Paddle to Ragged Falls

A popular activity for our guests is the paddle from Oxtongue Lake to the base of Ragged Falls. It's not just fun for visitors, though, Jim and I took an afternoon off this week and did the paddle ourselves. We had a great time!

Starting out from the inn, we stopped in Huntsville to pick up some requisite trail mix and snacks from the Bulk Barn before taking Hwy 60 to Algonquin Outfitters Oxtongue Lake store. They offer both canoe and kayak rentals, which included the life jackets and paddles as well as a map of the route from the store dock to the falls..

The helpful fella manning the equipment office made sure we were all set on the water. Jim and I have paddled extensively so didn't need any instruction, but if you're new to paddling, be sure to tell the staff and they'll spend a few minutes covering the basics before sending you off.

It took us about an hour to paddle from the store dock, cutting across a corner of Oxtongue Lake then up the Oxtongue River, to the base of Ragged Falls. In the calm water below the falls, we pulled our canoe up onto the rocks and then hiked up to the top of the falls. It's a lovely spot and has been a favourite stop of ours for many years. If you want to see the falls without the paddling, it's very easy to get to by car and just a 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the river.

After touring the falls, we got back in the canoe and retraced our route back to the store. On the way home we stopped at Dwight Beach for a swim (okay, Jim swam and I beach-bummed). It's a gorgeous, sandy, shallow beach on Lake of Bays and worth the stop.

We definitely recommend the paddle to Ragged Falls, suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers. This and other local paddling options are a great way to spend a summer or early-fall afternoon during a visit to the inn.

Autumn Events

Autumn is a busy and beautiful season in Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands. Here are some of the organized events and weekly activities in the region. Check back again as we update the list as we hear about new happenings.

Wednesday Kayak

Join a guided flatwater kayak tour from the riverside dock in downtown Huntsville, along the Muskoka River to the mouth of Lake Vernon. Hosted by Algonquin Outfitters, this 2-hour paddle is great for new and experienced paddlers to enjoy an evening on the water. Just $15/person includes kayak, paddle and pfd. Meet at the store before 6pm, registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Every Wednesday until September 9

5:45-8:30

Huntsville Farmers' Market

Selection of vendors, located in the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.

Every Thursday until October 29, from 9am-2pm

Commerce Park Huntsville Farmers' Market

Selection of vendors, located beside Robinson's Independent Grocer in Huntsville's Commerce Park.

Every Friday until September 4, from 9am-2pm

Muskoka Cruise Night

Hosted by the Historical Automotive Society of Canada, with prizes and a 50/50 draw with proceeds going to local charities. At the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.

Every Wednesday evening until October 28

Antique & Collectables Market
A variety of vendors will be offering their wares at Fern Glen Garden Centre just up the road from us.
Every Saturday in September, from 10am - 3pm

Magnetawan Farmers' Market

Held at the Magnetawan Community Pavilion, with a range of goods including fresh produce; smoked, dried and frozen meats; specialty cheeses; flowers; baked goods; jewelry; antiques; knitting; sewing; wood carving; homemade jams.

Every Saturday until September 5

Muskoka Nights Cruise-In

Antique cars, hot rods, tuners, motorcycles and vehicles of special interest. Door prizes and a 50/50 draw raising funds for the Huntsville Animal Shelter. At the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.

Every Saturday evening until October 10

:: :: ::

Burk's Falls Fall Fair
Three days of fun, featuring live music, art shows, midway rides and games, sheep displays, horse shows, cotton candy and more. At the Burk's Falls fair grounds.
September 5, 6 & 7

Stisted Fall Fair
A day of old-fashioned family fun. Off Yearly Rd., north-west of Huntsville's Lake Vernon.
September 12

Muskoka Ironman 70.3
The region's largest athletic event is slated to attract over 1,500 international athletes. The race course will incorporate many of Muskoka's most picturesque areas, including a 1.2 mile swim in bracing Peninsula Lake; a 56 mile bike ride through Lake of Bays including the hamlets of Dwight, Dorset and Baysville; followed by a 13.1 mile run. Come and cheer the athletes along their race. Visit Muskoka Ironman 70.3 for details.
September 13

Antique, Classic and Custom Car Show
The Downtown Huntsville BIA presents the Annual Shades of Autumn Antique, Classic and Custom Car Show. Exhibits will be up and down the main drag. plus trophies and door prizes. This is one automotive competition that you can take in on two feet.
September 19

Canadian Improv Showcase
Canada's premiere touring improv company comes to Huntsville's Algonquin Theatre. Specializing in unscripted, interactive comedy with a Canadian twist, it's never the same show twice and totally hilarious! Tickets are $22. Visit the Algonquin Theatre for details.
September 19, 8pm

Chocolate and Dessert Fantasy
The Huntsville Hospital Auxiliary invites you to spend an hour or two tasting delicious desserts and finger foods created by many local resorts and restaurants. Live piano music plus silent auction items. Tickets are $15, available at The Clothes Closet, Treasures and Trophies, and Branches Hospital Gift Shop. Proceeds support the Auxiliary's $250,000 commitment to the new Mammography Suite.
At Partner's Hall on the main floor of the Algonquin Theatre.
September 20, 2pm-5pm

Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour
Witness the artistic process at work through demonstrations and displays in the studios of Muskoka's diversely talented artists. Free self-guided tour. For printable map, brochure and more information, visit Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour.
September 26 & 27
October 3 & 4

Fall Colour Peak
The hardwood forests are ablaze in autumn colours, painted from a palette of sunny golds, fiery oranges and brilliant reds. Whether you hike the trails, drive the country roads or tour the parks, you're sure to enjoy this spectacular natural show. The peak can last a few days or a few weeks, and usually falls between late-September and mid-October. Even if you don't hit the peak, it's still a lovely and unique experience.
Estimated October 1-15

Thanksgiving Long Weekend
The last long weekend of the season to get out of the city and breath some fresh country air.
October 9-12

Golden Encore
Following the peak of the Fall Colours, after the famous red and orange maple leaves have fallen from the branches, mother nature has one more song to sing before the show ends. That's when the tamaracks, birches and poplars take the stage and grace us with a golden encore.

Generally late October into November

Huntsville's Girlfriends' Getaway Weekend
The shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants of Downtown Huntsville are catering to the ladies with a great weekend of shopping, sales, gifts, demos and pampering. It's a great chance to get your holiday shopping started (or even finished!) and to treat yourself to a little 'girl time' too. Free passports are available here at the inn.
Some ticketed events are on the weekend schedule: Fashion Show hosted by Davide Clemmer & Bruce Turner of 'Style by Jury'; cooking demonstrations by celebrity chef Jeff Suddaby; Chantal Kreviazuk on stage. Visit Huntsville's Girlfriends' Getaway Weekend for details.
Stay 2 nights at Fern Glen Inn this weekend and get $25 off your stay (mention Huntsville's Girlfriends' Getaway at time of booking).
November 13-15

Soapstones' Holiday Designer Soap Workshops
Make your own holiday soaps to give as gifts this season. Hands-on workshops take place at Soapstones in downtown Huntsville. Learn the techniques and tools and take home what you make. Kits available to purchase as well. Workshops are $20/person and limited to 8 people per class. Visit Soapstones workshops for details and to register.
Every other Wednesday until Christmas; 6:00-8:00 pm
(Oct 21, Nov 4 & 18, Dec 2 & 16)

Soapstones' Bath Bombs, Bath Teas, and Tub Butter Workshops
Make your own special bath products (they make great stocking stuffers!). Hands-on workshops take place at Soapstones in downtown Huntsville. Learn the techniques and tools and take home what you make. Kits available to purchase as well. Workshops are $20/person and limited to 8 people per class. Visit Soapstones workshops for details and to register.
Every other Sunday until Christmas; 2:00-4:00 pm
(Nov 1, 15 & 29, Dec 13)

Creme Blanc and the Zen of Berry Picking

Right now the wild raspberry bushes and blueberry shrubs are laden with beautiful, ripe berries just waiting to be picked and savoured. I can't go for a walk (not even to the mailbox!) without stopping along the way and plucking some bright ruby or deep blue jewels and popping them in my mouth.

When I take a container and set out to gather, Jim knows he won't see me for a while. I love berry picking. I get lost in it. I hear the siren call of the raspberries and they lure me further and further into their dense, leafy patch. It makes me feel productive without feeling busy, at rest while in motion. I call it the zen of berry picking. And all the while my little bucket of treasure is steadily filling. Ah, it's a good life!

A couple weeks ago, when the raspberries and blueberries were just starting to ripen, I set out to pick some to use in a guest dessert. It was still too early for a good haul (not enough for, say, a pie or shortcake) but I couldn't let these first berries of the season go to waste and I wanted to share them with our guests. So I came up with a lovely little dessert that let my handful of berries shine. You don't have to pick your own to enjoy these rich little desserts.

Berry Creme Blanc

Sweet-tart berries, white chocolate and vanilla custard play off each other in these rich little individual desserts. Easy to make and great for entertaining as they should be baked ahead of time in order to chill. Easily adaptable to seasonal ingredients and personal tastes.

Serves 4. Recipe can be doubled or halved.

• butter for custard cups or ramekins
  
• 1/2 cup (or more) fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries and blackberries
  
• 2 tablespoons seedless raspberry jam
  
• 2 tablespoons vanilla vodka or framboise (raspberry liqueur) or other liquid such as Grand Marnier, brandy, cran-raspberry juice, or water

• 1 cup heavy cream
  
• 1/2 cup light cream or evaporated milk (unsweetened)
  
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  
• 3 oz (85 grams) good quality white chocolate, finely chopped
  
• 4 egg yolks
  
• small pinch of salt
  

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Butter 4 6-oz (1/2 cup capacity) custard cups or ramekins. Divide the berries among the cups. Heat the raspberry jam and liqueur until warm and liquid. Drizzle evenly over the berries. Set custard cups aside.

In a medium pot, whisk together the heavy cream, light cream or evaporated milk, sugar and white chocolate. Whisk or stir over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat.

In a medium bowl or 8-cup glass measure, whisk the egg yolks and salt until smooth. Slowly whisk in the hot cream mixture. Carefully pour this custard mixture over the berries in the custard cups, dividing evenly.

Line a cake pan with a clean dishtowel and place the custard cups on top. The dishtowel keeps the cups from sliding around. Fill the cake pan with hot water to come half-way up the side of the cups.

Carefully slide the pan into the oven and bake until just about set. They will still jiggle a bit (but not wave) but they will set up as they cool. The tops will turn toasty brown. Carefully remove the custard cups from the water bath and set on a rack to cool to room temperature. Cover the cups with plastic wrap then refrigerate until chilled, 2 hours or even overnight.

Before serving, top with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, a mint leaf and a sprinkle of fresh berries.

If you want to guild the lily, take these one step further and make creme brule. Before serving, coat the tops of the cremes with a layer of sugar. Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch or placing them briefly under a hot broiler.

Enjoy!

5-Night/6-Day Itinerary

Located within a 3-hour drive (or less) from many urban centres, our naturally beautiful region is great for short weekend getaways. But there is so much to see and do (and not do) that a longer stay is a true escape from the pressures of daily life.

Some of our guests come to just relax and de-stress, others to get out and experience activities and adventures. Then there are those who can carve out enough time in their busy lives for a bit of both. For these folks, we suggest the itinerary below. It's highly adaptable to individual interests. Just ask us for alternate suggestions.

5-Night/6-Day Great Escape

Day 1: Huntsville & Check-in

• Pack up the car and hit the road. Don't forget tunes for the car and a stop at Tim's for coffee and road snacks.
  
• Depending on the time (if it's before 3pm), stop in Huntsville and explore the charming downtown shops, boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants. Have lunch at a restaurant patio or carry some take-out down to the riverside park. Did you forget to bring sunscreen, a hat or other getaway gear? Pick them up in town.
• Rent a canoe or kayaks from Algonquin Outfitters on Main Street and take a paddle up the Muskoka River and back.
  
• From downtown, drive up to Lion's Lookout Park for a view over the lakes, river and hills of Huntsville.
• After 3pm, head on up to Fern Glen Inn to check in. We'll show you around the property, give you maps of the area and printed information about things to see and do, plus a directory of restaurants.
• Get settled in your room, stretch your legs with a short stroll, or enjoy the fresh air and green views from the gazebo or one of the decks. Relax, unwind, decompress.
• Dinner in Burk's Falls or Huntsville, or here at the inn with advance notice.
• Star gaze from the hot tub before turning in for a great night's sleep.
  

Day 2: Algonquin Park

• Hearty, wholesome breakfast (you choose the time between 8:00 and 9:30). Ask us about favourite trails and spots in the park, or to clarify directions.
  
• Head over to Algonquin Park's day-use corridor. Hike a selection of trails, check out the interpretive displays in the Visitor Centre. Break for lunch at the cafe in the centre or at the Portage Store restaurant. Didn't get a chance to canoe yesterday? Then rent a canoe from one of the in-park outfitters for a short paddle or try some more of the gorgeous trails.
• On your way back from Algonquin stop at Ragged Falls Park, just off Hwy 60. It's a short walk from the parking lot to the top of the falls. Have fun but be careful clambering over the boulders as you get right in there for some great shots.
• Stop for dinner at 3 Guys and a Stove or one of the other great restaurants in Huntsville.
• Return to the inn for an evening fire. Soak your tired muscles in the hot tub or in a nice warm bath before sinking into bed.
  

Day 3: Almaguin Highlands

• Wake up to another great breakfast!
• Gather up your maps and list of things to see and do then head out to explore the region. In the summer months, don't forget to bring your bathing suits, beach towels, sunscreen, hat.
• Tour the sights, towns, trails and lakes of the Almaguin Highlands. Some you might want to include are: Long Lake for a swim; Birch Beach on Doe Lake for swimming or lounging; Brook's Falls (waterfall, swimming, short trail); the town of Burk's Falls for shopping and dining; Screaming Heads (bizarre outdoor artscape); the town of Magnetawan for swimming, viewing the locks, or just a pretty country drive; the town of Kearney (light meals, canoe & kayak rentals); search for Seguin Falls; hike the Forgotten Trails; visit local galleries, studios and shops.
• Care to see a lovely patch of the Highlands on horseback? Ask us about booking a private trail ride at a local farm.
  
• End your outing with a great dinner at Danny's Justa Pasta or bring take-out back to the inn for an al fresco meal on the deck.
• Back at the inn, enjoy a campfire under the stars and a comfy bed.

Day 4: Lazy Day (or not)

• Sleep in and have the later breakfast time.
• Walk the private trails through our 120 acre property or stroll down the Seguin Trail a short while to see a pretty little lake. Depending on the season, pick wild blueberries or raspberries along the way.
  
• Feeling ambitious? Hike the Seguin Trail from the inn to the town of Sprucedale. It should take you 3-4 hours to travel the 13km distance at a comfortable pace. Call us from town and we'll come pick you up. In the meantime, enjoy a well-earned lunch at the diner in the General Store.
• Stretch out on the deck loungers and read a book (we have lots if you didn't bring one) or practice the fine art of the afternoon nap.
• Raid our supply of lawn games and board games: play a match of bocce ball or croquet, Trivial Pursuit or chinese checkers.
• On a sunny afternoon, toss the beach towels in the car and make the short drive to Long Lake or Doe Lake for a swim.
• Have dinner at the inn (with advance notice). Or order in pizza delivery. Or for that summer beach feeling, pick up some fish & chips from one of the many chip trucks gracing the local towns.
  

Day 5: Parry Sound

• Breakfast awaits!
• Pick up a map and Parry Sound brochure from our reception area. Take the lovely, winding drive west to the town of Parry Sound on Georgian Bay.
• Cruise the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay on the Island Queen ship. The morning cruise tours the inner islands while the afternoon cruise tours the wilderness of the outer islands. Call ahead for reservations to avoid disappointment.
  
• Hike through lovely Killbear Provincial Park, just north of town.
• Climb the Fire Tower high on the hill overlooking the town and bay. Visit the museum by the base of the tower.
• Have dinner in Parry Sound or head back eastward for a local meal.
• Last night to marvel at the dark, starry sky and be mesmerized by the embers of a campfire.
  

Day 6: Check-out and the journey home

• Yet another great breakfast to start your day!
• Walk around the property and take some photos before packing up and checking out.
• If you didn't get a chance to stroll the shops of downtown Huntsville yet, this is a good time to swing by.
  
• If you're not in a hurry to get home, we'll recommend some additional stops and detours on your way, such as: Arrowhead Provincial Park, the Dyer Memorial; and the Dorset Fire Tower.
• Back home in the real world... enjoy your photos and memories from a great escape to Fern Glen Inn!

3-Night/4-Day Itinerary

Many of our guests come to simply relax and unwind—some don't even leave the property until it's time to go home. For other guests, though, an active getaway full of new sights, experiences and adventures is just what they need to feel revitalized. For these folks, we suggest the itinerary below. It's highly adaptable to individual interests. Just ask us for alternate suggestions.

3-Night/4-Day Getaway

Day 1: Huntsville & Check-in

• Pack up the car and hit the road. Don't forget tunes for the car and a stop at Tim's for coffee and road snacks.
  
• Depending on the time (if it's before 3pm), stop in Huntsville and explore the charming downtown shops, boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants. Have lunch at a restaurant patio or carry some take-out down to the riverside park. Did you forget to bring sunscreen, a hat or other getaway gear? Pick them up in town.
• Rent a canoe or kayaks from Algonquin Outfitters on Main Street and take a paddle up the Muskoka River and back.
  
• From downtown, drive up to Lion's Lookout Park for a view over the lakes, river and hills of Huntsville.
• After 3pm, head on up to Fern Glen Inn to check in. We'll show you around the property, give you maps of the area and printed information about things to see and do, plus a directory of restaurants.
• Get settled in your room, stretch your legs with a short stroll, or enjoy the fresh air and green views from the gazebo or one of the decks. Relax, unwind, decompress.
• Dinner in Burk's Falls or Huntsville, or here at the inn with advance notice.
• Star gaze from the hot tub before turning in for a great night's sleep.
  

Day 2: Algonquin Park

• Hearty, wholesome breakfast (you choose the time between 8:00 and 9:30). Ask us about favourite trails and spots in the park, or to clarify directions.
  
• Head over to Algonquin Park's day-use corridor. Hike a selection of trails, check out the interpretive displays in the Visitor Centre. Break for lunch at the cafe in the centre or at the Portage Store restaurant. Didn't get a chance to canoe yesterday? Then rent a canoe from one of the in-park outfitters for a short paddle or try some more of the gorgeous trails.
• On your way back from Algonquin stop at Ragged Falls Park, just off Hwy 60. It's a short walk from the parking lot to the top of the falls. Have fun but be careful clambering over the boulders as you get right in there for some great shots.
• Stop for dinner at 3 Guys and a Stove or one of the other great restaurants in Huntsville.
• Return to the inn for an evening fire. Soak your tired muscles in the hot tub or in a nice warm bath before sinking into bed.
  

Day 3: Almaguin Highlands

• Wake up to another great breakfast!
• Start your day with a walk along the Seguin Trail or through our private trails.
  
• Back at the inn, gather up your maps and list of things to see and do then head out to explore the region. In the summer months, don't forget to bring your bathing suits, beach towels, sunscreen, hat.
• Tour the sights, towns, trails and lakes of the Almaguin Highlands. Some you might want to include are: Long Lake for a swim; Birch Beach on Doe Lake for swimming or lounging; Brook's Falls (waterfall, swimming, short trail); the town of Burk's Falls for shopping and dining; Screaming Heads (bizarre outdoor artscape); the town of Magnetawan for swimming, viewing the locks, or just a pretty country drive; the town of Kearney (light meals, canoe & kayak rentals); Seguin Falls; local galleries, studios and shops.
  
• End your day out with a great dinner at Danny's Justa Pasta or bring take-out back to the inn for an al fresco meal on the deck.
• Back at the inn, enjoy a campfire under the stars and a comfy bed.

Day 4: Check-out and the journey home

• Yet another great breakfast to start your day!
• Walk around the property and take some photos before packing up and checking out.
• If you didn't get a chance to stroll the shops of downtown Huntsville yet, this is a good time to swing by.
  
• If you're not in a hurry to get home, we'll recommend some additional stops and detours on your way, such as: Arrowhead Provincial Park, the Dyer Memorial; the Dorset Fire Tower; or Parry Sound.
• Back home in the real world... enjoy your photos and memories from a great getaway!

Do you have an extra day?

Make it a 4-Night/5 Day Extended Getaway and add on one or more of these activities:

• horseback riding • paddling • swimming • studio tour • Algonquin Park Backcountry day trip • indulge in the rare opportunity to do nothing except get comfortable and enjoy your surroundings, your travel mate, the fresh air...

Lilies and Lattes, just down the road

Fern Glen Farm & Garden Centre is one of our neighbourhood businesses and a lovely spot to visit, even for non-gardeners like me. It's located just off Fern Glen Road—hence the name—just 2 km from the highway.

At this time of year, the lily fields are a riot of colour. As a visitor to the farm, you can stroll through the rows of hardy northern daylilies. Choose your favourite variety and then the garden centre staff will dig it up for you to take home and transplant in your own garden. It makes a wonderful 'living souvenir' for your visit to the area.

While lilies are a specialty, as a full-service garden centre, there are all sorts of flowers and plants to entice you. Owners Terri (pictured) and Steve, and their knowledgeable garden-guru staff will answer your gardening questions and help you choose the right plant for your space.

There's also a great selection of garden decor items, plus a gift shop featuring hand crafts from local artists and assorted antiques.

New this year to the farm is a great little cafe offering specialty coffees, teas, lattes, espresso, and treats.

Fern Glen Farm & Garden Centre is located at 48 Mason's Rd., Emsdale. Visit them at www.fernglenfarm.ca for more information.

Summer Happenings

Summer is hopping in Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands. Here are some of the organized events and weekly activities in the region. Check back again as we update the list as we hear about new happenings.

Wednesday Kayak
Join a guided flatwater kayak tour from the riverside dock in downtown Huntsville, along the Muskoka River to the mouth of Lake Vernon. Hosted by Algonquin Outfitters, this 2-hour paddle is great for new and experienced paddlers to enjoy an evening on the water. Just $15/person includes kayak, paddle and pfd. Meet at the store before 6pm, registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Every Wednesday until September 9
5:45-8:30

Wednesday Concerts in the Park
In Huntsville at the town dock park. Enjoy a variety of musical performances outdoors on a summer evening. Bring your lawn chairs or blanket to sit on and a toonie to contribute to the performer(s).
Every Wednesday from July 15 - August 19

Huntsville Farmers' Market
Selection of vendors, located in the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.
Every Thursday until October 29, from 9am-2pm

Commerce Park Huntsville Farmers' Market
Selection of vendors, located beside Robinson's Independent Grocer in Huntsville's Commerce Park.
Every Friday until September 4, from 9am-2pm

Muskoka Cruise Night
Hosted by the Historical Automotive Society of Canada, with prizes and a 50/50 draw with proceeds going to local charities. At the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.
Every Wednesday evening until October 28

Magnetawan Farmers' Market
Held at the Magnetawan Community Pavilion, with a range of goods including fresh produce; smoked, dried and frozen meats; specialty cheeses; flowers; baked goods; jewelry; antiques; knitting; sewing; wood carving; homemade jams.
Every Saturday until September 5

Muskoka Nights Cruise-In
Antique cars, hot rods, tuners, motorcycles and vehicles of special interest. Door prizes and a 50/50 draw raising funds for the Huntsville Animal Shelter. At the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.
Every Saturday evening until October 10

:: :: ::

Wood n Things Rendezvous
Two-day event featuring chainsaw carving, instrument fabrication, log & twig furniture, wildlife and decoy carving. Live demos, displays, silent auction, farmer's market, bbq, and live entertainment. All taking place in the nearby town of Magnetawan. Visit Wood n Things Rendezvous for details.
June 26-27

The Group of Seven Mural Festival
During this 10-day event, seven new murals will be added to Huntsville's Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery. Each mural is a larger-than-life reproduction of an original piece by one of Canada's famed Group of Seven artists. During the festival, you can watch the muralists work their craft, and you can even participate and "add your brush stroke" to one of the murals. Visit The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery for details.
June 26 - July 5

Canada Day
Lots of ways to celebrate in friendly, old-fashioned, small-town style. Read my post about local Canada Day festivities for more information.
July 1

Serena Ryder at the Algonquin Theatre
Juno award-winning singer/songwriter Serena Ryder is just one of many great artists who will grace the stage at Huntsville's Algonquin Theatre this summer. For information and tickets for this performance and others, visit the Algonquin Theatre website.
July 9, 8pm

Edge of the Woods Theatre Festival
One-of-a-kind event featuring outdoor performances and tasty treats. Each evening’s line-up includes giant puppets, acrobats, stilt walkers, modern dancers and a 5-part a capella musical. Delightful entertainment at downtown Huntsville's riverfront. Admission by donation.
July 10 & 11, 6pm

Creative Changes Art Show & Sale
Weekend event taking place in the town of Kearney. Art show and sale featuring local artists and artisans displaying and selling original works in many different mediums, including paintings in watercolour, oil, acrylic and pen & ink; clay sculpture; bird carvings; wood turnings; pottery; stained glass and more.

July 10, 7-9:30pm - Wine & cheese reception ($5.00)

July 11, 10am-6pm (free admission)

July 12, 10am-3pm (free admission)

Garden Tour
Hosted by the Sprucedale and District Horticultural Society. tour local gardens in the South Almaguin Highlands. Free admission.
July 19, 9am-4pm

Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy at the Algonquin Theatre
Two of Canada's finest fiddlers and stepdancers in a two fiddle/two piano concert perform at Huntsville's Algonquin Theatre. For information and tickets for this performance and others, visit the Algonquin Theatre website.
July 22, 8pm

Daylily Festival
A weekend event to celebrate this amazing flower. Featuring live music of the Northern Lights Steel Orchestra, vendors, demos, and lots of gorgeous blooms. Wander the lily field, choose your favourite plant and they'll dig it right up for you to take home. It's all happening just down the road from the inn at the Fern Glen Garden Centre.
July 25 & 26

En Plein Air Painting & Auction
The Shutterbug Gallery and Huntsville Festival of the Arts are hosting this fun, free event. Watch and cheer as renowned local artists and select dignitaries create masterpieces in public in just four hours. At 3pm a lively and entertaining art auction begins, hosted by James Carrol and Grant Nickalls, with proceeds benefitting a student fine arts bursary. Located downtown Huntsville.
July 30, 11am

Huntsville Jazz Festival
The Huntsville Jazz Festival returns for it's third year with three great evenings of entertainment. Visit the Huntsville Festival of the Arts — Jazz Festival for more information.
August 1, 10am - 6pm

Daytime Jazz
A day-long celebration of jazz music under the sun in downtown Huntsville's River Mill Park. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the music.
August 1, 10am - 6pm

Kearney Regatta
Events include canoe races and cardboard boat competitions on Mirror Bay; a Saturday night street dance, parade, children's activities, slow pitch baseball and the Northern Lights Steel Band.
August 1-3

Perseids Meteor Shower Peak
Every year from late July to late August, the earth passes through rock and dust fragments from comet Swif-Tuttle, creating vivid streaks of light through the sky—better known as 'shooting stars'. This year they are expected to peak August 11 & 12, when there could be as many as a hundred streaks an hour. Stay at Fern Glen Inn and watch the show away from urban light pollution. We'll even serve a late breakfast so you can stay up into the wee hours if you like. Find out more about the Perseid Meteor Shower or other meteor shower dates in 2009.
August 11 & 12

Hawksley Workman at the Algonquin Theatre
Huntsville and Almaguin Highlands native, alternative/rock musician Hawksley Workman returns to his hometown stage to showcase his incredible vocal range and unique stylings. For information and tickets for this performance and others, visit the Algonquin Theatre website.
August 12, 8pm

Sundridge Sunflower Festival
Three-day event taking place at various locations in the town of Sundridge. Activities and events include canoe races, cardboard boat races, sidewalk chalk artists, live music, food and vendors, classic car show, historical displays, art show, and outdoor B-movie night. Visit the Sundridge Sunflower Festival for details.
August 14-16

Summer Sidewalk Sale
The Downtown Huntsville BIA presents the Summer Sidewalk Adventure, when shops will be bursting out all over and theadventures will happen on every corner of Main Street all the way to the Swing Bridge.
August 15, 10am - 6pm

Artists of the Limberlost Open Studio Tour
Artists of the Limberlost is a collective of artists and craftspeople with studios along Limberlost Road (off Hwy 60, east of Huntsville). At their annual Open Studio Weekend, the public is invited to not only see artwork and fine craft, but to experience the working environments and to learn about the creative processes involved in each medium. The free tour features 7 studios and also the work of 20 guest artists from Muskoka and beyond. The work is for sale, so everyone has the opportunity to take home a 'piece of the Limberlost' for themselves. Visit Artists of the Limberlost for details.
August 15 & 16

RBC Sundridge Triathlon
Courses include Sprint Tri, Relay Tri, and Try-a-Tri, plus a variety of race distances for children. Race categories and distances, and registration information are available at RBC Sundridge Triathon.
August 16

Jim Cuddy at the Algonquin Theatre
Blue Rodeo frontman puts on two high-energy shows, backed by a quartet of stellar musicians. For information and tickets for this performance and others, visit the Algonquin Theatre website.
August 25 & 26, 8pm

Hawksley Workman at Burk's Falls Towne Theatre
Huntsville and Almaguin Highlands native, alternative/rock musician Hawksley Workman returns to Burk's Falls to showcase his incredible vocal range and unique stylings. Two nights, with a possibility of a third. The theatre is a small, intimate venue with outstanding acoustics. $30 + GST. For tickets, call 705-382-3138 or book your stay at the inn and we'll order and pick them up for you.
August 28 & 29

Emsdale Fall Fair
The Emsdale Agricultural Society will host its Fall Fair at the Emsdale Fairgrounds and Community Centre. Baby, pet and children's shows, a horse pull, light horse show, poultry exhibition, cattle show and a petting zoo, are all planned events. Enjoy live music, including fiddling, all day.
August 29