The annual summer festival, Orillia Waterfront Festival is back this weekend after a two-year pandemic-induced hiatus.
Orillia District Chamber of Commerce
The festival, hosted by the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce, offers fantastic free entertainment for all visitors.
The most famous event of the festival is the cardboard boat race. Spectators can see participants paddle unique, home-made watercrafts made from cardboard, tape, glue, and some buoyant materials such as pool noodles while competing for titles including Best Dressed Crew, Biggest Boat, Smallest Boat, Longest Floating Boat, and The Titanic Award for most spectacular sinking.
The race will be in the area to the east of the Terry Fox Circle, near the federal dock in Couchiching Beach Park.
You can also watch dogs who love water compete in the Dock Diving contest. You can enter your furry friend in the contest if it likes swimming, remain comfortable and respond to your commands while off-leash and in a crowded area with other dogs. The contest takes place on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
You can also shop from vendors showcasing everything from hot tubs and boats to one-of-a kind clothing and decor items.
There will also be live entertainment and mouthwatering eats from local food purveyors.
Orillia Waterfront Festival runs from August 5 to 7 at 50 Centennial Dr. Festival hours are 12 p.m to 8 p.m on Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m on Sunday.