Upcomingfestival
Bala Cranberry Festival is almost here: Oct 18th - 20th, 2024
Friday, October 18, 2024
10:00 AM
Bala, Ontario
500 attending
About the Festival
The Bala Cranberry Festival is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration of Muskoka’s cranberry heritage, held every October in the heart of Bala. Since 1984, the festival has brought together locals and visitors for a weekend of live music, artisan markets, delicious food, and unique cranberry experiences. Proceeds support community initiatives, scholarships, and local entertainment, making this event a true Muskoka tradition.
Ticket Information
Single-Day Pass
- Advance Online: $11.30
- At the Gate: $15.00
- Children (5+): $5.00
- Fridays are FREE for kids
Three-Day Weekend Pass
- Advance Online: $16.95
- At the Gate: $20.00
- Children (5+): $8.00
All prices include HST. Festival passes are separate from activities at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery.
Why Attend?
- One of Ontario’s largest arts and crafts shows with hundreds of vendors
- Live music, entertainment, and performances all weekend
- Wide variety of food and cranberry-inspired treats
- Family-friendly attractions and activities for all ages
- Celebration of Muskoka’s cranberry heritage, tied to the harvest at Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh
Areas to Explore
- Festival Grounds: Maple Avenue, Bala Arena, Community Centre – artisans, food, cranberries, entertainment zones
- Cranberry Portage Farmers’ Market: Local merchants and cranberry wine at Portage Landing Lot
- Festival Shop: Merchandise and local cranberry products inside the Community Centre
- Bala Falls Road: Merchants, cranberry crepes, Bala Falls, Duck Races (Saturday)
Check back for updated maps on the festival map page.
Visitor Tips
- Buy tickets online in advance to save and skip the line
- Arrive early to avoid peak crowds, especially on Saturday
- Dress for fall weather and wear comfortable shoes
- Bring both cash and cards (some vendors are cash-only)
- Plan for limited parking; shuttle details will be announced closer to the date
- Add a visit to Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery for a unique harvest experience
Festival Info
FestivalFamilyFoodMusic
Event: National Cranberry Day
Type: Awareness Day
Purpose: Celebrating the history, harvest, and health benefits of cranberries
Observed On: November 23, 2025
Location: United States (nationwide observance)
Fun Fact: Fresh cranberries bounce due to tiny air pockets inside, this “bounce test” even helps sort quality berries!
Nutrition Highlights: Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants; supports urinary and immune health.