Music, Artisans, and Market at River Mill Park  

River Mill Park will come alive with Indigenous artisans, craftspeople, educators and entertainers for a day of song, story, and community.  Start your day strolling through the Indigenous vendor market, running between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and stay for a full day of festivities on stage and in the park. Mayor Nancy Alcock will officially kick off the celebrations at noon with opening remarks, and a land acknowledgement and smudging ceremony.

There will be plenty of live entertainment, with performances by the Lyons Sisters, Jared Big Canoe, and Canadian singer-songwriter Logan Staats.The public can also join in on some of the programming being offered throughout the day to experience first-hand Indigenous traditions and contemporary culture.

This free event is open to the public and offers residents and visitors a chance to celebrate and support the richness of Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists and culture in the heart of Huntsville.

As an outdoor event, the schedule of activities may be impacted by inclement weather. For more information, including weather updates and a full schedule of events, visit our event page on huntsville.ca or follow us on social media.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

The post Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day In Huntsville On June 21 appeared first on Muskoka411.

The original plan called for King William Street to operate as one-way southbound traffic only between Scott Street and Highway 60. Following discussions with local businesses, the District worked with the contractor to review the traffic management plan and identify a solution that would maintain two-way access through the construction zone.

To support this revised approach, additional traffic control measures will be implemented, including temporary signal modifications, additional traffic control staff, and specialized traffic control equipment.

What to Expect

• One northbound lane and one southbound lane will be maintained through the construction area.
• Lane closures are anticipated to begin this week once traffic control measures are finalized.
• Access to all businesses will be maintained throughout construction.
• Significant traffic delays and congestion are expected in both directions during contractor hours, particularly Monday through Thursday
• Traffic conditions are expected to improve during evenings and weekends when construction activities are reduced or paused.
• Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes where possible.

The District and its contractor will continue to monitor traffic conditions and project operations throughout construction and make adjustments where practical and appropriate.

The District appreciates the feedback received from local businesses and remains committed to working collaboratively with the community throughout construction.

To stay informed and view detour details, please continue to visit: www.engagemuskoka.ca/king-william

The post King William Street Reconstruction Update: Two-Way Traffic To Be Maintained During Construction  appeared first on Muskoka411.

n June 4, 2026, Explorers’ Edge, the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, and Tourism Gravenhurst hosted stakeholder sessions at Taboo Resort as part of the Experience-Led Tourism Partnership.

The sessions brought together local tourism operators, accommodators, community partners, municipal representatives, and business leaders to explore how Gravenhurst can build stronger bookable experiences, increase visitor spending, support shoulder-season growth, and create new opportunities for collaboration.

Across the sessions, participants shared real-time feedback through Slido, helping identify what local businesses need most, where the greatest tourism opportunities exist, and how this partnership can best support Gravenhurst’s visitor economy.

What We Heard

The response was clear, positive, and action-oriented. Participants expressed strong interest in joining bookable travel packages, receiving ready-to-use marketing tools, accessing better visitor data, and building stronger connections with other businesses.

Key themes included:

• Strong interest in bookable Gravenhurst travel packages
• A desire for visitor data, insights, and measurable tourism impact
• A need for ready-to-go social media content and digital marketing tools
• Support for shoulder-season visitation, event-based travel, and longer overnight stays
• Interest in business introductions, package examples, and co-creation support
• Positive feedback on the open, transparent, and collaborative approach

This feedback confirms that Gravenhurst businesses are not only interested in participating — they are looking for practical tools, clear communication, and support to help move ideas into market-ready visitor experiences.

Presentation Deck

A copy of the presentation deck and session reports have been included below for stakeholders who would like to review the full tourism program overview, including the Explorers’ Edge travel agency model, the Gravenhurst partnership framework, the research approach, and the Well Known Marketing + Advertising workplan.

FlixBus in Muskoka and Ontario’s Great Canadian Wilderness

Explorers’ Edge is also pleased to share information about the arrival of FlixBus service in Muskoka and Ontario’s Great Canadian Wilderness. This new transportation connection creates an important opportunity to support visitor movement, package development, itinerary planning, and more accessible travel into the region.

