Barrie 
For one weekend in October, the Muskoka town of Bala becomes a celebration of cranberries. There are cranberry crêpes to try, fresh berries to take home, artisan stalls to browse and entertainment scattered throughout town.
Bala Cranberry Festival
The 42nd annual Bala Cranberry Festival, running October 16 to 18, 2026, combines a harvest celebration with an arts and crafts market, live music and family activities.
The festival that supports the local community and organizations in need.
It is also an opportunity to experience Bala beyond its main festival grounds, with local businesses, churches and attractions joining the weekend festivities.
What to See & Do
Most of the main activities are included with admission, making it possible to spend several hours exploring without paying separately for every attraction.
Credit: Bala Cranberry Festival
- Shop the artisan markets: Browse hundreds of vendors offering handmade goods, Canadian crafts, cranberry products and food. The juried arts and crafts market and Country Bazaar are major attractions.
- Enjoy live entertainment: Musicians and street performers appear throughout the festival. Watch for roaming entertainer Cranston Berry, along with woodcarving demonstrations at Portage Landing.
- Explore the family activities: Children can enjoy inflatables, games, a trackless train and photo opportunities. Science North and Scales Nature Park exhibits are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
- See local art: The Bala Plein Air exhibition runs throughout the weekend.
- Watch the Duck Race: On Saturday at 3 p.m., rubber ducks will race down Bala Falls, with prizes for the winner.
What’s New for 2026?
Two additions give returning visitors something different to explore.
Muskoka Arts & Crafts will host Crafting with Cranberries, an all-ages activity running Saturday and Sunday.
The new Cranberry Queen Contest takes place throughout Bala, with nine local businesses creating cranberry-themed figures from natural materials. Visitors can spot the displays and vote for their favourite before the winner is announced on Sunday at noon.
What Should You Eat, and Can You Visit a Cranberry Marsh?
Cranberry crêpes and cider are among the weekend’s seasonal treats, with Trinity All Saints Anglican Church serving both alongside peameal bacon buns.
Bala Cranberry Festival
Other options include chili at Bala United Church, sausages at the Bala Legion, food vendors and local restaurants.
For those interested in seeing where cranberries grow, Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery offers a separate experience outside the festival grounds.
Marsh activities require advance reservations and separate tickets. There is no shuttle connecting the farm to the downtown festival, so plan transportation before booking both.
Parking & Shuttles
Parking is limited in Bala during the festival. Paid parking costs $10 per day at Precambrian Shield and Jaspen Park, or $20 at the Bala Legion.
Bala Cranberry Festival
Accessible parking is available at Muskoka Lumber on Mill Street.
Free in-town shuttle buses run throughout festival hours, connecting Windsor Park, Ted Smith Construction and other stops with the festival entrance. Accessible buses are also available.
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Visitors travelling from Gravenhurst can book a shuttle from the Muskoka Discovery Centre, but advance registration is required. There is no Bracebridge shuttle in 2026 and no shuttle connecting the festival to the cranberry marsh.
Is It Worth the Trip, and When Should You Go?
The festival is particularly suited to families looking for daytime activities, couples interested in food and artisan shopping, and visitors planning a fall outing in Muskoka.
Saturday has the fullest scheduled program, including crafting, science exhibits and the Duck Race. Sunday offers many of the same attractions, plus the Cranberry Queen judging, but closes earlier.
Allow a few hours for the festival itself, and more time if you plan to explore Bala or visit the cranberry marsh.
This is largely a walk-around town experience, with both outdoor attractions and indoor markets. Dress for October weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. The official information does not specify a rain cancellation policy.
Parking is limited, so using the festival’s shuttle services may be easier than trying to park close to the entrance.
Trip Planning — Bala Cranberry Festival 2026
Bala Cranberry Festival
What: Since 1984, a dedicated group of volunteers has ensured the Bala Cranberry Festival remains an event you can’t miss. It is a fun-filled weekend for everyone, with exceptional shopping, exciting entertainment and culinary delights that all come together for one of the province’s most famous fall harvest festivals!
When:
Friday, October 16 to Sunday, October 18, 2026.
Hours:
Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How Much:
Single-day pass: $10 in advance or $15 at the gate.
Weekend pass: $15 in advance or $20 at the gate.
Children aged 5 and older: $5 for a single day or $8 for the weekend.
Free admission for children on Friday.
Published prices are subject to HST.
Additional costs: Food, vendor purchases, parking and activities at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery are extra.
Where: Maple Avenue, Bala Arena and the Bala Community Centre, Bala
Parking: $10 per day at Precambrian Shield and Jaspen Park, or $20 at the Bala Legion.
Shuttle: Free in-town shuttle service during festival hours. The Gravenhurst shuttle requires advance registration. No Bracebridge shuttle in 2026.
Accessibility: Accessible parking at Muskoka Lumber on Mill Street and accessible shuttle buses.
Pets: Leashed, well-trained dogs are permitted in outdoor festival areas. Service animals are permitted throughout.
