Welcome to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Ontario’s first European Community, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. In 1639, the Jesuits, along with French lay workers, began construction of a palisaded community that included barracks, a church, workshops, residences, and a sheltered area for Indigenous visitors. By 1648, Sainte-Marie was home to 66 French men — one-fifth of the entire population of New France. Sainte-Marie’s history ended in 1649, when members of the mission community were forced to abandon and burn their home of ten years.
Check out the Sweetwater Harvest Festival
Join the Wye Marsh and Sainte-Marie for an awesome maple syrup experience March 23 and 24. The Sweetwater Harvest Festival is the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre’s biggest event of the year – and ONE ticket gets you access to TWO fantastic sites. Check out a sugar shack, taste delicious maple taffy, roast bannock, and more!
Buy your Season passes
For just $35 tax included, season pass holders gain unlimited admission to both Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour during their visitor seasons, as well as unlimited admission to most special events, including First Light, Pumpkinferno, Pirates of the Bay, Hometown Harvest Festival, and many more!
Present on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Would you like to do a demonstration or presentation at Sainte-Marie’s in-person or virtual celebrations? Apply today! Last year’s in-person event on June 21 welcomed more than 2,800 guests. The free virtual program drew 26,700 online learners. Come and be a part of this dynamic experience!
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Sign up for our newsletter and be in the know! Get early notice about your favourite events at Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour. Pick up interesting historical facts. Hear about deals and discounts. Find out about career opportunities at Huronia Historical Parks. Learn about new activities at both historic sites.
Hours of operation
This impressive reconstructed 17th-century mission – staffed by knowledgeable and friendly costumed interpreters – will be open daily from May 4, 2024. Allocate approximately 1.5 hours for your visit. We recommend you download the Huronia Historical Parks app for a full audio tour. Dogs welcome!