Top 5 Family Friendly Events In Orillia This Fall

There’s no shortage of fun, family-friendly activities in Orillia during the fall season. Aside from enjoying the fall foliage that is a must-see at the many beautiful parks in the Orillia area, such as the popular Couchiching Beach, there are many great events happening in the city.

Here are some to add to your calendar so you and your family can stay busy during the fall season!

Lightfoot Days: November 16-18

Celebrate Orillia’s very own Gordon Lightfoot with this annual downtown festival dedicated to the Canadian folk legend. This year marks Gordon Lightfoot’s 80th birthday, and there are many events commemorating him as well as a concert by Lightfoot himself. Check them out on the Lightfoot Days Facebook page.

Santa Claus Parade: November 18

It’s that magical time of the year again, and old Saint Nick himself will be travelling through downtown Orillia in this year’s Santa Claus Parade! The parade is one of the largest in Ontario, featuring over 100 floats and bands, all under this year’s theme of “a family Christmas.” Find out more here.

Children’s Candlelight Parade: November 23

One of the top annual family events in Orillia is the Children’s Candlelight Parade. Join the crowd for the candlelight procession to light the the Orillia Opera House Christmas Tree! There will be free hot chocolate and a visit by Santa. Read more here.

Downtown horse and wagon rise: December 1-15

There’s no better way to experience the cozy beauty of downtown Orillia than from the comfort of a horse-drawn wagon. There are free wagon rides through the downtown as Orillia counts down the days to Christmas. Time and location information for the rides can be found here.

Orillia Sleigh Bells & Brass Christmas Concert: December 16

An annual tradition in Orillia is the Orillia Silver Band’s pre-Christmas performance. Both traditional and contemporary Christmas songs will be played, and the crowd will have no shortage of carols to add their voices to. Find out more about the concert and how to order tickets here.

These are just some of the many fun events that keep Orillia smiling throughout the fall, and of course there are plenty more wintertime events once that coldest season arrives -- so stay tuned for more event listings by the Sundial Lakeview Retirement Residence team!

And if you or a loved one are in town during the fall season, why not stop by and say hello to the team here at Sundial Lakeview Retirement Residence and book a free tour to see what the best retirement community in Orillia has to offer.

Will Campbell