Summer 2013 is off to a great start with Friends’ events galore! This weekend is no different, with lots to keep visitors busy.

On Saturday (July 13) evening, join us as Heritage Mica Days continue for Music Night at the amphitheatre at 8 p.m.  This one-hour concert features Celtic/folk musical numbers interspersed with skits and stories about the park’s rich heritage. Traditional music featuring fiddle, whistle, piano, guitar, voice and more will accompany characters of days gone by on stage at the amphitheatre in one of the park’s most popular events. Featured performer, Sherryl Fitzpatrick, is an accomplished performer and teacher of Irish, Cape Breton, Quebecois and Canadian Old-Time fiddle.

On Sunday, July 14, bring your appetite to a Heritage Mica Days barbecue and music at the beach from noon to 2 p.m., featuring music by the Long Sault Trio. Don’t forget to take some time before lunch for the weekly open house at the mine from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Heritage Mica Days kicked off with a fantastic performance by the Celtic Rathskallions at the amphitheatre, on June 22.

Celtic Rathskallions performed at Murphys June 22.

The audience gets into the action-packed Celtic Rathskallions show.

Other highlights so far include a celebration at our sister park, Rideau River, on June 29 (celebrating its 50th birthday this year!), where a pancake brunch was held along with a show by the Paddling Puppeteer in the afternoon and an evening concert by Freshwater Trade.

On June 30, a whopping 246 people walked out to the Silver Queen Mine for the weekly open house as part of Heritage Mica Days and a Canada Day 1907 celebration. They visited the mine, ore wagon and bunkhouse.

Down in the Silver Queen Mine.

Canada Day girls!

A barbecue lunch was available along with heritage games by volunteers Dave and Lynn, who distributed old pennies dated pre-1908 to all participants.

An egg race as part of the heritage games.

Enjoying a barbecue lunch!

Super ticket seller Kirsten was on hand selling our canoe raffle tickets, which support Friends programs and are available at the Park Store all summer, where you can also view the beautiful canoe. As well, Friends president Stephanie Gray and Tay Valley Township Councillor Bill Avery cut and distributed the giant Canada Day cake for visitors.

Councillor Avery cuts the Canada Day cake!

The Paddling Puppeteer entertained in the bunkhouse, too, and his show was enjoyed by all ages. In the evening Freshwater Trade performed at the amphitheatre.

Great entertainment by the Paddling Puppeteer!

On July 7, we had 157 visitors to the weekly open house at the mine, which was accompanied by a fantastic baked bean lunch. Musical entertainment was provided by local band Hwy 511 – great stuff!

As always, thanks to all the incredible park staff who help us make these events happen!

 Please note a valid permit is required for entrance to the park. Purchase a vehicle day pass at the gatehouse or use your seasonal pass or camping permit.

Hope to see you on the weekend!