Deux interprètes historiques habillés en costumes de donnés voyages en canoe le long du canal de Sainte-Marie-au-pays-des-Hurons

Go back
in time

Step into this story of cultural contact, determination and survival

Icon of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

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.

Buy your Season passes

Valid April 1 to March 31

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!

Quatres hommes autochtones en habits cérémoniaux, à jouer un gros tambour en chantant

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day

June 21, 2024

Join this dynamic celebration of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures at here at Sainte-Maire among the Hurons, on the longest day of the year. With drumming, dancing, craftwork, and storytelling, this is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Two boys making clay okies inside the education centre at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Now booking educational programs

Spring and fall 2024

Discover hands-on, curriculum-driven (and fun!) learning opportunities at this reconstructed 17th century Jesuit mission in the heart of Wendake. Explore half-day, full-day, and digital learning experiences your students will never forget.

Un mur de bois

Plan Your Visit

Sainte-Marie will reopen daily as of May 4, 2024. Educational programs and group tours are also available most of the year. Special events, such as National Indigenous Peoples Day, take place on select dates.

Deux interprètes historiques, habillés en costumes de donné, à enseigner l'écriture avec des plumes et de l'encre

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Monthly updates

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.

A mosaic of photos of kids having fun at camp with the Summer Science Camp logo on top

Science North at Sainte-Marie

July 2–5; July 8–12; July 15–19

Since 1987, Science North has been delivering summer science camp experiences to children in communities across Ontario. This summer, these fantastic camps are coming to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons! Science North offers children the opportunity to get hands-on with real tools, engage in modern science, and most importantly, have fun with friends!

Trois interprètes historiques costumés à marcher ensemble le long de la route qui longe Sainte-Marie

Hours of operation

Reopening May 4, 2024

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!

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Four images of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons: two men playing lacrosse, the blacksmith at work, some resin and birchbark, a smiling interpreter in costume