Monday 22 September 2014

Weekend Family Events in Cottage Country North of Toronto September 26-28

Fall Colour Road Trips for fun day trips or weekend getaways are where it's at right now. Mother Nature is showing off her colours with foliage and sunsets! Photo-Ops full of scenic beauty offer great pre-winter family fun.

in Cottage Country and resorts towns 'north' of TO! 

September 26-28, 2014

BARRIE

Fall Epic 8 Hour Relay
Hardwood Ski and Bike
September 27
The Epic 8 Hour Mountain Bike Relay is all about the camaraderie, sportsmanship and the gritty, hard-core enjoyment of riding with friends. The events is a personal and team challenge to complete as many laps as possible.




BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
Fall Colours Touring
Blue Mountain Village
It’s country road and river touring time! Enjoy local wine and cider tasting, guided hiking, Ontario’s only open air gondola and many artisan stops along the Apple Pie Trail.


BRACEBRIDGE

Bracebridge Farmers' Market
Saturdays 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
Downtown Bracebridge


HALIBURTON

OCUP Downhill Biking Race

Sir Sam's Ski and Bike
Participate in this Downhill point series race. Food service and camping is offered for this event.

Experience Haliburton
Find out what's happening in #MyHaliburtonHighlands. Lots to do and see in one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Ontario! Events this weekend include farmers markets, heritage happenings at the museum and a ghost walk in Minden.


MAGNETAWAN

Artscape Studio Tour

MIDLAND & AREA

PA Day Camp (Friday)
Huronia Museum

Each camp will run from 9 to 5 at a cost of $22 per child. Each day we will have fun games and crafts to keep your children busy and entertained. We will also have as much outdoor play as the weather allows, even spending time in the park and our Wendat village when we can.


Franco Ontario Day (Sept. 25)
Sainte Marie among the Hurons
A celebration of French culture in Ontario with special exhibits and activities.

Singer / Songwriter Workfest & Open Mic
Sept. 13 & 20
Midland Cultural Centre
Open Mic at the MCC's Cafe Roxy. Saturdays from 1pm - 4pm. Free Admission.

7 Nights in Havana
Midland Cultural Centre
A new photographic exhibition of the UNESCO designated World Heritage city Havana, Cuba will be on display at the Midland Cultural Centre from September 26 until October 31. Entitled Seven Nights in Havana, the exhibit is a collaboration of three local photographers and a joint presentation of Quest Art and the MCC. Admission price for the evening is $15 with all proceeds from the exhibition donated to the Midland Cultural Centre. 

Opening Reception: September 26. Seven Nights In Havana Opening Reception. Official opening of the Exhibition including an evening of live Cuban Music and Dancers plus hors d’oeuvres and refreshments with a Cuban flare. Family Friendly.
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Garth Baker, a local citizen scientist and bird bander will be banding northern saw-whet owls at Wye Marsh.

Fridays 3:30 - 7:30 pm
Veterans' Lane, Victoria Harbour

Saturday 8 am - 1 pm
Town Dock - Main Street

Saturdays 8 am - 1 pm
Across from the Town Dock

Link to: Midland Tourism



ONTARIO'S HIGHLANDS

Bancroft and area autumn Studio Tour
Drive the route and visit the artists at their studios in north Hastings. Pick up a descriptive brochure at many local businesses, art gallery of Bancroft or Chamber of Commerce September 20, 21 and 27,28.

ONTARIO'S LAKE COUNTRY

Coldwater Fall Fair
Demolition Derby, remote controlled vehicles, Antique & Stock tractor & stock truck pulls, children's events all weekend.

Culture Days
Culture Days is one of the largest ever public participation campaigns undertaken by the arts and cultural community across Canada. Whether you are looking for a workshop, class, performance or exhibit, it gives the public a unique opportunity to connect with arts and cultural providers in their community through free, hands-on, and often introductory activities. Add your creative flare to one of our public art projects, conduct one of our local bands or get advice on your latest literary triumph from a published author. The choice is yours on how you will TAKE PART in this coast to coast to coast celebration.

Port Severn Fall Colours Cruise
Midland Tours Inc. offers 2 ½ hour fall colour tours on the Trent-Severn Waterway departing from Lock 45 in Port Severn, Ontario. The Serendipity Princess cruises to the Big Chute Marine Railway – it is the only marine railway of its kind in North America still in use.