Learn more about FlixBus service here: https://explorersedge.ca/flixbus/

Read the Explorers’ Edge press release here: https://explorersedge.ca/news/explorers-edge-welcomes-flixbus-to-muskoka-and-ontarios-great-canadian-wilderness/

Business Confidence Index Survey

We are asking Gravenhurst businesses and tourism stakeholders to complete the Business Confidence Index survey. Your input helps us better understand the current business climate, operator needs, workforce pressures, visitor trends, and areas where additional support may be required.

Complete the Business Confidence Index Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2LGMMCX

Tour Operator Information Survey

If your business is interested in being considered for future travel packages, bookable experiences, itineraries, or tourism partnership opportunities, please complete the Tour Operator Information Survey.

This survey helps Explorers’ Edge understand your business, your visitor experience, your capacity, your pricing structure, and how you may fit into future package development.

Complete the Tour Operator Information Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZD7Z9ZY

Stay Connected

Stay connected with Gravenhurst tourism updates. In partnership with the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, Explorers’ Edge will be sharing program information, partner opportunities, and Tourism Tip Tuesday notifications by text message.

Text Gravenhurst to 705-300-8894

This will ensure you stay connected as the Gravenhurst tourism partnership moves from engagement and planning into implementation.

What Happens Next

Explorers’ Edge and its partners will continue following up with interested businesses, developing digital asset kits and social media templates, supporting operator introductions, and moving toward the launch of initial Gravenhurst travel packages.

This work is about building tourism with the community, not for the community. By combining local business participation, visitor research, strategic marketing, transportation connections, and bookable travel experiences, Explorers’ Edge, the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce, and Tourism Gravenhurst are working together to position Gravenhurst as a stronger, more connected, and more competitive destination within the Great Canadian Wilderness, the province and the country.

The post Planning Sessions To Boost Gravenhurst’s Visitor Economy A Success appeared first on Muskoka411.

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is delighted to welcome the community back for free Community Days this June, made possible by the generous support of the ParticipACTION Community Challenge grant. Every Saturday throughout the month, all five YMCA Health, Fitne ss, and Aquatics centr es in Collingwood, Gravenhurst, Innisfil, Midland, and Wasaga Beac h, will open their doors to everyone, free of charge .

Community Days are about more than fitness; they aim to improve the community’s physical and mental well-being. By offering free day passes to people of every age and ability, the Y hopes to help neighbours feel stronge r, more connected, and healthie r. From group classes and open swims to individual fitness, there’s something for everyon e to
enjoy. Whether you’re already familiar with the YMCA or are visiting for the first time,
these passes provide a wonderful opportunity to explore what the Y has to offer .

“We are deeply grateful to ParticipACTION for this generous grant, which allows us to host
Community Days and help remove financial barriers to health and wellness,” said Jill
Tettmann, President & CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. “At the YMCA, we believ e
everyone deserves the chance to grow and thrive — physically, emotionally, and socially.
These free passes reflect our commitment to creating inclusive, supportive spaces where
every member of the community can shine. ”

Community Days are part of the YMCA’s ongoing mission to strengthen communities and
promote healthy, active lifestyles. Visitors to the YMCA during the month
of June can participate in a variety of activities tailored for individuals, families, and
groups . For local program schedules , visit www.ymcaofsimcoemus koka.ca/schedule s.

Getting started is easy. Residents can drop by their local YMCA in Collingwood, Gravenhurst, Innisfil, Midland, or Wasaga Beach on Saturday, June 6, 13, 20, or 27. You can also grab your free day pass online at www.YMCAOnlinePortal.c a — no code required.

To learn more about ParticipACTION’s Community Challenge,
visit www.participaction.com/programs/community-challeng e. To discover more about
YMCA services and programs, please visit www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.c a.

The post YMCA Of Simcoe/Muskoka Opens Its Doors For Free Community Days In June appeared first on Muskoka411.

Beginning June 5, while quantities last, shoppers can support Hospice Muskoka simply by purchasing one of the specially marked planters available at Canadian Tire Gravenhurst. Look for the Hospice Muskoka sticker on participating planters—100% of the proceeds from those planters will be donated directly to Hospice Muskoka – Andy’s House.

Every planter purchased helps ensure that vital hospice, palliative care, caregiver support, and grief services remain available free of charge to local families throughout Muskoka.

Hospice Muskoka’s annual operating budget is approximately $3 million, with the Ontario Government providing about 45% of funding. The remaining $1.5 million must be raised each year through community support and fundraising initiatives to ensure these essential programs and services continue to be available to everyone who needs them.

In addition to residential hospice care, Hospice Muskoka operates Andy’s House at Home, a program funded entirely through donations. This innovative service provides in-home palliative care, caregiver support, grief counselling, and 24/7 assistance at no cost to families. In just the first six months of operation, the program supported 105 clients, helping vulnerable individuals remain at home, reducing visits to emergency departments, and saving local hospitals more than $2 million in healthcare costs.

“Hospice care is about ensuring no one walks their journey alone,” said Jody Somerville, Development & Communications Manager, Hospice Muskoka – Andy’s House. “We are incredibly grateful to Kevin and Natalie Smith and the entire team at Canadian Tire Gravenhurst for their generosity and commitment to our community. Every planter purchased helps provide comfort, dignity, and support to local families when they need it most. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours.”

Kevin and Natalie Smith, owners of Canadian Tire Gravenhurst, are proud to support the organization and its mission.

“We have been truly touched by the outstanding care Hospice Muskoka – Andy’s House provides in our community,” said Kevin and Natalie Smith. “The compassion they show to those facing life-limiting illnesses is truly remarkable and something we have witnessed firsthand. We are honoured to support Hospice Muskoka and encourage our community to join us in making a difference through this fundraiser.”

Every planter purchased represents more than just beautiful flowers—it represents comfort for families, support for caregivers, compassionate care for individuals facing end-of-life journeys and hope for those navigating grief and loss.

Community members are encouraged to visit Canadian Tire Gravenhurst beginning June 5 and look for the Hospice Muskoka sticker on participating planters. Quantities are limited, and every purchase helps ensure compassionate care remains available to Muskoka families when they need it most.

Hospice Muskoka extends its heartfelt gratitude to Kevin and Natalie Smith, the team at Canadian Tire Gravenhurst, and every community member who chooses to support this initiative.

Together, every bloom truly brings comfort.

The post Canadian Tire Gravenhurst Partners With Hospice Muskoka To Grow Compassion Across Our Community appeared first on Muskoka411.

Built around the philosophy “Live Where You Love. Own Smart. Live Free.”, the book introduces an unconventional yet accessible model: owning multiple smaller, income-generating residences in desirable locations, such as Muskoka, rather than
a single primary home. From vibrant downtown waterfronts to serene lakesides and sun-soaked beaches, the authors demonstrate how thoughtful ownership can unlock both financial flexibility and a richer life experience.

Early readers are calling the book both inspiring and grounded—an uncommon balance in the personal finance and real estate
space.

“Finally, a down-to-earth guide to achieving the possible… This thoughtful book challenges the consumer mindset and shows how
to build a life full of experiences rather than things. It’s practical, step-by-step, and filled with real solutions.”

“One of those rare books that works no matter where you are in life… It challenges assumptions about security, opportunity, and choice, while offering frameworks and tools that are both actionable and empowering.”

With housing affordability, work flexibility, and lifestyle priorities all undergoing rapid change, Small Spaces in Big Places arrives at a moment when many are ready to consider a different path—one that is both financially sound and deeply
fulfilling.

About the Authors
Wayne and Jennifer are experienced real estate investors and lifestyle strategists who have spent years refining a model that blends financial independence with intentional living. Their work is rooted in the belief that with the right mindset and approach, a life of freedom and variety is more attainable than most people think. They spend at least 4-5 months a year enjoying all that Muskoka has to offer amongst its beauty.

Availability Small Spaces in Big Places is available now in paperback and through IngramSpark and Amazon
ISBN: 978-1-0674542-0-3
Non-Fiction: Business & Economics/ Real Estate, Personal Finance, Investments
Also E-book available on Amazon and Audible coming soon.

Website: https://www.smallspacesinbigplaces.com

The post Muskoka And One Of Its Turn-Key Resorts Inspires Authors’ Investments And Lifestyle Choices appeared first on Muskoka411.

As an AHF, the designated beds at Granite Ridge will operate as an extension of the hospital system and will be considered a hospital site. Compliant with all legislative requirements for an AHF this designation reflects Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare’s ongoing commitment to enhancing patient flow and ensuring high-quality care in the most appropriate setting.

