online event is open now. Virtual sessions will take place live from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with recordings available after the event.

Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie collaborate on annual Sweetwater Harvest Festival

February 13, 2023

MIDLAND, ON: The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre’s Sweetwater Harvest Festival – the non-profit’s biggest fundraiser of the year – will be sweeter than ever this year thanks to a collaboration with neighbouring attraction Sainte-Marie among the Hurons.

“The Sweetwater Harvest Festival is one of the many great reasons to visit Simcoe County – a unique, family-friendly event that encourages connection with the nature and history of the region. This year, thanks to the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, there are even more events and activities for visitors of all ages. I encourage everyone to come and enjoy the maple season fun while supporting artisans and boosting the local economy.”

– Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism Culture and Sport

The festival, a beloved annual celebration of spring and all things maple syrup, will take place March 18, 19, 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Family-friendly activities will be on tap at both sites, including sugar shack demonstrations, an artisan market, and take-home crafts for kids.

“The Sweetwater Harvest Festival offers everyone the opportunity to get outside, learn about maple syrup, and enjoy the early days of spring. Funds from this event help to ensure that the Wye Marsh can continue to deliver innovative conservation and nature programs all year round.”

– Kim Hacker, Executive Director, Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre

Collaboration is nothing new for the Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie. The organizations have worked together to offer events in the past and continue to co-host education programs every year. But this is the first time the Sweetwater Harvest Festival will take place at both sites.

“The connection between the Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie has always been strong. We’re delighted to be working together in this new way to celebrate the region’s natural and cultural heritage.”

– Will Baird, General Manager, Huronial Historical Parks

Activities at the Wye Marsh will include trekking through the sugar bush, sugar shack demonstrations, roasting bannock on a stick, children’s games, birds of prey demonstrations and, of course, opportunities to purchase locally-made maple syrup.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will host more than 30 artisans at the Sweetwater Arts and Crafts Market, historical canoe-making and basketry demonstrations, as well as take-home crafts like corn husk dolls and clay okies.

Tickets for the Sweetwater Harvest Festival must be purchased in online at WyeMarsh.com/Sweetwater.

The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons would like to thank the sponsors who helped to make this event possible: Midland Rotary, Windlee Farms, Telequip, Bourgeois Auto Group, Quality Inn, Industrial Filter Manufacturing Inc., Charles Morden Construction Inc., Team Jordan Keller Williams Co-Elevation Realty, Tap Into Maple, Barber & Haskill, and Wye Heritage Marine Resort.