April 2026 Events Across Lake Country & Cottage Country
April is the month cottage country wakes up. The ice comes off the lakes, the docks start going in, and the communities that went quiet over winter come back to life. Here's what's on across the territory this month.
🎣 Orillia Perch Festival — April 24–26
Port of Orillia, 50 Centennial Drive, Orillia
The Orillia Perch Festival is one of Canada's largest registered fishing derbies and an institution on Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching. Anglers from across Ontario — and beyond — descend on Orillia for three days of competitive fishing, prize draws, and lake country community spirit. The 2026 festival runs April 24–26 with the official weigh station at the Port of Orillia. Tagged perch are worth serious prize money, and the grand prize this year is a LUND WC12 boat with a 9.9 HP Mercury motor on a trailer. Tickets must be purchased before the event begins — visit csfl.ca for full details and registration.
🌿 Kawartha Lakes Country Living Show — April 17–18
Fenelon Falls, Kawartha Lakes
A celebration of rural living, local makers, and the cottage country lifestyle. The Kawartha Lakes Country Living Show is a weekend event in Fenelon Falls bringing together local vendors, artisans, home and garden exhibitors, and community organizations. It's an ideal early-season outing — and a good reminder of why people choose to live, cottage, and invest in this part of Ontario. A great weekend to get out and explore Fenelon Falls if you haven't been recently.
🌌 Lyrid Meteor Shower — Peak April 22–23
Haliburton Highlands Dark Sky Viewing
The Lyrid meteor shower peaks the night of April 22–23, and Haliburton Highlands is one of the best places in Ontario to watch it. With minimal light pollution and vast stretches of open sky, the Highlands offer viewing conditions that city dwellers can only dream about. Find a dark spot away from any community lights, bring a blanket and a thermos, and look northeast after midnight. No equipment needed — just clear skies and patience. The Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve is a particularly good spot for dark-sky viewing.
🚣 Haliburton Highlands Paddlers Open House — April 12
Haliburton
If you've ever been curious about dragon boating, this is your entry point. The Haliburton Highlands Paddlers are hosting an open house on April 12 — no registration required, just drop in, meet the team, and learn about getting on the water this season. It's a welcoming community and a great way to connect with the Haliburton waterfront lifestyle beyond the real estate.
🌸 Spring Is Here — And So Is the Market
April is when cottage country buyers get serious. If you've been thinking about a waterfront property, a seasonal retreat, or a permanent move to lake country, the next few weeks are worth paying close attention to. Inventory is moving, and the best properties don't wait for summer.
If you want to know what's available — or what your current property is worth in this market — reach out anytime.
Event details are accurate as of publication date. Always verify dates, times, and locations directly with event organizers before attending. Event information sources: csfl.ca, myhaliburtonhighlands.com, allevents.in.
Bill Jackson | Real Estate Salesperson Lake Country Real Estate Team | EXP Realty, Brokerage 📞 705-242-5764 📧 bill@lcre.team 🔗 https://calendly.com/lcret/15min
