Thursday, October 03, 2013

Festivals, Events, Fall Colour Roat Trips, Sightseeing Tours, Cruises and Scenic Chair Lift Rides Sept. 30 - Oct. 6

FAMILY FESTIVALS, EVENTS and FALL COLOUR ROAD TRIPS and TOURS  September 30-October 6

 
Plan Ahead for Thanksgiving Getaways and Events

Fall Colours Ontario Weekend Road Trips
 
Suggested "Fall Colour" routes and road trips.

Before heading out check the designated fall colour progression report for updates on leaf colour changes in resort and tourist regions north of Toronto.


Fall Colour Sightseeing Air Tour:

Georgian Bay Airways
Parry Sound
Book an amazing Fall Colour Sightseeing Air Tour over Georgian Bay. A wonderful way to see the beautiful fall colour vistas.   The new 35 minute Fall Colours Tour will highlight the vistas of red, orange, and yellow from the air! 
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in Parry Sound


Fall Colour Cruise Options:

Port Severn

Fall Big Chute Cruise September 21-October 12, 2013Midland Tours Inc. offers 2 1/2 hour Fall Colour Tours on the Muskoka Trent-Severn Waterway departing from Lock 45 in Port Severn, Ontario. Stay in Port Severn 


Midland 

30,000 Islands Boat Cruise - Muskoka-Georgian Bay's 30,000 islands to October 14, 2013.  Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in Midland Ontario

 


Fall Colour Chair Lift Rides:
Sir Sam's Ski and  Bike-Haliburton
Scenic Chair Lift Rides -Great Activity for the Famiily
Saturdays & Sundays   Sept. 1 to Oct 12. 2013 10:00 -3:00
Best seat in the Haliburton Highlands to enjoy the beautiful fall color changes?  Sir Sam's chairlift on Saturdays and Sundays. Great way to see the magnificient view over Eagle & Moose Lakes from the top of Sir Sam's Ski and Bike!

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Haliburton,  Minden
More information on the Haliburton Highlands Destination

 
Ottawa Valley Rural Ramble
September 1 - October 31, 2013
 

The Rural Ramble is a traditional self-guided driving tour throughout the Ottawa Valley featuring four themes: Adventure & Exploration, Agriculture & Food, History & Heritage and Arts & Culture.  Rural Ramblers’ will be able to customize their own Autumn touring experiences based on the themes and location that interests them the most.   Wander the website, select the Rural Ramble sites that interest you the most and plan your very own personalized Rural Ramble Route. 

More information on the Ottawa Valley Destination 
Book your hotel and resort accommodation in   Barry's BayOttawa & Ottawa Valley, Pembroke and Petawawa

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAMILY FALL FUN



 
ROUNDS RANCH - Join the Fun

Elmvale   7 km. east of Wasaga Beach, 4 km west of Elmvale
Weekends in October
Its 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!
Enjoy the large corn & straw mazes, petting zoo, pony rides, water maze, barrel train, shooting gallery, duck races, pedal cart race track, western playground, zip lines, giant jumping pillows, tractor rides, swinging tire horses, bouncy ponies.  Great family fun for all ages.  
Stay at Resorts. Inns, Hotels in
Wasaga Beach


Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre-Midland
October 5-6
Guided walks and paddle with Canoes and Kayaks, Wet N Scaly Shows and Wonder Wye Themes with a Wye Marsh Naturalist.

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Midland, ON
Click here for events and more information on Tourism Midland

Colourfest 2013
Haliburton Village
October 5,  2013
Set among the beautiful lakes and colours of the Highlands, the annual Haliburton Village Fall Festival, Colourfest, is a free one-day event with wonderful attractions for everyone! Colourfest will include continuous live Bands and Performers, a Vintage Car Show, Pet Contest, Giant Pumpkin Contest, Pancake Breakfast, two BBQs and a Corn Roast, a Barbeque Beef Dinner, a Farmers’ Market, pontoon boat rides on Head Lake, children’s activities including “Kid’s Colour Splash” at the Rails End Gallery, and a new and exciting Kids’ Zone!
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Haliburton,  Minden
More information on the
Haliburton Highlands Destination
  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


OKTOBERFEST

Parry Sound's first annual Northern Oktoberfest

October 5th 2013 at The Kinsmen Park Rink. Open from 2-12am.
Vendors, beer, food, beer pong, beer stein races, best dressed pretzel eating contests and three bands. $10 entry.


  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STUDIO TOURS

Fall studio and arts shows in resort destinations introduce many rural artists and craft experts.
Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour
October 5-6, 2013
The Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour is proud to continue its rich legacy of the arts presenting scores of diversely talented artists and giving people a glimpse into the studios where raw materials are transformed into superb art pieces. The Muskoka landscape and the artists who draw their inspiration from it extend a special welcome to visitors on this glorious weekend in Autumn.

More information & Accommodation in the Muskoka area
Annual Haliburton County Studio Tour
Haliburton County
October 5-6, 2013 & October 12-13, 2013  Thanksgiving Weekend 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Visit the studios of Haliburton County's artists and craftspeople while enjoying the autumn colours of the Highlands. Visit each studio and experience the creative process. Talk to the artist or watch demonstrations. An abundance of hand.
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in 
Haliburton
More information on the 
Haliburton HIghlands Destination
Madawaska Valley Annual Madawaska Studio Tour 
October 5-6, 2013
Discover the Artists, towns and villages of Combermere, Barry's Bay, Brudenell, Rockingham, Wilno, Purdy.
Stay in Purdy area at 
Blue Moon Retreat   Stay in Barry's Bay area at Barry's Bay Cottage Resort,Chippawa Cottage Resort 
Victoria County 25th Annual Studio Tour
Artists in the beautiful City of Kawartha Lakes
October 5-6 & October 12-13,  2013
Come by car or bus to the City of Kawartha Lakes or by boat along the scenic 
Trent-Severn Waterway during the Fall season and experience the changing colours first hand – and our Artistic interpretation on site with practising and professional artists
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in the 
Kawartha area

Purple Hills Studio Tour -Creemore Festival of the Arts 
October 4-6, 2013
The studio tour is centered around the beautiful village of Creemore Ontario, near 
Collingwood.  Studio tour brochures are available at all studio locations  and the tour welcoming centre at the Station on the Green in Creemore.  Plan a fall road trip to this beautiful region of Simcoe County.
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels 
Blue Mountains / Collingwood
Saugeen Autumn Leaves Studio Tour
October 4-6. 2013
Every fall the artists of the Autumn Leaves Studio Tour invite the public into their homes and studios. Explore the diversity of our seasoned artists and the artworks of a number of first time studios. The range of mediums include; glass, watercolours, pottery and ceramics, acrylics and oils, fiber art, wood, preserves, print and metal. Discover the talents of 46 artists exhibiting at 24 studio locations. As you travel through the heart of Grey County (Flesherton, Durham, Markdale) you will find that perfect piece to take home, delectable locations to stop for a meal, and inviting accommodations.
Stay in the Flesherton area at 
 Cedars of Lake Eugenia Cottage Resort, Hawthorn Cottages & Camping of Lake Eugenia

More information on Fall Studio Tours

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  
FISHING FESTIVALS

The Barrie Fall Fishing Festival--Win Prizes
September 27-October 6, 2013
A catch & release perch fishing tournament. Enjoy fishing along with the beautiful fall weather and the spectacular fall colours of Kempenfelt Bay.
Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in Barrie
Orillia Fall Challenge
October 5-6
Lake Couchiching.
Teams of die hard anglers compete for small & largemouth bass on Lake Couchiching.
Stay at Resorts, Inns & Hotels in Orillia area

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FILM FESTIVAL
Orillia Film Festival
October 5
Orillia Opera House -Gordon Lightfoot Auditorium
A collection of 8 minute short movies as selected by a panel of judges to be the best of the best entries in the First Annual Orillia Film Festival.
Stay at Resorts, Inns & Hotels in Orillia area


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Featured Resort Destinations and Events

ALGONQUIN HIGHLANDS TRAILS

Algonquin Highlands Trails|
Where Adventure Awaits!
~ Haliburton Highlands Water Trails – Frost Centre and Poker Lakes
~ Back Country Camping, Canoeing and Kayaking
~ 38kms of Hiking Trails, Hundreds of kms of ATV trails
~ Canoe rentals
~ Excellent fishing for Trout, Bass and Whitefish
~ Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower
Best view of Fall colors in the highlands!
~ Ontario’s only full size historic Log chute 

