Ontario Family Travel North of Toronto Weekend Family Fun Calendar - Bring on the May flowers and fun times!

Parents should wear helmets too!

Outdoor activity weather is here! Families are playing outside, boats and bikes are being cleaned, familiar wildlife like robins, geese and their friends are all returning to areas north of Toronto.

The Orillia Perch Festival continues with special OPP Kids Day on Saturday. The festival continues through until May 11. Visit the OPF website for details on how to participate. And if you're fishing with kids, read our family fishing tips. We also encourage you to check out the Orillia Perch Festival Package at Comfort Inn Orillia or at the Best Western Mariposa Inn Conference Centre.

Spring Family Getaways are a-plenty with ontario resorts with offers you can't refuse, and there are some fun family activities included!

As a new portion to this blog we will be posting our FEATURED DESTINATION AREA of the week: this week we feature the association Resorts of North Muskoka, a group of resorts and inns in renown Muskoka. Muskoka is the most well known cottage country area in Ontario and it's only 90 minutes by car from Toronto. Thirty minutes farther you enter North Muskoka and the gateway to Algonquin Park.  


KIDS AND FAMILY EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FOR THE WEEKEND AHEAD BY AREA:
These events are within 1-3 hours north of Toronto and are reasonable when considering a day trip, or stay at any family friendly accommodation and extent the fun.

~BARRIE~

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.

DEMO DAY HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE: From: 9 am to 3 pm Trail pass required.

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~BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD~

VILLAGE ACTIVITIES AT BLUE MOUNTAIN RESORT: Scavenger hunts and other kids and family fun happening daily in Blue Mountain Village.

JAZZMANIA: Jazzmania Weekend Thornbury, The Blue Mountains Four days of music and dancing featuring Jazz, Big Bands, Blues, and Rock ‘n Roll.
 

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~INNISFIL~

DOORS OPEN: Family and Kid friendly stops including a free day access to the YMCA at the Innifil Recreation complex.
Places to Stay: Kempenfelt B and B on Lake Simcoe, or Nottawasaga Inn Resort, Alliston Ontario, or head north to Barrie area for hotels, resorts, and inns.

~ORILLIA~

*KIDS OPP DAY* ANNUAL PERCH FESTIVAL: One of Canada's Largest Registered Fishing Derbies! Over Sixty Tagged Perch worth $500 Each! Plus ... Thousands of Dollars in Daily, Weekly and Grand Prize Draws!

See ORILLIA HOTELS & ATTRACTIONS

~PARRY SOUND~

GEORGIAN BAY AIRWAYS: Now open for business! Sightseeing Air Tours, Our Signature "Fly & Dine" to World Famous Henry's Fish Restaurant, Charters, and Flying Adventures are just a sample of the Georgian Bay Airways experience.

See Parry Sound area accommodations and attractions

~PETERBOROUGH~

DOORS OPEN: Doors open Peterborough features a Canadian Icon-- the Canadian Canoe Museum. This in itself is worth the visit especially for new Canadians and enthusiasts wanting to explore Ontario water travel history. Some family and kids fun stops, like the firestation! Book best deal Peterborough Hotels or stay at area resorts, inns and cottages.


Planning ahead - so are we! See our website for:

MOTHER'S DAY EVENTS AND GETAWAYS
VICTORIA DAY LONG WEEKEND EVENTS AND GETAWAYS

Have a fun and safe weekend!  Did we miss posting an event? Please fill free to CONTACT US and let us know what's happening!

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Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for February 1-3, 2013

Blue Mountain Village

Winter is in full swing in all parts of Ontario, and the areas North of Toronto including Central Ontario and Northern Ontario have the nostalgic events parents are looking for when trying to plan some really neat and fun winter outings for the entire family.

Winter for Canadians means sports! This weekend families can have a good old time watching classic Canadian pond hockey with 2 tournaments taking place. Better yet, they can try their own hand at hockey for free at the Port Carling arena on Sunday afternoon. It's free and equipment is available at request. No previous skill or experience is required, it's literally come try hockey, boys and girls! Skating and skiing, snowshoeing and tubing are all other great ways to spend a cold winter's day. See links to Ontario's Best Ski Operators:


BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE | SNOW VALLEY RESORT | WYE MARSH

OR check out our handy new SKI AND SNOWBOARD page with direct links to individual ski operators' current snow conditions, web cams, ski school, prices and more! 

And of course, the world wants to know what Wiarton Willie will do this Saturday morning and what his prediction will be on the arrival of Spring. The town of Wiarton hosts the 3 day festival that promises lots of family fun events and activities including winter sports, a winter carnival, ice sculptures and other fun kids events.

FAMILY AND KIDS EVENT NORTH OF TORONTO
Feb 1-3

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.

Cool World of Ice - Barrie

WINTERFEST & THE FESTIVAL OF ICE: Kids will enjoy exploring the ice maze and snow sculpture with slides carved right into the snow of ice.
THE FEBRUARY BLUE FESTIVAL: *some locations, adult only. Shake off cabin fever at the annual February Blues Festival featuring Blues and Jazz music performed by some of Canada's most brilliant artists.

Browse BARRIE HOTELS
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BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
WINTER WEEKENDS: Make every weekend a long weekend at Blue Mountain Village! Starting Friday with the 10:30am Guided Columbia Snowshoe Tour and the fun runs through to Sunday evening with Live Music on every night of the week.
FIS WORLD CUP SNOWBOARD CROSS: Snowboard cross is always one of Blue Mountain's most exciting events of the season, broadcast over seventeen different countries. This year the event falls on a weekend so make sure you mark it down as a must-attend!

No experience or skill required! Scenic Caves, Collingwood

NORDICFEST: Join hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts, weekend warriors, beginner and expert skiers and snowshoers alike, families and the entire Get Out There Magazine team for a fun – and inexpensive - day on the trails.**NOTE** THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS. STAY TUNED FOR A NEW DATE.

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HALIBURTON
CANADIAN POND HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS:  The Haliburton Highlands welcomes The Canadian National Pond Hockey Championship, an event which celebrates the grass roots of hockey. Over 230 teams (1300 players) from all over Canada will descend on the Haliburton Highlands for this two weekend event.

Browse HALIBURTON ACCOMMODATIONS

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.
WINTERFEST: Winter fun activities in Little Lake Park and the Huronia Museum.

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MUSKOKA
THE TAYLOR CUP: In tribute & in memory to an incredible friend, it's GAME ON! with The Taylor Cup Pond Hockey Championship - a three-day round robin tournament that takes hockey back to the basics ... on a frozen patch of lake.

Happy 50th Bon Soo!

PORT CARLING
WINTERFEST: The festival begins Friday evening with fireworks, hot dogs and chocolate and a MUCH MUSIC Video Dance.
COME TRY HOCKEY: Boys and girls ages 5-13 come try hockey free on Sundays from 12:00pm - 1:30pm at the Port Carling Arena.

SAULT SAINTE MARIE
BON SOO FESTIVAL: Mr. Bon Soo is the Host of the Ontario Winter Carnival that bears his name - Bon Soo! February 1-10, it's the greatest snow on earth!

SUNNYDALE
WINTERAMA: Spaghetti dinner, parade, pancake breakfast, snowmobile poker run and lots of activities for the family.

WIARTON
WIARTON WILLIE FESTIVAL: Every February 2nd, the Town of Wiarton, Ontario stands of the world's stage and Wiarton Willie makes his official weather prognostication.

FAMILY DAY 2013 is February 18th and is approaching fast. The next long weekend in Ontario is all about family fun. See our website for day trips, event and getaways ideas.

Have a fun and safe weekend! 

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Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for January 25-27, 2013

Friday, January 25

Baby it's cold outside all right! But that's ok because as long you're prepared, it's not getting in the way of families having winter fun in the great outdoors!

Above and beyond the winter events posted below, we suggest a family outing to the local ski hills or trails. Dress warmly and your family can have a ton of fun skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, snowshoeing and many other neat and unique activities. Here is a list of awesome places your family can find winter activities to keep them movin' and groovin'!

BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE | SNOW VALLEY RESORT | WYE MARSH

Family Friendly Ontario accommodations also have some great getaway packages that includes these types of activities.

Check out our FEATURED 15 FAMILY WINTER GETAWAYS  

FAMILY AND KIDS EVENT NORTH OF TORONTO

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.

Get creative with the family!

M*A*S*H BASH: Ski & Ride all day for just $20, with all proceeds to the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Hospital expansion.
MOONLIGHT SNOWSHOE & FONDUE: At Hardwood Ski and Bike. Not suggested for children but older teens and definitely for parents looking for a cool and unique experience for date night!

Browse BARRIE HOTELS
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BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
2 for 1 TRAIL PASS: Scenic Caves, last day is Friday. Scenic Caves Nordic Centre is offering a mid-week special as part of Winterfest.
SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY WINTERFEST: Ten days of jam-packed fun, dining, live entertainment and outdoor winter activities for the entire family to enjoy!
WINTER WEEKENDS: Make every weekend a long weekend at Blue Mountain Village! Starting Friday with the 10:30am Guided Columbia Snowshoe Tour and the fun runs through to Sunday evening with Live Music on every night of the week.
BILLABONG FLAUNT IT ALL GIRLS SLOPE STYLE CONTEST: at Blue Mountain Resort. Billibong Flaunt It is an all-girls Slopestyle & Rail Jam snowboard series that is aimed at giving girls from all levels a chance to Flaunt It, while providing over $75,000 in cash and prizes for the girls to vie over. Come cheer on the ladies!

Snowshoe by starlight!

MELANOMA AWARENESS EVENT: Ride along at Blue Mountain Resort with Ski Cross Athletes Davey Barr and Julia Murray! Hear stories from Olympic Skicross athletes and learn all about how to prevent melanoma. You can even sign up for ski lessons with these incredible ambassadors!
GUIDED NIGHT SNOWSHOE: at Scenic Caves Nordic Centre, not recommended for young kids. FREE Sugar Shack Sampling and Guided Night Snowshoe on Saturday January 26 beginning at 5:30pm. Fun for the whole family the evening kicks off with a guided Night Snowshoe under the stars.

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HALIBURTON
CANADIAN POND HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS:  The Haliburton Highlands welcomes The Canadian National Pond Hockey Championship, an event which celebrates the grass roots of hockey. Over 230 teams (1300 players) from all over Canada will descend on the Haliburton Highlands for this two weekend event.

Browse HALIBURTON ACCOMMODATIONS

MIDLAND

Winter Carnival Kids Fun

PA DAY CAMP: (Friday) at the Huronia Museum.
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.

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PORT SYDNEY
WINTER CARNIVAL: Includes comedy by Yuk Yuk's, a spaghetti dinner, bangers and mash dinner, family skate, bonfire and hot chocolate, pancake breakfast, fishing derby, outdoor & indoor events and kids corner!

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FAMILY DAY 2013 is February 18th and is approaching fast. The next long weekend in Ontario is all about family fun. See our website for day trips, event and getaways ideas.

Have a fun and safe weekend! 

Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER
 

Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for January 18-20, 2013

Ontario Kids Winter Joy

Ontario is in the midst of unusual seasonal temperatures. Who knew we'd have so many mild days....in the beginning of January! Has it gotten in the way of keeping busy with fun family activities and getaways, no.

Due to the awesome-ness of the area ski operators, there has been little disruption in the ski industry. We recommend you double check if you're heading out to cross-country ski and snowshoe on the trails but as far as dowhill skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing go, it's pretty much business as usual. Open times and some runs might be affected but your family will have no issues in finding some fun on the area ski hills and trails listed here:

BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE | SNOW VALLEY RESORT | WYE MARSH

The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre in Midland also offers kids and families a beautiful forrest and marsh setting for exploring walking adventures. Kids of all ages love to feed the chickadees, they land right in your hand! It is a delight for the little ones and enjoyed by everyone.

Winter Carnival Fun is filling the weekend calendars. If you're a native Ontarian or visiting the province, you can get the full winter experience at any festivals. Toboggan races, ice sculptures, snowman contests, dog sledding and so many traditional and new winter and uber-Canadian events will have your family having fun and being active all weekend long.

FAMILY AND KIDS EVENTS NORTH OF TORONTO THIS WEEKEND

ALGONQUIN HIGLANDS
SANDY LANE POND HOCKEY TOURNAMENT: Four on Four, 2 15 minute periods straight time. Open Tournament, Maximum 12 teams.Entry Fee $180.00 per team, three game guarantee. Accommodation package, $ 136.00 per person per weekend plus tax. Enjoy the game and friendships plus relax in great accommodation with fireplaces, satellite t.v., central outdoor hot tub and 2 private hot tubs. A weekend of pure hockey & fun.

Kids' Creativity is Winter Art

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.

Browse BARRIE HOTELS
Book Barrie Hotels Online

BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
ROXY RIDE DAY ALL GIRLS: At Blue Mountain Resort - the Roxy Ride Days are a 1-day all-girls snowboard coaching tour where female riders can progress their park and all-mountain skills with guest coaches and Roxy team riders.

Winter Weekend @ Blue

WINTER WEEKENDS: Make every weekend a long weekend at Blue Mountain Village! Starting Friday with the 10:30am Guided Columbia Snowshoe Tour and the fun runs through to Sunday evening with Live Music on every night of the week.

SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY WINTERFEST: Ten days of jam-packed fun, dining, live entertainment and outdoor winter activities for the entire family to enjoy!

HALIBURTON
SBX COMPETITION: Come watch and cheer on the participants at Sir Sam's Ski and Bike!


Browse HALIBURTON ACCOMMODATIONS

Come watch the race excitement!

Book Haliburtion Hotels Online

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.

Browse MIDLAND HOTELS
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ORILLIA
WINTER ACTIVE: Activities include cardboard tobaggan races, skate party and snowvolleyball tournament.

Activities for Kids Winter Fun

Browse ORILLIA HOTELS

PETERBOROUGH
SNOFEST WINTER CARNIVAL: Some exciting new events planned for this year include: Pony Rides, a Curling Bonspiel, Sno Jamming Family Day at Armour Hill, a Youth Art Show and Sale and a Library Story time, plus even more family fun.

SAUBLE BEACH
ANNUAL WINTERFEST: Winterfest is a special off-season event for year round residents and winter enthusiasts, reminding everyone that Sauble Beach doesn't shut down after Thanksgiving!

Family friendly accommodations are also offering some fantastically fun getaway packages combined with many unique experiences such as horseback riding, dog sledding and winter bonfires.

Check out our FEATURED 15 FAMILY WINTER GETAWAYS





FAMILY DAY 2013 is February 18th and is approaching fast. The next long weekend in Ontario is all about family fun. See our website for day trips, event and getaways ideas.

Have a fun and safe weekend! 

Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER

Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for January 11-13, 2013

Family Fun on the Hills and Trails

Many places are taking a breather after the holidays and there are not that many organized events on the calendar for the weekend. That does not mean there is nothing to do for families and kids fun North of Toronto...

It's a warmer week and the snow is sliding off the roof as I type however, our fabulous ski hill operators still have plenty of snow for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. Ski Fun Week continues at Horseshoe Resort offering great deals on day passes, which might come in handy when many kids are home tomorrow due to a teacher strike.

Check out the following ski operators for day time, evening or late night fun. If your kids are old enough, night skiing is a great experience. The moon, the stars - what a great backdrop to some good fun and exercise.

BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE

Winter Carnivals and Festivals all over Ontario also start this weekend. Starting this weekend, a traditional winter fun festival is happening in small towns and cities. Kids and families fun here include tobaggan races, skating, hockey tournaments, ice sculptures and more. These activities are definitely the stuff childhood winter memories are made of.

FAMILY AND KIDS EVENTS NORTH OF TORONTO THIS WEEKEND

First of many winter fun carnivals

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.
SKI FUN WEEK: Great deals and fun at Horseshoe Resort

BURK'S FALLS
ANNUAL WINTERFEST: Winter and Snow fun for the whole family.

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.

Browse MIDLAND HOTELS
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kids Winter Fun Anywhere!

Family friendly accommodations are also offering some fantastically fun getaway packages combined with many unique experiences such as horseback riding, dog sledding and winter bonfires.

Check out our FEATURED 15 FAMILY WINTER GETAWAYS

Have a fun and safe weekend!

Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for December 31 - January 7, 2013

Happy New Year! All the best to your family for 2013.

Fun...and learning!

Many parents are back to work today even though school is still out for Christmas/New Year break. If you're looking for day camps for the next couple of days, Huronia Museum in Midland and MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie are offering some really cool and fun camps for kids of various ages.

If your family got new gear for Christmas, now is the time to try it out! Snowy hills and mountains North of Toronto have a great base and surface for downhill or alpine skiing and snowboarding. Tracks have been set for some scenic cross country skiing and trails abound for snowshoeing or just hiking it old school!

Parents can find great hills, trails and special events happening at:

BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE

You can find Ontario ski and snow reports here.

Conditions are sweet!

