Barrie’s Butter Tart Bliss returns to the downtown core

Crowds gather at a butter tart vendor booth in Barrie, Ont on July 13, 2024 (CTV News/ David Sullivan).

They’re sugary, gooey, flaky, and wrapped in a golden crust - Barrie’s Butter Tart Bliss returns to the downtown core in one week.

After last summer’s overwhelming turnout of more than 40,000 visitors, the Barrie BIA says this year promises even more tarts, more vendors, and more activities.

“The energy of last year’s festival was contagious,” says Helen Prucha, owner of Gotta Luv ButterTarts and festival coordinator. “We’ve added more vendors, brought back fan favourites, and expanded every corner of the event to make sure 2025 is even more unforgettable. We can’t wait to see everyone downtown again, tarts in hand and smiles on their faces.”

Barrie’s Butter Tart Bliss will welcome over 200 Canadian vendors offering butter tarts, gourmet goods, and local crafts around the downtown area.

Tart lovers can expect to see returning favourites like Doo Doo’s Bakery, Carla’s Cookie Box, Ten of Tarts, and plenty more.

Steve Ricalis, chair of the Downtown Barrie BIA and owner of Donaleigh’s and Dunlop Diner, adds: “There’s nothing quite like Downtown Barrie during the Butter Tart Festival. It highlights everything we love about our city — community, creativity, and celebration. We’re excited to welcome back thousands of visitors for another taste of something truly sweet.”

A butter tart contest will get underway in the morning as local judges prepare to crown the best butter tarts in a variety of categories.

The Open Air Dunlop Butter Tart Festival takes place next Sat., July 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. across Meridian Place and Dunlop Street. Event-goers can also expect live music and festival warm-up performances from local talent.

The sugary event is free for all and offers family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy.