As the leaves begin their spectacular transformation across Muskoka, Huntsville emerges as the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The Huntsville Festival of the Arts presents an exceptional fall season lineup from September through December 2025, offering world-class entertainment against the backdrop of Ontario's most beautiful autumn scenery.
The Festival's fall programming showcases an impressive array of talent across multiple venues throughout the community. The season kicks off in September with Old Man Luedecke at Sandhill Nursery on September 13, followed by A Garden Variety Improv Show on September 19. Comedy fans will be delighted by Howie Mandel's performance at Deerhurst Resort on September 26, while folk music enthusiasts can enjoy David Francey at Sandhill Nursery on September 27.
October continues the momentum with Irish Mythen performing on October 3, Yuk Yuk's on Tour bringing laughs on October 18, and the James Barker Band taking the stage at Deerhurst Resort on October 24. The intimate Algonquin Theatre hosts Madison Violet on October 26, providing audiences with an up-close musical experience.
As autumn deepens into winter, the festival presents some of its most anticipated shows. Colin James Trio performs at the Algonquin Theatre on November 28, bringing blues mastery to Main Street. December offers a festive finale with Hawksley Workman: Almost a Full Moon at Trinity United Church on December 5-6, Dallas Smith & His Band Unplugged at Deerhurst Resort on December 6, and Jann Arden's Christmas Tour at Deerhurst Resort on December 13.
The festival utilizes multiple venues throughout Huntsville, from the unique outdoor setting of Sandhill Nursery to the elegance of Deerhurst Resort, the intimate Algonquin Theatre on Main Street, and the acoustically rich Trinity United Church. This variety ensures that each performance offers a distinct atmosphere and experience for attendees.
Huntsville's natural beauty provides the perfect complement to its cultural offerings, especially during fall when the region transforms into a canvas of gold, crimson, and orange. Visitors seeking the best vantage points for fall colours should not miss Lion's Lookout, which offers sweeping views of the town and surrounding lakes. The Big Bend Lookout in Arrowhead Provincial Park provides stunning panoramic vistas, while those willing to venture further can explore Dorset Tower and The Lookout Trail in Algonquin Provincial Park for truly spectacular autumn displays.
For those who prefer to immerse themselves in the fall foliage, several hiking trails offer unforgettable experiences. The Hunters Bay Trail winds through diverse terrain with beautiful lake views, while Arrowhead Provincial Park features multiple trails perfect for autumn exploration. The Fairy Vista Trail provides magical forest walks, and both Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve and Algonquin Provincial Park offer extensive trail networks where hikers can lose themselves in the glory of fall colours.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery tour, which combines the region's natural beauty with reproductions of famous Canadian paintings displayed in the very landscapes that inspired them. Golf enthusiasts can take advantage of the crisp fall weather and stunning course conditions, while families seeking unique adventures can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides at Back of Beyond Equine Centre or the delightfully unusual goat walks at Muskoka Goat Away.
Huntsville's dining scene perfectly complements both its cultural offerings and natural attractions, featuring everything from cozy cafés and family-friendly establishments to upscale restaurants showcasing local ingredients. The town's culinary landscape reflects the warmth of Muskoka hospitality, with menus that celebrate both international cuisine and regional specialties. From hearty comfort food perfect after a day of hiking to elegant dining experiences ideal for pre-show meals, Huntsville's restaurants cater to every taste and occasion.
To fully experience everything Huntsville has to offer during the fall season—from morning hikes through colourful forests to evening performances with the Festival—booking an overnight stay is essential. There is a wide range of accommodations that allow visitors to wake up surrounded by autumn beauty and spend leisurely days exploring both cultural and natural attractions without the rush of day trips. Whether seeking luxury resort amenities, charming inn experiences, or cozy retreat options, Huntsville provides the perfect base for a memorable fall getaway that combines the best of Muskoka's arts scene with its breathtaking autumn landscape.