Many ski operators have great deals for the new year and most provide lessons and ski camps. Check them out. They are a wonderful place to spend the day or a night or two with the family. 

It's not too late to pack a few bags along with the dog into the family truckster and head North for a fun getaway. With so many really fun activities like horseback riding, snowshoeing, tubing, tobaganning, forrest trails for hiking - families have a multitude to choose from when it comes to winter fun.  The really great news is many outdoor rinks are starting to appear. Many Ontario resorts are turning on the flood taps and anytime now will be available for beautiful outdoor skating and hockey.

The following accommodations offer outdoor skating. Please check with them directly for current conditions and availability.

Bayview Wildwood Resort | Blue Mountain Resorts | Blue Mountain Village | Buttermilk Fall Resort | Cedar Grove Lodge | The Irwin Inn | Nottawasaga Inn Resort | Ogopogo Resort | Pine Vista Resort | Sand Lake Cottages | Sunnylea Resort | Tyrolean Village Resorts, Blue Mountain

KIDS AND FAMILY EVENTS FOR THE WEEK AHEAD

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.

Summer Who??

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COLLINGWOOD/BLUE MOUNTAINS
WINTER GIFT SHOW & SALE: Paintings • Photographs • Pottery • Hand-made clothing • Jewellery • Sculpture and Carvings • Furniture • Glass works ...and more.

Browse COLLINGWOOD HOTELS 
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HUNTSVILLE
MUSKOKA HOLIDAY MAGIC: The holidays are going to come alive at Deerhurst Resort! From a gigantic Holiday PlayZone for the kids, to outdoor winter activities and delicious festive feasts, Deerhurst Resort has the magic for your Muskoka getaway this holiday season.

All Year Long - now indoors!

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.

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OWEN SOUND
FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LIGHTS: Enjoy the beauty of Owen Sound in the Christmas season each evening from 5pm to 11pm, as 25+ kilometres of lights illuminate the harbour, the Sydenham riverbanks, the downtown core, and Harrison Park.

SUDBURY
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Science North Parking Lot.

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Find MORE FAMILY EVENTS on our website, including a list of 2013 Winter Carnivals and Festivals in Ontario.

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Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for December 26-31 including Christmas Break and New Year's Eve

Family and Kids Fun on the Hills

Hopefully most kids in Ontario are happily playing with their new toys and treasures. While it's tempting to let them entertain themselves, during the Christmas school break is also a great time to get your kids (of any age) out and moving and discovering new places, activities or sports! So put aside the electronic gadgets and engage your kids in any of the great events and activities happening North of Toronto!

Our ski and snowboard operators have been busy, many places and are ready for nordic / cross country skiiing as well. If your family got new gear for Christmas, now is the time to try it out! Weather conditions have been helpful enough to create a great base and surface for downhill, snowboard, nordic skiing and even snowboarding. You can find great hills, trails and specials events happening at:

BLUE MOUNTAIN | HARDWOOD SKI AND BIKE | HORSESHOE RESORT | SIR SAM'S SKI AND BIKE | SCENIC CAVES NORDIC CENTRE

You can find Ontario ski and snow reports here.

Normally we post weekend events however, since it's a school break we will includes all events from our family events happening this week. Click the event link for more details.

Kids Art Camp @ MacLaren Art Centre

BARRIE
COOL YULE CAMP: (ages 3-6) at the MacLarenArtCentre for an engaging morning or afternoon of art-making with regional artist Jenn Guerin.
COOL YULE CAMP: (ages 7-10) at the MacLarenArtCentre for an engaging morning or afternoon of art-making with regional artist Jenn Guerin.
DOWNTOWN COUNTDOWN: Barrie's annual New Year's Eve party! Family fun featuring live music, fireworks and activities for kids.
TORCH LIGHT PARADE & FIREWORKS: Special New Year's celebrations at Horseshoe Resort.

Browse BARRIE HOTELS
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BRACEBRIDGE
SANTAFEST: Visit with Santa and other holiday activities at Santa's Village in Bracebridge.  

