Article by Matt Driscoll

HFA summer lineup features Serena Ryder, Jim Cuddy and more

The Huntsville Festival of the Arts (HfA) is set to return for its 33rd summer season, featuring a diverse array of concerts, art exhibitions, comedy shows, and community events.

This year’s theme, “Let Yourself Glow,” encourages attendees to celebrate the light within themselves through inspiring performances and artistic experiences.

“The theme of our summer season is Let Yourself Glow,” says Dan Watson, executive director of HfA. “We hope our season invites artists and audiences alike to shine a little light on themselves, on their community, and on the beauty of this place we call home.”

Among the returning highlights are Jim Cuddy with two performances, Matt Andersen, and the iconic rock band Lighthouse. Additionally, singer-songwriter Serena Ryder will grace the stage, along with George Canyon at the Algonquin Theatre.

The festival's programming will expand to include alternative venues. Reggaddiction will perform at the Etwell Concert Series, an outdoor covered venue nestled within the forests near Huntsville, where visitors can enjoy reggae music alongside oven-baked pizza in a picturesque setting. Hillside Farm will present The Rolling Stones Show, featuring local favourite Tobin Spring, for two nights. The farm will also be hosting Juno nominee Alex Pangman and her Sweet Hots, who will perform jazz classics from the 30s and 40s.

For further details about these events, the lineup of concerts and performances or to purchase tickets online visit their website at www.huntsvillefestival.ca.

 Citizen scientists delve into local road salt problem

Citizen science is playing a pivotal role in addressing road salt pollution in Muskoka, as highlighted in Dr. Neil Hutchinson's recent report for the Friends of the Muskoka Watershed (FOTMW). The report draws on data from eight citizen scientists who tested chloride levels at 27 locations over two years, revealing concerning sources of pollution linked to road salt use.

The findings indicate that lakes near major highways and urban areas show heightened chloride levels, primarily due to road salt runoff, with specific locations in Gravenhurst and Bracebridge identified as significant contributors. Measurements taken using conductivity meters indicate some local runoff has chloride concentrations comparable to seawater, posing a threat to aquatic life and local infrastructure.

Dr. Hutchinson emphasizes the importance of citizen scientists, noting their ability to provide valuable insights that supplement professional research. As pollution levels continue to rise in certain areas, like Gravenhurst Bay, community involvement is crucial for monitoring and mitigating the effects of road salt on the environment.

The information is set to strengthen FOTMW's SALTYMuskoka education project, aimed at educating residents on reducing road salt pollution in the region.

 Bracebridge set to celebrate 150th anniversary

The Town of Bracebridge is gearing up for a momentous celebration this year as it marks its sesquicentennial anniversary. Numerous events are being organized to commemorate this significant milestone.

“In 2025, Bracebridge proudly celebrates its 150-year anniversary as a vibrant and welcoming community,” said Rick Maloney, mayor of Bracebridge. “Rich in history, community spirit, and natural beauty, Bracebridge has come a long way. We are excited to reflect on our past and celebrate the progress that has shaped our town. Join me in marking this monumental occasion with special events, legacy projects around town, and community gatherings where stories can be shared and memories made.”

A celebratory flag has already been raised at Town Hall, and new Bracebridge-150 banners have been displayed throughout the downtown area in collaboration with the Downtown Bracebridge BIA. These banners feature a special logo and icons that will remain up for the year.

One of the highlights of the anniversary celebrations will be the Bracebridge 150 Community Celebration and Showcase, scheduled for June 7 and 8 at J.D. Lang Park (Bracebridge Fairgrounds).

 Muskoka Lakes makes changes to short-term rental accommodation licensing

In late 2024, the council approved a short-term rental accommodation licensing bylaw.

The planning committee recommended at their March 2025 meeting that the bylaw be revised to incorporate a new implementation schedule.

The updated bylaw features the following key amendments:

- Existing and new operators will be allowed to advertise and manage their short-term rental accommodations without a license from the Township throughout 2025.

- All operators must submit their license applications by December 31, 2025.

- While the restrictions for summer rentals will remain the same, the amendments suggest delaying the enforcement of these restrictions until May 1, 2026. Bookings for the summer of 2026 must comply with the provisions of the amended bylaw.

- The occupancy limit will continue to be set at two persons per bedroom. However, if an applicant can demonstrate their septic system can accommodate more, the Township may consider increasing the maximum occupancy permitted on the issued license.

According to the Township, the bylaw change is meant to enhance the efficiency, compliance, and user-friendliness of the licensing process. The bylaw was enacted in light of unforeseen technical challenges, according to Township staff.

 Santa’s Village makes significant expansion for upcoming season

Santa’s Village has announced its largest expansion to date. The expansion includes the addition of three new Muskoka-themed rides: Fly Fishin’, Falcon’s Nest, and Moose on the Loose.

Bob Montgomery, the newly appointed General Manager of Santa’s Village, oversaw the expansion. Montgomery has a history in managing major global attractions, including Darien Lake, Canada’s Wonderland, Legoland Group and Herschend Family Entertainment.

With years of leadership experience, he is focused on enhancing the park’s appeal to a wider age range by introducing more thrilling adventures and improving food and beverage options for visitors.

“With our upcoming expansion, we aim to broaden the offerings at Santa’s Village,” commented Montgomery. “Our goal is not only to introduce new rides but to enhance the overall experience. We want to create attractions that spark imagination and foster lasting memories through engaging and immersive experiences, while also preserving the cherished traditions that many generations have loved.”

Gravenhurst Triathlon scheduled for June 7 and 8

The Gravenhurst Triathlon/Duathlon, hosted at the Muskoka Wharf Sports Fields with its signature jump from the Muskoka Steamships, has been a highlight in the MultiSport Canada Triathlon Series for over a decade.

The event has now shifted to June, taking place June 7 and 8 in 2025. Participants are encouraged to register early, as the event consistently sells out due to the limited capacity of the Muskoka Steamships.

Following the jump into Lake Muskoka, participants tackle long, straight segments in the swim course, with the sun at their backs. As the event occurs in June, wetsuits are recommended, given expected water temperatures ranging from 19°C to 21°C (66°F to 70°F).

Cyclists then leave the Muskoka Wharf, staying on Muskoka Rd 169 for an out-and-back route. This course features long, steady grades with paved shoulders of varying widths and excellent visibility for both cyclists and motorists. As this is a shared road course, safety practices are essential.

The run begins on the pathways of the Muskoka Wharf Sports Park and leads to North Muldrew Lake Road, where participants will face a challenging course filled with hills. Regarded as one of the tougher runs in the series, this course requires participants to run facing traffic at all times, emphasizing safety on the shared road.

Sixth Muskoka Yarn and Fibrefest set for June 21

On June 21 the Bracebridge Fairgrounds will transform into a woolly wonderland for the sixth annual Muskoka Yarn and Fibrefest, attracting numerous vendors from across Ontario.

According to the festival organizers, the event aims to highlight the yarn and fibre industry in Ontario. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the artistry of those who hand-dye yarn and rovings, expertly weave garments and rugs and produce a variety of stunning artistic creations. Moreover, visitors can engage with farmers who raise livestock for their exceptional fibres.

This event caters to both fibre enthusiasts and those interested in discovering the skills of talented artisans and farmers. The event takes place from 10 am to 4 pm and admission costs $5 for adults, while children under 12 are free.

Vendors will be both indoors and outdoors.

Increase in orphaned animals concerns wildlife sanctuaries

Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, along with seven other Ontario wildlife centres, is highlighting the rising issue of orphaned wildlife as temperatures increase. Many animals, such as raccoons and squirrels, are seeking shelter in human homes, leading to numerous orphaned babies when homeowners remove their mothers.

“If the orphaned animals are found quickly enough, they can be taken to a wildlife rehabilitation centre for care and eventual release,” said Janalene Kingshott, director of animal welfare at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. “However, wildlife rehabilitation centres throughout Ontario are reaching their maximum capacity as soon as May, and the calls keep coming for several months thereafter." This means rehabbers need to make the difficult decision to turn away hundreds of baby animals each year.

Live-trapped animals often suffer from stress and injury while waiting for relocation, facing further hardships when released into unfamiliar environments away from their young. Ontario's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act restricts relocation beyond one kilometre, but many species return to their original territories making legal relocation ineffective.

For humane handling, it is advised to wait until the young are old enough to leave the den on their own, around 8 to 10 weeks. To encourage nursing mothers to move their young, techniques such as playing talk radio, introducing strong smells, and reducing comfort in the den may be effective.

If challenges arise, homeowners are urged to consult experts in wildlife control, especially during breeding seasons. Additionally, proactive measures like securing food sources and sealing entry points can help prevent future wildlife intrusions.

Trump tariffs boost local tourism in Muskoka

Recent decisions made in the Oval Office are having a significant impact in Muskoka. Amid the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada, many consumers are choosing to spend their dollars locally. Muskoka Tourism has reported a remarkable 176 per cent year-over-year increase in website traffic from prospective U.S. visitors.

“Local operators are experiencing strong early bookings, positioning us well for a busy summer season,” stated Val Hamilton, executive director of Muskoka Tourism. “While our message – Muskoka: Where Summer Feels Canadian – continues to resonate throughout Ontario, we are also enhancing our digital marketing efforts in key U.S. drive markets, including Michigan, Ohio, and New York State. With this positive momentum, we’re optimistic for a successful summer ahead.”

On a national scale, a recent survey by market researcher Leger revealed two-thirds of Canadians have significantly cut back on their purchases of American products, both in physical stores (68 per cent) and online (65 per cent). Furthermore, 59 per cent of Canadians indicated they are less likely to visit the U.S. this year compared to 2024, with 36 per cent of those with travel plans to the U.S. reporting they have already cancelled their trips.