Three girls exploring the inside of the longhouse in the winter

Sky Stories

Traditional tales of constellations

Let our most knowledgeable costumed interpreters share captivating stories of how the Wendat and French in the 17th century looked to the stars for guidance. Discover how constellations shaped travel, seasonal knowledge, and cultural traditions that connected communities to the land and each other. This immersive storytelling experience brings you closer to the stars—and to the rich heritage that guided generations. Add a touch of wonder to your Dinner Under the Stars or overnight cabin stay by gathering around a cozy fire inside a traditional longhouse as sparks rise toward the night sky.

Dates & Times:

Dates: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from January 9 until February 22 (more dates coming soon)

Times:

  • 2:30-3:45p.m.
  • 4:45-6 p.m.
  • 7 to 8:15 p.m.

Note that each Sky Stories booking is timed to end just before Dinner under the stars seatings.

How to book:

Note that this experience is not recommended for children ages 10 and under.

Sky Stories only: To just reserve your storytelling experience (without an overnight stay or a meal) access the ticketing portal and select your date and ticket quantity.

With your overnight experience: Your $200 (tax included) one-night stay at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons includes Sky Stories on the date of your arrival. Please select your Sky Stories timed tickets when reserving your four-season cabin.

With Dinner under the stars: Make a reservations with Restaurant Sainte-Marie through Restaurant Sainte-Marie by phone or on Eventbrite. Then use the ticket link above to book Sky Stories.

The ultimate experience: Stories, Dinner and Overnight stay: To enjoy the total package – Dinner under the Stars, Sky Stories, and a stay at one of our cozy cabins, follow these steps:

  • Check availability of dining domes and of cabins before booking.
  • Reserve your meal: Book your dining experience through Restaurant Sainte-Marie, either on Eventbrite or by phone.
  • Reserve your stay and stories: Book an overnight cabin and make sure to select your Sky Stories timeslot and ticket quantities when making your reservation.

Special ticket types:

  • Reservations are required (no walk-ins please)
  • A support person accompanying a paying guest with a disability is eligible for free admission
  • Free admission programs for Indigenous peoples, Ontario Teachers, and Canadian Armed Forces do not apply to this add-on experience
  • Season passes do not include this experience
  • Please read the information found under “Plan Your Visit” below for more details

What to expect:

Bring some friends and join a costumed guide for an unforgettable and unique winter adventure.

What to wear during Sky Stories:

Please wear practical winter boots as well as lots of layers to allow you to adjust your own body heat as required. Paths to the longhouse can be snowy. The longhouse is warm with the fire, but remains an uninsulated historical structure.

What time to arrive:

Please check-in with admissions 15 minutes before the start of your selected Sky Stories session. Check your confirmation email for ticket times. You will receive instructions for checking into Sky Stories approximately 24 hours before your arrival.

Image Gallery:

Please click each image below to see a larger version.

While we love our furry friends, we are not able to accommodate pets at this special event (service dogs are welcomed of course). Thank you for your understanding.

  • Restaurant Sainte-Marie will be open during this event and offering delicious lunch and dinner options.
  • Hours for the Flint and Timbre Co. gift shop vary in the winter months. Please check the signage in your cabin for details.
  • Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a mask-friendly environment.
  • Smoking or vaping (including marijuana) is not permitted on Sainte-Marie property.

16164 Highway 12 East, Midland, ON, L4R 4K8

Parking Info

There is ample parking for visitors including those with RVs and buses. Please park in the parking lot provided and make your way to the admissions entrance. We also have bike racks available for cyclists coming from the Tay Trail.

Need more info?

Please contact us at hhp@ontario.ca or (705) 526-7838 if you have any questions.

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 barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. This community was abandoned and burned down in 1649.

After extensive archaeological and historical research, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is now recreated on its original site, where the mission’s compelling story is brought to life with costumed historical interpreters, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Located near Midland, on the Wye River, this world-renowned reconstruction offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the earliest Canadian pioneer life through self-guided visits, group tours, interactive education programs, and special events. Complete your experience by exploring our interpretive museum and themed gift shop.

Need more info?

Please contact us if you have any questions: