Wiarton Willy Festival (Groundhog Day) - first weekend in February
15 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages The Groundhog Festival is one of the largest winter events in Ontario, with more than 40 planned activities, celebrating Canada's weather-prognosticating groundhog. Predicting the coming of spring is a very difficult and often controversial activity. Come February 2nd, there is only one way to be sure, and that is to wake up for Willie's Prediction. Pancakes are ready by 6:30am and the rest is up to the laws of nature. The action starts more than a week earlier with the Sauble Beach “Winterfest” night-time parade, a Christmas tree bonfire, Battle of the Bands, and all kinds of other great indoor and outdoor events. A great way to get out and enjoy the season!
Storybook Park - open 7 days a week, all summer
20 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages Experience the storybook adventures while enjoying all your favorite park attractions and amusements; a day of fun for the whole family. View the Niagara Escarpment while taking a tour on the train. Go into the Haunted House, if you’re brave enough! Cool off in the kiddie pool or waterslides. Enjoy the rides or feed the many animals, including monkeys, llamas, deer, and rabbits. Grab a burger and fries at the restaurant or bring your own picnic and take advantage of the tables and barbecues in a park-like setting.
Harbour Nights Concert Series - June 22-Aug.10
10 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. Every Sunday evening at 7 pm, come "rain or shine"; celebrating the finest in local musical talent, with occasional special guests. The concerts take place at the beautiful inner harbour behind Owen Sound's Visitor Centre. There’s no admission charge, so bring your own lawn chairs, relax, and enjoy the show!
Salmon Spectacular - Aug 22-31
10 minutes from Lake Francis cottages. Enjoy 10 days of fishing fun and entertainment for young and old. The Salmon Spectacular is 10 derbies in one; each day, the top salmon and top trout will win prizes. At the conclusion of the 10 days of fishing, the heaviest salmon weighed in will win the Grand Prize, and there are over $150,000 worth of prizes to be won! Entertainment is provided every day in a licensed tent, and there is a dedicated Kids’ Day, Fish Fry, Ladies Afternoon, and Fashion Show. Visitors come from hundreds of miles away to attend this event, so come and fish off the wall in the harbour, bring your boat, or book a charter with Captain Tony. The fishing on Georgian Bay is world-class and is Ontario's best kept secret, and Captain Tony can help you to experience it! Drop the downriggers off his 40' Elite houseboat as you try for Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout, or Georgian Bay Salmon. Fishing charters start as early as March and run through December. He will even clean and bag your catch for you! Take in the spectacular beauty of a Georgian Bay sunrise or sunset from the water, courtesy of Captain Tony. Please call in advance. (519)372-9366
Sandfest – First weekend in August
20 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. Sandfest attracts sandcastle aficionados from miles around. This annual sandcastle-building competition offers four distinct builder categories and attracts thousands of visitors. Take part for a chance to win cash prizes or just come to view the fabulous artistry in sand!
Summerfolk Music Festival - Aug. 4, 5 & 6
10 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. Taking on the appearance of a small village, Summerfolk features a 4000 seat main stage, five side stages, over 40 artisans exhibiting their talents in the craft area, more than a dozen food booths, a sandy beach, a children's playground, ample free parking and a licensed beverage area. Aspiring newcomers share the stage with old favourites, for a weekend of true musical magic. The jam sessions are not to be missed! Past artists include Bruce Cockburn, Leahy, Ian Tyson, John Cowan and countless more from four corners of the earth. Now running for more than 30 years, Summerfolk delivers a great weekend for music fans of any age.
Celtic Festival - Sept 13
10 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. Owen Sound celebrates the diverse Celtic cultures and the Scottish and Irish pioneers through performing and culinary arts, historical interpretation, and educational activities. Some past performers include The Grey County Highlanders, Georgian Bay Pipes and Drums, Kincardine Penetangore Pipe Band, Scatter the Cats, Kelly Maw Dancers, and the Celtic Dancers.
Festival of the Northern Lights - Nov.14-Jan. 4
10 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. Catch the Magic. All ages will be captivated by over 350 lighted displays and more than 18 kilometers of glittering lights strung along the banks of the Sydenham River in downtown Owen Sound; lit daily from 5 pm to 11 pm. Many downtown stores, specialty shops and restaurants are open. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride and capture the warmth and spirit of the Holiday Season as the Festival celebrates with seven weeks of special events, making Owen Sound the place to be this winter.
Festival in the Park - Nov. 22
20 minutes from Lake Francis Cottages. This popular family event happens in beautiful Harrison Park. Take a hay wagon ride to Santa's Cabin, decorate a cookie in Mrs. Claus's kitchen, play some games or enjoy toasted bannock on an open fire; all part of the fun!
Come Visit us at: Lake Francis Cottages.com
Your Ontario Sauble Beach, Georgian Bay & Lake Huron
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