The Town of Huntsville has a deep musical history, steeped in local talent and filled with amazing venues. Cool, clear lakes, pristine forests and a history rich with art and culture has inspired generations of musicians to live and perform here. Things really heat up in the summer with everything from large festivals, grassroots concerts and intimate performances in downtown establishments. This is your guide to Huntsville’s summer music scene…check it out and choose your next musical adventure!

The Huntsville Festival of the Arts is in its 26th season of bringing great music, art and culture to the community. What began in 1993 as a celebration of classical music has grown into a year-round festival featuring a jam-packed summer line-up. With an eclectic roster of performers representing a range of musical styles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Festival’s home base is the highly acclaimed Algonquin Theatre stage, but concerts are also hosted in several other local venues including Deerhurst Resort and the beautiful Huntsville Town Docks. The 2018 season features the amazing talents of the Jim Cuddy Band and Matt Anderson, returning favourites Whitehorse and a special appearance by Choir! Choir! Choir!

Want more jazz? Mark your calendar for August 2-4 when the Festival of the Arts presents the 9th annual Huntsville Jazz Festival. All weekend long the town will be swinging and jiving to live jazz performances at the Algonquin Theatre. On Thursday Micah Barnes transports audiences to the early 60s era of jazz. Friday night stars boogie-woogie piano whiz Michael Kaeshammer and Saturday serves up an homage to jazz legend Oscar Peterson.

For a truly unique outdoor concert venue, take in a show at the Etwell Concert Series. The series features live blues performances by top Canadian and international artists in a secluded and private setting just minutes outside the town centre. The Spring Family hosts the annual series on their rural property, where you can revel in the natural surroundings with a pavilion for shelter from the elements. Enjoy the warm summer night as the sounds of the blues echo through the surrounding trees. Chairs and benches are provided, and shows run rain or shine. Admission is by donation ($20 suggested per person) with proceeds directly benefiting the artists.

After a hot summer day, head downtown for a performance at Town Dock Park with the sunset as a natural backdrop. The Concerts on the Dock series takes advantage of Huntsville’s beautiful waterfront by showcasing a diverse mix of talented musicians playing mere metres from the cool waters of the Muskoka River. Come by boat or walk to the park, bring a lawn chair or blanket and a twoonie or two for the band and spend the evening grooving to local artists in this one-of-a-kind venue. 

  • July 4 – Christina Hutt
  • July 11 –  Jack Nickalls
  • July 18 – Northern Lights Steel Orchestra
  • July 25 – Muskoka Concert Band
  • August 1 – Paul Lagendyk
  • August 8 – Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums
  • August 15 – Mighty Lopez
  • August 18 – Jenny Smith
  • August 29 – Matt Allen

On the Docks Pub has been a favourite Huntsville music venue for 25 years. With three levels of patios overlooking the beautiful Muskoka River, every seat in the house has a view! Their “no fry” menu is filled with classic pub fare mixed with fresh and delicious modern options. Plus, they have a dozen beers on tap and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. The Pub has live music every weekend, with performances in an intimate space where you can get up close and personal with the musicians. This is your chance to hear something new, support great talent and be part of a thriving local scene. Every Wednesday night is open mic night, where you can show off your own talent to family and friends.

  • July 6 & 7 – Nathan Dasilva
  • July 13 & 14 – Derek O’Halloran
  • July 20 & 21 – The Jamm Doggs
  • July 27 & 28 – Jamie Reaume
  • August 3 & 4 – Ryan Mcintyre
  • August 10 & 11 – Derek O’Halloran
  • August 17 & 18 – Charlie
  • August 24 & 25 – Nathan Dasilva
  • September 1 – Sean Cotton
  • September 7 & 8 – Derek O’Halloran
  • September 14 & 15 – DGB
  • September 21 & 22 – Nathan Dasilva

Located in the heart of historic downtown Huntsville, The Mill on Main heats up with live music every weekend. The restaurant has two large patios that overlook River Mill Park and the Muskoka River and serves up a menu blending pub favourites (with a cottage country twist!), a seasonal selection of entrees and their incredible wood fired pizza. With Huntsville’s favourite musicians on tap, the Mill on Main is the perfect venue for a delicious meal served with a side of local live music!

Unique venues, top talent and the great outdoors – we’ve got it all! Plan an evening out or a weeklong getaway to hear the classics or discover new sounds. Get up close and personal with local musicians, catch your favourite artist on the Algonquin Theatre stage or head outdoors and experience a great concert surrounded by nature. Whichever you choose, for summer fun and incredible live music, make Huntsville your destination.

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