Saturdays 8 am - 1 pm
4500 Fairgrounds Road just off of Hwy 12 W.

Saturdays 7:30 am - 12:30 pm
Orillia Public Library

Weekend Pastel Autumn Workshops
Dave Beckett Art Gallery
Sept. 20-21

For adults or art interested teens.

Link to: Ontario's Lake Country Area Tourism


OTTAWA VALLEY


Rural Ramble
Now until October 31

Organized by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA), the Rural Ramble is a free, self-guided driving tour set against a backdrop of beautiful fall colours. One of only two regions in the world with the unique combination of climate and topography that results in brilliant fall foliage, the Valley is a magnificent destination to enjoy throughout the autumn months. Glorious colours and crisp, cool weather make it an excellent season for exploring the countryside.

TWEED

Family Fun Events in Tweed and area!
The Municipality of Tweed is located half-way between Toronto and Ottawa.  Known for being the gateway to both the Bay of Quinte and Land O’ Lakes Tourist region;  we have an abundance of outdoor experience right here in Our Backyard.  We invite you to come visit our area and experience world-class musky/black crappie fishing, events, culture and heritage, hiking, atving, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and so much more.

Find other events in Tweed and Ontario's Highlands Tourism Destination


Tuesday 9 September 2014

Weekend Family Events in Cottage Country North of Toronto September 12-21

Whether you're staying at a nearby resort or cottage, live in the next town over or are looking to get out of the hot city, we recommend heading to cottage country for these featured events.

in Cottage Country and resorts towns 'north' of TO! 

September 12 - 21, 2014

BARRIE

OCUP XC Championship
Horsehoe Resort
September 21
Horseshoe Resort welcomes the Ontario Cup back!  While the Provincials will remain physically challenging, some of the steep climbs will be re-worked and courses for all races will be more established. The amazing accommodations and incredible spectating, food services and all the amenities you come to expect at a world class resort finish off another spectacular season of riding! .

BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
CENTURION Cycling Canada
Blue Mountain Village
September 12-14
North America’s most exciting cycling event open to all! Ride or race in the 25, 50 or 100 mile race, kids fun race or watch top international riders compete for the title in the Village Criterium.



Sears Great Canadian Run 
Blue Mountain Village
September 20
Making an impact. Making a difference. The Relay to End Kids Cancer from Toronto to Blue Mountain. Solo runners and teams of up to 20 people unite for an exciting, challenging and heartwarming experience.

HALIBURTON

Sir Sam's Ski and Bike

Have you heard about our Sunday Special ... for only $22.12 (+ tax) for lift ticket & lesson & $13.27 (+ tax) for bike rental you can Discover Mountain Biking! Available from 1:00 - 3:00 . Must be booked in advance - call 705-754-2298 ... includes bike rental, lift pass & lesson! What a deal!

Ladies SUP Day
SUPNorth
Sept. 20

Back by popular demand with a new mermaid twist is the 2nd Annual Ladies day Saturday September 20th. The adventure begins at Sir Sam's Inn. Adult Only Event, gather your mom friends, aunts, sisters and gal pals!

Hike Haliburton Festival
Sept. 18-21

Come experience this Signature Hiking Event of the Year! With over 60 guides hikes, that are themed for all ages and abilities.

Experience Haliburton
Find out what's happening in #MyHaliburtonHighlands. Lots to do and see in one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Ontario! Events this weekend include farmers markets, heritage happenings at the museum and a ghost walk in Minden.


MIDLAND & AREA

Midland Cultural Centre
Open Mic at the MCC's Cafe Roxy. Saturdays from 1pm - 4pm. Free Admission.

Sultans of String
Sept. 21
Midland Cultural Centre
2012 JUNO Award nominees and "Canada's ambassadors of musical diversity" Sultans of String thrill their audiences with their global sonic tapestry of Spanish Flamenco, Arabic folk, Cuban rhythms, and French Manouche Gypsy-jazz, celebrating musical fusion and human creativity with warmth and virtuosity.
Sept. 19
Toronto Soprano, Patricia O'Callaghan has enjoyed a fifteen year career traversing across genres, continents, a range of disciplines and passions. This fall she comes to the Rotary Hall at the Midland Cultural Centre to perform the songs of Leonard Cohen and many more.  Not for young kids, but perhaps musically inclined teens. Parental discretion.