Fireworks over Mill Pond at BMV

COLLINGWOOD/BLUE MOUNTAINS
FROST FRENZY: The Holiday spirit is very much alive in the Blue Mountain Village during FROST FRENZY starting with so many FREE activities including FIREWORKS every Saturday at 8pm all month long! 
WINTER GIFT SHOW & SALE: Paintings • Photographs • Pottery • Hand-made clothing • Jewellery • Sculpture and Carvings • Furniture • Glass works ...and more.
CARVE THIS WAY: The Collingwood Downtown Ice Sculpture Festival is the perfect way to end 2012.
WORLD SNOWBOARD DAY PARK PARTY: The park will be stocked with lots of swag giveaways, music, best tick jams & more. Skiers, it may be World Snowboard Day, but at Blue we spread the love.
NEW YEAR'S VILLAGE CELEBRATION: As always Blue Mountain Village will be bustling with excitement as we ring out 2012 and welcome 2013!

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HUNTSVILLE
MUSKOKA HOLIDAY MAGIC: The holidays are going to come alive at Deerhurst Resort! From a gigantic Holiday PlayZone for the kids, to outdoor winter activities and delicious festive feasts, Deerhurst Resort has the magic for your Muskoka getaway this holiday season.
STARGAZERS STREET CARNIVAL PARTY: Put some Muskoka magic in your new Year’s Eve celebrations at Deerhurst Resort.
DECADES DINNER AND DANCE PARTY: Put some Muskoka magic in your new Year’s Eve celebrations at Deerhurst Resort.

Check out Festivals of Lights happening in Ontario

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.

Browse MIDLAND HOTELS
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OWEN SOUND
FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LIGHTS: Enjoy the beauty of Owen Sound in the Christmas season each evening from 5pm to 11pm, as 25+ kilometres of lights illuminate the harbour, the Sydenham riverbanks, the downtown core, and Harrison Park.
NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION: Celebrate New Year's Eve early with the kids at Owen Sound's new recreation centre. Donations Encouraged.

SUDBURY
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Science North Parking Lot.

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Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for December 21-23

Between teachers in Ontario striking and Christmas holidays, December has been a scrambling time for parents looking for last minute child care options, day camps and activities for their kids. The good news is 411ontariokids.com is here to connect parents with options so the kids can have fun and parents can relax.

Head for the Hills!

Hats Off to many of Ontario Ski Resorts! It might seem like Spring temps in some areas but many hills are open for the season. Kids and families can spend time downhill skiing or snowboarding. Check with the following ski operators for hours of operation, ski conditions, ski schools and ski day camps.

Blue Mountain | Hardwood Ski and Bike | Horseshoe Resort | Sir Sam's Ski and Bike

Other attractions and businesses are offering neat events and activities for kids. See here for more Christmas Break Happenings North of Toronto.

It's also not too late to get away from home for Christmas. Why not, this Christmas seems extra busy and with the tragic events in the US, all parents have had a very heavy reminder of what to be grateful for this year. We can give our kids an extra special Christmas this year by giving them what they really want, our time. If you're looking for an affordable extra special (and magical!) Christmas or New Year's family getaway - you can find them here -

Ontario Kids Top 15 Winter Family Getaways

Below are the kids and family events happening this weekend, North of Toronto.

BARRIE

Horseshoe Resort

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.
RODEO RAIL JAM: This event is the premiere kick-off ski and snowboard event of the winter season.

Browse BARRIE HOTELS
Book Barrie Hotels Online 

BRACEBRIDGE
SANTAFEST: Visit with Santa and other holiday activities at Santa's Village in Bracebridge. 

COLLINGWOOD/BLUE MOUNTAINS
FROST FRENZY: The Holiday spirit is very much alive in the Blue Mountain Village during FROST FRENZY starting with so many FREE activities including FIREWORKS every Saturday at 8pm all month long! 
WINTER GIFT SHOW & SALE: Paintings • Photographs • Pottery • Hand-made clothing • Jewellery • Sculpture and Carvings • Furniture • Glass works ...and more.


Browse COLLINGWOOD HOTELS 
Book Collingwood Hotels Online

HUNTSVILLE
MUSKOKA HOLIDAY MAGIC: The holidays are going to come alive at Deerhurst Resort! From a gigantic Holiday PlayZone for the kids, to outdoor winter activities and delicious festive feasts, Deerhurst Resort has the magic for your Muskoka getaway this holiday season.
PORTAGE FLYER CHRISTMAS: The annual Portage Flyer Christmas train ride to Santa is set to take place on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at Muskoka Heritage Place Train Station off Forbes Hill Drive. 

SantaFest at Santa's Village

MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE BUILDING: Saturday at the Midland Public Library.

