Summer of 2022 officially arrived this week.
And there is a TON of warm-weather fun to be had around the 705 region, starting this weekend.
Scroll on for 14 of the better events and happenings across the Barrie and Orillia area this summer…
Baycats and Rovers Games
The boys of summer are back, and taking over Vintage Throne stadium and J.C. Massie field in Barrie.
The ‘Cats are looking to regain the IBL crown after a bit of a ho-hum season in 2021, while the Rovers are enjoying a stellar rookie season on the pitch.
You can get tix for each team’s home games via their websites.
Live Music
The Queens is jammed with acts from across the region, and the country, every week. To say nothing of the killer lineup of music festivals and concerts returning to the area.
In Barrie, Donaleigh’s, North Country BBQ, Flying Monkey’s, Alliance Billiards and Perfect SZN are also host to acoustic performances through the week.
And if you’re looking for even more music from the local scene, be sure to hit up our collection of playlists.
Gussapolooza
Speaking of live music, the region’s foremost Indie music fest takes over Cookstown at the tail end of the summer.
Featuring over 70 bands, comedy shows and tons more, it’s an amazing way for music heads to close out the season.
Patios & Pints
We know you have likely already been on a patio or two. But for the uninitiated, a cold craft beer on a blistering summer day is an experience you simply must undertake this year.
Downtown Barrie and Orillia boasts a bevy of choices, but there are plenty of options around the Simcoe County core.
Get A Frozen Yogurt And Ice Cream
Ice cream trucks are once again meandering through the city streets offering kids and parents an excuse to spoil their appetites with a frozen treat before dinner.
Hit The Beach
Take advantage of the plethora of beach front around town, or further afield. A day at the lakeshore does wonders for your spirits, and it’s a low cost experience for the famjam.
Moreover, the various splashpads around town and across the region are within close proximity to most lakeside locales.
Pirate Weekend
The Orillian seas are set to be taken over by swarthy sailors bent on plunder and mischief (at least for a few days)
Pirate weekend takes over the Port of Orillia on Sep. 3rd and 4th, with all of the expected shenanigans from sea loving vermin.
It’s free to take part, with plenty of vendors and food stuffs on site to go along with your pirate-ing.
Mariposa Folk Festival
One of the largest folk festivals in the country returns to Tudhope Park for three days of music, art and story on the beautiful shores of Lake Couchiching.
Happening July 8-20th, this year’s music lineup includes Blue Rodeo, Serena Ryder, the Strumbellas and over 30 more artists.
Kempenfest
Speaking of returning festivals, Kempenfest is back on the shores of Lake Simcoe, to celebrate their 50th anniversary.
Midway, food, vendors, tons of fun for the kids, and of course a stellar lineup of artists are included in the 4 day bash.
Foam Fest
The world’s #1 fun run is coming to Horseshoe Resort for a two day splash down, July 23rd and 24th.
The 5K Foam Fest is a one of kind Obstacle Course based Fun Run. Tackle over 22 obstacles including the world’s largest inflatable waterslide, mud pits and 2.5 MILLION cubic feet of foam!
