Barrie 
Tall Ships return to Midland this weekend as part of the Tall Ships Challenge Great Lakes Series.
Credit: Midland Tourism
Midland Harbour will welcome the return of Tall Ships from August 15 to 17, a spectacle that arrives only once every three years. Midland is the last stop on the Ontario tour.
The ships visiting the town include St. Lawrence II, Ernestina-Morrissey, Circe and Empire Sandy.
While evening sail-out tickets aboard the Empire Sandy are already gone, visitors can still step aboard for daytime deck tours — $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and youth, and free for children under five. The experience includes access to the Pirate Boatmobile, a favourite among younger guests.
You may like:
The festivities begin Friday with the Parade of Sail at 3 p.m., a 90-minute display of these majestic vessels in motion, free for spectators. Music will fill the Centre Pier each afternoon, and David Onley Park will host vendors offering local goods. Buskers, amusement rides, and the Boathouse BBQ will add to the harbour atmosphere.
Coinciding with the maritime celebration, the Northern Heat Rib Series and Beer Fest will serve up smoky plates and craft brews for a $2 admission fee, while the Midway Carnival offers unlimited ride wristbands for $30.
Events run into the evening, with Saturday’s and Sunday’s schedules starting as early as 10 a.m. For those not parking downtown, a free shuttle service will run between the ZF Parking Lot on Highway 12 and David Onley Park from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., departing every 15 minutes.
For history lovers, food enthusiasts, and families, this is one of Midland’s most anticipated weekends — and it won’t return until 2028. Plan an extended stay in the town and explore all that the town offers.
