The Charm of Winter Carnival Fun

A small-town’s winter carnival offers some of the most fun you’ll have all season. Not just because it’s a celebration of all things snow ‘n’ ice, or because it’s a great opportunity for folks to get outdoors and have some laughs with family and friends.

By all accounts, the most endearing quality about these rural events is that the activities you find at them, you won’t find anywhere else.

Take, for example, the 55th Annual Port Sydney Winter Carnival, which runs January 25-29 in this historic community located on Mary Lake just south of Huntsville.  Among the notable activities, you’ll enjoy “Human Curling,” a “Smashing the Box Obstacle Course,” a “Mushball Tournament,” and the construction of a “Giant Snowman” (see photo). Not to mention the incredible food (a Grand Marche showcase of Muskoka’s fine restaurants), the dancing, the beach bonfires and the children’s entertainment (including Music with Brian, Melody the Hippo and Alan the Lion).

The Port Carling WinterFest runs February 4-6 in the heart of cottage country. Talk about unique fun: Axe throwing anyone? Log sawing competition? Maple Candy Making for the kids? Always wanted to enter an ice fishing derby?  Not to mention the incredible food (including a Pancake & Sausage Breakfast…yum) and the “Bring Your Pooch Dog Show.

The Gravenhurst Winter Carnival runs Feb 24-26 in Gravenhurst. The Gateway to Muskoka will feature “Glow in Dark Skating” at the Wharf, “Donut Eating on a String,” “Bed Races,” “Ice Biking” at the Wharf, and the ever-popular “Demolition Derby.” Not to mention the children’s entertainment, the polar bear dip, and one thing in particular this writer is looking forward to, the “Ribs Warming Station” in the Gravenhurst Opera House.

These are just a few of the many entertaining winter carnival celebrations happening throughout Muskoka, Parry Sound and the Almaguin Highlands over the next couple of months.  Find more at Muskoka Tourism, Georgian Bay Country, and at Vacationland Ontario.

This winter, book a family weekend in Explorers’ Edge and discover the unique fun and country charm of a small-town winter carnival . Guaranteed to warm your heart!