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      Several men shooting old muskets at festival

      Fort Willow

      HomeRecreation and CultureHistory and HeritageFort Willow
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      Fort Willow is one of the most historic sites in central Ontario. Visitors can explore the site and have a picnic or walk the beautiful surrounding trails. Throughout the Fort, information kiosks provide visitors with the outstanding history of the area.

      Festival at Fort Willow

      Every September, the Festival at Fort Willow welcomes visitors to travel two centuries back in time and celebrate the historical significance of the site. The festival features displays, entertainment and re-enactments of life as it was in 1812. This year's Festival will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Artisan crafts and food will be available for purchase (cash only). Parking will be available at the Fort. 

      History of Fort Willow

      During the War of 1812, Fort Willow was a supply depot that marked the halfway point between Kempenfelt Bay and the Nottawasaga River. The strategic location of Fort Willow allowed for a continuous trade and transportation route between Lake Ontario and Georgian Bay. The Fort Willow area is also part of the Nine Mile Portage, which was used for centuries by Aboriginals, fur traders and explorers who passed through the area.

      Student Education Day - Festival at Fort Willow - Friday, September 30, 2022

      The Festival at Fort Willow offers an engaging and interactive educational field trip for Grade 7 and 8 students annually. Students will learn what life was like at Fort Willow, pre-European contact, during the Fur Trade and the War of 1812. 

      The Fort Willow Conservation Area situated on the Nine Mile Portage was used as an important supply depot for the British army during the War of 1812. The Nine Mile Portage was the road that was used to deliver the supplies.

      Friday, September 30, 2022 is a designated Student Education Day at the Festival at Fort Willow. The Festival celebrates life in 1812—it is an interactive and exciting field trip for students!
      Cost per student: $8.00 (teachers and chaperones are free).

      Transportation: Bussing is to be arranged by each individual school. The event takes place rain or shine.

      Location:
      Fort Willow
      2714 Grenfel Road, Minesing
      L0L 1T2

      For more information or to book your school visit, please complete the Interest Form or email questions to recreation@springwater.ca

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