Huntsville Festival of the Arts

Festival Fringe

MOVIE ON THE DOCKS: MOANA

A BOAT-IN MOVIE EXPERIENCE!

Experience the magic of cinema at Movie on the Docks—an unforgettable outdoor movie night unlike any other! Situated on the scenic waterfront, a classic film unfolds on a double-sided screen, offering audiences the unique choice of watching from the water or on shore. Grab your own chair, sleeping bag, or floating device, and settle in for a free film under the twinkling stars.

Film will start at sunset. HfA will be selling popcorn, chocolate bars and cold drinks on site.

SYNOPSIS
An adventurous teenager sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui, who guides her in her quest to become a master way-finder. Together they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds. Along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she always sought: her own identity.

MOVIE ON THE DOCKS: MOANA

Town Docks
August 2, 2025 8:30 PM

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MOVIE ON THE DOCKS: WICKED

A BOAT-IN MOVIE EXPERIENCE!

Experience the magic of cinema at Movie on the Docks—an unforgettable outdoor movie night unlike any other! Situated on the scenic waterfront, a classic film unfolds on a double-sided screen, offering audiences the unique choice of watching from the water or on shore. Grab your own chair, sleeping bag, or floating device, and settle in for a free film under the twinkling stars.

Film will start at sunset. HfA will be selling popcorn, chocolate bars and cold drinks on site.

 

SYNOPSIS
Misunderstood because of her green skin, a young woman named Elphaba forges an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student with an unflinching desire for popularity. Following an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.
RATED PG

 

MOVIE ON THE DOCKS: WICKED

Town Docks
June 28, 2025 9:00 PM

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MUSIC AT NOON

Celebrating its 25th year, the Music at Noon series transforms downtown Huntsville into a harmonious haven at Trinity United Church. Join us for a midday escape, where free concerts curated by the talented Kyung-A Lee uplift both body and spirit. Local artists grace the stage, weaving diverse musical tapestries that enchant the audience. From classical harmonies to contemporary tunes, each performance creates a symphony of downtown sounds. Embrace the essence of community through this musical journey that resonates through the heart of Huntsville—uniting listeners in a shared love for music. Join us, rejuvenate your soul, and let the music weave its magic.

July 14th – Young Performers/Artist  (Mixed)
July 15th- ShowcaseWoodwind Quintet (Classical)
July 16th -Strings Attached (Classical) The Kashaps and friends play beautiful music for violin, viola and guitar
July 17th – Hannah Shira Naiman (Folk)
July 18th – Briar Summers (Contemporary)

 

MUSIC AT NOON

Trinity United Church, 33 Main St. E
July 14, 2025 12:00 PM
July 15, 2025 12:00 PM
July 16, 2025 12:00 PM
July 17, 2025 12:00 PM
July 18, 2025 12:00 PM

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NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

A FREE EVENT FEATURING VENDORS, ACTIVITIES, AND A CONCERT WITH THE JULIAN TAYLOR BAND

Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in Huntsville on Saturday June 21st! Immerse yourself in an afternoon of cultural richness and celebration at River Mill Park, starting at 4:00 pm. Enjoy live Indigenous music, captivating storytelling, and peruse arts and crafts market vendors. Don’t miss the concert with the Julian Taylor (Mohawk & West Indian Heritage) and his band on the River Mill Park stage. This free event offers an opportunity to learn about the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and rich traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples and to honour their important contributions to our local community as we come together for a day of unity and appreciation.

4PM: Vendor Market Begins

4:15PM – Land Acknowledgement & Opening Ceremony

4:25PM: Ribbon Skirt Fashion Show

4:45PM: Programming TBC

6:30PM: Julian Taylor Band Concert (presented in partnership with the Mariposa Folk Festival)

ABOUT THE ARTIST

With a soulful voice and captivating stage presence, Julian’s unique blend of blues, roots, and folk music has earned him a growing fanbase and critical acclaim not only in Canada but also in Europe and the US. He’s earned four Juno Award nominations (including one this year for Roots Album of the Year for “Beyond The Reservoir”) , along with eight Canadian Folk Music Awards for Solo Artist and English Songwriter of the Year – won Solo Artist in 2022, five Native American Music Award nominations, plus a nomination for Canada’s most prestigious music accolade, the Polaris Music Prize.

