Fall Rendezvous 2026 at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site | September 24–27, 2026
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
- St. Fort Joseph historical interpreters
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.
September 27 – Indigenous Culture Day Celebration
On Sunday, September 27, Fall Rendezvous concludes with an inspiring celebration of Indigenous culture, traditions, and community.
Enjoy a vibrant Indigenous Culture Celebration featuring:
- Cultural performances
- Thinking Rock Community Arts
- Indigenous storytelling and demonstrations
- Opportunities to learn about local Indigenous traditions and history
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
- 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.
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 and to learn 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!
