NEWS RELEASE
SAINTE-MARIE AMONG THE HURONS
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Celebrate the wonder of the fall season at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons with the annual Hometown Harvest Festival on Thanksgiving weekend: Oct. 7 and 8.
This family-friendly festival celebrates the harvest. It includes an artisan fair with artisans and crafters, as well as fun historical demonstrations, take-home crafts, and opportunities to participate in historical activities. New this year, guests will also enjoy live music from local musician Doug Feaver.
“Every year, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons pulls out all the stops to deliver the Hometown Harvest Festival — and this year is no different,” said Neil Lumsden, minister of tourism, culture and sport. “This family-friendly event will be the perfect opportunity to celebrate the fall season in Ontario, while enjoying a variety of fun activities, delicious home-grown food and shopping.”
Come visit the historic site, decorated for autumn. Don’t forget to stop and say hello to the historic mission’s heritage cows, chickens and pigs — a must-see for all ages.
“This festival is a favourite for fall lovers,” says Will Baird, general manager of Huronia Historical Parks. “If you’re looking for an activity to do with your loved ones on Thanksgiving weekend, Sainte-Marie is the place to be.”
The harvest season is one celebrated by many cultures around the world, including First Nations, and Indigenous peoples here in Ontario.
“This time of year would have been significant for both the Jesuits and the Huron-Wendat people who lived here in the 17th century,” says operations manager Chad Moreau. “That’s why we continue to celebrate it at Sainte-Marie today.”
Oct. 8 is also the last day of Sainte-Marie’s summer season. With the exception of educational programs, the Hometown Harvest Festival is the last opportunity to visit Sainte-Marie among the Hurons until their holiday event: First Light.
Tickets for the Hometown Harvest Festival are $12 per person, tax included, and children five and under are free. First Nations, Métis and Inuit visitors can also enter the site for free, as can members of the Canadian Armed Forces, both with valid ID.
Visitors can learn more about the Hometown Harvest Festival, and buy tickets, at saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/events.
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