Friday, October 17, 2014

This Weekend Featured Events & Festivals North of Toronto - October 17-19

A promising forecast opens up a world of endless events and activities to consider when touring the colourful fall areas in resort destination cities and towns 'north' of Toronto this holiday long weekend.

Festivals and Events are a great focal point to any day trip or getaway. If you're in these areas this weekend, we consider you check out the following events.

To date most colour change has already happened and most of the leaves are all still on the trees. Now's your chance to an anything-but-green forest! Well, except for the everygreens.

* Don't  forget your camera *

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

BARRIE

Hardwood SingleTrack Challenge
Hardwood Ski and Bike
Oct. 18
New for 2014 - The Hardwood SingleTrack Challenge will be a dedicated and "secret" 25km loop using the famously popular trails at Hardwood Ski and Bike.


BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
FALLicious Shop & Dine
Blue Mountain Village
Oct. 14 - Dec. 4 * Sunday to Thursday only *

There’s no better way to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend and the fall colours at Blue Mountain, Clarksburg and Thornbury. Free family activities, live music, Apple Pie Trail, adventures, stilt walkers, hiking, biking and fall driving tours.

ALL WEEKEND LONG – Plunge! Ridge Runner Coaster, Dockside Boat Rentals, Rock Climbing, Woodlot & Timber Challenge Ropes Course, Cascade Putting Course, Triple Zip Line, Mountain Top Segway Tours, Gondola…..


ELMVALE


Pumpkin Mania
Rounds Ranch
It's PUMPKIN MANIA Season at Rounds Ranch so saddle up and get down here for some serious fun and farm adventures. Enjoy Pumpkin Bowling, Pumpkin Catapult, Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest, Pumpkin Hockey and much more.

  
HALIBURTON
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. Events include art exhibites, scenic chair lift rides, farmers' market and more.


LAKEFIELD


Pumpkin Festival
McLean Berry Farm
As the season continues, the harvest becomes even more bountiful. Starting Thanksgiving weekend, the McLean’s again welcome the community to their farm for another festival. This festival takes place at their Buckhorn Berry Farm location Pumpkin festival runs the last weekends of October, starting Thanksgiving weekend.



MIDLAND & AREA


Carnival - A Night in Rio
The evening will include food stations, live entertainment and a live auction. Proceeds from the event support the Georgian Bay General Hospital.

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.

Live Animal Shows: Birds of Prey and Reptiles
Wye Marsh
You will be brought face to face with the grace, majest, power and intelligence of birds of prey. OR Discover Ontario's native reptile species. Participants will learn plenty of fun facts and identification tips, as well as discover the importance of environmental stewardship and the role that individuals can play in helping Ontario's Species at Risk. 

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
Find great events and activities on their website.

ONTARIO'S LAKE COUNTRY

Saturdays 8 am - 1 pm
4500 Fairgrounds Road just off of Hwy 12 W.
Saturdays 7:30 am - 12:30 pm
Orillia Public Library

Concerts at Casino Rama
This weekend catch Ligabue.

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

Want to stay longer? Click here for a list of Last Minute Getaway inspirations! 
  

Weekend Fall Colour Report: October Updates north of Toronto GTA

  October Fall Color Report and Updates 2014

Horseshoe Valley Area North of Toronto
Many northern areas are past the peak and have leaf fall taking place. However walks along trails are still showing lots of fall colours on lower branches.
Ministry of Tourism is reporting colour changes across the regions north in Ontario.  See the latest colour changes for these areas:

Central Ontario
Ottawa
Eastern Ontario
South Western Ontario.



Barrie lakeshore trails are inviting
Many of the valleys are still near peak with limited leaf fall.  Pick your favourite region of the Province and pick a fall colour drive for your next road trip.

    Ontario resorts, inns, lodges, cottages and hotels are waiting to welcome fall visitors.
    Combine your road trip with a walk down a country lane a fall fair, or studio tour





    Friday, October 10, 2014

    Thankful for Great Events Happening this Thanksgiving 'north' of Toronto

    A promising forecast opens up a world of endless events and activities to consider when touring the colourful fall areas in resort destination cities and towns 'north' of Toronto this holiday long weekend.

    If you're looking for Thanksgiving Weekend Getaway packages you can find them here:


    Festivals and Events are a great focal point to any day trip or getaway. If you're in these areas this weekend, we consider you check out the following events.

    Looking for a Thanksgiving Dinner? Eat-in or take out, some of the finest resorts in cottage country are offering solutions to having a turkey dinner while away from home. You'll find a list of options at the end of this events blog (bottom of page).

    * Don't  forget your camera *

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


    FALL FAIRS

    Find Fall Fairs in Elmvale and Norwood.


    BARRIE

    Ontario TufRack Enduro Series
    Horseshoe Resort
    Oct. 11
    The third stop of the Ontario TufRack Enduro series hits Horseshoe Resort on Saturday October 11th! The course will consist of three stages with timed descending sections. Day of registration will open at 9:00am with Pre-Ride from 10:00am-12:00pm and race start at 1:00pm.


    BLUE MOUNTAINS | COLLINGWOOD
    Apple Harvest Festival
    Blue Mountain Village
    There’s no better way to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend and the fall colours at Blue Mountain, Clarksburg and Thornbury. Free family activities, live music, Apple Pie Trail, adventures, stilt walkers, hiking, biking and fall driving tours.

    ALL WEEKEND LONG – Plunge! Ridge Runner Coaster, Dockside Boat Rentals, Rock Climbing, Woodlot & Timber Challenge Ropes Course, Cascade Putting Course, Triple Zip Line, Mountain Top Segway Tours, Gondola…..

    Blue Mountain Resort
    Blue Mountain’s Annual Turkey Tent Event is back and bigger than ever before! Save up to 75% off of skis, boards, bindings and outerwear for kids and adults. Plus, you can purchase your 2014/15 Blue Mountain Season Pass at the Early Bird Rate.

    Featuring brands such as: Eira, The North Face, Burton, Spyder, Bonfire, Jupa, Salomon, Orage, Laundromat, Hurley, Nixon, and more!
     

    BRACEBRIDGE

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



    ELMVALE


    Pumpkin Mania
    Rounds Ranch
    It's PUMPKIN MANIA Season at Rounds Ranch so saddle up and get down here for some serious fun and farm adventures. Enjoy Pumpkin Bowling, Pumpkin Catapult, Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest, Pumpkin Hockey and much more.


     
    HALIBURTON

    Sir Sam's Annual Open House

    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. Events include art exhibites, scenic chair lift rides, farmers' market and more.


    LAKEFIELD


    Pumpkin Festival
    McLean Berry Farm
    As the season continues, the harvest becomes even more bountiful. Starting Thanksgiving weekend, the McLean’s again welcome the community to their farm for another festival. This festival takes place at their Buckhorn Berry Farm location Pumpkin festival runs the last weekends of October, starting Thanksgiving weekend.


    MAGNETAWAN

    Annual Turkey DinnerSat, October 11, 5pm – 7pm

    Thanksgiving Farmers' Market
    October 11 10am - 1pm


    MIDLAND & AREA


    Thanksgiving Harvest Festival & Arts & Crafts Sale
    Sainte Marie among the Hurons

    A family favourite, this Thanksgiving event celebrates the Fall Season and features pumpkin decorating, seasonal displays, costumed staff, activities on the historic site, and over 40 exceptional artisans and crafters.

    Family Scene Presents Mad Science "Fire & Ice"
    Oct. 11
    Midland Cultural Centre
    Mad Science turns laboratory science into fun, interactive learning experiences for kids. Most appropriate for children 4 years of age and older. Get ready for some sizzlin’ excitement, just in time for Halloween. Join us for safe and scientific fun with fire and ice! Learn about the amazing properties of fire and combustion.Then, cool off with spectacular demonstrations involving dry ice! Check out the Big Burp and the famous Mad Science Shower, as we will explore the science of sublimation.  

    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.

    Live Animal Shows: Birds of Prey and Reptiles
    Wye Marsh
    You will be brought face to face with the grace, majest, power and intelligence of birds of prey. OR Discover Ontario's native reptile species. Participants will learn plenty of fun facts and identification tips, as well as discover the importance of environmental stewardship and the role that individuals can play in helping Ontario's Species at Risk. 

    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
    Featured event includes 2014 Canadian Whitewater Canoe & Kayak Championships, plus Heritage Perth Walking Tour, plus area award winning artisans in their studios on the Inroads Studio Tour road trip.

    ONTARIO'S LAKE COUNTRY

    Images Thanksgiving Studio Tour
    Open 10 am to 5 pm daily (Free Admission 10 am to 5 pm daily). This highly acclaimed self-guided tour takes you to the studios of some of Canada's finest artists and craftspeople. Over thirty artists and fine crafts people will exhibit their work over 4 days and 16 locations. You'll find an amazing selection of paintings, pottery, textiles, metal and glass, photography, woodcraft, jewellery, basketry, clothing and accessories Рfrom fine art and sculpture to home d̩cor and fashion to funky and fun! Don't miss this popular Thanksgiving tradition. You'll discover exceptional art, one-of-a-kind shopping and beautiful fall colours.


    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

    Concerts at Casino Rama
    This weekend catch Boys II Men or Uncle Kracker.

    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

    TURKEY DINNERS

    Turkey Buffet at Horseshoe Resort - Barrie
    Leave the cooking to Horseshoe Resort and spend more time with your family this Thanksgiving.

    Deerhurst Resort Holiday Turkey Dinner To Go - Huntsville
    Why fuss when you can let the Deerhurst kitchens prepare your Thanksgiving or Holiday turkey feast for you to serve at home. Order by October 4 to secure a Savour Muskoka turkey for Thanksgiving.

    Cranberry Resort Thanksgiving Meals - Collingwood
    This year, Cranberry Golf Resort is excited to announce both Thanksgiving Brunch and Thanksgiving Dinner for Sunday October 12th. Enjoy a lovingly prepared buffet selection lined with traditional family favourites. Executive Chef Patrick Barton will be cooking up different items for brunch and dinner; perfect for guests looking to spend the day at the resort!
    Open to the public, reservations required to guarantee seating.

    Viamede Resort - Woodview
    Join Viamede for Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings on Sunday, October 12. $35 for adults, $19 for kids. Call 1-800-461-1946 to reserve!

    Nottawasaga Resort - Alliston
    Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet, Sunday October 12.

    Happy Thanksgiving from the 400Eleven.com Gang!
     

    Thursday, October 02, 2014

    Don't Put the Mountain Bikes Away!! Weekends in the fall can be colourful

    Explore Ontario trails this fall


    Fall weekends are good times to explore Ontario trails and forests. So don't put the mountain bikes away yet.  Summer may be over however there are great mountain biking adventures available for beginners or serious competitive riders.

    Mountain Biking Ontario
    The fall months are special times for a mountain biking adventure north in Ontario.  Autumn leaves are changing