Marche at the Marche
Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
September 19
A gourmet experience featuring local and wild harvested food served Marché style throughout the Wye Marsh interpretive centre. Explore the natural beauty of Wye Marsh while savouring the delicious foods of the local region prepared using traditional methods. Experience our natural and culinary heritage while supporting Wye Marsh and their mission to foster environmental stewardship. Not for young kids, perhaps a great option for date night.



Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
September 19
Join renowned naturalist and mycologist Bob Bowles on a walk through the woods to learn more about mushrooms. Learn how they grow, where they grow, how to identify them, what species are edible and their place in the ecosystem. Parental discretion - this event requires good pace hiking and staying within a group.  

Link to: Midland Tourism



ONTARIO'S HIGHLANDS

Bancroft and area autumn Studio Tour
Drive the route and visit the artists at their studios in north Hastings. Pick up a descriptive brochure at many local businesses, art gallery of Bancroft or Chamber of Commerce September 20, 21 and 27,28.




ONTARIO'S LAKE COUNTRY


Photo credit: olc.com

Oro World's Fair
The Oro World's Fair is located in the heart of Oro Medonte, between Barrie and Orillia and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Oro World's Fair showcases and celebrates agriculture and rural living. Hundreds of exhibits, a midway, demolition derby, tractor pull and great food make the Oro World's Fair fun for the entire family.

Games, delicious food, exhibit hall, lots of prizes, vendors, lumberjack competition, bouncy castle, heavy and light horse pulls, beverage tent and more! 

Weekend Pastel Autumn Workshops
Dave Beckett Art Gallery
Sept. 20-21

For adults or art interested teens.

Link to: Ontario's Lake Country Area Tourism


OTTAWA VALLEY


Rural Ramble
Now until October 31

Organized by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA), the Rural Ramble is a free, self-guided driving tour set against a backdrop of beautiful fall colours. One of only two regions in the world with the unique combination of climate and topography that results in brilliant fall foliage, the Valley is a magnificent destination to enjoy throughout the autumn months. Glorious colours and crisp, cool weather make it an excellent season for exploring the countryside.

TWEED

Family Fun Events in Tweed and area!
The Municipality of Tweed is located half-way between Toronto and Ottawa.  Known for being the gateway to both the Bay of Quinte and Land O’ Lakes Tourist region;  we have an abundance of outdoor experience right here in Our Backyard.  We invite you to come visit our area and experience world-class musky/black crappie fishing, events, culture and heritage, hiking, atving, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and so much more.

Find other events in Tweed and Ontario's Highlands Tourism Destination


Monday 8 September 2014

Biking, Cycling and Triking with kids in Muskoka & Haliburton Cottage Country

Biking together as a family has a number of benefits that are good for the body, mind and soul. It is an easy and fun activity that is a big part of an extra-awesome quality of life.

Areas north of Toronto offer a chance to enjoy cycling amidst the stunningly beautiful backdrop of Cottage Country in Ontario. Trails are available through towns, old CN rail corridors and winding through breathtaking forests. There are a great number of trails both private and community.

There are some basic rules to follow when biking with children. According to the Ministry of Transportation in Ontario:

1. Protect your head, helmets are mandatory

2. Ride a bike that fits

3. Check your bike before you ride

4. Know the road rules and road signs

5. Discuss possible dangers with children in a general sense, but not enough to scare them

Know the skill levels in your family and choose an adventure accordingly. Maybe you'll need to go in separate groups if older kids want more of a challenge. Bring water and maybe a few snacks and the biggest rule of all? 

Leave only bike tracks, take only pictures when enjoying the trails!



Muskoka, Haliburton Highlands

Sir Sam's Ski and Bike
1054 Liswood Road, Haliburton




We offer both cross country (14 km) and downhill (9km) trails for all level of riders. Ride the trails from bottom to top and back again or use the lift to transport you and your bike to the top. There is something for everyone including a great BMX pump track at the top of the hill. Sir Sam’s is excited to bring this sport to our customers along with the professional instruction to ensure everyone has the skills it takes to be safe and have fun. Bring your own bike or rent one at Sir Sam's.

Haliburton Highlands
Minden Hills, Algonquin Highlands, Dorset




Come and play in the Haliburton Highlands! Scenic beauty, great trails for all ages. 



