Leacock Museum set to open new “Spellbound” exhibit about the history of fairytales

For immediate release (Aug. 7, 2026) – The Leacock Museum National Historic Site is gearing up to open a new and exciting exhibit titled, Spellbound, starting Aug. 15, 2026. The exhibit, which will run until autumn 2027, explores the enchanting world of fairytales and uncovers secret messages hidden within the magical stories. 

"The Leacock Museum continues to offer new reasons for people to visit and learn," says Mayor Don McIsaac. "This exhibit brings familiar stories that have been shared for generations to life, offering visitors a fresh perspective and another reason to explore one of Orillia's most unique attractions."

Launch events

To help welcome the new exhibit, two special events will be held at the museum in August. Adults can attend a “Book Brick Paint and Sip” at 6 p.m. on Aug. 15. Guests can explore the exhibit and begin to create their own garden library with friends as they sip a complimentary glass of wine.  

The museum is also offering an opening event for children. On Aug. 22, “Crowns and Princess Hats Craft Day” will be offered to help children feel their most magical while visiting the historic site! Tickets for both opening events are available at LeacockMuseum.ca. 

Museum tours

To experience the exhibit, guests are invited to drop in between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (museum closes daily at 4 p.m.) for a self-guided tour of the museum. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Guided tours are also available during the summer hours at both 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and tickets can be purchased at LeacockMuseum.ca. 

Artifacts provided by the Orillia Museum of Art and History and the Simcoe County Museum will be on display. Guests will also experience fairytales from the Leacock collection, as well as an interactive fairytale castle village display.   

“We invite guests of all ages to experience the stories they might have enjoyed in childhood once again,” said Amanda Marino, Experience Development Officer. “Many well-known stories from the Three Little Pigs to Rapunzel have changed greatly through the years and are great case studies for how history has impacted literature.” 

For more information on the museum experience, visit LeacockMuseum.ca or the museum’s Facebook and Instagram pages @leacockmuseum.