Gordon/Barrie Island Events Archive
Markets
The annual Gordon/Barrie Island Christmas Market is a prime example of the kind of market events that take place here within the municipality. Come and meet people, sell your wares, and network. The island is a vibrant place for merchants and producers of arts and crafts, as well as local produce. Check the website for the next market!
BBQs
Our yearly Julia Bay BBQ is the mainstay in our annual BBQ agenda. People from all over come to the beach and eat and listen to live music played by local musicians. Laidback and groovy, for those who are hot and need refreshing there is a dip in Julia Bay to quench one's overheating. Check the website to find out when the next BBQ is happening!
Receptions
Gordon/Barrie Island hosted our local firefighters in 2024 at the Gordon Hall. It was a gesture to thank our fireman and women for what they do, the dangers they face and the protection they provide. Check our website to find out the next reception we are organizing here in our municipality.
Here are the top three entries for this year's DECORATE YOUR GATE 2024. First, second and third place each received a cash prize. Well done!
FIRST PRIZE!
SECOND PRIZE!
THIRD PRIZE!
Thank you to this year's participants.
Julia Bay BBQ 2024 was a lively event. Locals and islanders from all over appeared for the potluck food and the groovy music played by our own Chris Walker. A few took a dip in the warm waters of Julia Bay and then enjoyed a beverage as the sun began to set in the western sky. Well-organized and well-attended, it is safe to say that Barrie Islanders really know how to put on a party. No one left hungry. And many new friends were made.
Many spent the day flying kites on Sunday June 9th. Many kids were seen laughing and smiling as they pulled their kites higher into the sky as their parents watched on and ate by the food table and chatted with friends and neighbours. It was the annual Fly-a-Kite Festival at the Western Manitoulin Community Gardens at Highways 540 and 542. Check back next year for the exact date of the 2025 kite day.
The tree-planting crew at Gordon/Barrie Island were put to task when they planted 50 white pines along the northern and western boundary of the municipal office. These trees will grow over the years to create a beautiful, protected enclave for those who want some peace from the constant west winds. And hey: it's good for the environment too.
Vendors were numerous at the 2023 Christmas Market at Gordon Hall. In fact we were overflowing, especially since Santa Claus showed up. Santa was seen checking out vendor's tables as well as chatting with the kids.
There was a fantastic turnout this year for the Firefighter's Reception at Gordon Hall. Many of the men and women who protect us throughout the year were given awards for their achievements. The Fire Chief Mike Addison also took the opportunity to bring us up to date about the latest developments at the fire station. It was a truly enjoyable evening.
Last year's Julia Bay BBQ was also robust. The music was performed by Jane and Paul Best, with many chilling out on their lawn chairs soaking it all in. The weather was fantastic and the food was even better. It was such a success that we began planning next year's right after it ended.
To celebrate Earth Day 2024 we planted an apple tree in front of Gordon Hall. It was a rather chilly day for it but the apple tree has taken root and has grown all year. In the years to come the apple tree with bear much fruit. The tree was planted by Reeve Lee Hayden and Councilwoman Isobel Harry.
