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. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for a fun weekend outing, or a visitor exploring the Sault, Fall Rendezvous offers something for everyone.

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.

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 Alies

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.

September 24 & 25 – Educational Days

Thursday and Friday are dedicated to educational programming for local grade school students. These special Heritage Days provide immersive learning experiences that bring classroom history to life through interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Students will discover:

• Early Canadian history
• The fur trade and voyageur lifestyle
• Traditional trades and craftsmanship
• Military life in the early 1800s
• Indigenous and European cultural connections

These educational experiences help inspire the next generation to appreciate and preserve our shared heritage.

September 26 – Scottish Highlander Day

Following its tremendous success last year 2025, 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.

An Evening of Scottish Hospitality – Barley Bree Night

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 will be available to purchase on our website by September.

September 27 – Indigenous Culture Day Celebration

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

With exciting programming taking place each day, there’s always something new to discover.