While Barrie might not be a big urban sprawl in Ontario like Toronto, this city by Lake Simcoe still offers both residents and visitors good times and a slice of the great Canadian lifestyle. For car lovers, Barrie offers a unique chance to dive deeper into Canadian car culture.
The Ford name is synonymous with cars, not just in North America, but throughout the world. That’s why we’re always happy to get more people excited about the world of cars, and there are two auto shows in Barrie that people who love cars should see for themselves.
Georgian College Auto Show
The Georgian College Auto Show, now hosting its 34th show, is both a celebration of cars and a chance for Georgian College alumni to get together and relive memories of their time at the school. Of the two auto shows, this one is aimed more at new automobiles and innovations.
Where Is It?
The 34th Georgian College Auto Show is in Barrie, at the Georgian College Campus on 1 Georgian Drive.
When Is It?
The auto show and other car events run May 31 through June 2, at the following times:
- May 31: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- June 1: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- June 2: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
How Much Does It Cost?
Tickets are sold at the gate for just $7.00, but there’s a $2.00 discount for online purchases.
Are There Accommodations?
Visitors are responsible for their own accommodations.
What Happens At The Event?
In addition to the auto show for new cars, there are additional events like:
- Alumni Appreciation Event: Former students, especially with an automotive background, can meet and greet.
- Auction: Other items are available for purchase in a fun auction setting.
- Food: Official vendors like Smoke’s Poutinerie and Montana’s BBQ & Bar are here to fight off thirst and hunger.
- Motorcycles: It’s not just cars at the auto show; motorcycles have their day too, with brands like Yamaha and Kawasaki appearing.
- Drifting Track: See the turning technique known as “drifting” demonstrated live.
- Batman and the Batmobile: For the young and young at heart, there’s a chance to see an iconic super-hero and his vehicle.
- Dog-Friendly: You don’t have to leave the furry member of the family at home if you want to take in the show!
Annual Spring Automotive Flea Market
Now in its 37th year, the Barrie & Bonfield Automotive Flea Market is one event that lovers of car history should save the date for. While the big focus is on cars and auto memorabilia, there are plenty of activities for other members of the family who aren’t car enthusiasts.
Where Is It?
The 37th Annual Spring Automotive Flea Market is one of the Barrie auto shows that take place in Oro-Medonte, at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds at 180th 8 Line South.
When Is It?
The flea market and other car events run from June 6 to 9. From Thursday through Saturday, the hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Sunday, it’s from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How Much Does It Cost?
There is an admission fee, with different offerings:
- Parking: $5.00
- General Daily Admission: $10.00
- Weekend Pass: $20.00
- Weekend Pass + Parking: $25.00
Are There Accommodations?
For people who want to stay close to the grounds during the flea market, a campground is available.
What Happens at the Event?
There are plenty of car events at this auto show, but unlike the Georgian College Auto Show, the flea market is aimed primarily at older and classic car fans. Cars, however, are not the only available things!
- Auto Flea Market: The main event is a flea market for cars and car-related paraphernalia. Hard-to-find and rare car parts like old gas station kiosks are just some of the things you may find while wandering the grounds.
- Collectibles Flea Market: It’s not just car parts that are on sale at the flea market. People interested in antiques and other hidden treasures can also have a great time poring over the goods and finding surprise valuables among the “junk.”
- Car Show: Car owners from all over with vintage and classic cars descend on the flea market to show off vehicles you’ll probably never see again. If you’ve always wondered what an original Ford Model T looks like up close, you can find out here.
- Car Sales: People come here to sell their cars and buy them too!
Don't forget to stop by one of these auto shows this summer to see beautiful cars!