The first Festival was an initiative of the Madawaska Valley Arts Council in 1984 and was a twoday event held at the ski hill south of Barry’s Bay. It was truly a festival with a line up of musicians, arts and craft demonstrations, performing artists and workshops.

In 1991, MVAC partnered with the Barry’s Bay Railway Station Restoration Committee and donated a portion of the profit to the restoration fund. From then on, the festival has been held at the Railway Station Park on the second weekend in July. The Madawaska Valley Artisan Festival is all about creating a festive summer atmosphere to celebrate handmade work.

Where: Railway Station, Barry’s Bay
When: Second weekend in July
Who: Township of Madawaska Valley

Celebrating four heritage communities, the Kashubian Griffins, Algonquin Thunderbirds, Irish Shamrocks, and German Black Eagles play for the Heritage Cup in this annual hockey tournament in Barry’s Bay.

Where: Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre, Barry’s Bay
When: Last weekend in March
Who: This event is organized by local heritage organizations

Stroll through the Polish Kashub Heritage Park and take in local music, great food, and other special events in celebration of the region’s Kashub heritage.

Where: Polish Kashub Heritage Museum and Park, Wilno
When: First weekend of May
Who: Wilno Heritage Society

This event sees Opeongo Line in Barry’s Bay close for the day to allow for this annual all-day event, featuring live music, sidewalk sales, family fun, and more.

Where: Downtown Barry’s Bay
When: May Long Weekend
Who: Barry’s Bay BIA

Every summer and fall local growers and makers sell their wares at two great local Farmer’s Markets.

Where: The corner of Mill St and Highway 62 in Combermere, and at the Royal Canadian Legion in Barry’s Bay
When:
Combermere: Saturdays, 8:00- 11:30 am, from the 3rd Saturday in June until Thanksgiving, at the corner of Mill Street and Highway 62.
Barry’s Bay: Fridays, 11 am-4 pm, from the May long weekend until Thanksgiving.
Who: these events are organized by their respective committees

Held annually on Canada Day, the Township of Madawaska Valley marks the occasion with family-oriented events and a spectacular lakeside fireworks show.

Where: Lakeshore Park and downtown Barry’s Bay
When: July 1
Who: Township of Madawaska Valley

It starts with the swim in clean, beautiful Kaminiskeg Lake, then cycle the scenic and challenging hills around Barry’s Bay, with the run finishing at the beach on Lakeshore Drive, just a few minutes walk from downtown Barry’s Bay. This event attracts athletes from across the province.

Where: Lakeshore Park, Barry’s Bay
When: Late June/Early July
Who: This event is organized by its respective committee

This day of outdoor fun has a history spanning decades. Starting as the Tub Races (it’s exactly what it sounds like), lately the event has something for all ages during the day, including live music, waterslides, and a car show. Come back in the evening for more live music and dancing!

Where: Combermere Community Centre
When: Sunday of the August long weekend
Who: Combermere Recreation Committee

Get in the spirit of the season with this parade through downtown Barry’s Bay, ending of at the Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre. Local businesses and organizations show off creative floats and Santa caps off the event.

Where: Downtown Barry’s Bay
When: First weekend of December
Who: Barry’s Bay Lion’s Club