Browse MIDLAND HOTELS
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OWEN SOUND
FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LIGHTS: Enjoy the beauty of Owen Sound in the Christmas season each evening from 5pm to 11pm, as 25+ kilometres of lights illuminate the harbour, the Sydenham riverbanks, the downtown core, and Harrison Park.

PORT CARLING
COME TRY HOCKEY: For Boys and Girls age 5-13. Sundays from 12:00pm - 1:30pm. 

SUDBURY
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Science North Parking Lot.

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Ontario Kids Family Events North of Toronto for December 14-16

Festival of Lights

Here we are mid-December already. Happy Hannukah to all - dates are December 8 - 16. Hope you are enjoying the nice warm glow of the candles on the menorah, singing songs and enjoying some nice family time.

The excitement of kids everywhere is in the air as we near Christmas with each day. Santa Claus parades are pretty much wrapped up but Santa does have a few more appointments before heading back to the North Pole!

More intimate and personal holiday shopping experiences also continue at crafts shows, art sales, farmers' market and small town downtowns. We encourage families to support smaller local business during their holiday shopping. The items are better, sometimes handmade and by doing this, you are supporting family, friends and neighbours.

For skiers (downhill and Nordic) and boarders as well as all around snow recreation lovers - the following ski operators are open for business (collective "Yahoo")! Many of these places have downhill and cross-country skiing, tubing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Check directly with the operator for activities and hours of operation. Rental equipment is also available.

Horseshoe Valley - Barrie
Hardwood Ski and Bike - Barrie
Blue Mountain - Blue Mountains
Sir Sam's Ski and Bike - Haliburton

FAMILY AND KIDS EVENTS NORTH OF TORONTO

Eat, Chat and Pose with Santa Claus!

ALLISTON
BRUNCH WITH SANTA: Nottawasaga Inn Resort in Alliston - Sunday Brunch. 

BARRIE
FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: (Sunday) Regional artist leads the whole family in creating hands-on collaborative art projects with a wide range of materials at the MacLaren Art Centre.
SONGS FOR A SNOWY SEASON: The Barrie Folk Society presents a fun concert with a great trio of women - Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon and Jude Vadala. Appropriate for older mature children or teens.

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COLLINGWOOD/BLUE MOUNTAINS
FROST FRENZY: The Holiday spirit is very much alive in the Blue Mountain Village during FROST FRENZY starting with so many FREE activities including FIREWORKS every Saturday at 8pm all month long! 
WINTER GIFT SHOW & SALE: Paintings • Photographs • Pottery • Hand-made clothing • Jewellery • Sculpture and Carvings • Furniture • Glass works ...and more.

Blue Mountain Village

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MIDLAND
FARMERS' MARKET: Midland's Indoor Farmers' & Artisans' Market is held every Saturday from November 3, 2012 to March 30, 2013 at the North Simcoe Sports & Recreation Centre.
HERITAGE CHRISTMAS CRAFTS: Fun afternoon of Christmas craft making for the kids at the Midland Public Library.

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OWEN SOUND
FESTIVAL OF NORTHERN LIGHTS: Enjoy the beauty of Owen Sound in the Christmas season each evening from 5pm to 11pm, as 25+ kilometres of lights illuminate the harbour, the Sydenham riverbanks, the downtown core, and Harrison Park.

PAISLEY
BY OUR HANDS ONE OF A KIND SHOW: By Our Hands is a very high quality one of a kind show and is now in its 5th consecutive year Time: 10:00 AM to  6:00 PM. 

PENETANGUISHENE
ROTARY FESTIVAL OF TREES: View the beautiful display of decorated tress which will magically tranform three participating malls into a Winter Wonderland.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Join the fun at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum and Archives for only $5.00 per person.

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PORT CARLING
COME TRY HOCKEY: For Boys and Girls age 5-13. Sundays from 12:00pm - 1:30pm.

Trees and Lights - Kids Delights!

SUDBURY
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Science North Parking Lot.

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Stay tuned to 411ontariokids.com for all the events, activities and getaway planning a family needs.

Ontario Family Friendly Accommodations have some great packages and promotions that make getting away in the winter as a family not only fun, but most importantly, affordable. See our featured 15 family winter getaways. Resorts, condos, chalet, cabin rentals are combined with snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, tobagganing and even sleigh rides with sleigh bells!

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