Kempenfest

One of Ontario’s largest arts and crafts festivals, Kempenfest in Barrie attracts more than 200,000 attendees each year. More than 350 exhibitors line 1.5 km along the Kempen Bay waterfront, showcasing painting, pottery, clothing, jewellery, toys, local and artisanal foods, and more. There’s also a large antiques show, with more than 30 regular exhibitors. Live music is free all day, with ticketed evening concerts.

For kids, the main attractions are the rides at the Robertson Traveling Theme Park Midway  Amusement Park, the Tim Hortons Family Centre—where kids can help paint a giant mural and do lots of other arts and crafts—and the playground and white-sand Centennial Beach.

Parking is available at the Tiffin Boat Launch, but there are also shuttles from the Barrie Transit Terminal and park ‘n ride services from the Barrie Molson Centre, Bayview Mall, and Allandale Recreation Centre.