The summer months see Ontario come to life as the province bristles with activity. You may not have classes to attend, but there is always more to learn and always fun ways to go about it. Here are some fun events to check out throughout July that will bring history to life, from the wars Canada faced on its way to becoming a nation, to the houses where people lived out their lives just as you do now. The past is brimming with stories that make it more intriguing than you might expect.

Heritage Day Canada – To celebrate Canada day on July 1^st, consider heading to Sault Ste. Marie for the Heritage Day Canada festivities. You can watch a reenactment of pre-Confederation times, as people dress up to give you a glimpse into life hundreds of years ago. While there, do not forget to check out the Ermatinger Old Stone House. This restored piece of history lets you step back in time to experience domestic and work life during the 1800s.

Lang Pioneer Village – Do you prefer more action in your history? Then head over to Peterborough’s Lang Pioneer Village on July 3^rd. Their Confederation celebration will feature a re-enactment of the Fenian Raid, as part of the 150^th anniversary of the 1866 Invasion of Canada. These raids saw Canada embroiled in a battle against Irish Republicans from the United States attempting to convince Britain to withdraw from Ireland. The battles helped strengthen morale amongst Canadians and give them greater faith in their military. It helped develop a critical sense of nationalism at around the time that we became a country.

Scottish Tea – For those with an appetite for history, check out the Hutchinson House Museum in Peterborough during the afternoons throughout July. Starting July 2^nd, tea and snacks will be offered everyday except Monday’s from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The gorgeous terrace has a period garden. There are also guided tours of the restored stone house for you to get a glimpse of how people lived and relaxed centuries ago.

Crimes and Criminals Guided Walk

Maybe peaceful little historical homes are not your cup of tea. If that all sounds a bit dull for you, perhaps you prefer an edge to your history. This is the tour for you. Starting July 1^st, Brockville will be hosting guided walk tours around their downtown area. Unlike those tours of quaint 19^th century homes, this one examines the criminal past of the area, including the largest bank heist in Canadian history. The tours will take place every Friday at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Ontario is filled with fun events throughout the summer filled with educational opportunities. Before classes start up again in September, make sure to take advantage of as many of them as possible. After all, you can only learn so much from the confines of a classroom.

Source:

Festivals & Events Ontario. http://www.festivalsandeventsontario.ca/