The Hike Haliburton Festival has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario, and honoured with a provincial Impact Award.
The bi-annual event, held in the winter and fall, allows residents and visitors to explore the trails, lakes and forests of the Haliburton Highlands through a wide variety of guided hikes led by knowledgeable local hikers.
At a recent gala hosted by Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO), Hike Haliburton was named the winner of an FEO Impact Award. Officials say local event was recognized with the award due to the expanded programming the 2025 fall edition had, which included two Indigenous led events.
“In 2025, the festival expanded it Indigenous-led components with supports from a $25,000 federal grant, which helped launch a new medicine walk and storytelling session, and cultural interpretation led by Indigenous knowledge keepers. These experience quickly became some of the most in-demand offerings of the festival, consistently praised by participants for their insight, authenticity, and deep connection to the land,” stated the award nomination application.
Hike Haliburton was also recognized as one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario. It was included in a list of outstanding event that excel within the industry.
“Since its inception, Hike Haliburton is a festival that continues to expand and evolve, resulting in an outstanding initiative that draws residents and visitors alike to the region to explore our trails and natural beauty,” said Haliburton County Warden Dave Burton. “Being recognized with an Impact Award is a well-deserved recognition of the dedication and hard work that does into making this event a success year after year.”
