Experience Living History at Fall Rendezvous

Looking for one of the best fall events in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario? Mark your calendar for Fall Rendezvous 2026 at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, taking place Thursday, September 24, through Sunday, September 27, 2026.

This four-day heritage festival celebrates the people, cultures, and traditions that shaped Northern Ontario through living history, cultural performances, historical demonstrations, family activities, and interactive experiences. Fall Rendezvous offers a little something for all, whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for a fun weekend outing, or a visitor exploring the Sault.

Admission is by donation, making this one of the most affordable family-friendly events in Sault Ste. Marie this fall.

Experience Living History

For four exciting days, the grounds of the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site will be transformed into a bustling historical encampment where visitors can experience life during the fur trade era and early settlement of the region.

Visitors will meet knowledgeable historical interpreters and watch history come alive through authentic demonstrations, traditional skills, military displays, and period costumes.

Featured re-enactors include:

• Cannon Firing demonstrations
• Voyageurs
• Coureur du Bois
• Mini Militia
• The Surgeon
• The Cooper
• Women of the Era
• Indigenous Allies

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn how early settlers, voyageurs, traders, soldiers, and craftspeople lived and worked in the early days of the Great Lakes.

Following its tremendous success last year, Scottish Highlander Day returns on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Celebrate the Scottish heritage of the McTavish and Ermatinger families while enjoying an exciting day filled with music, dancing, history, and Highland traditions.

Visitors can look forward to:

• Performances by the MacLeod Highland Dancers
• 49th (SSM) Field Regiment RCA Pipes and Drums
• 155 Air & 2310 Army Cadets Pipe & Drums
• Gael Force Pipe Band
• Scottish heritage demonstrations
• Historical re-enactments
• Interactive activities for all ages

Experience the sights and sounds of Scotland while learning about the important role Scottish families played in the history of Sault Ste. Marie and the fur trade.

Continue the celebration on Saturday evening with the ticketed Barley Bree Night, an unforgettable Scottish-inspired dining experience at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site.

Hosted by Dunbar Thompson of The Whisky Barrel, the evening features an engaging introduction to Scotch whisky, including two carefully selected Scotch samples, paired with a hearty serving of traditional Bangers and Mash, followed by a freshly baked dessert.

As guests dine, the evening comes alive with the stirring sounds of Highland bagpipes and lively musical entertainment, creating an atmosphere of Scottish hospitality, storytelling, and celebration. It's the perfect way to conclude a day of Highland festivities and immerse yourself in the traditions that helped shape the community.

Tickets are now available for purchase on our website, ecnhs.com

On Sunday, September 27, Fall Rendezvous concludes with an inspiring celebration of Indigenous knowledge sharing, culture, traditions, and community.

Enjoy a vibrant Indigenous Culture Celebration featuring:

• Indigenous Knowledge Sharing
• Indigenous storytelling and demonstrations
• Cultural performances
• Opportunities to learn about local Indigenous traditions and history
• Indigenous Artisans and Vendors

This special day celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the First Peoples of the region and offers visitors a meaningful opportunity to experience Indigenous traditions in a welcoming environment.

Proudly Part of Ontario Culture Days

Both Scottish Highlander Day on September 26 and Indigenous Culture Day Celebration on September 27 are proudly presented as part of Ontario Culture Days, celebrating creativity, heritage, diversity, and community across the province.

Fun for the Whole Family

Fall Rendezvous is one of the premier family-friendly festivals in Sault Ste. Marie, offering activities for visitors of every age.

Festival highlights include:

• Candy Cannon Firing
• Arts and Crafts
• Historical encampments
• Living history demonstrations
• Live cultural performances
• Indigenous knowledge sharing
• Interactive exhibits
• Educational displays
• Family activities
• Food and refreshments available on-site
• Special guests and entertainers throughout the weekend

Discover something new with the exciting programming taking place each day.

Plan Your Visit

Fall Rendezvous 2026 hosted by the Friends of ECNHS

Dates: Thursday, September 24 – Sunday, September 27, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site
800 Bay Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Admission: By Donation

Join us this September for four unforgettable days celebrating history, culture, community, and tradition in one of Ontario's most significant historic sites.

Whether you're visiting for the thunder of the cannon, the excitement of the Voyageurs, the elegance of the Highland dancers, or to learn about Indigenous Culture, Fall Rendezvous 2026 promises an experience the whole family will remember.

For more information, visit www.ecnhs.com, call 705-759-5443, or stop by the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site at 800 Bay Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

We look forward to welcoming you to Fall Rendezvous 2026!

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