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.

Owl Banding Demonstrations

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Garth Baker, a local citizen scientist and bird bander will be banding northern saw-whet owls at Wye Marsh.

Harbour Market

Fridays 3:30 - 7:30 pm

Veterans' Lane, Victoria Harbour

Penetanguishene Community Market

Saturday 8 am - 1 pm

Town Dock - Main Street

Midland Farmers' Market

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.

Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers' Market

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

Orillia Farmers' Market

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

Tips for Families on the Thanksgiving Holiday Road Trip!

If there were any holiday where the family road trip was less painful, it would be Thanksgiving. The fall colours, the warm air and swirling leaves on the road are very pretty and make the ride more tolerable.The reality of a holiday long weekend for many means a road trip, and 411 Ontario Kids would like to help make that travel part a little better for everyone so we've come up with a few tips to help make a holiday away from home easier and more fun!

Smiles for Everyone!

1. Properly prepare for the car ride. No matter the age of your kids, from babes to tots to teens, there are some things you can do to make the car trip better for everyone. Be sure to read out ROAD TRIP TIPS and I'm sure you will find something to help keep the ride smooth!

2. If your kids are small and like crafts, perhaps they can do a craft ahead of time and bring it as a gift for your host. Even if you are staying at a resort or hotel, surely the staff would love a special Thanksgiving drawing or desk decoration from their little guests! We suggest having them colour a picture or make something else that is small and easy to travel.

3. If you're not in a home setting for the big meal and are at a restaurant, plan ahead and bring something from home to make the table more home-y. We suggest having your kids make up name cards for the place settings or create a centrepiece. It's also a craft activity they can do a few days prior to your trip.

Seriously, are we there yet??

4. Mix things up and make it an adventure. Do you really need to take the car or would your family have more fun (and be more relaxed!) on a plane, train or bus? Make the travelling itself part of the adventure! This could take some of the stress out of the trip for the parents and be alot more fun. Are your kids older or teens? They might enjoy this change from the regular same old same old.

5. Extend the long weekend and make it a long-long weekend! For some Friday October 11 is a PA Day, giving families a chance to head out earlier than the Friday night rush. Use this extra day to your benefit and spend some time with the immediately family, before the big get-together. If you're looking for events or activities, consider any of the many great kids attractions north of Toronto.

 Here are a few links to help you plan the Thanksgiving weekend:

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND EVENTS
THANKSGIVING WEEKEND GETAWAYS
FAMILY FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS
FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

We wish you safe travels and great family together time. Feel free to share with us your travel experiences!

Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER for updates and news.   

Family Fun Guide North of Toronto for October 4-6

Rain or shine, it's the time of year that road trips are mandatory! In no time at all, the Christmas rush will be here and then the snow fun begins. So don't let a few showers stop your family from exploring new or familiar areas in search of wholesome fun on the weekends. If you're lucky those raincoats and boots will stay packed in the trunk and you will enjoy a nice sunny weekend in the extremely colourful resort areas north of Toronto.

Let the kids take pictures too! Say "Wow"!

Do you ever wonder how your child sees the world? Let them use your camera, take a few pictures, you'd be surprised and amazed how many great shots a child can get while letting you in a little to their world. By all means, don't give them your most expensive and best camera or let them run off to with it but depending on your child, let have do what they are able to. It will also give them a sense of responsibility and make them look at their surroundings in different ways.

The next long weekend is less than two weeks away. In no time at all we will be spending time with family and friends and enjoying a grand Thanksgiving meal. A 3 day weekend is an opportunity to get out and about on day trips or parents may even consider a  no-work kind of Thanksgiving with a 2 or 3 day weekend getaway that includes the turkey and all the fixings...including a dishwasher!