Grip the handlebars. Cyclists will be awe-struck by the expanse of trails and the magnificent views accompanying them as they soar down kilometre after kilometre of rugged mountain bike terrain or glide over smooth, paved roadways. With the wind at your back and the sights up ahead, the sky's the limit.

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Click here to read our blog about biking in the Georgian Bay, Barrie and Muskoka area.

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Tuesday 2 September 2014

Weekend Family Events in Cottage Country North of Toronto September 5-7

Whether you're staying at a nearby resort or cottage, live in the next town over or are looking to get out of the hot city, we recommend heading to cottage country for these featured events.

in Cottage Country and resorts towns 'north' of TO! 


BARRIE


Pedal for the Past Bike Ride
Hardwood Ski and Bike
Friends of The OPP Museum is pleased to announce that our 4th Annual Pedal for the Past Bike Ride will be held on Friday, September 5, 2014.  This year, the ride will start and finish at Hardwood Ski and Bike, a wonderful outdoor recreation area on Old Barrie Road in beautiful Oro-Medonte Township.



Women's Biking Clinic
Hardwood Ski and Bike
Our 3 hour women's clinic is for beginner and intermediate recreational riders and includes skill development instruction and trail riding. The clinic covers riding position, climbing, decending, obstacles and more. This is a great way to build confidence and enjoyment of mountain biking.

BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
Mountain Music Guitar Trail
A mountain of music will carry you along Canada’s only Guitar Trail. Follow the acoustic vibe throughout the Village, up the mountain, along the hiking trail or take the gondola to the top and follow the music down. Don’t miss Bambalamb!, who will be located at the top of the mountain, followed by a finale concert in the plaza. There’s nothing else like it!

HALIBURTON

Sir Sam's Ski and Bike

Have you heard about our Sunday Special ... for only $22.12 (+ tax) for lift ticket & lesson & $13.27 (+ tax) for bike rental you can Discover Mountain Biking! Available from 1:00 - 3:00 . Must be booked in advance - call 705-754-2298 ... includes bike rental, lift pass & lesson! What a deal!

Experience Haliburton
Find out what's happening in #MyHaliburtonHighlands. Lots to do and see in one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Ontario! Events this weekend include farmers markets, heritage happenings at the museum and a ghost walk in Minden.


MIDLAND & AREA
Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre Pow Wow
Sainte Marie Park
This annual POW WOW, presented by the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre at Sainte-Marie Park, is open to the public. Featuring Aboriginal dancing, traditional crafts and foods, and much more. 705 526-5589.

Learn How to Play Lacrosse
Huronia Museum

Join the Huronia Museum September 6 as they teach us how to play Canada's national summer sport with traditional equipment! For further information contact the museum directly at: (705) 526-2844.  
Midland Cultural Centre
Open Mic at the MCC's Cafe Roxy. Saturdays from 1pm - 4pm. Free Admission.

Little Lake Park
Sunday evening music at the park bandstand. Music starts at 6:30pm.

ONATRIO'S HIGHLANDS

Highlands East Plein Air Festival
The Highlands East Plein Air Arts Festival runs September 4th through September 7th, 2014. Highlands East is a treasure trove of scenic subject matter perfect for any kind of plein air artist; lakes, rivers, colourful trees, rocky outcrops, ruins, historic sites and much more. We hope you will enjoy your four days here being inspired, creating and getting to know other artists who love to depict the wild and natural world!


ONTARIO'S LAKE COUNTRY

Family Fun in Orillia area and Springwater
Just visiting or staying; OLC is your one stop destination for information on festivals, events, activities, shopping, and accommodations. Ontario’s Lake Country is one of Ontario’s most picturesque regions with radiant lakes and rivers and an array of activities for all to enjoy year round, located just one hour north of Toronto, on the shores of Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching.

This weekend: Orillia Fall Fair!

TWEED


Family Fun Events in Tweed and area!
The Municipality of Tweed is located half-way between Toronto and Ottawa.  Known for being the gateway to both the Bay of Quinte and Land O’ Lakes Tourist region;  we have an abundance of outdoor experience right here in Our Backyard.  We invite you to come visit our area and experience world-class musky/black crappie fishing, events, culture and heritage, hiking, atving, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and so much more.

Find other events in Tweed and Ontario's Highlands Tourism Destination