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Minden, ON Haliburton, On
More information on Algonquin Highlands Trails  


 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

BLUE MOUNTAIN / COLLINGWOOD
Blue Mountain Village 
Get away for some midweek adventure and enjoy unlimited daily access to some of our most popular mountain attractions including the new Wind Rider Triple Zips!  Package includes:  Overnight accommodations in room type of choice at The Westin Trillium House or Blue Mountain Village.  One Play All Day Pass for unlimited daily access to the NEW Wind Rider Triple Zips, Cascade Putting Course, Woodlot Low Ropes, Open-Air Gondola (Thurs-Fri) and 2 rides on  the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster.
Available for stays Sunday-Thursday, September 2 – October 10, 2013

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.


Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
Experience a kaleidoscope of fall colours while exploring the self-guided trail of caves/ caverns and spectacular views from the Suspension Bridge.  Soar on Canada’s longest half-mile Thunderbird Twin Zip line or treetop canopy walk and zipline on a guided Eco Adventure Tour.   
Explore:
  • Self-guided tour of caves & caverns an nature trails
  • Suspension Bridge
  • Guided Eco Adventure Tour
  • New! Thunderbird Twin Zip Line
    and more
Inquire about Stay and Play Packages

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in Blue Mountain/Collingwood
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

BARRIE
MacLaren Art Centr
Family Sunday
Every Sunday is Family Sunday at the MacLaren! Regional artists lead creative projects that families can complete together.

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels in Barrie
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

HALIBURTON HIGHLANDS DESTINATION

Sir Sam's Ski and  Bike-Haliburton 
Scenic Chair Lift Rides -Weekends until Thanksgiving.


Discover Mountain Biking Package $49.95 Sign up in advance for this 2/hr package that includes your bike rental/lift pass/ lesson. This package has a two person minimum and can begin at either 10:00am or 1:00pm.
Sunday Beginner Special
50% Off the Discover Mountain Bike Package (From 1:00 - 3:00).  Sign up in advance for this 2/hr package that includes your bike rental/lift pass/ lesson.  $25  - Must be reserved in advance.

Your Outdoors-Haliburton  Pedal Your Arts: Rolling Hills of Harburn.  October 5


Colourfest 2013
Haliburton Village
October 5,  2013

 
Annual Haliburton County Studio Tour
Haliburton County
October 5-6, 2013 & October 12-13, 2013  Thanksgiving Weekend 10 a.m. to 5 p.m


Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Haliburton,  Minden
More information on the Haliburton Highlands
Destination

 

 

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

IROQUOIS

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

Featured Accommodation in Iroquois:  Doran Bay Resort 



----------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAND O' LAKES DESTINATION


5,000 Lakes  5,000 Adventures.  You can enjoy fishing, camping, canoeing, kayaking, boating, hiking, cycling, snowmobiling, skiing, ATVing, motorcycling, or just plain relaxing in some of the most beautiful scenery.

Click here for events and more information on the Land O' Lakes Destination

 



----------------------------------------------------------------------

MIDLAND and PENETANGUISHENE and TOURISM MIDLAND DESTINATION
Sainte-Marie Among the Huron-Midland  Getaway and Explore a 17th century historic site Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is open seven days per week to October 13 and Monday to Friday October 14 to November 1.


Downtown Shops and Docks   Beautiful downtown Midland has more than 100 shops, boutiques and services located in a beautiful waterfront setting.  
 
 

 
Tourism Midland
The Town of Midland is situated at the gateway to Georgian Bay's picturesque 30,000 Islands and hosts many events throughout the year.

Stay at Resorts, Inns, Hotels Midland, ON
Click here for events and more information on Tourism Midland





----------------------------------------------------------------------------

ONTARIO'S HIGHLANDS DESTINATION   
You’ll discover an abundance of outdoor adventure, combined with original offering of arts, culture and heritage experiences, all set against a picture perfect backdrop of unspoiled wilderness and the small town charm of friendly communities.