“Taylor is a unique and important voice on the Canadian roots-and-folk scene.”- The Globe & Mail.

“Among Canada’s most premier songwriters. Ultimately, Taylor remains unparalleled” – Spill Magazine.

SEE HIGHLIGHTS FROM LAST YEAR’S EVENT

Video by Limelight Muskoka

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY

Rivermill Park, Downtown Huntsville
June 21, 2025 4:00 PM

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HFA COMMUNITY DANCE & WORKSHOP

HFA COMMUNITY DANCE + WORKSHOP RETURNS!

Join us for the HFA Community Dance + Workshop—a joyful day of music, movement, and connection! The afternoon includes all the squares and social dancing you know and love, with live calling by Hannah Shira Naiman and toe-tapping tunes from the HFA Community Band, led by the amazing Saskia Tomkins.

We’re thrilled to welcome back members of KUNE: Canada’s Global Orchestra, who will bring exciting international dance forms to the floor—plus more traditional music and movement from around the world. You’ll have the chance to dance, learn, and experience the energy of global rhythms right here in our own backyard.

🎻 Musicians! Join us from 12–2 PM for a special workshop where you’ll learn Greek, Peruvian, and Brazilian tunes with members of KUNE. Afterward, we’ll come together for a potluck lunch—a chance to connect before the big dance kicks off.

Whether you’re dancing, playing, or just cheering others on—this is a celebration of community, culture, and joy you won’t want to miss!

 

Come for the dance, stay for the fun!

SUNDAYS

OCT 20, NOV 17, JAN 26, FEB 23, MAR 23, APR 20, MAY 25 – CANVAS BREWING CO (12 John St)

Workshop: 12-2 PM
Lunch 2-3 PM
Dance 3-5 PM
PWYC, Suggested donation: $10/person or $25/family

 

SIGN UP FOR THE WORKSHOP: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebM4BUua2cCUmbXqidu1avFhrXwC1PxsmT0afMtZOeZBQSwg/viewform?usp=sharing

Youth Groups, We Want You! Is your sports team, choir, or youth group looking for a fun way to get involved? Why not host a bake sale during the event? It’s a great opportunity to raise funds and be part of the vibrant community spirit!  Contact hannah@huntsvillefestival.ca for more information 

 

HFA COMMUNITY DANCE & WORKSHOP

Canvas Brewery (12 John St)
September 29, 2024 3:00 PM
October 20, 2024 3:00 PM
November 17, 2024 3:00 PM
January 26, 2025 3:00 PM
February 23, 2025 3:00 PM
March 23, 2025 3:00 PM

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2025 CANOE MURAL PROJECT

DEEPEN YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF INDIGENOUS TEACHINGS THROUGH ART IN ACTION
Presented in Partnership with Hope Arises

Now in its 6th year, this unique event blends art, education, and the outdoors into a powerful cultural experience in the heart of Muskoka. From June 9–14, 2024, six artists will collaborate with artist and mentor Joyce Jonathan Crone and muralist Gerry Lantaigne to create seven original canoe murals live in Downtown Huntsville’s River Mill Park.

This year, the project is rooted in learning. In the spirit of truth and reconciliation, the participating artists will engage in a guided educational session led by Indigenous facilitator Joyce Jonathan Crone, immersing themselves in the Gifts of the Seven Grandfather Teachings — love, respect, bravery, truth, honesty, humility, and wisdom. The resulting artworks will respectfully interpret these teachings, reflecting a deepened understanding and appreciation for Indigenous worldviews.

The completed murals — painted on the undersides of canoes — will remain on public display in the park through fall 2025. This outdoor gallery will act as a platform for ongoing public learning, offering visitors the chance to encounter and reflect on Indigenous knowledge, values, and culture in a welcoming, accessible space.

2025 CANOE MURAL PROJECT

Downtown Huntsville
June 9, 2025 10:00 AM
June 10, 2025 10:00 AM
June 11, 2025 10:00 AM
June 12, 2025 10:00 AM
June 13, 2025 10:00 AM
June 14, 2025 10:00 AM

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HUNTSVILLE ART CRAWL

A FREE SELF-GUIDED ART TOUR IN AND AROUND DOWNTOWN HUNTSVILLE.

Running June 1 – August 30, 2025 in Downtown Huntsville! Full details coming soon!

The Huntsville Art CRAWL is a free, self-guided art tour that allows visitors to explore local businesses, galleries, and studios featuring exhibits, demonstrations, and interactive experiences by local artists. Thousands of visitors participate each year, supporting local businesses and purchasing art from regional artists. This year, in response to community feedback, the Art CRAWL will extend throughout the summer, increasing visibility for artists and businesses alike.

 

 

 

HUNTSVILLE ART CRAWL

Various Locations
June 1, 2025 9:00 AM

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NUIT BLANCHE NORTH 2025

NUIT BLANCHE NORTH

A signature summer event in the region, Nuit Blanche North (NbN) is a bold and interactive multi-arts street festival that transforms Downtown Huntsville into a vibrant hub of artistic discovery. For one night only, from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM, audiences will experience a captivating lineup of contemporary artistic activities, performances, and installations presented in unexpected public and private spaces throughout the downtown core.

Presented with generous support from TD Bank Group and the Huntsville Downtown BIA, NbN invites both artists and audiences to explore, discover, debate, and participate in contemporary art in new and engaging ways.

FULL DETAILS COMING SOON

NUIT BLANCHE NORTH 2025

Downtown Huntsville
July 19, 2025 8:00 PM

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REGGADDICTION

SWEET REGGAE VIBES IN THE BEAUTIFUL CANADIAN OUTDOORS OF THE ETWELL CONCERT SERIES

Reggaddiction brings the vibrant rhythms of reggae to the stunning Canadian outdoors at the Etwell Concert Series. Enjoy an evening filled with sweet reggae vibes, positive energy, and an unforgettable musical experience. Set against the beautiful natural backdrop, this performance offers a perfect fusion of nature and lively reggae tunes.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Reggaddiction is a 10-piece reggae band from Toronto, Ontario, that has been spreading the spirit of unity and community through their music since their formation in 2019. Fusing the timeless rhythms of Jamaican reggae with Canadian influences, Reggaddiction crafts a sound that not only transports listeners to sun-soaked tropical landscapes but also fosters a sense of togetherness and shared purpose.

Led by male and female vocalists D.M., the soulful Toya Monique, and Sunray Grennan—the son of Jamaican drumming legend Winston Grennan, who helped define reggae’s One Drop rhythm—the band embraces collaboration at the heart of their musical journey. Each member contributes to creating a rich, vibrant sound that speaks to the universal themes of love, resilience, and unity.

Reggaddiction’s debut album, “Ganja Harvest” (2023), is a testament to the band’s commitment to cross-cultural collaboration and musical innovation. Reimagining Neil Young’s classic “Harvest” album through the lens of reggae, “Ganja Harvest” bridges generations and genres, weaving together the distinct worlds of rock and reggae. Described as “A match made in Rasta Heaven” by 104.7FM (Australia), the album has been celebrated internationally and by Canadian outlets such as CBC for its ability to unite different musical styles into a harmonious whole. Each track serves as a reminder of the power of music to connect people across boundaries.

Reggaddiction has shared the stage with popular Jamaican acts such as Sister Nancy, Macka B, as well as Canadian groups such as The Sadies and Okan. Their performances have been a highlight at key festivals and events, including Peterborough Folk Fest, Kingsville Music Festival, Jamaica Day, and the Toronto Bob Marley Birthday Tribute show.

More than just a band, Reggaddiction embodies the ethos of ONE LOVE in everything they do. Their live performances are a powerful celebration of community, infused with the positive vibes of ska and reggae culture. Whether on stage or in the studio, Reggaddiction’s goal is to build connections, spark conversations, and inspire collective joy. They believe that music can unite people from all walks of life, creating a space where collaboration and oneness thrive.

With every note, Reggaddiction invites audiences to join them in a shared experience of music, positivity, and togetherness. A group that strongly believes in the unifying power of reggae music, to bring different artists and music enthusiast together.

Members
Vocals: Dave Matthews aka D.M.
Vocals: Toya Monique
Singjay: Sunray Grennan
Drums: Oz
Guitar: Jay Cleary
Percussion: Kevin Howe
Bass: Neil Morris
Keys/Organ: Sam Weller
Sax: Graeme Hamilton
Guitar: Maurice Gordan

 

REGGADDICTION

Etwell Concert Series
July 6, 2025 3:00 PM

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