This transformation will provide Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare with five dedicated beds to support patients classified as Alternate Level of Care (ALC)—individuals who no longer require acute hospital services but are unable to return to their previous living arrangement. These patients are often awaiting placement in rehabilitation programs, long-term care, or other funded settings.

With anticipated lengths of stay of fewer than 90 days, the AHF beds at Granite Ridge will play a vital role in ensuring patients receive care in the right place, at the right time, while freeing up acute care capacity within the hospital.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare on this meaningful initiative. The transition to an Alternate Health Facility marks an important step forward in delivering the right care, in the right place, at the right time. At Granite Ridge Retirement Residence, we take great pride in providing a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals during key moments in their care journey. This collaboration strengthens our shared commitment to improving patient flow and enhancing care across the region. We look forward to building an innovative future together and making a lasting, positive impact in our community.”
— Kim Sander, Administrator, Granite Ridge Retirement Residence

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At a special meeting on June 3, councillors endorsed a resolution outlining the qualities they believe are essential for the role. The recommendations emphasize municipal leadership experience, a strong and ongoing connection to Muskoka, the ability to build consensus, a deep understanding of the region’s unique rural and northern realities, and a demonstrated commitment to public service.

The special meeting was called in response to the Province’s decision to proceed with the appointment of Muskoka’s District Chair despite Council’s earlier request to be exempt from the legislation. The issue has become one of the most significant governance debates facing the region, raising fundamental questions about local representation, democratic accountability, and the future relationship between the Province and municipal government.

The discussion was marked by a strong defence of local democracy and local decision-making. Councillors expressed disappointment that the Province chose to move forward with an appointment process after Council had unanimously requested the ability to continue selecting its own Chair. Members repeatedly stressed that the Chair plays a critical role in shaping regional priorities, building relationships among Muskoka’s municipalities, and representing the District to other levels of government. Many argued that such an important position should remain accountable to the elected representatives chosen by Muskoka residents.

Deputy Chair Terry Glover, who chaired the meeting, described the matter as one of the most consequential governance issues facing the current term of Council. Throughout the discussion, members emphasized that the appointment will influence not only who occupies the Chair’s office, but how Muskoka’s priorities are advanced, how regional relationships are managed, and how accountability is maintained across the District for years to come.

Council also considered additional measures aimed at protecting local authority and preserving Council’s role in regional decision-making should the Province proceed with an appointment. Following discussion, councillors directed staff to review the proposed measures and report back on any legal or governance implications later this month.

As part of its resolution, Council requested that the Province provide councillors with the opportunity to review applicants and offer feedback before a final appointment is made. Council also called on the Province to recognize Muskoka’s unique circumstances as a large, predominantly rural municipality whose success depends on collaboration, consensus-building, and strong relationships among its six local municipalities.

The unanimously adopted criteria call for a Chair with demonstrated municipal leadership experience, a strong understanding of Muskoka’s communities and challenges, the ability to work collaboratively across municipal boundaries, and a proven commitment to public service.

The unanimous support for the selection criteria sends a clear message that Muskoka Council is not stepping away from the issue. While the Province may ultimately make the appointment, Council remains determined to advocate for a process that respects local knowledge, local accountability, and the voices of Muskoka residents.

Council is expected to continue discussions on the matter when staff report back later this month.

The post Muskoka Council Intensifies Pushback Against Provincial Chair Appointment appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 9:35 p.m., a Huntsville OPP officer was enroute to a all for service on Muskoka Road 169 in Muskoka Lakes Township when they became concerned about the driving behaviour of an oncoming vehicle. The officer conducted a traffic stop and subsequently arrested and charged 60-year-old Richard Ramsay of Port Carling, ON with Impaired Operation and Over 80. He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice on June 30, 2026 to answer to his charges.

On Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 1:30 a.m., a Bracebridge OPP officer was conducting general patrol in the town of Bracebridge and stopped a vehicle on Cedar Lane near Entrance Drive to investigate a Highway Traffic Act offence. The officer subsequently arrested and charged 39-year-old Todd Kennedy of Bracebridge with Impaired Operation and Over 80. He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice on July 7, 2026 to answer to his charges.

If you suspect someone is driving a vehicle of any kind while impaired, please call 9-1-1. Police will make every effort to locate the involved vehicle and conduct an investigation, many times, these investigations result in charges and removing impaired drivers from Muskoka roads.

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