Click here for events and more information on the Ontario Highland’s Destination

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

ORO STATION


Disc Golf at Harwood Ski and Bike
Hardwood Ski and Bike Disc Golf     
Perfect for families and non-bikers to experience the best trail facility in Central Ontario. Course Fees for 18 Holes: $7.00 + HST per person  Or buy a facility pass for $12.99 + HST and play disc golf all day or ride your mountain bike or use our other amenities like beach volleyball, horseshoes or badminton       
 

2014 Super Early Bird MTB Passes On Sale Now
Super Early Bird MTB Seasons Passes now on sale.  Ride the rest of this season and all of next for a great deal.   On sale until October 31st only.    This is the lowest price of the year and one of the best bargains around.   Adult $109 + HST    Youth $99 + HST   Child $85 + HST.


----------------------------------------------------------------------

OTTAWA and OTTAWA VALLEY DESTINATION


The Ottawa International Film Festival

Empire Theatres World Exchange Centre
October 2-6
Presenting films from across Canada and around the world alongside the films of local filmmakers.
Latin American Festival Latino
Congress Center Gatineau

October 6
The Festival will display the exotic mosaic of Latin American art, exciting performances, music taste the delicious cuisine. Visitors will get an opportunity to celebrate, and learn Latin American hospitality, culture, and heritage.

Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch’s Fall Family Fun Festival
Hugli's Blueberry Ranch, Pembroke
September 14-October 31
It is fall family fun season at Hugli's Blueberry Ranch.  Navigate the 6 acre corn maze with colour find game, watch the pirate pumpkin show & pig races, try to solve the new hop dot puzzle maze, take a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, play in the hay maze and jump, race around the pedal cart track, slide down the 125ft tunnel hill slide and more.  


Taste of the Valley Deep River
October 5th 2013
Taste of the Valley is an exposition of local food, crafts and products that are produced by local residents.

Featured Accommodation & Attractions in the Greater Ottawa and Ottawa Valley Region:



Book your hotel Pembroke


-------------------------------------------------------------------------
   

RESORTS OF NORTH MUSKOKA
There are plenty of exciting things to do in North Muskoka, all within close proximity. Activities such as Golf, Horseback Riding, Jet Ski Rentals and SPA Facilities are just around the corner.
Click her for activities and more information on Resorts of North Muskoka.

Algonquin Area Road Trip: Fall colours at peak in 2013

 Algonquin Park and area road trip


This next week will be the best time for a road trip to the Algonquin area as colours Peak. We offer up three separate routes to consider Southern Algonquin RouteAlgonquin East Side and the Northern Algonquin Route 

Algonquin Area Photo By Robin Tapley September 28


Algonquin Fall Colours
Robin Tapley of Tapley Nature Trails captured this scene in the morning of September 28


Demolition Derby: Smashing their way to fall-fair glory - Wheels.ca


Pies, Poultry, Truck Pulls and derby Daredevils at Fall Fairs



Truck Pull at Elmvale Fall Fair near Barrie
The Toronto Star story offers an Interesting take on the auto and truck carnage at fall fairs..with a female twist.  In this case it is a a mother of 5 kids who's mantra is "girls can do anything boys do".  Demolition Derby: Smashing their way to fall-fair glory - Wheels.ca

Always entertaining as many onlookers wish they could be in the drivers seat. The photo at right features a truck pull as crowds look on at the Elmvale Fair taking place the Thanksgiving weekend in 2013.

 
Kids love to get on farm vehicles at fall fairs

Upcoming Demolition Derby Days

Sept. 27-29: Milton Fall Fair
Sept. 27-29: Caledonia Fair
Sept. 28: Roseneath Fair
Oct. 3: Metcalfe Fair
Oct. 9: Norfolk County Fair
Oct. 26: Fall Brawl, Lindsay fairgrounds

Find links and  more information about activities at fall fairs north of Toronto

 

Fall Fairs History in Ontario


Before the auto and tractor....real horse power
There were always competitions, as to best yields and talks of the best “bull”, all evolving into fall fair competitions, for the best corn relish, or cherry pie, or best Rose, or rabbit, or antique or home made quilt. Today the fall fairs still bring together the farming community and the public with many fun events, 100 mile foods and produce, activities, homemade products, including arts and crafts, and the competitive side and tradition of deciding who has the best at the “Fall Fair”.

A getaway best buy is a fall fair that can always be combined with a fun family getaway weekend vacation.