There's something truly magical about autumn in Muskoka. As the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of crimson, gold, and amber, the region becomes a natural wonderland that captures the heart and soul of the season. At the centre of this autumnal celebration sits Sandhill Nursery's Fall Festival, running from September 13 to October 26, 2025, where nature's splendour meets community spirit in the most enchanting way possible.
Each year, Sandhill Nursery dreams bigger, creates more magic, and brings new experiences to their Fall Festival—and 2025 is shaping up to be their best yet! This isn't just another seasonal event; it's a celebration of everything that makes fall in Muskoka extraordinary. The festival offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, delicious seasonal treats, and breathtaking autumn displays that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
What makes this festival particularly special is its heart. While admission to the festival is free, donations support Hospice Huntsville, making every visit not just a memorable experience but also a meaningful contribution to the local community.
The festival grounds transform into a wonderland of autumn activities that delight visitors of all ages. The Kid's Activity Zone opens September 13 and runs 7 days a week during the festival, providing a playful, hands-on space where children can get creative, learn about plants, and dive into festive fall fun.
Adventure seekers can tackle the Sandhill Castle & Giant Maze, where the grounds are a great place for kids to explore and socialize, offering classic fall fun with festival games perfect for all ages. For those seeking a bit of excitement, the pumpkin slingshot adds an element of playful competition to the experience.
The entertainment lineup for 2025 promises to be unforgettable. Each year, Sandhill brings back a talented group of local musicians, alongside incredible street performers and buskers. From mesmerizing fire eaters and spinners to talented magicians and acrobats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
New for 2025, The Ultimutts Animal Actors Show is coming to the Festival! Featuring 4-legged CAT and DOG celebrities who showcase how to bring a character to life on the big screen. These talented performers demonstrate incredible stunts including jump rope, skateboard ramps, scooters, handstands and tight rope walking. Catch these amazing shows on October 4 & 5 and October 18 & 19 at 10AM, 12PM & 2PM.
As the sun sets over the festival grounds, a different kind of magic begins with Nursery Nights, presented in partnership with Huntsville Festival of the Arts. These intimate evening performances transform the nursery into an enchanting venue where world-class artists perform surrounded by the beauty of autumn foliage.
The 2025 lineup features an impressive array of talent. Old Man Luedecke, the stage name of two-time JUNO Award winner and Polaris Prize-nominated singer-songwriter Chris Luedecke, brings his authentic folk sound and high-energy banjo tunes, heartfelt ballads, and dry wit to the stage.
For those who prefer their entertainment with a side of laughter, A Garden Variety Improv Show is set inside the cozy charm of Greenhouse #4. Featuring Second City Alumnae—Dave Pearce, Kerry Griffin, Jennine Profetta, and Linda Kash, this unique comedy experience allows you to sip on some tasty drinks from the Rusty Rake while soaking in the garden vibes.
The musical journey continues with David Francey, a Scottish-born, Canadian-raised carpenter-turned-songwriter known as one of Canada's most revered folk voices. His songs capture the grit, beauty, and humanity of working-class life, told with honesty, humour, and heart.
Adding international flair to the lineup is Irish Mythen, a powerhouse performer known for their raw vocals, magnetic stage presence, and deep connection with audiences. Born in Ireland and based in Prince Edward Island, Irish has performed on world stages from the Sydney Opera House to Glastonbury Festival.
Comedy lovers can also enjoy Yuk Yuk's On Tour, bringing stand-up comedy to Sandhill Nursery surrounded by vibrant foliage, crackling leaves, and cozy autumn vibes. The tour features Martha Chaves, Dr. Ted Morris, and Ronald Hae.
While the Sandhill Nursery Fall Festival is undoubtedly a highlight, Huntsville offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the autumn splendour. The region's hiking trails provide spectacular vantage points for fall foliage viewing. The Hunters Bay Trail offers lakeside views with brilliant autumn reflections, while Arrowhead Provincial Park features the famous Big Bend Lookout offering incredible views of the surrounding forest. Nature enthusiasts should also explore the Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve, where old-growth forests create a cathedral of autumn colours, and nearby Algonquin Provincial Park, renowned for some of Ontario's most spectacular fall displays.
Art and culture blend seamlessly with nature on The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery tour, where visitors can view reproductions of famous Canadian landscape paintings at the exact locations where they were created.
For unique animal adventures, the Back of Beyond Equine Centre offers romantic horse-drawn wagon rides through autumn forests, while Muskoka Goat Away provides delightfully quirky goat walks that combine exercise with entertainment in the crisp fall air.
No autumn getaway is complete without experiencing Huntsville's incredible dining scene, where restaurants embrace the season with locally-sourced ingredients and cozy atmospheres perfect for fall evenings. From casual cafés serving pumpkin-spiced specialties to upscale establishments featuring harvest-inspired menus, the town's culinary offerings reflect the rich bounty of the Muskoka region.
To truly experience all that our charming town has to offer during the magical fall season, booking an overnight stay is essential, allowing you to wake up to misty mornings, enjoy leisurely meals, and fully immerse yourself in the unhurried pace that makes Muskoka autumns so special.
The Sandhill Nursery Fall Festival represents everything magical about autumn in Muskoka: community spirit, natural beauty, family fun, and unforgettable experiences. With free admission and parking, operating rain or shine, there's no excuse not to experience this celebration of the season. Mark your calendars for September 13 through October 26, 2025, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime in one of Canada's most beautiful autumn destinations.