CLICK HERE FOR THANKSGIVING WEEKEND EVENTS

CLICK HERE FOR THANKSGIVING WEEKEND GETAWAYS

The trees are still holding onto their colourful leaves and we know this is not always the kids things-to-do priority so we've coloured coded the blog so that parents will know which kids activities also include really unique views and locations to see the fall colours. Event Descriptions with orange text are events or activities that have the added bonus of a stellar view of one of Ontario's best shows of the year.

We \put together a MUST-DO list of fall activities for kids. If you're looking for a short list of what will really makes the kids happy, you can read that article here: Must-Do Fall Activities for Kids. 

Here are some events and activities listed by cities/towns, happening in areas north of Toronto this weekend.

This weekend's 'PLAY LIST'...

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 extend the fun. These events would also be within proximity or close to many of Ontario's 'cottage country'.

~BARRIE~ 

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: Every Sunday is Family Sunday at the MacLaren. Regional artist Annie Aspden and guest artists will lead creative projects that families can complete together. Sign up in person at 1:00 pm on the day of the workshop, as space is limited.

HORSESHOE RESORT ADVENTURE PARK: Fun for the family with the Zip Lining and Treetop Trekking course; build your golf skills and challenge the family to a round of Mini Putt, or explore the Copeland Forest on Segway. Families can also have fun mountain biking on forest trails.

HARDWOOD SKI & BIKE: Hit the day trails or play disc golf. Rent a bike or bring your own. Great trials for all ages and skill levels. Go now and take advantage of their ski sales!

MACLAREN ART CENTRE: Enrich your childrens' days with art. Every child has the potential and needs the inspiration! Kids are never too young to learn art appreciation and be inspired themselves.

Browse BARRIE HOTELS 

~THE BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD~
RUN COLLINGWOOD 1/2 MARATHON: The newest half marathon winds its way from the historic harbor town of Collingwood and the open countryside with spectacular views of the Niagara Escarpment.  In support of Collingwood G & M Hospital Foundation. It’s Fast, downhill and the air is fresh! The 10k provides an equally fast, scenic rural run conducive to running your personal best! Come cheer on the runners and see the beautiful fall colours at Blue Mountain Village!

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

FALL COLOURS TOURING: It’s country road and river touring time. Enjoy local wine and cider tasting, guided hiking and unique Apple Pie Trail adventures. Not all events are kid friendly but you can pick and choose your own adventure with this one so both parents and kids can enjoy.

SUMMER ATTRACTION PARK BLUE MOUNTAIN RESORT: Take the exciting Ridge Runner ride or visit the now-open summer attraction park that includes fun activities like Mountaintop Segway touring, Open-air gondola rides, Mini-putt, Climbing wall and more!

EXPLORE SCENIC CAVES: Nature, history and adventures for the whole family. Self-guided tour of caves, caverns and lookouts on the highest point of the Niagara Escarpment. Ontario’s longest Suspension Footbridge offers light adventure and the most spectacular views of Georgian Bay and surrounding countryside. Gemstone Mining, train ride, mini golf, trout pond, picnic areas, snack bar and gift shop.

Stay in COLLINGWOOD HOTELS

 ~ELMVALE~

PUMPKIN MANIA: It's PUMPKIN MANIA Season at Rounds Ranch so saddle up and get down here for some serious fun and farm filled adventures. Everyone gets a free pumpkin! Event runs on weekends only starting September 28 - October 27 (open Thanksgiving Monday). 

Stay in MIDLAND HOTELS
MORE Midland Tourism Region
or
Stay in WASAGA BEACH
Stay in COLLINGWOOD HOTELS

~FORESTER FALLS~

RIVER RAFTING:  High family adventure here with river rafting and zip lining! Age and weight requirements in effect. 

~HALIBURTON~

SIR SAM'S SKI & BIKE:  Take out the bikes and have some outdoor adventure. Ride the chair lift and see the fall colours forrest.

Browse HALIBURTON ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMODATIONS

~IROQUIS~

DORAN BAY MODEL SHIP MUSEUM: Doran Bay Model Ship Museum provides marvel world-class collection of museum quality model ships, including a special exhibit of ships from the War of 1812.

Stay at DORAN BAY RESORT

~MIDLAND | PENETANGUISHENE~

GO CRUISING: Head out on a 2.5 hour Georgian Bay cruise. Saturday the Miss Midland is offering 3 cruises amongst the tall ships. The later 2 cruises include dinner and live music.

MIDLAND FARMERS' MARKET: Meet farmers and artisans and have a taste of Ontario! Sunday morning 9-1 across from the Midland town dock. 

DOWNTOWN SHOPS AND DOCKS: Check out the shops and docks in beautiful Midland! Walk about and strolling fun for kids and check out one of the largest outdoor mural collections in North America.

GUIDED CANOE OR KAYAK TOURS | GUIDED WALKS | REPTILE SHOW | BIRDS OF PREY SHOW: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. Check their website for details and times. *this weekend includes and Owl Banding Workshop. Contact the Wye Marsh for details.


HURONIA FOOD TRAIL: You will find a list of the farmers, producers, restaurants, retailers and accommodations that have identified themselves as advocates of local taste and local products, within the towns of Midland and Penetanguishene & Townships of Tay and Tiny, Ontario through the Huronia Food Trail.

LEARN ABOUT ONTARIO'S HISTORY: Visit Sainte Marie among the Hurons and see a french historical site in native territory from the 1600's. 

Stay in MIDLAND HOTELS
MORE Midland Tourism Region

~ORILLIA~

STREETS ALIVE LETTERS OF ORILLIA OUTDOOR ART CELEBRATION: City streets are alive with 6 foot high metal letter sculptures, transformed into exciting works of art by area artists! This is a great free exhibit for kids. Bring a camera and take their picture by their name letter!

Browse Orillia Accommodations & Attractions

~PARRY SOUND~

GEORGIAN BAY AIRWAYS: Operating from May through October out of Parry Sound’s beautiful downtown waterfront in the Heart of the 30,000 Islands, Georgian Bay Airways Ltd. proudly offers a modern fleet of seaplanes to service your flying needs. 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. Not into flying? Well at least come say hello and visit the ice cream parlour and coffee shop!   

Browse Parry Sound area Accommodations & Attractions

~PORT SEVERN~

FALL COLOURS CRUISE: Midland Tours Inc. offers 2 ½ hour fall colour tours on the Muskoka Trent-Severn Waterway departing from Lock 45 in Port Severn, Ontario. The Serendipity Princess cruises to the Big Chute Marine Railway – only two of its kind in the world. The Serendipity Princess is a 265 passenger paddle-wheeler with triple decks featuring a patio on the upper level.

Browse Accommodations and Information Port Severn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Check out our updated FALL FAMILY GETAWAYS page!  

WEEKDAY FUN SPECIALS AT SCENIC CAVES!

Oct 2-4, 6, 9-11, 19-20, 26-27, Nov 2-3, 2013 (weather permitting)

SAVE $10-off the Thunderbird Twin Zip Package price. Height/ weight restrictions apply and riders must be 10 years of age or older. Reservations are not required. View website for hours of operation. Valid for up to four guests.  A coupon must be presented to receive the discount (available to download from the website; mobile screen shot coupons accepted ).  Visit:  www.sceniccaves.com or call:  (705) 446-0256

October 1 – November 3, 2013 (weather permitting) SAVE $30-off the Eco Adventure Tour price (applicable Mondays thru Fridays, excluding October 14). Experience a kaleidoscope of autumn colours while treetop canopy walking and zip cable gliding on a 3-hour guided tour. Age /height /weight restrictions apply.  Valid for up to two guests.  A coupon must be presented to receive the discount (available to download from the website; mobile screen shot coupons accepted).  Reservations are required.  Book online: www.sceniccaves.com, or call: (705) 446-0256 ext. 227
Check out our Scenic Caves video - it's NEW!!

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Have a fun and safe weekend!